Sonore MicroRendu ... Wuhoo!

vcwatkins

I had ordered a Sonore MicroRendu ($690 with iFi power supply) last week, the goal of which (as I wrote in this post) was to use Roon and get as close to the Bryston BDP-1 sound with MPD (Manic Moose) firmware.

It arrived this morning and it took me a little while to get set up. It never appeared to even power up. After trying different locations, cables, and procedures, I searched through comments on Computer Audiophile and saw that someone had had the same problem - it will not show up as long as a SonicOrbiter is also attached. So, after disconnecting the SOSE, I was able to power up the uRendu, bring up the manager app, and make sure RoonReady was active. Then, after moving it to the den, I enabled the MicroRendu in Roon settings and started playing music. Less than 5 minutes after figuring out the attachment problem. (sigh)

Out of the box, this thing sounds fantastic. Others have mentioned a 30-min warmup and 24 hour-ish break-in, but I thought it was about as good as I've heard from the first song. I put on Sparklehorse' "Dreamt for Lightyears" and was knocked over by the smooth detail, soundstage width, depth, precision, and spacial queues. Very three-dimensional! As in visuals-of-guitar-lines-traveling-through-space-to-my-ear" three-dimensional. Outstanding!

The $300ish SonicOrbiter SE didn't get as close to the Bryston sound as I had hoped, but the MicroRendu equals the Bryston and probably outperforms it soundwise by a smidge. I'm ecstatic. I'll try playing through a few DACs with USB rate >48k to confirm sound quality for higher resolution files tonight. Unfortunately, I don't have a DAC that exceeds 96k rate (W4S, MH25.3, rDac), but I can always mess around with the upsampling (which I usually do not prefer). When available, I will upgrade the power supply from iFi wallwart to an Uptone Audio "mystery power supply" specially designed for the uRendu.

This uRendu is not for everyone - it is Ethernet in, USB out. Period. That's all it does. But offsetting the hardware inflexibility is tremendous flexibility in software. It comes loaded with: Squeezelite, MPD/DLNA, HQ Player, and RoonReady apps. Many on CA are playing native DSD and are pleased as well.

So, if anyone is looking for high quality ethernet-wired USB renderer for much less money than a decent network player, I'd recommend you give the uRendu a try.

bikerboy

Good to know they are shipping them. So you have Roon on the server? I'm looking to replace a jriver/pc and this looks like a great way to get great sound without a pc in the room. I wish it would output I2S and usb. Do you use a phone app to see and control Roon? I'm still not sold on Roon. Seems like a lot of $ compared to other players.

vcwatkins

I'm running:
- Roon system and library on my desktop PC
- Music files on USB3 drive attached to PC
- Roon remote apps on Macbook (in den) and iphone
- TPLink Wifi Extender - Supra CAT8 - uRendu (iFi ps) - AQ Carbon USB - Den rig
- SonicOrbiter (Office rig),
- 3 SBT's (other rigs)

Some have commented that Roon SQ is better than when using JRiver, but I haven't tested that since I have stopped using JRiver and MediaMonkey entirely. My impression is that most uRendu owners use JR and are happy.

I prefer the Roon layout and navigation over JR/MM. Album covers with format, resolution, live/compilation, date, rating (AMG or my own) on top. Click on any hotlinked artist, album, genre, influence, producer.... it's an especially nice touchscreen interface.

I am now a hardcore Roon addict - I've fallen in love with the ability to listen to such a wide variety of music and get SO much contextual info in one place. I appreciate my own library more while satisfying my weird OCD cravings by adding tons of music to my library. I often get lost for hours finding new connections, discovering new artists, rediscovering forgotten ones, adding music to fill holes in my library, educating myself on music history and less familiar sub-genres.

It is a bit pricey. Cost is somewhat mitigated by avoiding purchase of disappointing lp's that I might otherwise have bought. But based on the immense enjoyment of music it provides, I am happy to pay for a lifetime Roon subscription.

vcwatkins

Here's a review:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XRi9utNBl4

schwarcw

I am very curious about Roon. I've gone to their website and I noticed the content that you described. Your impressions of Roon now have me stoked. I think that I am going to give Roon the 14 day free trial.

How hard was it to install? How did Roon discover the music? did you point Roon to a drive and folder?

I appreciate more of your Roon observations.

vcwatkins

Installation was about as easy as it gets. A couple minutes to point to the drives/folders, enable the endpoints, and let it start building the library.

I will say that it took some time for me to warm up to it. Library management is not nearly as efficient as something like JRiver or Media Monkey. The handling of artists (I have MANY duplicates) is very problematic. But I came to realize that it doesn't really matter. I eventually stopped worrying about the "cleanness" of the database and just started enjoying the music much more than I ever had before. And, with the microRendu, digital sound is the best it's ever been.

machone

So how is that microRendu sounding these days?

vcwatkins

machone wrote: »

So how is that microRendu sounding these days?

Still loving the uRendu. Trouble-free operation and sounds as good as BDP-1. I'll hold out a few more months to see if Bryston completes the Roon certification. If they do, I'll keep both. If not, I'll likely sell the BDP-1.

Meanwhile, I'm trying to figure out which power supply upgrade to pursue for the uRendu. The Sonore Signature Series PS - similar to the one @SCompRacer writes about here - is probably too pricey @ $1400 unless I sell the BDP-1. Will probably end up with the soon-to-be-released Uptone Audio UltraCap LPS-1. I may also try HQPlayer since the consensus seems to be that it does good things. I'm a bit skeptical, but I think I'll try it and see.

I also added a used Regen to the SonicOrbiterSE on the office rig and I'm very pleased with the sound of this rig now.

SCompRacer

vcwatkins wrote: »

The Sonore Signature Series PS - similar to the one @SCompRacer writes about here - is probably too pricey @ $1400 unless I sell the BDP-1.

Despite the high quality, they didn't sell many, even less with the power supply upgrade. The trend now is the minimalist, specialist approach. Just use what you need to pass high quality audio and eliminate all the other stuff needed for computing. Of course the price is still high for that approach.

vcwatkins

Part 2 of the Sonore microRendu review by Chris over at Computer Audiophile is posted. Here's the conclusion and link to full post for those interested - both of you, hehe. Sorry to keep bringing this up here where there's no apparent interest, but I'm a bit smitten and still wanted to share. (italics still don't seem to be working)

*****************************
Conclusion
The Sonore microRendu is the hottest piece of hardware in HiFi. It's versatile while avoiding the jack of all trades moniker. The mR was custom designed and built to deliver USB audio in the most pristine way possible, and it accomplishes this goal magnificently. Versatile software with uncompromising inflexible hardware is a great combination. There is one way in and one way out, Ethernet to USB. Don't like it, move on. Those willing to try the microRendu will likely be as impressed as I am. With the mR in my system, I'm getting the best sound I've ever heard in my house. That said, it may not be the best "source" available because all components are user and system dependent. Users seeking local storage, network-less audio, and a software/hardware solution from a single vendor must look elsewhere. Everyone else should seek out the microRendu without apprehension. The ultra low noise bespoke design of this unit, a micro computer designed for audio only, has lead to some amazing listening experiences for me over the last several weeks. From the beautiful distortion of Hendrix to the simplistic vocals and whisper soft trumpet of Chet Baker, the microRendu enabled all the music to shine in its best light. I don't believe I've had a sonically better source connected to my system at any time.
******************************
http://www.computeraudiophile.com/content/705-sonore-microrendu-review-part-2/

EndersShadow

Actually I am VERY interested in this so thank you for posting....

txcoastal1

EndersShadow wrote: »

Actually I am VERY interested in this so thank you for posting....

X-2 I like the cost effective solution, none PC based streamer. I have recently moved my music to a NAS and have multiple systems in the house.

BlueBirdMusic

I am interested in the Sonore microRendu too. I have found Chris over at Computer Audiophile is great at describing how to deploy equipment. It took awhile for your initial post to receive its initial comment but it's all good now.

machone

By the time I buy a cheap low power dedicated computer with IFI power supply, IFI Purifier 2, add Fidelizer Windows optimizer software I will have around $500 invested. For another $200 I could use my main desktop and the microRendu.
Which way is best?

vcwatkins

Good question and I guess it depends on what factors besides sound quality and cost are prioritized in search of your "best". I do value the simplicity of the microRendu, but it limits DAC choices and location for me.

The only low power dedicated computer I've experienced is the (CuBox-based) SonicOrbiterSE; so I can't really help with any meaningful comparisons other than to say that, with a Regen attached, the SOSE sounds very good in my desk rig. However, the SOSE (sans Regen) fell short of the uRendu or BDP1 in the den rig.

I should also mention the current heated debate re ifi/uRendu noise measurements (possibly flawed) at Audio Science Review and now elsewhere. Seems to be very personal between individuals with competing interests and outlooks who have a history of similar quarrels. I personally don't care about measurements other than the quality of sound given my rig, room, ears, budget, goals...

The UpTone Audio UltraCap LPS-1 power supply for the uRendu has been priced at $395 and may be available in July. This is probably the one I will upgrade to when available.

I should also point out that both Sonore and Uptone are sponsors of the Computer Audiophile forum, the source for the uRendu review and LPS-1 product page I've linked above.

bikerboy

Just ordered one. Hope to get it in the next shipment. I'll use the passive cooled pc w jriver as a nas.

vcwatkins

bikerboy wrote: »

Just ordered one. Hope to get it in the next shipment. I'll use the passive cooled pc w jriver as a nas.

Cool! Looking forward to your thoughts.

BTW, contrary to my expectations, I think I prefer the Sonore hard adapter over my favorite WW usb cable. I'll switch back to the cable tonight and see if I can confirm. Very slight difference, if any, but you might want to give the adapter a try.

vcwatkins

vcwatkins wrote: »

I should also mention the current heated debate re ifi/uRendu noise measurements (possibly flawed) at Audio Science Review and now elsewhere. Seems to be very personal between individuals with competing interests and outlooks who have a history of similar quarrels. I personally don't care about measurements other than the quality of sound given my rig, room, ears, budget, goals...

I should also point out that both Sonore and Uptone are sponsors of the Computer Audiophile forum, the source for the uRendu review and LPS-1 product page I've linked above.

Continuing the FASCINATING conversation with myself ....

There's a response from iFi regarding iFi/uR noise measurements posted here on the CA forum, in case anyone is interested. [Note that iFi is also a sponsor of the CA forum]

Meanwhile, the acrimony from the members on the Audio Science Review forum resulted in one - well, pretty much the only - remaining objector being banned by the guy who did the original measurements, hehe. I won't be spending any more time reading that forum.

bikerboy

I read some of that thread. My god what a bunch of bitchy naysayers. One guy tests the ps and it's crap. Sounds like one of the cable discussions. Just kidding! I received the uRendu with the ifi ps last friday. Using the pc via dlna to the uRendu then via usb to the Amanero, out via I2S to the Twisted Pear Audio Buffalo III. Sounds good so far. I'll use it for a couple of weeks then revert back to the usb output and see if I miss the uRendu. I am using the hard adapter since it fit the setup easily.

vcwatkins

Cool, hope it works well for you. I haven't tried dlna, but the Roon mode sounds as good as the RoonReady mode Bryston BDP-1 to me. Looks like it's time for me to update my DAC or maybe add a decent USB>SPDIF converter.

I'm just now getting around to trying HQPlayer. For the time being, I'm just sending it to the SonicOrbiterSE in the office rig where I have the computer that runs HQP since I need to test all the settings for a while. A couple of the combos do seem to improve the sound, but I'm not sure it's worth having another program always running. Once I settle on a particular combo, I'll try it out on the uRendu. Wish I had a DSD DAC to try it out on.

malikarshad

bikerboy wrote: »

Just ordered one. Hope to get it in the next shipment. I'll use the passive cooled pc w jriver as a nas.

I'm curious to know your impressions on mR. I'm running Roon + HQPlayer on Intel NUC i5 with Fidelizer Pro. I want to check if mR would be a worthwhile upgrade from my existing setup.

machone

I am running the free version of Fidelizer. How is the Pro?

malikarshad

machone wrote: »

I am running the free version of Fidelizer. How is the Pro?

Pro gives you several modes that you don't get with Free Version and gives you more control on what processes are shutdown with different modes (Purist, Audiophile, Consumer).
In my system Pro worked better than the Free version but YMMV. This with HQPlayer has taken my system to a new level that I'm still amazed.

vcwatkins

Quick update: The Uptone LPS-1 power supply arrived today. and is now powering the Sonore microRendu in the den. Very noticeable lowering in noise floor, improved dynamics, clarity, bass tactile impact, as well as a more "colorful" tone. Plucked/strummed strings, piano keys, and vocals seem more natural, round, and live-in-the-room. I'm very happy.

The $1,035 microRendu/LPS-1 combo is a dynamite player for those who can do ethernet wired, usb out.

lightman1

Watkins! You weathered the storm!
How goes it?

SCompRacer

vcwatkins wrote: »

Quick update: The Uptone LPS-1 power supply arrived today. and is now powering the Sonore microRendu in the den.

Kewl! Carl met Jesus's partner at RMAF. He sad they both have degrees in the field, they aren't just hobbyists throwing things together. Carl is very happy with his microRendu. I'm still very happy with the Signature Sonore Server and the Sonore USB to I2S module in my DAC. I do see the advantages of the only-what-you-need-for-audio direction of these smaller devices. Lower cost yet high SQ.

vcwatkins

lightman1 wrote: »

Watkins! You weathered the storm!
How goes it?

Made it through okay. Lost the BIG oak in our back yard and a couple neighbors' trees on the street. The one in the pic below went down and we still had power for a couple hours until another one took out lines in the other direction. Got power back Sunday evening, but we were fine with a generator. Beach had some Hardie plank ripped off but no storm surge over the dunes or rain flooding. We feel very fortunate. It could have been much worse.

erniejade

So the microRendu is wired only? Shoot my router is up stairs.

vcwatkins

Yep, ethernet in, usb out only.
I use this TP-Link wifi extender with ports and have never had any hiccups. A good usb dac that handles hi-rez and dsd was my challenge. So far I'm happy with an older Chord QuteHD with Teddy Pardo power supply, but I may look to replace this year.

erniejade

I am looking to ditch the laptop eventually. Lots of great reviews on this product.

Right now I am running an HP laptop with jriver into a w4s dac2 until the vi tube dac is done. I control jriver with jremote via an iPad. It doesn't sound bad but a cd going into the w4s vs flac going into the same w4s dac, I will pick the cd for sound every time. I changed USB cables to a ww ( thanks skip) and that made a huge difference but I will still pick the cd for sound. I also recently added a jitterbug and that also cleaned it up more but still the cd sounds better. As skip has pointed out the laptop is most likely what's holding it all back so, I have been looking for a player that I can hook a hard drive to, stream wireless from a music service and or ditch the hard drive and run wireless off my NAS.

Anyway I need to figure out the wireless part and what I am going with. Cambridge and Marantz are also in the running.

erniejade

The tplink would make it much easier! Thanks for the tip