Auralic
AURALiC Vega S1 DAC
Best high-fidelity streaming hub for dedicated iOS-based audiophiles.
The AURALiC Vega S1 is a versatile digital-to-analog converter that integrates technology derived from the flagship G2.2 model. It features the proprietary Fusion DAC, which expertly blends discrete ladder and Delta-Sigma designs for exceptional audio fidelity. This unit functions as a high-quality DAC, streamer, and preamplifier, offering a clean, open sound with precise timing. It supports network streaming via Ethernet, including Tidal and Spotify Connect, delivering transparency and gentle detail across various digital sources. While powerful, note that its streaming control relies on the iOS-based Lightning DS app.
$2998.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
34
/ 489
#34 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-31%
Below average
Frequency Response
20200.1
/ - KHz, +/- dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-end sonic performance at a lower price point
- Music lovers wanting a streamlined, all-in-one digital streaming hub
- Minimalists requiring premium build quality in a compact footprint
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level or mid-range value
- Users preferring platform-agnostic or open-source control software
- System builders needing extensive analog and digital input variety
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Fusion DAC architecture delivers exceptional transparency and precise, open sound staging.
Streaming Versatility
Robust network streaming capabilities integrate seamlessly with major high-fidelity music services.
Software Accessibility
Reliance on the iOS-exclusive Lightning DS app limits cross-platform control flexibility.
Preamplifier Performance
Analog volume control provides clean, high-precision signal management for active systems.
Build Engineering
Galvanic isolation and advanced data recording ensure minimal interference and jitter.
Connectivity Options
Comprehensive input and output selection supports diverse high-end audio configurations.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
20 - 20KHz, +/- 0.1dB
THD+N
< 0.00012% (XLR); < 0.00015% (RCA)
Dynamic Range
130dB (XLR, A-weighted)
PCM Sampling Rate Support
44.1KHz to 384KHz in 32Bit
DSD Support
DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512
Digital Inputs
Coaxial, 2x Toslink, USB Audio
Output Impedance
5 ohm (XLR), 50 ohm (RCA)
Dimensions
20.7cm x 29cm x 8.5cm
Features
- Features proprietary Fusion DAC technology combining ladder and Delta-Sigma designs
- Includes Analog Volume Control and Analog Preamplifier capabilities
- Incorporates Direct Data Recording (DDR) and Galvanic Isolation
- Offers balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs with selectable voltage levels
- Provides clean, open sound with excellent timing and transparency
- Acts as a versatile streamer, DAC, and preamplifier in one unit
What customers say
Customers are overwhelmingly impressed by the Vega S1's sonic performance, noting its remarkable clarity and detail that rivals much more expensive components. The primary sentiment revolves around the exceptional quality delivered at this price point, establishing the S1 as a serious value proposition in the high fidelity market. Users appreciate the elegant, modern design and the intuitive streaming capabilities. This DAC successfully brings flagship level sound quality to a wider audience.
Know before you buy
The Fusion DAC is a proprietary design that combines the strengths of two different conversion methods: discrete ladder and Delta-Sigma. By blending these technologies, the Vega S1 aims to provide the musicality and detail of a ladder DAC with the precision and low-noise performance of a Delta-Sigma design.
Yes, the Vega S1 features an integrated analog volume control and preamplifier stage. You can connect it directly to a power amplifier or active speakers, allowing you to manage your system's volume without needing a separate preamp.
The Vega S1 supports network streaming via Ethernet, including native integration for Tidal and Spotify Connect. Please note that the primary control interface for streaming is AURALiC’s Lightning DS app, which is exclusively available for iOS devices.
Yes, it is highly capable with digital files. It supports PCM sampling rates up to 384KHz at 32-bit and DSD files ranging from DSD64 all the way up to DSD512.
The unit incorporates Galvanic Isolation and Direct Data Recording (DDR) technology. These features work together to isolate the audio circuitry from digital noise and jitter, ensuring a cleaner, more transparent signal path.
The Vega S1 provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs. The output voltage levels are selectable, allowing you to match the unit's output to the sensitivity of your specific amplifier or active speaker setup.
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$2998