Dear friends,
Greetings!
We are thrilled and excited to introduce the DENAFRIPS Arcas Streamer. If you've been following Vinshine Audio and DENAFRIPS for some time, you might have anticipated this coming.
Just as with every product category in the DENAFRIPS lineup, the streamer category is no exception. Arcas represents the high-end of DENAFRIPS streamer offerings, positioned atop the already impressive Arce streamer.
Brief
Before delving into the differences between Arcas and Arce, it's important to provide an update on our software/firmware and streaming services support for DENAFRIPS streamers.
Arce marked DENAFRIPS' first venture into the streamer market, and since its release, DENAFRIPS team has been diligently working to enhance its performance. Multiple firmware updates have been released to address bugs, improve usability, and ensure stability, all while maintaining its renowned sound quality. DENAFRIPS also introduced a simple Android app for parameterizing the Arce streamer and playback of local music content via USB drive and SD card.
Currently, DENAFRIPS team focused on developing an iOS app to cater to Apple users, and Roon certification, though delayed, is underway with expectations for certification by Q2/Q3 of this year. As for popular streaming services like Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify, they are on our roadmap, but there's no definitive timeline for their implementation.
What can you expect?
Given the current limitations in streaming services support, DENAFRIPS streamers may not be suitable for everyone. They are designed for customers already familiar with platforms like Roon and HQPlayer, and for those who occasionally stream music over DLNA or Airplay (limited to 16/44.1 sampling rate).
Why the Delay in Arcas Streamer Release?
You may have noticed the Arcas on the grey market (sadly), yet wondered why Vinshine Audio has not carried it.
Let me explain.
Prior we introduce a new product, we subject it to rigorous testing before releasing it to the international market. Two vital criteria guide this process: subjective listening test and objective measurement.
Listening Test:
We meticulously burn in the products and conduct extensive listening tests over days, weeks, or even months, using our reference stereo audio system and reference headphones. Our team critiques the sound quality and provides feedback to the development team for improvements.
Measurement Test:
We employ our in-house Audio Precision APx analyser to conduct various tests, ensuring the product meets the manufacturer's specifications. Vinshine Audio continuously invest in analysers to enhance our capability to provide objective measurements.
Vinshine Audio Commitment
Only when a product meets Vinshine Audio's exacting standards will we release it for purchase. This commitment underscores our dedication to our customers.
Differences between Arce and Arcas?
ARCAS represents a significant advancement from the already impressive ARCE streamer, offering enhanced features tailored for discerning audiophiles.
Both models share support for popular streaming protocols like Roon Bridge (with Roon Ready pending), HQPlayer NAA, Airplay, and DLNA, ensuring a versatile playback experience.
However, ARCAS distinguishes itself with additional premium components and expanded connectivity options. Featuring DENAFRIPS' custom-made, hand-picked OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator) for superior timing accuracy, Arcas provides more versatile digital outputs including duo I2S and duo AES/EBU.
These advancements empower users to effortlessly enjoy their music library with uncompromised sound quality and connectivity.
The FPGA chip within this product embodies DENAFRIPS' extensive expertise in Digital Signal Processing, incorporating advanced techniques such as FIFO buffering and reclocking via a highly accurate OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator) for exceptional timing accuracy.
Additionally, digital signals are meticulously safeguarded through Galvanic Isolation utilizing Opto-Couplers, ensuring pristine signal integrity and minimizing interference.
A unique Streamer Module - developed by DENAFRIPS engineer in-house - incorporating a Quad-Core ARM Cortex Processor, High Quality Crystal Oscillators, LT Fast Transient Response, Low Noise, and LDO Regulators.
Tailored Operating System (OS) optimized to deliver a euphoric sound experience
The ARCAS streamer boasts an impressive architecture, meticulously crafted to provide an unmatched audio experience. Here are some key components that contribute to its exceptional performance
Sturdy Anodized Aluminum Chassis: Ensuring durability and shielding against interference, the robust aluminum chassis of the ARCAS streamer promises structural integrity.
Sound Quality Focus: Built with an unwavering commitment to sound excellence, ARCAS caters to discerning audiophiles who demand nothing short of exceptional audio reproduction.
Enhanced Compatibility: Embrace a world of versatility with support for roon Bridge (roon Ready pending) and HQPlayer NAA, ensuring seamless integration with diverse playback systems.
Stream Anywhere, Anytime: From Airplay to DLNA support, ARCAS empowers you to stream your favorite audio content effortlessly from compatible devices.
Versatile Playback Options: Dive into your music library with ease, whether it's from USB drives, SD cards, or network-attached storage (NAS), ARCAS offers versatile playback solutions.
Stylish Color Choices: Choose between sleek silver or timeless black, allowing you to match ARCAS seamlessly with your setup and personal style.
Precise Timing and Digital Isolation: Boosted with a high-performance OCXO (Oven Controlled Crystal Oscillator), ARCAS ensures precise and accurate timing for FIFO buffering and reclocking, while carefully crafted digital isolation and digital outputs further enhance signal integrity.
Pursuit of Audio Excellence: From the non-switched AC mains socket to the UPOCC O-Core Transformer, every engineering decision reflects DENAFRIPS' relentless pursuit of audio perfection, positioning ARCAS as one of the best-sounding streamers on the market.
Comparison
Through extensive listening tests, comparing the Arcas to the Arce streamer on our reference stereo audio and headphone systems, we consistently and definitively identified the Arcas streamer as delivering superior sound quality.
While the Arce streamer stands commendably on its own, serving admirably in entry and mid-end systems, it occupies its niche in the streamer market segment.
Conversely, the Arcas streamer excels in effortlessly conveying music with a fuller, vivid, and more organic presentation. Its ability to evoke emotion and create a three-dimensional holographic soundstage is truly remarkable.
Which Streamer?
Which streamer should you choose? The answer ultimately depends on your preferences, system setup, and desired listening experience.
Resources
Happy Listening!
Team Vinshine Audio