You have an incredible skill to explain complex topics in a simple manner and also have the ability to convey the importance of the parts on a device that matter the most. God bless you and I wish you and your family stay safe and healthy.
It's a long time I last watched one of your video, but with Denafrips Ares II I found my way back to you. Your explanations are very useful for those who want to understand what one can expect in daily use and how to buy it. I'm hesitating because I consider the buying a high risk, not for the sound. Thanks.
Thanks for the review. I’m glad there’s someone who’s reviews I can watch without having to hear the same things I hear from every other reviewer. I really appreciate that.
Another great review--thank you Hans. Your combination of passion, technical expertise, and detailed listening information make you one of the most reliable reviewers out there. Cannot wait to hear what you have to say about the Pontus. The Pontus looks like it might be the sweet spot of the Denafrips lineup.
An excellent review Hans! Your very talented at explaining complex electronic details in layman’s terms. A skill that is in short supply on the Internet. Please keep them coming as I very much enjoy all your reviews. Regarding DAC reviews I would love to see you do one on the new Burson Composer that has switchable op amplifiers. If you find that possible it would be most appreciated! Thanks again for all the excellent reviews.
Nice review as always Hans, excited for the Pontus review. Would like to see either Venus or Terminator reviewed too, and see how they stack up against your usual reference and the other high-end DACs you have experienced before, like Holo May and Audio GD R7HE.
Hey. Nice video. 1. I now know what a ladder converter is. (😀) 2. Interesting to hear about some kit from an otherwise unknown (to me) manufacturer from the other side of the world, always good to expand ones horizons (😀😀). Thank you!
Great review. I ordered the Ares II, fortunately, here in the US we don't have a VAT to add to the price. Thought this would be a good first DAC, should be here in a few days, but I'm already thinking I'll be upgrading it to the Venus II based on your review, and reviews of others I've seen. Thanks again Hans, great review.
Hello Hans, thanks for the interesting content on this channel, which I follow for quite some time now. About the Denafrips Ares II, as well as about the Musical Fidelity VDac II (which you did also mention in one of your reviews): Your statements to these dacs were that you rate the Ares II higher than the VDac II. Also from other reviewers I got this picture. I was curious and got me a new Ares II (the VDac II is already mine for about 2 - 3 years, I use it with an external linear power supply, also mentioned by you in a video). Now that I have got the Ares II, I was a little disappointed on first listening, because I was expecting an improvement in the performance, which didn't happen. Maybe this has only to do with the rest of my system, but I feel I like the VDac II more. I use lossless coded music in 44.1k via USB from my Mac Mini to the Dac, then a McIntosh MA252 Amp and Bouchardt S400 speakers. The VDac II to my ears had little sweeter bass (esp. the higher notes) on one side, and the Ares II on the other side had much too bright treble for me (I like accentuated cymbals but that was too much for me). The rest of the performance is quite similar. The treble "issue" became much better with the Ares II when I changed the output from balanced (which I first used) to the RCA outputs. (Of course it is not proven yet that the difference is in the dac, it could also be a difference between RCA and balanced inputs on my amp.) I listen to Rock/Metal, but also to other genres. The Ares II had no problems with classical music. And yes, I could also be used to my old dac and its sound. Anyway, I will do as you proposed - keep the new dac in the system for some weeks and see what happens either with the dac or with my ears ; ) and then decide how to go on. If my perception stays as of now, I will probably get rid of the Ares II and be forever lucky with my Musical Fidelity (till his death us to part...). BR, Joe from Austria
@Joao Faria Yes, I tried out all the oversampling / nonoversampling and filter modes available. To my ears the non-oversampling mode with steep filter was the best sounding, and I also preferred the unbalanced outputs over the balanced ones (but that could also come from differences in my amp - I don't know). Nevertheless I did not like the sound especially in the treble region of this DAC. It was too aggressive for me and I had a hiss / ringing in my ears after listening sessions. All that is not the case together with my Musical Fidelity DAC. I had bought the Musical Fidelity DAC for 100€ on the used market, and still liked it more than the much more expensive Denafrips DAC. So finally I decided to sell the Ares II. I kept in touch with the guy who bought the DAC, he had an even more high end system than I do, and he was very happy with the DAC. You see, I cannot give a conclusive summary why it did not work for me, all I can say is that the DAC has to work together with the rest of the system in a good way, which probably cannot be predicted, so you have to hear it and then decide. BR
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this little DAC. I am e joying it since 6 months (net off summer break) and I copy 100% of what you said (even the OS/NOS preference, regardless what most of Ares owners/reviewers said so far...) I get more and more how come I tend to be always in agreement with what you say 🤔
Great review Hans! This is a great DAC and use it to bypass the Woo Audio WA7 Fireflies headphone amp, definitely pleased with the investment. I think you should also review the larger brother called The Terminator, it’s a beast!
The 1536khz usb input is very suitable for external oversampling. Put the dac in NOS mode and use hqplayer for PCM1536 oversampling, and enjoy the large jump in sound quality. Make sure you use the asio usb driver, it sounds better than wasapi.
I love my Ares II. I think its real strength is how the superb separation allows for so much detail to come through. I like to use it in NOS mode and do my oversampling in HQPlayer, but I also thing the OS mode sounds fantastic.
Having owned this dac for the last couple of months, I have been amazed by how great it is! My previous dac, (Chord Hugo) came across as somewhat bright, which the Ares II is not. I dont think you could find anything under $2000 that can touch this.
Willow Tree Audio in UK (Bury St Edmunds) are a UK distributor for Denafrips. They list the whole product line, and have some ex demo Denafrips available so assume they are demoing this gear. (no affiliation) The first version of Ares was also distributed in a re-badged form as Armature Cronos through Audiophonics in France. (I think formerly you could see Armature or Cronos referenced on a circuit board shot on the Denafrips site) - Finding a used one of these could be a budget 'way in' to R2R. I have also heard (needs qualifying) that this may be closely related to a more costly dac (formerly?) produced by Rockna.
I would love to hear a review of the PS Audio Strata integrated streaming DAC/amp. Also how well the PS Connect app works, as Roon is not usable with this unit.
Another great technical review! I have owned the Ares II for a few months and run both the single ended and balanced outputs, SE to a Schitt Lyr 3 and balanced to a THX 789. I find the performance of the balanced to be superior -- some tracks are displeasing single ended and I bypass the Ares for my streamer DAC (Bluesound Node 2i) Since you are more technical, I was wondering if this performance difference could be explained. Is it the output voltage -- though that doesn't make sense since the Bluesound DAC sounds fine through the Lyr for the tracks in question.
Although the Bluesound Node 2 is a really fine network player for the money, it is of a different class than the Ares II. A higher quality network player or network bridge will do wonders for the Ares II. I don't have hands-on experience with the THX 789, I have used the Ares II only single ended since my Audio Note Soro SE is single ended (hence the SE). I can't imagine the balanced outputs are better. Perhaps there is a grounding problem or a difference in quality of the balanced and single ended inputs on the THX 789.
You’re not meant to connect both single ended and balanced at the same time. Ask Alvin from Vinshine Audio and he will say the same. I’m not an expert but I believe the Ares doesn’t have a separate output stage so therefore doubling up the connections on the outputs will physically ruin the performance.
Hi Hans, Firstly, thank you for all your videos here. They are nicely done, very informative and helps me to understand digital audio. Here’s my qestion. In this review and almost in any written DAC review there is technical info about DAC ANALOG OUTPUT VOLTAGE. Some spec. also mentions analog output impedance. Some dac has balanced XLR output 4V and unbalanced RCA output 2V, other dacs has XLR/RCA voltage same value (as mine Simaudio Moon 380D dsd). Can you please explain (maybe on some future video) what those values means? Is DAC analog output voltage important?, is higher value better (or other way)?, is lower impedance better? Are those numbers indication of quality in any way? Cant find any good explanation on this topic online. And I think it would be interesting for other subscribers too. Thanks!
Thank you for your great review, Hans. Detailed and engaging. :-) When connecting the Ares 2 to my Active-powered speakers using XLR, is a passive preamp enough to lower the input signal? I have found the Nobsound Mini Fully-Balanced Passive Preamp on amazon. Would that work? What other not too expensive preamp or headphone amp+preamp do you recommend for the Ares 2? Thanks so much :))
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thank you, Hans! Can you humbly recommend me a balanced preamp and/or headphone amp+preamp, that is not so expensive? The Denafrips HESTIA looks nice, but that is more expensive than the Ares 2 DAC itself. Output voltage of Ares 2 XLR is 4,4V and XLR input of my speakers is "+4 dBV".
@@ohnonate hey 👋 I ended up not going for the Ares 2 and am still rocking my Fostex HP-A4. A good preamp does cost quite some money. What do you have in mind?
All-around small form factor DAC. It seems that next week I will buy the Ares-II (still in the assessment process) to replace my old Denon DA-300 but I will not get rid of it. It is a very easy to "live with" DAC. Small, Headphone outpout, DSD and reliable. The DA-310 exists but to put my hands on it from Europe seems impossible. My request 1: Could you make a specific recommendation for that kind of DAC? Being small is far from being enough. My request 2: Well if you don't have a Headphone output on the DAC what should people use to connect to their DAC?
Amazing Review Hans! I just purchased the device! what would be the best connection to get the best sound to a Yamaha NP-S 303 Network player? THKS and keep on!
Use the Coax digital output on the Yamaha and connect it to one of the the SPDIF inputs (CO.1 or CO.2) on the Denafrips using a 75 ohm cable. These cables are normally called 'digital cable' or 'video cable'
@The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel, Another question which I was hoping you or anyone else reading the comment box could answer for me: In the video the Denafrips Ares II dac was directly connected to the amplifier (0:43 of the video). Is a preamplifier not required in this case? The Denafrips Ares II has no pre-amp build in right? Many thanks in advance!
Hello Hans, I am streaming Tidal MQA using my laptop - Ifi iSilencer+ - Ifi Ipurifier3 - Ares 2 DAC. Tidal app on my laptop is only doing the 1st unfolding. Am I missing something since Ares 2 is not a MQA decoder? Will I bet better sounding of Tidal with MQA ready dac like IFI neo idsd ?
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel The source into the DAC has volume control. There is volume control on both active speakers. Acoustic Audio AE1's. Thanks for replying.
@The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel or anyone reading the comment box. I was hoping if someone could tell me what the differences in sound signature is between a R2R ladder DAC and a Delta Sigma DAC? Is one type of DAC preferred over the other (e.g. sounding more naturally)? Moreover, in relation to the Denafrips Ares II discussed here, would you personally consider the dacs of Denafrips over the Audio-GD dacs (for example, when comparing the Denafrips Ares II with the Audio GD R1 dac, which are similar in price)? Any advice or these two questions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for explaining these complicated issues so clearly to us. Your video's are educative. You clearly have a talent for this type of work.
Audio GD are distributed by Audiophonics in France. A related product(?) of theirs was the Armature Cronos, which was simply a re-badged Ares (v.1) - and either Armature or Cronos wording was visible on an internal shot on early pics on the Denafrips site. I would say there is a high chance of shared breeding if not the same stable. Food for further digging...
Do you think this DAC would benefit from a dedicated balanced pre amplifier...like the Topping Pre90? Would be used with active speakers and I need volume control... :)
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel suppose I mean a active pre amplifier in general. Just looking for volume control with out causing degradation to the sound of the Denafrips.
@@drewpknutz1410 it's great. It's neutral sounding without being clinical or warm. Works with all genre's. Using with a topping pa5 amp balanced imput. I bought. It to compliment my other project audio setup. I prefer classical and accustic music on the denephips Ares 2 to the project. To my ears the denephips is not fatiguing when listening long sessions. In my opinion the topping amp was a worthwhile twin purchase.i have stopped looking at other DACs, which also says something.
Probably a dumb question. I have a NAD M32 integrated amp and use the pre out into a M28 Amp. Would the DAC in the M32 mess with output from the ARES II?
I'm a bit torn between the Denafrips Ares II R-2R and the Chord Mojo 2. I know you don't 'do recommendations', but what's your thought on these two DACs? Thanks so much for the video. Cheers!
Hans, i just ordered this DAC and while i haven't got it into my system, would a tube buffer hurt or add to it's performance. I chose this DAC over the Doge 7 Tube DAC to save money as the Ares II is described as very analog. I use Klipschorns but play digital music, so tube warmth is crucial for me to use with large horns. Solid State McIntosh pre/pro, but no tubes other than a buffer/soundstage expander called Black Ice Audio FOZ-SSX Soundstage Expander designed by Jim Fosgate that can be used with any source.
Good tube amps don't sound that different from solid state ones.But since the urban legend that tube amps sound 'warm', some manufacturers designed amps that do.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel I can understand, but as similar price points, in my experience, tube amps have a very lush midrange/vocals and a more engaging aural experience compared to similarly priced solid state. Especially with high efficient horned speakers. Ill give the Denafrips Ares II a good chance because the only place I want tubes is either in the DAC or preamp and currently have neither and lack the lush vocals ive heard with full tube pre/pro setup. Thanks Hans, you're the man!
Which amplifier that has a headphone jack would you pair this with ? I am currently using Topping a90 with my Denafrips Ares 2 and I am wondering if I can use something better. Any recommendations ? (I am using DUNU SA6 IEM)
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel yes, of course. I should have asked my question more directly. What is the impact of controlling volume digitally (through Roon, for instance)? Will that impact result in lower sound quality in a truly balanced system with a direct connection from dac to amp? It seems like in modern systems the preamp is losing the importance it once held.
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel I’ve watched it previously. Was curious how this Ares ii compares against it as I alr have a H2 but don’t want to get something “lower”. Rather the Pontus if that’s an improvement over H2..
Hi Hans As always, a precise and informative review. absolutely love your way of explaining! Had a few quick questions It seems that ladder/R2R set up are heard to be more musical than analytical (like most DS Dacs). Since i'm constrained by my budget to get the ARES II (in India +30% taxes on price including shipping), was considering Schiit modi multibit (true bit/multibit dac). Not sure if you have reviewed the same, would love to hear your views on the product. Also, there is a DIYer who implemented a R2R Hat on Raspberry Pi (audiophilediyer.com/discrete-r-2r-dac-hat-for-raspberry-pi/) and this is available at reasonable price. My question (although vague since testing is not possible) - would this implementation sound better than a Macbook Air (2015) streaming via USB to an external R2R dac? Appreciate your reply :)
My stereo system is Marantz PM6006 connected to PSB Alpha p5 speakers via DAC SPK14 AWG OFC Dual Speaker Cables. For DAC im using the line out on the topping NX4 DSD (portable headphone amp), connected to Macbook Air via micro usb cable. Thanks!
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel The reason I ask is Denafrips said it did NOT, but I was not sure they understood the question. They said volume had to be handled with a pre-amp. So to be clear have you digitally reduced the volume in a source App(Jriver, RUclips, etc.) and had the output volume decrease. Sorry to belabor this but it is a deal breaker for me.
One thing have I discovered upon purchase which may be useful for some people to know is that currently the Denafrips USB driver disables the use of windows volume "to ensure bit perfect output". This is mentioned nowhere on their website or in any of their documentation and I find it quite frustrating that there isn't a simple checkbox in their driver software to re enable the use of windows volume. Now of course most people buying a boutique DAC like this are probably well aware that using the windows volume can sacrifice some sound quality. However depending on how you plan to use it, this may cause some issues as there is no way to bypass it. I need to use the windows volume controller frequently as I bought this DAC for my desktop nearfield set up and adjusting the amp volume is not always the quickest way for me to adjust the sound as it isn't within arms reach of my chair and has no remote. When I'm doing critical listening I of course keep windows volume on max however 75% of the time I am just using my computer regularly and like to adjust the volume on the fly with my mouse as most youtube videos, music streams, sounds from websites etc are of low quality anyway and drastically vary in loudness, so I prioritize quick adjustment over preserving every single bit of information. Just something to think about for prospective buyers.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel yes of course but many times I am not using the system it’s connected to for audiophile duties, I’m just watching random news videos, playing games or doing work. I don’t care if the audio from a game I’m playing is bit perfect, I’d just like to be able to quickly turn it down when I need to. When I’m listening to proper audio then I max windows volume to ensure the quality is bit perfect, sit back and enjoy the music however I would prefer that they didn’t child lock me out of adjusting it should I want to. If I’m on a Zoom meeting I much prefer being able to quickly adjust the volume with the hotkeys on my mouse depending on how loud the microphone of the person talking is. Same with viewing videos on reddit etc, some are whisper quiet and some are dynamically compressed to the extreme and twice as loud as everything else. I also have a remote for my PC on my phone so I can adjust the volume when it’s just playing background music and I’m not critically listening or even in the same room, I now can no longer do this. I’m not suggesting that you should critically listen to music with the windows volume down but I’m just letting people know in case their usage case is similar to mine that they may run into this issue as this is the first dac I’ve ever owned that locks the windows volume like that so I was quite surprised. I contacted Vinshine Audio and they said they are in talks with Denafrips to fix this with a future update as other people have complained as well.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Hello Hans, I just realise. I use a Audiolab 6000A now as a pre-amp. So I can add this DAC to my system? I was first looking at the Audiolab MDAC+ which you have reviewed. This Denafrips will be the better DAC due to it be a newer product and because off the newer R-2R tech over the older ESS Saber chip? Thank you very much for your insights.
@Hans. I'm guessing you've been using DACs since the 90's. Am I wrong!? Did you ever experience the Audio Alchemy stuff from that aera? No USB inputs, but Coax, Toslink, AT&T Glass and ESU. Those were ladder DACs if I'm not mistaken.
I would like to ask Hans a question and your website says to do it here, but I can find no other way than to post a comment. Is there a different way to ask a question?
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Here goes! I have Wisdom LS4 speakers which only use active crossovers. I made my own crossover using a PC and Acourate software. My preamp outputs AES3. The only way I have found to connect all this is with MiniDsp's U-DIO8, which means I have a $100,000+ system running 4 digital signals through a $300 box. Somehow that doesn't seem right. I have two digital outputs, treble and bass, to 2 DACs that MUST remain synchronized. I am willing to spend money to do this more properly, but can't seem to find a better solution. Any ideas?
I'm afraid I can't help you. You might want to look in the professional studio realm for a PCI card with multiple AES3 outputs, but if these will be better than what MiniDSP offers, I don't know. I use the MiniDSP SHD Studio in between my 4k streamer and DAC and it doesn't degrade the sound notably. So perhaps you should just try the U-DIO8.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks anyway, Hans. I found Lynx has an AES16e card, with the AES3 I/O. At least that would eliminate 2 USB signals in and out of the PC. I had read a review saying the U-DIO8 has bad jitter and if I am using the AES3 output, the U-DIO8 is doing the clock, if I understood your other video. So, reducing jitter and eliminating the 2 USB's should go a long way towards improving things. Thanks again.
I bought one and received it within 10 days in US. The first impression was WOW! It was music rather than glassy digital sound. It was like what I heard with a Linn Sondek TT. Not the ultimate in resolution, but very musical right out of the box. Using Bluesound Node 2i, Roon and Qobuz. So a question for Hans, given the lack of instruction and documentation with the dac- is high resolution only available through the USB connection? Thanks so much for your insight into an area that is new to many of us.
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel I’m playing DSD through my macbook over usb. Optical and coax are limited. Looking for a USB streamer to replace the Allo Digione Signature, so I have a USB network player
Slant88 the Digione Signature is very good. I was using a MacBook Pro before, as soon as I played music on the Digione, the noise that I didn’t notice was gone. Basically there was a blacker background or should I say silence other than the instruments, so I heard more nuances and could pick out the instruments better. To be very honest, I did have issues with the Pi operating system at the start, I’m not very Techie with Linux. I’ve had Volumio installed for about 1 1/2 years and happy with the software. I did try the DietPi, the user interface looked rather dated to me. I’d still be happy with the Digione, but want a USB device so I can take advantage of the higher resolution DSD64 albums that I have
Get a Bluetooth receiver with digital output and connect it to the Ares II via one of its digital inputs and then you can enjoy music from your phone with excellent D/A decoding...
But isn’t the Nyquist Sampling Theory dictate that any competent DAC will produce the same analog output signal as another one? How does the spacious and vocal emphasis change come out?
Nyquist sampling theorem is a theorem, a statement that is proven based on knowledge present. The theorem is 100% correct but can't be implemented due to technical limitations. It is not possible to band limit an audio signal at half the sampling rate without distorting the audio. But after that, Nyquist is 100% lossless. The same goes for reproduction. The digital code still is 100% but then need to be filtered at half the sampling frequency and it's the filtering that can have immense impact on the sound quality. Apart from that, there is jittering.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks for the quick response. I got banned from a popular audio discussion forum for challenging the implementation of the Nyquist Sampling Theorem in reality.
Of course based on personal preference. There is no objective measurement to define that for it would be an interpretation of those measurements since we don't know how your brain works... Please watch ruclips.net/video/bSbVOgsAH7Y/видео.html
There's something flaky with vinshine shop, it's offering to deliver the ares to Australia for S$9,999 when the price of the unit is S$1029. Just a bit sus.
@Jingle Nuts What is even more hhhmmm is that i changed my delivery location to the UK or the Netherlands and its free delivery. I guess they don't like Aussies.
Hi guys, We have a partner in Melbourne who has stock of the Ares II. Please contact Stav to purchase the Ares II at DACmanAudio@bigpond.com Hope this clarifies things!
@@robh9079 Hi Rob no it defaults to $9999 as I am the Australian Denafrips retailer I'm based in Melbourne website here www.dacmanaudio.com.au cheers stav
I just got the Denafrips Ares ii today and put it to the test. And wow ! All my dreams collapsed ! Let me break it up to points: Pros: The sound has been altered to sound like a wide sound stage... so there is a perception that the sound has a wide soundstage Pretty straightforward and easy to operate Cons: 1) Even though the soundstage appears to be wide but this is very irregular. The vocal sound is wide (Unnaturally!) but then a lot of the instruments have their soundstage much smaller sounding more like a matchbox of the instrument rather than the instrument itself! This unrealistic difference in the size of the soundstage between vocals and instruments creates a very unnatural and disturbing overall soundstage 2) The high frequencies are pretty disturbing to listen to as there is an accentuation and edginess of the high frequencies 3) Everything is thin. The bass, the midrange ...etc. So most of the flavor of listening across the spectrum is lost as nothing is presented truly to its magnitude 4) Loss of resolution! There is a loss of the sound data in many cases especially when it is in the low midrange and low frequencies. What is perceived as details is I think the accentuation of the higher frequencies which give the misleading feeling of extra detail and airiness 5) Completely unnatural. Probably this is the worst part. After 10 min of listening you would want to turn of the audio off as this very unnatural sound starts creeping into your head and gives you a headache. I uninstalled The Denafrips ARES II from my system and I'm so relieved ! 6) This DAC gives you the Archetype of the typical digital sound. The sound is cold, harsh and edgy. It is very far from the promised Analog like sound. I'm putting my comments in several youtubers' comment section to make sure you are informed before buying
Sorry for my previous reporting about the Ares II. This was entirely my mistake with the wiring that goes out of the DAC and into the Amplifier. Once that problem was fixed, the results were Jaw Dropping ! The artists and musicians are in the room. Every instrument sounds exactly the way it sounds in reality. The richness, impact and details of the instruments are the exact thing you expect to get if you get that instrument and play it in the room. The power of drums, the richness of electric or acoustic guitars and the reality of vocals are as if you are physically present with the artists and the instruments. I know this since I play several musical instruments myself. Excluding perfect vinyl recordings, this is the most realistic sound I've ever heard. I had a rough beginning with it due to wrong wiring... but once the problem got fixed, the results were jaw dropping ! I have used many expensive DACs before, but nothing comes close... I'm truly sorry to anyone who has been misled by my previous impression. That was totally my mistake and had nothing to do with the DAC itself.
@@bedrosdaoudian8927 No worries, I’ve had the same issue regarding different dacs and amps when it comes to interconnects. I am in love with this DAC, I love it so much that I almost want to upgrade, sell my Ares II and get a Pontus II
I think you should spend less time on how to connect items (which I feel most people who watch your channel probably already know) and more time how they actually sound, which In my opinion is what people want to hear about
Personally I appreciate the connection part. Maybe a time index would allow anybody to jump into the section of their interest. As per the video, very good as usual.
Whilst the connection advice isn't neccesarily aimed at everyone... I do think it's become Hans' usp, plus it's just one of the aspects that make his reviews so complete and thorough ... if it only helps one person it's a job well done...... Looking forward to the Pontus review... I don't know if true, but have read of a Pontus II
Jim Farrell I agree with you and Albert. The connection part only takes a few moments and helps me as I’m a visual person. Plus, I’m an old guy still trying to make sense of it all.
You have an incredible skill to explain complex topics in a simple manner and also have the ability to convey the importance of the parts on a device that matter the most. God bless you and I wish you and your family stay safe and healthy.
I totally agree. Whenever i am confuse with an audio subject or gear i will turn to this channel.
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instaBlaster.
you know it must be nice for a guy like this to have lived through many eras of audio reproduction
You bet.
It's a long time I last watched one of your video, but with Denafrips Ares II I found my way back to you. Your explanations are very useful for those who want to understand what one can expect in daily use and how to buy it. I'm hesitating because I consider the buying a high risk, not for the sound. Thanks.
Welcome back!
Thanks for the review, Hans. I appreciate it!
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Thanks for the review. I’m glad there’s someone who’s reviews I can watch without having to hear the same things I hear from every other reviewer. I really appreciate that.
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Another great review--thank you Hans. Your combination of passion, technical expertise, and detailed listening information make you one of the most reliable reviewers out there. Cannot wait to hear what you have to say about the Pontus. The Pontus looks like it might be the sweet spot of the Denafrips lineup.
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One of the best audio channels!
Great video Sir!
Thanks for the insight Hans.
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Wonderful review
Love the whole review, thank you.
Thank You Hans very much for your detail work !
You are very welcome
Thanks Hans, nice review, it seems a great product at a great price! Greetings form Colombia.
Greetings back from a rainy Netherlands
Good video full of very useful information. Thank you.
An excellent review Hans! Your very talented at explaining complex electronic details in layman’s terms. A skill that is in short supply on the Internet. Please keep them coming as I very much enjoy all your reviews. Regarding DAC reviews I would love to see you do one on the new Burson Composer that has switchable op amplifiers. If you find that possible it would be most appreciated! Thanks again for all the excellent reviews.
Noted, but no promises
Great review. You made me interested in the product.
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👍🏻 Good Work and Informationen. Thank you for your work at the Video
Thanks for watching!
Nice review as always Hans, excited for the Pontus review. Would like to see either Venus or Terminator reviewed too, and see how they stack up against your usual reference and the other high-end DACs you have experienced before, like Holo May and Audio GD R7HE.
Shure! I'll do them all 😁
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel
Exciting prospect... Something for most of us (in budget terms)
Thank you 👍🏻
Dear Hans, thank you for another great review! Cheers,
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GREAT VIDEO!
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Top review !
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Good Review Hans, I hope you can also go ahead with the new Venus II !!
Soon the Pontus, after that I'll have to see.
Hey. Nice video. 1. I now know what a ladder converter is. (😀) 2. Interesting to hear about some kit from an otherwise unknown (to me) manufacturer from the other side of the world, always good to expand ones horizons (😀😀). Thank you!
🙏🏻
Thank you Hans
🙏🏽
Great video!! Sounds like this dac ,and the Audiolab 6000 transport would be a great match !
Think so, but haven't tried.
Great review. I ordered the Ares II, fortunately, here in the US we don't have a VAT to add to the price. Thought this would be a good first DAC, should be here in a few days, but I'm already thinking I'll be upgrading it to the Venus II based on your review, and reviews of others I've seen. Thanks again Hans, great review.
My pleasure
Hello Hans, thanks for the interesting content on this channel, which I follow for quite some time now.
About the Denafrips Ares II, as well as about the Musical Fidelity VDac II (which you did also mention in one of your reviews): Your statements to these dacs were that you rate the Ares II higher than the VDac II. Also from other reviewers I got this picture. I was curious and got me a new Ares II (the VDac II is already mine for about 2 - 3 years, I use it with an external linear power supply, also mentioned by you in a video).
Now that I have got the Ares II, I was a little disappointed on first listening, because I was expecting an improvement in the performance, which didn't happen. Maybe this has only to do with the rest of my system, but I feel I like the VDac II more.
I use lossless coded music in 44.1k via USB from my Mac Mini to the Dac, then a McIntosh MA252 Amp and Bouchardt S400 speakers.
The VDac II to my ears had little sweeter bass (esp. the higher notes) on one side, and the Ares II on the other side had much too bright treble for me (I like accentuated cymbals but that was too much for me). The rest of the performance is quite similar. The treble "issue" became much better with the Ares II when I changed the output from balanced (which I first used) to the RCA outputs. (Of course it is not proven yet that the difference is in the dac, it could also be a difference between RCA and balanced inputs on my amp.) I listen to Rock/Metal, but also to other genres. The Ares II had no problems with classical music.
And yes, I could also be used to my old dac and its sound. Anyway, I will do as you proposed - keep the new dac in the system for some weeks and see what happens either with the dac or with my ears ; ) and then decide how to go on.
If my perception stays as of now, I will probably get rid of the Ares II and be forever lucky with my Musical Fidelity (till his death us to part...).
BR, Joe from Austria
@Joao Faria Yes, I tried out all the oversampling / nonoversampling and filter modes available. To my ears the non-oversampling mode with steep filter was the best sounding, and I also preferred the unbalanced outputs over the balanced ones (but that could also come from differences in my amp - I don't know).
Nevertheless I did not like the sound especially in the treble region of this DAC. It was too aggressive for me and I had a hiss / ringing in my ears after listening sessions. All that is not the case together with my Musical Fidelity DAC. I had bought the Musical Fidelity DAC for 100€ on the used market, and still liked it more than the much more expensive Denafrips DAC.
So finally I decided to sell the Ares II. I kept in touch with the guy who bought the DAC, he had an even more high end system than I do, and he was very happy with the DAC.
You see, I cannot give a conclusive summary why it did not work for me, all I can say is that the DAC has to work together with the rest of the system in a good way, which probably cannot be predicted, so you have to hear it and then decide. BR
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this little DAC. I am e joying it since 6 months (net off summer break) and I copy 100% of what you said (even the OS/NOS preference, regardless what most of Ares owners/reviewers said so far...)
I get more and more how come I tend to be always in agreement with what you say 🤔
thanks for you kind words. We must have identical sound taste.
Great review Hans! This is a great DAC and use it to bypass the Woo Audio WA7 Fireflies headphone amp, definitely pleased with the investment. I think you should also review the larger brother called The Terminator, it’s a beast!
Noted
The 1536khz usb input is very suitable for external oversampling. Put the dac in NOS mode and use hqplayer for PCM1536 oversampling, and enjoy the large jump in sound quality. Make sure you use the asio usb driver, it sounds better than wasapi.
Thanks for sharing
Nice review, wish they offered a remote. The Denafrips Terminator is on my wish list.
👍🏼
Thanks for another great video! It would be interesting if you could test Audio GD R1 dac that is approximately in same price range.
I'll see if I can get a review sample
I love my Ares II. I think its real strength is how the superb separation allows for so much detail to come through. I like to use it in NOS mode and do my oversampling in HQPlayer, but I also thing the OS mode sounds fantastic.
Same. I do my oversampling with Audirvana and set the Ares to NOS.
Thanks voor sharing
Hi Vertical, are you using a pre amp?
@@ohnonate Yes, I use an A90 as a pre in my system.
I prefer the over sampling mode using my HE-1000’s.
Having owned this dac for the last couple of months, I have been amazed by how great it is! My previous dac, (Chord Hugo) came across as somewhat bright, which the Ares II is not. I dont think you could find anything under $2000 that can touch this.
Thanks for sharing
Does the dac introduce delay?
Thanks for the review. I’m currently using a Chord Mojo as DAC in a speaker system. Would this be a meaningful upgrade from the Mojo?
Please watch ruclips.net/video/EykkzxUstL4/видео.html
Willow Tree Audio in UK (Bury St Edmunds) are a UK distributor for Denafrips. They list the whole product line, and have some ex demo Denafrips available so assume they are demoing this gear. (no affiliation)
The first version of Ares was also distributed in a re-badged form as Armature Cronos through Audiophonics in France. (I think formerly you could see Armature or Cronos referenced on a circuit board shot on the Denafrips site) - Finding a used one of these could be a budget 'way in' to R2R.
I have also heard (needs qualifying) that this may be closely related to a more costly dac (formerly?) produced by Rockna.
Thanks for sharing
Hi. Thank you for the great review. Thumbs up from me. Would you pair such a device to a sonos connect for sound improvement?
It will work but not be optimal
I would love to hear a review of the PS Audio Strata integrated streaming DAC/amp. Also how well the PS Connect app works, as Roon is not usable with this unit.
I can't get a review sample. Sorry.
Another great technical review! I have owned the Ares II for a few months and run both the single ended and balanced outputs, SE to a Schitt Lyr 3 and balanced to a THX 789. I find the performance of the balanced to be superior -- some tracks are displeasing single ended and I bypass the Ares for my streamer DAC (Bluesound Node 2i) Since you are more technical, I was wondering if this performance difference could be explained. Is it the output voltage -- though that doesn't make sense since the Bluesound DAC sounds fine through the Lyr for the tracks in question.
Although the Bluesound Node 2 is a really fine network player for the money, it is of a different class than the Ares II. A higher quality network player or network bridge will do wonders for the Ares II. I don't have hands-on experience with the THX 789, I have used the Ares II only single ended since my Audio Note Soro SE is single ended (hence the SE). I can't imagine the balanced outputs are better. Perhaps there is a grounding problem or a difference in quality of the balanced and single ended inputs on the THX 789.
You’re not meant to connect both single ended and balanced at the same time. Ask Alvin from Vinshine Audio and he will say the same. I’m not an expert but I believe the Ares doesn’t have a separate output stage so therefore doubling up the connections on the outputs will physically ruin the performance.
Hi Hans,
Firstly, thank you for all your videos here. They are nicely done, very informative and helps me to understand digital audio. Here’s my qestion. In this review and almost in any written DAC review there is technical info about DAC ANALOG OUTPUT VOLTAGE. Some spec. also mentions analog output impedance. Some dac has balanced XLR output 4V and unbalanced RCA output 2V, other dacs has XLR/RCA voltage same value (as mine Simaudio Moon 380D dsd).
Can you please explain (maybe on some future video) what those values means? Is DAC analog output voltage important?, is higher value better (or other way)?, is lower impedance better? Are those numbers indication of quality in any way? Cant find any good explanation on this topic online. And I think it would be interesting for other subscribers too. Thanks!
You don't have to worry about either output voltage and output impedance. These are rather standardised in a way that they will work cross brands.
Thank you for your great review, Hans. Detailed and engaging. :-)
When connecting the Ares 2 to my Active-powered speakers using XLR, is a passive preamp enough to lower the input signal?
I have found the Nobsound Mini Fully-Balanced Passive Preamp on amazon.
Would that work?
What other not too expensive preamp or headphone amp+preamp do you recommend for the Ares 2?
Thanks so much :))
I don't know the Nobsound but in general cheap passive devices might deteriorate the sound
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel
Thank you, Hans!
Can you humbly recommend me a balanced preamp and/or headphone amp+preamp, that is not so expensive?
The Denafrips HESTIA looks nice, but that is more expensive than the Ares 2 DAC itself.
Output voltage of Ares 2 XLR is 4,4V and XLR input of my speakers is "+4 dBV".
I have not reviewed pre-amps for a long time so I can’t say.
@@tivtag hi paul just curious did you get a pre amp? I was having the same issue
@@ohnonate hey 👋 I ended up not going for the Ares 2 and am still rocking my Fostex HP-A4. A good preamp does cost quite some money. What do you have in mind?
All-around small form factor DAC. It seems that next week I will buy the Ares-II (still in the assessment process) to replace my old Denon DA-300 but I will not get rid of it. It is a very easy to "live with" DAC. Small, Headphone outpout, DSD and reliable. The DA-310 exists but to put my hands on it from Europe seems impossible.
My request 1: Could you make a specific recommendation for that kind of DAC? Being small is far from being enough.
My request 2: Well if you don't have a Headphone output on the DAC what should people use to connect to their DAC?
I'm not sure if I missed it, what gears did you review it with? Only using setup 1?
I use three setups as reference. Watch ruclips.net/video/Qw762D_rseI/видео.html
Amazing Review Hans! I just purchased the device! what would be the best connection to get the best sound to a Yamaha NP-S 303 Network player? THKS and keep on!
Use the Coax digital output on the Yamaha and connect it to one of the the SPDIF inputs (CO.1 or CO.2) on the Denafrips using a 75 ohm cable. These cables are normally called 'digital cable' or 'video cable'
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel hartelijk dank! 👌👍
@The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel,
Another question which I was hoping you or anyone else reading the comment box could answer for me:
In the video the Denafrips Ares II dac was directly connected to the amplifier (0:43 of the video). Is a preamplifier not required in this case? The Denafrips Ares II has no pre-amp build in right?
Many thanks in advance!
DENAFRIPS DAC has on pre-amp built it. You'd need a to use a preamp or integrated amp to work with it :)
Vinshine Audio thank you for clarifying.
🙏🏻
I'm not sure I missed it. What did you connect it to?
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel
I use three setups as reference. Watch ruclips.net/video/Qw762D_rseI/видео.html
Hello Hans, I am streaming Tidal MQA using my laptop - Ifi iSilencer+ - Ifi Ipurifier3 - Ares 2 DAC. Tidal app on my laptop is only doing the 1st unfolding. Am I missing something since Ares 2 is not a MQA decoder? Will I bet better sounding of Tidal with MQA ready dac like IFI neo idsd ?
Hard to say, it depends on your focus when listening. The Ares Ii sound better dan a cheap MQA DAC....
Hi Hans. Love your channel and your reviews. Can this DAC be connected to a pair of powered speakers directly or does it need to go through a pre-amp?
If the speakers have volume control, it can.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel The source into the DAC has volume control. There is volume control on both active speakers. Acoustic Audio AE1's.
Thanks for replying.
@@surfrico hi Richard did you end up getting a Ares 2 ?
@@ohnonate I didn't in the end. I ended up getting the RME ADI 2 DAC FS. and am very happy with my choice.
@@surfrico Hi Richard nice choice ! enjoy
@The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel or anyone reading the comment box.
I was hoping if someone could tell me what the differences in sound signature is between a R2R ladder DAC and a Delta Sigma DAC? Is one type of DAC preferred over the other (e.g. sounding more naturally)?
Moreover, in relation to the Denafrips Ares II discussed here, would you personally consider the dacs of Denafrips over the Audio-GD dacs (for example, when comparing the Denafrips Ares II with the Audio GD R1 dac, which are similar in price)?
Any advice or these two questions would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you for explaining these complicated issues so clearly to us. Your video's are educative. You clearly have a talent for this type of work.
For comparison between products watch the reviews I have made of them.
Audio GD are distributed by Audiophonics in France. A related product(?) of theirs was the Armature Cronos, which was simply a re-badged Ares (v.1) - and either Armature or Cronos wording was visible on an internal shot on early pics on the Denafrips site. I would say there is a high chance of shared breeding if not the same stable. Food for further digging...
Do you think this DAC would benefit from a dedicated balanced pre amplifier...like the Topping Pre90? Would be used with active speakers and I need volume control... :)
I don't know the Topping, so I can't say. In general balanced is better.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel suppose I mean a active pre amplifier in general. Just looking for volume control with out causing degradation to the sound of the Denafrips.
Ordered! Most expensive DAC I have bought.
What are your impressions?
@@drewpknutz1410 it's great. It's neutral sounding without being clinical or warm. Works with all genre's. Using with a topping pa5 amp balanced imput. I bought. It to compliment my other project audio setup. I prefer classical and accustic music on the denephips Ares 2 to the project. To my ears the denephips is not fatiguing when listening long sessions. In my opinion the topping amp was a worthwhile twin purchase.i have stopped looking at other DACs, which also says something.
@@mangs9940 thanks
Probably a dumb question. I have a NAD M32 integrated amp and use the pre out into a M28 Amp. Would the DAC in the M32 mess with output from the ARES II?
I don’t see why.
I'm a bit torn between the Denafrips Ares II R-2R and the Chord Mojo 2. I know you don't 'do recommendations', but what's your thought on these two DACs? Thanks so much for the video. Cheers!
You find my thoughts in my reviews: ruclips.net/video/05bH4m-XmfA/видео.html and ruclips.net/video/xv65HZERxlU/видео.html
Hans, i just ordered this DAC and while i haven't got it into my system, would a tube buffer hurt or add to it's performance. I chose this DAC over the Doge 7 Tube DAC to save money as the Ares II is described as very analog. I use Klipschorns but play digital music, so tube warmth is crucial for me to use with large horns. Solid State McIntosh pre/pro, but no tubes other than a buffer/soundstage expander called Black Ice Audio FOZ-SSX Soundstage Expander designed by Jim Fosgate that can be used with any source.
Good tube amps don't sound that different from solid state ones.But since the urban legend that tube amps sound 'warm', some manufacturers designed amps that do.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel I can understand, but as similar price points, in my experience, tube amps have a very lush midrange/vocals and a more engaging aural experience compared to similarly priced solid state. Especially with high efficient horned speakers. Ill give the Denafrips Ares II a good chance because the only place I want tubes is either in the DAC or preamp and currently have neither and lack the lush vocals ive heard with full tube pre/pro setup. Thanks Hans, you're the man!
Which amplifier that has a headphone jack would you pair this with ? I am currently using Topping a90 with my Denafrips Ares 2 and I am wondering if I can use something better. Any recommendations ? (I am using DUNU SA6 IEM)
I don't do headphones so I can't say.
hello hans. have your heard a totaldac r2r?
No
Hans, if connecting this device via xlr to an amp, what would be the best means to control volume while streaming?
As said in the video the Ares II has no volume control.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel yes, of course. I should have asked my question more directly.
What is the impact of controlling volume digitally (through Roon, for instance)?
Will that impact result in lower sound quality in a truly balanced system with a direct connection from dac to amp?
It seems like in modern systems the preamp is losing the importance it once held.
@@igniaulfsborg8946 i am having this issue with my denafrips
Another great and honest review! Thank you. Is it possible for you to review the PrimaLuna Evo 100 DAC?
Possibly!
How does this fare against something like a Hugo 2?
You find the review of the Hugo 2 here: ruclips.net/video/mo7RlAxSWOo/видео.html
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel I’ve watched it previously. Was curious how this Ares ii compares against it as I alr have a H2 but don’t want to get something “lower”. Rather the Pontus if that’s an improvement over H2..
Hi Hans
As always, a precise and informative review. absolutely love your way of explaining!
Had a few quick questions
It seems that ladder/R2R set up are heard to be more musical than analytical (like most DS Dacs). Since i'm constrained by my budget to get the ARES II (in India +30% taxes on price including shipping), was considering Schiit modi multibit (true bit/multibit dac). Not sure if you have reviewed the same, would love to hear your views on the product.
Also, there is a DIYer who implemented a R2R Hat on Raspberry Pi (audiophilediyer.com/discrete-r-2r-dac-hat-for-raspberry-pi/) and this is available at reasonable price. My question (although vague since testing is not possible) - would this implementation sound better than a Macbook Air (2015) streaming via USB to an external R2R dac?
Appreciate your reply :)
My stereo system is Marantz PM6006 connected to PSB Alpha p5 speakers via DAC SPK14 AWG OFC Dual Speaker Cables. For DAC im using the line out on the topping NX4 DSD (portable headphone amp), connected to Macbook Air via micro usb cable.
Thanks!
I have not reviewed the products you mention so I can't say.
If you vary the volume with an app like Jriver does the output volume decrease?
I might hope so
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel The reason I ask is Denafrips said it did NOT, but I was not sure they understood the question. They said volume had to be handled with a pre-amp. So to be clear have you digitally reduced the volume in a source App(Jriver, RUclips, etc.) and had the output volume decrease. Sorry to belabor this but it is a deal breaker for me.
One thing have I discovered upon purchase which may be useful for some people to know is that currently the Denafrips USB driver disables the use of windows volume "to ensure bit perfect output". This is mentioned nowhere on their website or in any of their documentation and I find it quite frustrating that there isn't a simple checkbox in their driver software to re enable the use of windows volume.
Now of course most people buying a boutique DAC like this are probably well aware that using the windows volume can sacrifice some sound quality. However depending on how you plan to use it, this may cause some issues as there is no way to bypass it. I need to use the windows volume controller frequently as I bought this DAC for my desktop nearfield set up and adjusting the amp volume is not always the quickest way for me to adjust the sound as it isn't within arms reach of my chair and has no remote. When I'm doing critical listening I of course keep windows volume on max however 75% of the time I am just using my computer regularly and like to adjust the volume on the fly with my mouse as most youtube videos, music streams, sounds from websites etc are of low quality anyway and drastically vary in loudness, so I prioritize quick adjustment over preserving every single bit of information. Just something to think about for prospective buyers.
Always if you go for audiophile reproduction, you want a bit perfect feed to your DAC you can’t have volume control.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel yes of course but many times I am not using the system it’s connected to for audiophile duties, I’m just watching random news videos, playing games or doing work. I don’t care if the audio from a game I’m playing is bit perfect, I’d just like to be able to quickly turn it down when I need to. When I’m listening to proper audio then I max windows volume to ensure the quality is bit perfect, sit back and enjoy the music however I would prefer that they didn’t child lock me out of adjusting it should I want to.
If I’m on a Zoom meeting I much prefer being able to quickly adjust the volume with the hotkeys on my mouse depending on how loud the microphone of the person talking is. Same with viewing videos on reddit etc, some are whisper quiet and some are dynamically compressed to the extreme and twice as loud as everything else. I also have a remote for my PC on my phone so I can adjust the volume when it’s just playing background music and I’m not critically listening or even in the same room, I now can no longer do this.
I’m not suggesting that you should critically listen to music with the windows volume down but I’m just letting people know in case their usage case is similar to mine that they may run into this issue as this is the first dac I’ve ever owned that locks the windows volume like that so I was quite surprised. I contacted Vinshine Audio and they said they are in talks with Denafrips to fix this with a future update as other people have complained as well.
That test equipment and reel to reel behind you never moves or changes settings. Do you ever use them or are they just for show?
Jimo Mertz I don’t use the reel to reel daily. But the AP is used for every review.
Ok thanks. I’d like to see some of the tests you run on the Audio Precision if they add to the review.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel I always thought it was a green-screen.. 😁
Negative. I don’t want the channel go tech all over
Done it, bin there. Wrong place.
would you be able to try a sokeris r2r dac?
I'll try to get a review sample.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel
STM32 is as of the self as it goes, the even have a gui for auto generating code for Us devices😅.
Nice video as always tho 👍
tnx
how does this fare against a DCS Bartok?
I have not reviewed the Bartók so I can’t say. Sorry.
Newby here, can this device be used as a pre-amp to pair with 8300mb monoblocks from Audiolab?
No, it has no volume control
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Hello Hans, I just realise. I use a Audiolab 6000A now as a pre-amp. So I can add this DAC to my system? I was first looking at the Audiolab MDAC+ which you have reviewed. This Denafrips will be the better DAC due to it be a newer product and because off the newer R-2R tech over the older ESS Saber chip? Thank you very much for your insights.
👍🏼
@Hans. I'm guessing you've been using DACs since the 90's. Am I wrong!? Did you ever experience the Audio Alchemy stuff from that aera? No USB inputs, but Coax, Toslink, AT&T Glass and ESU. Those were ladder DACs if I'm not mistaken.
Sorry, no.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Oh well. Thanks anyway
I would like to ask Hans a question and your website says to do it here, but I can find no other way than to post a comment. Is there a different way to ask a question?
Just ask it here. If I have time and have an answer, you’ll get it.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Here goes! I have Wisdom LS4 speakers which only use active crossovers. I made my own crossover using a PC and Acourate software. My preamp outputs AES3. The only way I have found to connect all this is with MiniDsp's U-DIO8, which means I have a $100,000+ system running 4 digital signals through a $300 box. Somehow that doesn't seem right. I have two digital outputs, treble and bass, to 2 DACs that MUST remain synchronized. I am willing to spend money to do this more properly, but can't seem to find a better solution. Any ideas?
I'm afraid I can't help you. You might want to look in the professional studio realm for a PCI card with multiple AES3 outputs, but if these will be better than what MiniDSP offers, I don't know. I use the MiniDSP SHD Studio in between my 4k streamer and DAC and it doesn't degrade the sound notably. So perhaps you should just try the U-DIO8.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks anyway, Hans. I found Lynx has an AES16e card, with the AES3 I/O. At least that would eliminate 2 USB signals in and out of the PC. I had read a review saying the U-DIO8 has bad jitter and if I am using the AES3 output, the U-DIO8 is doing the clock, if I understood your other video. So, reducing jitter and eliminating the 2 USB's should go a long way towards improving things. Thanks again.
I bought one and received it within 10 days in US. The first impression was WOW! It was music rather than glassy digital sound. It was like what I heard with a Linn Sondek TT. Not the ultimate in resolution, but very musical right out of the box. Using Bluesound Node 2i, Roon and Qobuz. So a question for Hans, given the lack of instruction and documentation with the dac- is high resolution only available through the USB connection? Thanks so much for your insight into an area that is new to many of us.
You must have missed but it is in the video: SPDIF and TOSlink work up to 192 kHz while USB supports any sampling frequency.
Thanks, Boney. The docs can be downloaded here: www.denafrips.com/download-ares
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel I’m playing DSD through my macbook over usb. Optical and coax are limited. Looking for a USB streamer to replace the Allo Digione Signature, so I have a USB network player
Shahid Iqbal how do you like the digione? I’m just learning about raspberry pi. It cannot be purposed as a streamer?
Slant88 the Digione Signature is very good. I was using a MacBook Pro before, as soon as I played music on the Digione, the noise that I didn’t notice was gone. Basically there was a blacker background or should I say silence other than the instruments, so I heard more nuances and could pick out the instruments better. To be very honest, I did have issues with the Pi operating system at the start, I’m not very Techie with Linux. I’ve had Volumio installed for about 1 1/2 years and happy with the software. I did try the DietPi, the user interface looked rather dated to me. I’d still be happy with the Digione, but want a USB device so I can take advantage of the higher resolution DSD64 albums that I have
How to stream from my Bluetooth Smartphone just like CSR 8675?
It can’t do that
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel thanks
Get a Bluetooth receiver with digital output and connect it to the Ares II via one of its digital inputs and then you can enjoy music from your phone with excellent D/A decoding...
But isn’t the Nyquist Sampling Theory dictate that any competent DAC will produce the same analog output signal as another one? How does the spacious and vocal emphasis change come out?
Nyquist sampling theorem is a theorem, a statement that is proven based on knowledge present. The theorem is 100% correct but can't be implemented due to technical limitations. It is not possible to band limit an audio signal at half the sampling rate without distorting the audio. But after that, Nyquist is 100% lossless. The same goes for reproduction. The digital code still is 100% but then need to be filtered at half the sampling frequency and it's the filtering that can have immense impact on the sound quality. Apart from that, there is jittering.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks for the quick response. I got banned from a popular audio discussion forum for challenging the implementation of the Nyquist Sampling Theorem in reality.
Is your preference of OS over NOS just based on just a personal listening, ie what sounds good to you, or a choice based on objective measurements?
Of course based on personal preference. There is no objective measurement to define that for it would be an interpretation of those measurements since we don't know how your brain works... Please watch ruclips.net/video/bSbVOgsAH7Y/видео.html
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel Thank you.
Not sure what this does or is for but I’m sure I need one 😅
sure you do!
👍🙂
🙏🏻
Is dit een nos dac?
It can be either NOS or oversampling by the flick of a switch.
" still has a linear power supply " - £20 boom boxes used to have linear power supplies a few years ago.
There's something flaky with vinshine shop, it's offering to deliver the ares to Australia for S$9,999 when the price of the unit is S$1029. Just a bit sus.
Not shonky at all. It’s because they have appointed an Australian distributor dacmanaudio.com.au which is where I bought mine. I’m in Sydney.
@Jingle Nuts What is even more hhhmmm is that i changed my delivery location to the UK or the Netherlands and its free delivery. I guess they don't like Aussies.
Hi guys,
We have a partner in Melbourne who has stock of the Ares II. Please contact Stav to purchase the Ares II at DACmanAudio@bigpond.com
Hope this clarifies things!
Hi VInce, I'm the Denafrips retailer for Australia I'm based in Melbourne website : www.dacmanaudio.com.au
@@robh9079 Hi Rob no it defaults to $9999 as I am the Australian Denafrips retailer I'm based in Melbourne website here www.dacmanaudio.com.au cheers stav
I just got the Denafrips Ares ii today and put it to the test. And wow ! All my dreams collapsed ! Let me break it up to points:
Pros:
The sound has been altered to sound like a wide sound stage... so there is a perception that the sound has a wide soundstage
Pretty straightforward and easy to operate
Cons:
1) Even though the soundstage appears to be wide but this is very irregular. The vocal sound is wide (Unnaturally!) but then a lot of the instruments have their soundstage much smaller sounding more like a matchbox of the instrument rather than the instrument itself! This unrealistic difference in the size of the soundstage between vocals and instruments creates a very unnatural and disturbing overall soundstage
2) The high frequencies are pretty disturbing to listen to as there is an accentuation and edginess of the high frequencies
3) Everything is thin. The bass, the midrange ...etc. So most of the flavor of listening across the spectrum is lost as nothing is presented truly to its magnitude
4) Loss of resolution! There is a loss of the sound data in many cases especially when it is in the low midrange and low frequencies. What is perceived as details is I think the accentuation of the higher frequencies which give the misleading feeling of extra detail and airiness
5) Completely unnatural. Probably this is the worst part. After 10 min of listening you would want to turn of the audio off as this very unnatural sound starts creeping into your head and gives you a headache. I uninstalled The Denafrips ARES II from my system and I'm so relieved !
6) This DAC gives you the Archetype of the typical digital sound. The sound is cold, harsh and edgy. It is very far from the promised Analog like sound.
I'm putting my comments in several youtubers' comment section to make sure you are informed before buying
What source is feeding the Ares II, for this in NOT my experience with it.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Laptop with different kinds of PCM music
@@bedrosdaoudian8927 you must have a defective unit. I would say that it’s the total opposite to what I’m hearing
Sorry for my previous reporting about the Ares II. This was entirely my mistake with the wiring that goes out of the DAC and into the Amplifier. Once that problem was fixed, the results were Jaw Dropping ! The artists and musicians are in the room. Every instrument sounds exactly the way it sounds in reality. The richness, impact and details of the instruments are the exact thing you expect to get if you get that instrument and play it in the room. The power of drums, the richness of electric or acoustic guitars and the reality of vocals are as if you are physically present with the artists and the instruments. I know this since I play several musical instruments myself. Excluding perfect vinyl recordings, this is the most realistic sound I've ever heard. I had a rough beginning with it due to wrong wiring... but once the problem got fixed, the results were jaw dropping ! I have used many expensive DACs before, but nothing comes close... I'm truly sorry to anyone who has been misled by my previous impression. That was totally my mistake and had nothing to do with the DAC itself.
@@bedrosdaoudian8927 No worries, I’ve had the same issue regarding different dacs and amps when it comes to interconnects. I am in love with this DAC, I love it so much that I almost want to upgrade, sell my Ares II and get a Pontus II
I think you should spend less time on how to connect items (which I feel most people who watch your channel probably already know) and more time how they actually sound, which In my opinion is what people want to hear about
Personally I appreciate the connection part. Maybe a time index would allow anybody to jump into the section of their interest. As per the video, very good as usual.
Good idea.tnx
Jim, I agree.
Whilst the connection advice isn't neccesarily aimed at everyone... I do think it's become Hans' usp, plus it's just one of the aspects that make his reviews so complete and thorough ... if it only helps one person it's a job well done......
Looking forward to the Pontus review... I don't know if true, but have read of a Pontus II
Jim Farrell I agree with you and Albert. The connection part only takes a few moments and helps me as I’m a visual person. Plus, I’m an old guy still trying to make sense of it all.