Aqua Formula - new upgrade, retrofittable!

[LarryK]

The LinQ is the box on the middle left shelf. A modular network interface. We await further details of what it does.
So no, it’s not a Formula upgrade.

Thanks, I see it now. I’d like to know what it does and how it would help me.

 

[asiufy]

The LinQ is basically a network interface for your Aqua. You hook it up to your network, via Ethernet, and to your Aqua via I2S.
It is a Roon Endpoint, which means you'll be able to stream to the LinQ, as long as have a Roon Core elsewhere on the network, either on a computer or on a dedicated server, like the Innuos.

 

[sbo6]

Can you connect external storage to it Alex?

 

[asiufy]

I got the scoop on the LinQ from my friends at Aqua...
First, it's still a ways off from shipping, which should be end of this year. This will give them time to create the modules people want. Yes, modules! This is a modular architecture, like their DACs.
So, right now, it can't accept external storage directly, but it might, if they come up with a module for it!
Same for a Roon Core module.
So if you have a specific need that could be addressed within the LinQ, send them your request, and let's see what they can come up with!

cheers,
alex

 

[sbo6]

I got the scoop on the LinQ from my friends at Aqua...
First, it's still a ways off from shipping, which should be end of this year. This will give them time to create the modules people want. Yes, modules! This is a modular architecture, like their DACs.
So, right now, it can't accept external storage directly, but it might, if they come up with a module for it!
Same for a Roon Core module.
So if you have a specific need that could be addressed within the LinQ, send them your request, and let's see what they can come up with!

cheers,
alex

Awesome, thank Alex.

 

[darkfrank]

Hello, any idea when will the board upgrade for formula xHD being announced?

 

[Sablon Audio]

Hello, any idea when will the board upgrade for formula xHD being announced?

It’s already available but doesn’t appear to have been announced.

 

[sbo6]

Any idea on what the board upgrade incorporates / changes and at what cost?

 

[Sablon Audio]

The friend of a customer in Miami recently upgraded to this new board. Cost was @$1200 and this is the fb he gave me

I've forgot to comment that the new 2019 analog boards looks physically identical to the old revision, just a few different resistors and caps, but the rest looks same. SQ is definely better: wider soundstage and the bass weakness we noticed before on the XLRs disappeared, Bass is now very impactful and digs low..

As an aside, it is worthwhile upgrading the mains fuse which is located in the little green box just inside by the iec inlet. They also felt that rca output sounded better than xlr though this will also depend on the topology of your amplifier(s).

Btw Fitting this board is a diy job. No shipping / downtime involved.

 

[sbo6]

Ok, thanks. So basically Aqua ships you the board(s), you pop the top and swap the analog boards (I assume 1 per channel?) and you're done?

 

[Sablon Audio]

sb06, I would presume so given that Aqua are happy for field updates but you should confirm with the factory / distributor. My customer certainly did not indicate there being any complications.

 

[sbo6]

Will do, thank you!

 

[asiufy]

Indeed it's just one (analog output) board swap, no solder required.
Please contact your local Aqua distributor for the upgrade, as it's available now.

thanks,
Alex

 

[Blue58]

Officially announced on Aqua’s website and Facebook page.
Two boards (1105/1106) to replace and it’s only 2 bolts to remove the whole thing. Superb modularity.

Now who knows what ‘Macchina’ firmware is? Time to fire off an email I think.

https://www.aquahifi.com/tech_area.html

 

[Tango]

Officially announced on Aqua’s website and Facebook page.
Two boards (1105/1106) to replace and it’s only 2 bolts to remove the whole thing. Superb modularity.

Now who knows what ‘Macchina’ firmware is? Time to fire off an email I think.

https://www.aquahifi.com/tech_area.html
View attachment 53452

You know how much it costs? I am interested in doing 2 bolts.

Kind regards,
Tang

 

[LarryK]

If it’s only two bolts, can we perform the upgrade ourselves or do we have to ship our DACs to Italy?

 

[Blue58]

User replaceable I understand.
You’ll have to check the price with Aqua dealer in your country or direct with Aqua, I’m just waiting a reply.
Cheers

 

[LarryK]

User replaceable I understand.
You’ll have to check the price with Aqua dealer in your country or direct with Aqua, I’m just waiting a reply.
Cheers

Nice. Could you comment on what we will gain with the upgrade?

 

[Blue58]

Nice. Could you comment on what we will gain with the upgrade?

I’ve no idea Larry. Hopefully I’ll have one installed by the end of the month and I can then comment on any gains or not as the case may be.

 

[Sablon Audio]

Nice. Could you comment on what we will gain with the upgrade?

Larry, check post 129 for some user feedback