AudioCircle

Industry Circles => SONORE by Simple Design => Topic started by: Tubeburner on 13 May 2017, 04:41 pm

Title: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tubeburner on 13 May 2017, 04:41 pm
The microRendu new software version 2.5 was easy to install and I received a nice surprise. The sound improvement is Phenomenal, like another step up in sound quality. Andrew & Jesus, thank you for your hard work and caring about the music. I feel like I got a new piece of gear for $20. :D :thumb:
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 13 May 2017, 05:11 pm
Just got mine in the mail. Looking forward to it! Thanks for the accolade & endorsement. What are you using as your player? I'm a Roon convert, never having used HQ player.

Best,
Anand.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tomy2Tone on 13 May 2017, 05:16 pm
The microRendu new software version 2.5 was easy to install and I received a nice surprise. The sound improvement is Phenomenal, like another step up in sound quality. Andrew & Jesus, thank you for your hard work and caring about the music. I feel like I got a new piece of gear for $20. :D :thumb:

Where's the info on this? How do you go about getting it?
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 13 May 2017, 05:20 pm
Where's the info on this? How do you go about getting it?

I got an email from Andrew since I receive a newsletter from SGC from time to time. Email him or Jesus directly.

Best,
Anand.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: ebag4 on 13 May 2017, 05:21 pm
I'll be watching this thread for impressions.  I won't use the new functions, Roon user here as well, however I didnt realize that the new rev was supposed to improve on 2.3 so decided not to buy it.  If there are audible improvements to be had count me in.  The move to the ultracapcitor power supply was a nice step in the right direction so hopefully this will be as well.

Best,
Ed
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tubeburner on 13 May 2017, 05:33 pm
Quote
I'll be watching this thread for impressions.  I won't use the new functions, Roon user here as well, however I didnt realize that the new rev was supposed to improve on 2.3 so decided not to buy it.  If there are audible improvements to be had count me in.  The move to the ultracapcitor power supply was a nice step in the right direction so hopefully this will be as well.

I didn't expect an improvement is sound so this was quite a surprise. I have the ultracapacitor power supply also and it was a nice addition.

Information from the email I received:

The Sonicorbiter 2.5 operating system comes with the following new features and enhancements:
1. Updated base operating system and Kernel.
2. All the pre-configured applications have been updated to the latest release versions and or stable versions.
3. DSD playback now supports Native DSD with POP free PCM/DSD transitions.
4. New devices have been added that support Native DSD playback.
5. Spotify Connect has been added as a new output mode. This new output mode can be controlled by your computer or tablet running the Spotify application. The application can be installed and uninstalled from Software Manager.
6. A SongCast receiver has been added to the existing MPD/DLNA output mode. This new output mode accepts streams from your computer running Linn Songcast. The application can be installed and uninstalled from the Software manager. The application is in Beta form.

Quote
What are you using as your player? I'm a Roon convert, never having used HQ player.

I am running JRiver 22 over my home network. No conversion, just straight up. I haven't tried Roon yet.






Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: SFDude on 13 May 2017, 05:43 pm
Thanks for the initial feedback. I thought this was mostly an update to add new options and features to leverage the mR. I am guessing they tweaked the OS a little more to squeeze some further extra "stuff" out.

Waiting for a few more folks to review it before getting off my lazy butt to order and go through the upgrade... er.... update. ;)

-dave
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: jpm on 13 May 2017, 06:16 pm
Sonore themselves are very careful to avoid claims about any change in SQ at all.

There's been a lengthy and lively discussion on their Computer Audiophile forum which can make a grown person weep if they prefer to avoid some of the whiny bitching.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tomy2Tone on 13 May 2017, 07:00 pm
I got an email from Andrew since I receive a newsletter from SGC from time to time. Email him or Jesus directly.

Best,
Anand.

Thanks Anand!

Got it ordered.

Here's the link to the order page for those interested...

https://www.smallgreencomputer.com/pages/sonicorbiter-2-5
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: z06gal on 14 May 2017, 01:20 am
I just ordered a SOSE and should arrive Monday.  Will it have the latest release or do I need to order it? Thank you ;)
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: magnuska on 14 May 2017, 08:34 am


 
I installed without problems the 2.5 update a week ago.
Regarding SQ I also hear an improvement over 2.3. The first days it actually felt like it was a burn in
situation with this too. Sounds unlikely as it is a software change but after this week it has opened up more. Midrange is clearer and bass too so I guess and hope what I hear is correct. Would be interesting to know how others experience.
 
Regards Magnus
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: MttBsh on 14 May 2017, 04:04 pm
I too just last night upgraded from 2.3 to 2.5 and I "think" I hear an improvement but it could easily be the placebo effect - after all, the equipment was long ago fully burned in and all I've done is replaced a microchip with new data on it. The darned sound is already so amazing it's hard to tell but I'll keep listening. Having the new apps like Spotify Connect is a definite benefit.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Big Red Machine on 21 May 2017, 11:25 pm
I have been standing at my monitor for 90 minutes trying to get jriver to see the microrendu and for the microrendunto see my dac. No luck. Every time this thing gets messed with i lose connection to jriver.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: jtwrace on 21 May 2017, 11:35 pm
I have been standing at my monitor for 90 minutes trying to get jriver to see the microrendu and for the microrendunto see my dac. No luck. Every time this thing gets messed with i lose connection to jriver.
You really should use Roon.  Works.  Every.  Time. 
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tubeburner on 21 May 2017, 11:59 pm
Quote
I have been standing at my monitor for 90 minutes trying to get jriver to see the microrendu and for the microrendun to see my dac. No luck. Every time this thing gets messed with i lose connection to jriver.

I use JRiver also. After the update to 2.5, I made sure to go to the software and update a second time to be sure. I could see my dac right away. I always turn on the dac first(mine sits in standby) and then boot up Jriver. I wait a little bit before checking "Playing Now" for the mRendu. I fired it up this morning and all was ready to play in a few minutes. I never shut down mRendu, but I read it goes into standby. For some reason, it seems to matter which way I do this. Works everytime this way.(Knock on wood).
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Big Red Machine on 22 May 2017, 12:45 am
What audio device in jriver do you use?

My dac is not seen by microru at all.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tubeburner on 22 May 2017, 01:01 am
Quote
What audio device in jriver do you use?

Just DNLA server

It sounds like the mRendu power plug slipped back or is shut down. If you can't see the mRendu on the Sonore page with you network, something has happened to power. I moved mine once and the power supply is on another shelf and I pulled the cord out for the power supply. It happens. Let us know what you find.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Big Red Machine on 22 May 2017, 01:15 am
I dont have dlna server as a choice. Would it be nentwork streamer?  I am under the audio device tool.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tubeburner on 22 May 2017, 01:23 am
Yes, Network Streamer. (Note: Never go from memory at 59 years old and counting.)
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Big Red Machine on 22 May 2017, 01:33 am
Okay

And in the media network page are you generic dlna?

Are you going into dsp studio or leaving it alone as "none"?
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tubeburner on 22 May 2017, 01:49 am
Media network is allowed with DLNA, Renderer and server. Output encoding is none.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Big Red Machine on 22 May 2017, 10:56 am
Thought about it overnight and put in a standard usb cable instead of the adapter and it recognized the dac right away. It was a hardware problem with that small usb adapter device that puts the ur right at the usb input of the dac. That's why it did not see the dac. It was not communicating through that piece that gets bent down under the weight of the ur. :duh: :duh: :duh:
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: TomS on 22 May 2017, 11:54 am
Thought about it overnight and put in a standard usb cable instead of the adapter and it recognized the dac right away. It was a hardware problem with that small usb adapter device that puts the ur right at the usb input of the dac. That's why it did not see the dac. It was not communicating through that piece that gets bent down under the weight of the ur. :duh: :duh: :duh:
I was using one of these adapters direct into my LIO DAC and it weakened the connection to the pads on the internal circuit board of the DAC, so you have to be very careful to support the whole thing. Your problem may now be on the connector inside, not the adapter itself. I switched to a little longer USB cable for mine, problem solved.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Tubeburner on 22 May 2017, 04:45 pm
Glad it all worked out.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: Big Red Machine on 22 May 2017, 05:04 pm
Except now I am travelling this week. So much for setting aside time for tunes last night. :cry:
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: MttBsh on 22 May 2017, 05:20 pm
About a week after installing the 2.5 chip I can now say that I hear a definite sound improvement. It's not actually "more" of anything but rather a quieter background resulting in a more cohesive soundstage and better stereo separation.
 
Over the past few months I've upgraded to Zenwave D4 interconnects and power cables and upgraded the wiring in my Cain & Cain Abby speakers. The result? stunning improvements across the board, especially in 3D imaging. Replacing the 2.3 chip with the 2.5 has just taken it a further step in that same direction. Best $20.00 audio investment I've ever made!
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: SFDude on 22 May 2017, 06:59 pm
Got my 2.5 upgrade but it won't boot up the mR. Jesus is looking into it (he has another case reported with similar symptoms). Wanted to bring it up in case anyone else had similar issues and to know they're not alone. (I thought my unit was defective until I emailed Sonore about it.)

Stuck with the 2.3 for the time being.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: trueaudiophile on 8 Jun 2017, 04:29 pm
I have successfully installed the 2.5 software and it runs normally.  However the Spotify app stopped working as it would not connect.  The fix was to uninstall and reinstall the Spotify app in the on-line menu and wahla smooth streaming once again  :thumb:

Trueaudiophile
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 8 Jun 2017, 04:37 pm
Got my 2.5 upgrade but it won't boot up the mR. Jesus is looking into it (he has another case reported with similar symptoms). Wanted to bring it up in case anyone else had similar issues and to know they're not alone. (I thought my unit was defective until I emailed Sonore about it.)

Stuck with the 2.3 for the time being.

Same here. I'm getting a new SD card with 2.5 on it. We'll see  :dunno:

Best,
Anand.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: trueaudiophile on 8 Jun 2017, 05:18 pm
Did you write Jesus for it?

Thanks

Trueauudiophile
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: slefley on 8 Jun 2017, 05:26 pm
Got my 2.5 upgrade but it won't boot up the mR. Jesus is looking into it (he has another case reported with similar symptoms). Wanted to bring it up in case anyone else had similar issues and to know they're not alone. (I thought my unit was defective until I emailed Sonore about it.)

Stuck with the 2.3 for the time being.


I had the same problem.  I received a new card with 2.5 last week and it works perfectly, so hopefully your new card will do the same.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: glynnw on 8 Jun 2017, 08:19 pm
I had a problem with my first one not working and Jesus sent a replacement and installing it I learned what an idiot I am.  If this is not your issue, forgive me.  You can install the chip by pushing it in at a slight angle and it will go in but not hit the electrical connecting points.  When installed off kilter like this it will go further into the microRendu - if yours doesn't go in with a soft "click" when installed correctly, pull it out and try again.  When installed incorrectly the chip goes in so far I had to use some needle nose pliers to get it out.  Now that I know my error, this latest update went in perfectly the first time.  Again, apologies if you are not an idiot such as I. :duh:
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 8 Jun 2017, 10:29 pm
I had a problem with my first one not working and Jesus sent a replacement and installing it I learned what an idiot I am.  If this is not your issue, forgive me.  You can install the chip by pushing it in at a slight angle and it will go in but not hit the electrical connecting points.  When installed off kilter like this it will go further into the microRendu - if yours doesn't go in with a soft "click" when installed correctly, pull it out and try again.  When installed incorrectly the chip goes in so far I had to use some needle nose pliers to get it out.  Now that I know my error, this latest update went in perfectly the first time.  Again, apologies if you are not an idiot such as I. :duh:

I wish my fix was that simple. But when I reinstalled the original SD version 2.3, the little microRendu booted up perfectly.

Best,
Anand.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: tme110 on 8 Jun 2017, 10:52 pm
They found an issue in the update that only affects certain devices, I already have my replacement card.  Mine worked fine on 2.3 also but wouldn't boot up on 2.5 (the card was in straight).
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: trueaudiophile on 9 Jun 2017, 09:30 pm
Yes, I discovered there was a software update once the unit updated all is good!  Back to lovin' the music.  This Spotify Premium sounds pretty good too! :thumb:

Trueaudiophile
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 18 Jun 2017, 12:48 am
I wish my fix was that simple. But when I reinstalled the original SD version 2.3, the little microRendu booted up perfectly.

Best,
Anand.

Just wanted to update this thread and state that Andrew Gillis at SGC sent me a new SD card with version 2.5 and the little Rendu booted up just fine.

Best,
Anand.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: ebag4 on 18 Jun 2017, 12:56 am
Just wanted to update this thread and state that Andrew Gillis at SGC sent me a new SD card with version 2.5 and the little Rendu booted up just fine.

Best,
Anand.
Did you fine any audible difference between it and the previous version?

Best,
Ed
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: jtwrace on 18 Jun 2017, 01:01 am
Did you fine any audible difference between it and the previous version?

Best,
Ed


Just in case you or anyone else is wondering what the difference is:

Quote

In order to better serve you we have been developing the Sonicorbiter 2.5 operating system which has the following new features and enhancements:
1. The base operating system and Kernel has been updated.
2. All the pre-configured applications have been updated to the latest release versions and or stable versions.
3. DSD playback now supports Native DSD with POP free PCM/DSD transitions.
4. New devices have been added that support Native DSD playback.
5. Spotify Connect has been added as a new output mode. This new output mode can be controlled by your computer or tablet running the Spotify application. The application can be installed and uninstalled from Software Manager. This application is based on librespot - an open source client library for Spotify. The application is in Beta form.
6. A SongCast receiver has been added to the existing MPD/DLNA output mode. This new output mode accept streams from your computer running Linn Songcast. The application can be installed and uninstalled from the Software manager. The application is in Beta form.
7. This version also contains other bug fixes and enhancements.
 
Sonicorbiter 2.5 will be available soon pre-loaded on a microSD card. The microSD cards will be made available to existing customers for purchase for 20 USD. Emails with purchasing instructions will go out to customer in the coming weeks with a link to purchase the upgrade. The microRendu will be shipping with Sonicorbiter 2.5 operating system. If you purchased a microRendu in the last 30 days we will provide a microSD card in the mail with Sonicorbiter 2.5 for free.


https://www.computeraudiophile.com/forums/topic/29102-sonicorbiter-the-operating-system/?do=findComment&comment=653543
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 18 Jun 2017, 01:32 am
Did you fine any audible difference between it and the previous version?

Best,
Ed

Honestly I haven't listened yet. I just finished changing out the (4) copper AVC's in my Lazarus project with (4) silver AVC's from Dave Slagle and John Chapman (Yes, I sold my left nut in the process  :wink: ). So I'm letting it all play a little. I'm not golden eared however, so I may not hear the differences between version 2.3 and 2.5 like others here have stated. I also implemented, thanks to jtwrace, Roon Volume leveling and the DSP engine (now at DSD 64). Lot's of changes, so my review of any differences between the 2.3 and 2.5 will have to wait, but I still have the 2.3 SD card to swap in to see if there are audible differences.

Best.
Anand.
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: jtwrace on 18 Jun 2017, 01:37 am
Honestly I haven't listened yet. I just finished changing out the (4) copper AVC's in my Lazarus project with (4) silver AVC's from Dave Slagle and John Chapman (Yes, I sold my left nut in the process  ;) ). So I'm letting it all play a little. I'm not golden eared however, so I may not hear the differences between version 2.3 and 2.5 like others here have stated. I also implemented, thanks to jtwrace, Roon Volume leveling and the DSP engine (now at DSD 64). Lot's of changes, so my review of any differences between the 2.3 and 2.5 will have to wait, as I still have the 2.3 SD card to swap in to see if there are audible differences.

Best.
Anand.
I'd recommend going to DSD256 with your Vega. 
Title: Re: Upgrading your microRendu to software version 2.5 Sounds Phenomenal!
Post by: poseidonsvoice on 18 Jun 2017, 01:40 am
I'd recommend going to DSD256 with your Vega.

Yes, I wasn't sure how far up the DSD ladder my Vega went! So I just went for safest number. Easy to tweak.

Thanks,
Anand.