Aurender A20 Signature Analog Music Server

Aurender A20 Signature Analog Music Server

The Aurender A20 is a high-end analog music server designed for listeners who want reference-level digital playback without combining a separate streamer, music server and digital-to-analog converter. It integrates Aurender’s caching playback platform, a dual-mono DAC, variable analog outputs, digital inputs and a dedicated headphone amplifier within a single machined aluminium chassis.

Derived from the flagship A30, the A20 uses the same dual-mono AKM AK4497 digital-to-analog conversion architecture while omitting the CD ripping and advanced library management functions. Instead of factory-installed music storage, it provides two accessible internal bays, allowing the owner to select the storage capacity most appropriate for a local music collection or leave the bays empty when streaming is the primary source.

Dual-Mono AKM Digital-to-Analog Conversion

The A20 is built around two AKM AK4497 DAC chips operating in a dual-mono configuration. Separate conversion paths for the left and right channels improve channel separation and provide a low-noise foundation for detailed, transparent and precisely controlled playback.

The analog outputs support PCM audio up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512. MQA Full Decoder functionality is also integrated for compatible MQA files and streams.

Linear Power Supply and Precision Clocking

A fully linear power supply uses four toroidal transformers to supply the server system, the left and right DAC channels, and the FPGA and headphone circuitry. Extensive internal shielding helps prevent electrical noise generated by the processing section from reaching the sensitive audio circuits.

The FPGA-based precision clock system uses an OCXO reference and a jitter-reducing clock generator specified at below 100 femtoseconds. Accurate timing of the digital audio data helps preserve resolution, spatial information and musical coherence.

A supercapacitor-based uninterruptible power supply protects the operating system and internal storage if mains power is unexpectedly interrupted, allowing the A20 to shut down safely.

User-Installable Music Storage

Two internal 2.5-inch storage bays allow the installation of compatible HDD or SSD drives. The flexible design lets the owner choose the required music library capacity, including configurations with up to two 8TB SSDs, without paying for internal storage that may not be needed.

A dedicated 480GB NVMe solid-state drive is used for the operating system and caching playback. Music selected for playback is cached to solid-state memory, reducing storage-drive activity and creating a more stable environment for audio processing.

Music can also be played or imported from a NAS, an external USB hard drive or a USB memory device through the rear-panel USB 3.0 data ports and network connection.

Variable Balanced and Unbalanced Analog Outputs

The A20 provides balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA analog outputs for connection to an integrated amplifier or preamplifier. Its DAC-level lossless volume control also allows the variable outputs to be connected directly to a power amplifier, enabling the A20 to serve as the digital source and volume-control centre of a streamlined audio system.

Digital Inputs for External Sources

Four digital inputs allow external sources to use the A20’s internal DAC. Connections include RCA coaxial, BNC coaxial and two optical Toslink inputs for compatible CD transports, televisions and other digital audio components.

An upsampling option can convert non-DSD audio to a maximum of 705.6kHz or 768kHz before analog conversion. Upsampling can also be disabled when native sample-rate playback is preferred.

Dedicated Isolated USB Audio Output

The dedicated USB Audio output is physically and electrically isolated from the noise-generating processor section. It allows the A20 to operate as a high-performance digital music server and streamer with an external USB DAC, supporting PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512.

Integrated Headphone Amplifier

A dedicated 6.5mm headphone output provides a convenient listening option without requiring a separate headphone amplifier. The headphone section receives its power from an independently specified section of the linear power supply architecture.

Aurender Conductor and Streaming Services

The Aurender Conductor application provides unified control of locally stored music, network libraries and supported streaming platforms. Integrated services include TIDAL, Qobuz and Internet Radio, together with Spotify Connect and AirPlay compatibility.

The Aurender A20 is also Roon Ready and can operate as a certified analog or USB audio endpoint within a compatible Roon system.

Critical Listening Mode

Critical Listening Mode disables the front-panel display, control buttons and non-essential background processes during playback. Reducing unnecessary system activity creates an even quieter operating environment for focused listening.

Wide Colour Display and Machined Aluminium Chassis

The front panel features an 8.8-inch wide IPS colour display for album artwork and playback information. The substantial machined aluminium enclosure provides mechanical rigidity and shielding for the server, power supply and analog audio circuitry.

Available in black and silver finishes, the Aurender A20 is a complete high-end digital source for systems requiring integrated streaming, expandable local storage, reference-quality analog outputs and flexible connection to external digital components.