Auralic Debuts Altair G1 Do-Everything-Box – RMAF 2019
The all-new G1 series product making it’s North American debut at RMAF 2019, is the newly updated Altair G1 and it is one show-stopping device from Auralic that has a proud history to build on, so pardon the excitement. The new Altair G1 ($2,699 USD) is an all-in-one digital source and so much more. It’s a server, streamer, DAC, preamp, volume control, headphone amp, bluetooth receiver, and on-board storage (as an option).
A sneak-peek of the new Altair G1 was given in Munich earlier this year, and we were proud to report on it then. Read more about that here: Auralic Upgrades The Altair To “G1” Status, Intros A New Sirius G2 Upsampler
The on-board digital-to-analog conversion in the new Altair G1 uses an ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC. This DAC chip is a very high-performance, 32-bit, Stereo audio D/A converter designed for audiophile-grade components. ESS’ patented 32-bit HyperStream™ DAC architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator delivers a DNR of up to 129dB and THD+N of –120dB, a sonic performance level that will satisfy even the most demanding ears.
The Altair G1 shares the modern chassis design of it’s G1 series brethren, and user interface that Auralic is regarded for. Rear input design is simple, uncluttered, and elegant if I must say so. Nothing crammed over-and-under, all accessible and in order.
Shipping for the Altair G1 is scheduled to begin at the end of September, beginning of October. So be ready to rush your favourite Auralic retailer.
In the second half of the Auralic RMAF 2019 suite was an active system that centered around a complete Auralic G2 series stack of electronics. Dali tower speakers and Ayre amplification were helmed by an Auralic Leo GX Reference Master Clock, Aries G2 Wireless Streaming Transporter, and Vega G2 Streaming DAC.
Listening to an undoubtedly high-end set of amplifiers and speakers under the control of Auralic products only highlights the value offered by the brand. But that’s been the story all along hasn’t it? Ultimate digital control, convenience without dipping into lifestyle hum-drum, sonics that perform along with the best components in the business. It’s easy to see ones system take hold of an Auralic stack of components, or in some cases just an Altair G1 and make moves with swapping out amplifiers and speakers for the fun of it.
Usually we’re often talking about DACs and Streamers of the week in this hobby, but I could easily see myself settling into an Auralic piece for much longer than I take favor with the amps and speakers I adore.
by Eric Franklin Shook
