The Aries Amplifier
Best all-in-one for audiophiles seeking warm, customizable sound and versatile connectivity.
The Black Ice Audio Aries is a versatile integrated amplifier, DAC, and streamer, representing years of dedicated research. It excels as a headphone amplifier with substantial gain and features a high-quality ESS 9038 Pro DAC. The Aries can also function as a preamplifier for a traditional system. Reviewers praise its immersive listening experience, unique surround mode, and independent tone controls for precise sound customization. Connectivity is robust, including USB-C, WiFi, optical, coaxial, and RCA inputs, making it a flexible centerpiece for your audio setup.
$2500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
254
/ 731
#254 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
+79%
Above average
Tube Complement
267
/ x SN
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking warm, immersive vocal and acoustic soundscapes
- Design-conscious listeners wanting a striking centerpiece for their audio rack
- Budget-minded enthusiasts looking for high-end performance at accessible prices
Who should skip it
- Listeners with limited ventilation or small, enclosed listening spaces
- Users with compact furniture or limited shelf space
- Casual listeners preferring a low-maintenance, plug-and-play audio experience
Performance breakdown
Headphone Drive Capability
High-gain output effortlessly powers even the most demanding audiophile headphones.
Digital Conversion Precision
The ESS 9038 Pro chip delivers exceptional clarity and sonic detail.
Tube Warmth
Dual 6SN7 tubes provide a rich, organic texture to digital sources.
Connectivity Versatility
Robust input options make it a seamless hub for modern systems.
Sound Customization
Independent tone controls allow for precise tailoring of the listening experience.
Imaging Depth
The unique surround mode creates a surprisingly expansive and immersive soundstage.
Key Specs
Tube Complement
2 x 6SN7
Dimensions
4 5/8" W x 13 1/4" D x 8 3/4" H
Weight
14 pounds (6.3 Kg) net
Power Requirements
110-120 VAC 60Hz or 220-240 VAC 50Hz
Inputs
USB C, WiFi, 2x Toslink, Coax, 3x RCA
Outputs
2 x 1/4" Headphone Jacks, RCA Line Output, RCA DAC Output
Fuse
110-120 VAC, 1 Amp Slow Blow; 200-240 VAC, .5 Amp Slow Blow
Power Consumption
30W
Features
- Exceptional headphone amplification with high gain
- High-performance DAC with ESS 9038 Pro chip
- Versatile as a preamplifier
- Unique surround mode enhances stereo imaging
- Independent left and right tone controls
- Multiple digital and analog input options
- Tube complement for warm audio reproduction
- WiFi streaming capability
What customers say
Owners consistently praise the Aries Amplifier for its exceptional build quality and striking aesthetic design. The unit feels substantial and well crafted, serving as a centerpiece in any audio setup. Users appreciate the warm and inviting sound signature that tube amplification provides. The intuitive layout makes it accessible for both seasoned audiophiles and newcomers. While it represents a significant investment, the consensus highlights its reliability and the premium materials used throughout. It is a sophisticated choice for those who prioritize both visual elegance and sonic performance.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Aries features dedicated RCA DAC outputs, allowing you to bypass its internal amplification and use it as a high-performance DAC for your external power amplifier.
The independent left and right tone controls allow you to fine-tune the frequency response to compensate for room acoustics or personal preference, providing a level of precision that standard balance knobs cannot match.
The Aries uses two 6SN7 tubes, which are standard, long-lasting components. While they don't require frequent maintenance, you should ensure the unit has adequate ventilation and be prepared to replace the tubes every few years depending on your daily usage.
Yes, the Aries is designed with substantial gain specifically to handle demanding, high-impedance headphones, ensuring they receive enough power to perform at their full potential.
The surround mode is a proprietary feature that expands the soundstage and enhances stereo imaging, creating a more immersive, spacious listening experience that mimics a wider acoustic environment.
Yes, the Aries includes built-in WiFi streaming capabilities, allowing you to connect it directly to your network and stream high-quality audio without needing a physical cable connection to your source.
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$2500