Aqua Formula - new upgrade, retrofittable!
- Thread starter asiufy
- Start date
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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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?
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.
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
Please contact your local Aqua distributor for the upgrade, as it's available now.
thanks,
Alex
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
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
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
You’ll have to check the price with Aqua dealer in your country or direct with Aqua, I’m just waiting a reply.
Cheers
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.
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