Auralic
AURALiC Aquila X3 DAC
Best high-end streaming hub for audiophiles seeking future-proof digital performance.
Introducing the AURALiC AQUILA X3 Streaming Media Processor, a revolutionary DAC designed in 2025 with a striking, full-width modern aesthetic. Its vibrant 14-inch touchscreen offers intuitive control, while a modular architecture ensures future adaptability. Experience seamless audio with robust connectivity options including Ethernet, WiFi, and a variety of digital inputs. AURALiC's commitment to pristine sound quality is evident through its proprietary DAC technology and meticulous power supply design, minimizing noise for an exceptional listening experience.
$14999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 489
#99 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+243%
Above average
Inputs
21111
/ x Toslink, x Coaxial, x USB-B (rear), x USB-C (front), x HDMI eARC
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and highly detailed musical reproduction
- Design-conscious listeners building a premium, modern home audio system
- Digital music collectors with extensive high-resolution file libraries
Who should skip it
- Casual listeners working within a modest audio equipment budget
- Users wanting an all-in-one streaming and conversion solution
- Beginners looking for a simple, plug-and-play audio upgrade
Performance breakdown
Conversion Precision
Proprietary Delta-Sigma architecture delivers exceptional clarity and nuanced sound reproduction.
Interface Experience
The expansive 14-inch touchscreen makes navigation feel fluid and modern.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive input options handle everything from legacy transports to modern streaming.
Future Proofing
Modular architecture allows for hardware upgrades to keep pace with technology.
Noise Floor Management
Regenerative power supply design ensures a remarkably clean and silent background.
Build Aesthetic
Full-width chassis design offers a sophisticated presence in any high-end rack.
Key Specs
Inputs
2x Toslink, 1x Coaxial, 1x USB-B (rear), 1x USB-C (front), 1x HDMI eARC
Connectivity
Ethernet, WiFi
Display
14-inch touchscreen
Optional Storage
Up to 8TB NVMe
Power Supply
Variable-Frequency External PSU with Class AB regeneration
Conversion Type
Digital to Analog (DAC)
Features
- Features CD Transport capability
- Incorporates Delta-Sigma conversion technology
- Built-in EQ functionality
- Supports Network Streaming
- Bold, full-width modern design
- Vibrant 14-inch touchscreen interface
- Modular architecture for future upgrades
- Proprietary DAC technology with custom filtering
What customers say
The Aquila X3 is celebrated for its exceptional audio quality, delivering remarkable clarity and dynamic range that makes music deeply engaging. Listeners consistently note the device's ability to render sound with impressive detail. The intuitive Lightning DS control app provides a seamless and reliable user experience, simplifying high fidelity streaming. While a premium purchase, the Aquila X3 is recognized as a top tier component offering genuine sonic refinement and excellent value for its performance.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Aquila X3 features an integrated CD transport, allowing you to play your physical discs directly through the unit without needing an external player.
The modular design allows you to upgrade specific internal components as technology advances, helping to prevent your device from becoming obsolete and extending its functional lifespan.
Yes, the unit supports optional internal storage of up to 8TB via an NVMe drive, allowing you to house your high-resolution music collection locally for quick access.
Yes, the built-in EQ functionality provides the tools to adjust the frequency response, which is helpful for compensating for room-specific acoustic challenges or personal listening preferences.
Absolutely. The device includes an HDMI eARC input, making it simple to route high-quality audio from your television through your high-fidelity sound system.
The external power supply uses Class AB regeneration to provide a cleaner, more stable flow of power to the DAC, which significantly reduces electrical noise and helps maintain signal purity.
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$14999