Melco v Aurender

[miro]

Its probably the most compelling comparison of the moment - certainly one that I'm keen to hear your views on.

A few points - largely selfish I know but it doesn't hurt to ask and I think others will be interested :

- will you use 8.1.2 as its the latest FW version?
- It would be great if you could include AIR in the comparison (maybe just switch over once you've done your main comparison?).  The reason is that I've heard big improvements from Mac/AIR in my system with 7.1.3 and now 8.1.2+SAM and I think these have brought AIR much close to top quality streamer performance
- I don't know whether any of you are TIDAL customers but Aurender's excellent TIDAL integration is a big positive. It would be interesting to know how the Melco stacks up against it both in sound and usability
- Both are effectively plug and play but it would be v. interesting to get your thoughts on day-to-day usability

Thanks,

Philip

I feel a little guilty for adding to the review requests, but I have to agree with Philip.  Going from 7.1.3beta to and now with 8.1.2, both with AIR, it too am finding the sound quality rather splendid, for me better than ever.  So how these machines stack up to AIR with respect to SQ is very interesting, after all, there is not much point parting with a couple of grand for little or no change in SQ?  Although maybe even a small improvement might be well worth it if you like the functionality of either streamer, or indeed just the idea of not having a computer as part of a hifi system.  Maybe a quick AIR trial once you've picked a winner from he two machines?   Now, if you could throw in the 3d Lab Nano, Antipodes, and yes the Weiss Man301 looks interesting, plus the cable comparisons, that would be splendid.  Although even if anyone could pull this off one day, it would drive them quite insane.

I'll shut up now. 

Anyway, great work sorting out this test, I look forward to your findings whatever you decide to try, your test, your call!

Also throw in Bryston BDP-2 with the new sound card (available since the middle of May).

Why take an entire day?!!! Do it in under 3 hours!