AIR 3 Sound Quality Observations

[Beajuju]

I have an Aurender N100H which is connected with an Audioquest USB Diamond cable to my Devialet 250. I love the sound of my  Aurender. More analogue less digital. A big step further if I compare to Air 2. In the last few days, I listened Air 3 on my Mac mini with Audirvana and Roon. My mini is connected to an ethernet switch. My Devialet is also connected to the same ethernet switch. Both have an Audioquest Cinnamon ethernet cable. How can I say, despite I encountered the same problem with Air 2 after a few days (stutter music with hi-res files and steaming music like Tidal), I founded more air between musicians and a better soundstage with Air 3. Nevertheless, it lacked the midrange and the bass of my Aurender. So, what to choose between a more hifi listening (Air 3) or more analogue sound (Aurender)? It's like to choose between Linn or Naim. What do you prefer?

Interesting comments which are very much in line with what I've experienced.  The N100 delivers a full, smooth sound whilst AIR 3 is more open and brighter (maybe more neutral?, more like a Melco).  Both are way ahead of AIR 2 in my system. I've had no stuttering or other problems with AIR 3.

As you imply which is 'better' is a matter of personal preference.  I found the Aurender perhaps too smooth (more like Linn which I would describe as a 'hi-fi' sound) whilst AIR 3 is more like Naim - but a lot better - I should know as I used Naim equipment for 30 years  . I could happily listen to AIR 3 or Aurender but as the former is a lot more flexible (I use Qobuz and internet radio and will probably try other services in the future), significantly cheaper and allows me to have one less box in my system then I will go with AIR 3 at least for now.

BTW I didn't enjoy using Audirvana and AIR 2 finding the sound quite artificial. Perhaps I should try again with AIR 3 but my guess will be that the combination will be over the top.

I agree with your comments. I found also Audirvana and Air 2 sounds artificial. I had Linn and Naim over five years   . Regarding my problem with Air 3, I will try to downgrade to Yosemite or El Capitan 10.11.4. I read in different forums that 10.11.5 broke the direct mode, maybe it's the cause of my problem. I really like Air 3.