I'm thinking about buying the Audiolab 6000CDT. Would you be interested in doing a review on it if I ship it to you? You can ship it back to me afterwards.
Dynamic range of the Pontus 2 is 121dB. Pretty sure the best DACs in the world right now have a dynamic range of 125dB. So the Pontus is right up there. Funny side note: 121dB is 23dB shy of 144dB (the dynamic range of a 24 bit signal) So even the best DACs in the world don't/can't fully reproduce the dynamic range of a 24 bit signal. Not that it matters. I doubt you're listening to your music at a volume louder than a gunshot.
Hi Randy, for those of us who are truly on a tight budget, the price difference between a Gishelli J2 AKM vs the Denafrips Ares II is substantial. I understand that there are definitive differences between the chip delta sigma construct vs the R2R. That said, both you and almost all other content creators rave over the Gishelli J2 AKM matching or exceeding their $1,000 delta sigma counterparts. And, you comment in this video that the Gishelli is your second favorite DAC to the Ares II. So, is it possible you could do a dac to dac review between the two explaining why or why not the $500 price difference might be justified to us working audiophiles who need to hear it from the cheapaudioman? Thanks
Welcome down the rabbit hole Randy! I agree, you can get very good performance for not a lot of money. But when you start going high end, you get benefits such as detail without graininess, smooth even. Thats when music start to become special.
Great review, I appreciate this as a Ares II owner. I like how you review more expensive gear from time to time to have more experience to be able to recommend cheaper alternatives.
@@cheapaudioman Comparative value is a thing we all can appreciate. I think under 2k for the front end components is about as high as many of us can go per item. That being said I dont mind reasonable aspirational gear to buy being shown as it lets us be informed about the most common reasonable step up from the sub grand market.
Agree the Pontus 2 is for better for higher end 2 channel systems. The I2S connection handles SACD as native DSD rather than PCM so if you have I2S outputs from your SACD player you will get DSD playback as the SACD signal is fully exposed.
How do you come to the conclusion that "the Pontus II is for better for higher en 2 channel system" ? Do you think it's better than an SMSL SU-1? Why? And do you think you would you ear any difference in a blind test?
Absolut killer combo. The hermes gets even more soundstage, smoother sound and better imaging out of the pontus 2. Always, if your system is resolving enough etc. Also recommend the I2S connecton. And Pontus 2 needs 200 h of Burn in. After that, absolut spectacular. Hermes plus Pontus: match in heaven.
I agree that the point of diminishing returns may edge in for some here. My listening to a friend’s Pontus and the Ares2 is part of what motivated me to purchase the Ares 2……standing as the most significant and pleasurable DAC upgrade I’ve had in years. The thing is built like a tank though I just could not get motivated enough during critical listening to thrown in for the Pontus….instead electing for a balanced pre-amp to pair with the Ares.
Well done. Your ears are spot on. I also have the Pontus 2 and also the Terminator Plus. Believe it or not, I prefer the Pontus a lot of the time… It has character, kicks ass!
Hi Randy. Love your videos. Hoping you can help me with some thoughts on how next to upgrade my system. Currently I am using the Bluesound Node --> Rega Elex-R --> Elac Uni-Fi UB52. What would you recommend to add next? We have a very similar taste in music. I would appreciate your help. Cheers.
Hey man I really enjoy your videos. Question, can you plug the DAC to the computer, then use line level inputs to plug to amp? Or does the amp need a USB input for direct audio signal?
Great review Randy! The Ares II was also a game changer for myself. The chip DACs were killing my ears. Yes, they sounded great, but after an hour or so, or even less, my ears were bleeding... They all sounded the same to me... And then I said screw it, I need to hear this Denafrips DAC everyone is raving about... It is magical, it allowed me to finally sit and enjoy my music. I enjoyed the Ares II so much, I bought their Iris DDC, Hades preamp and Thallo amplifier to go with my KLH Model 5 speakers. Time to upgrade to the Pontus II, and then my audio journey should be over. At least for awhile. Your take on the connections was spot on too, something folks should take into consideration. Keep up the GREAT work!
Nice review again, both was on my list, thanks for giving an exact opinion. I wish the Ares would have a BNC - british gear often have it, like my exposure 3010s2 cd player. J2 has a great look, hard to let the wooden case and the nice colora go :/
Excellent video, it sounds like if one more willing to set up I2S with the Pontus in a true high end system it would make a big difference. In other words not really cheap audio. Keep up the good work.❤
that looks like a BMF !! 😆 me Burson Composer is my favorite dac love rolling 4x dual discrete op-amps lets me fine to the sound ! And its a PreAmp with a REMOTE !! great job thanks Ran the audio man
Appreciate your insights Randy. Do you think a higher end DAC (like the Ares 2 or Pontus 2) has as much affect on the sound of music from CDs as it does for the sound of music that is streamed? I ask because I spend much more of my listening time on CDs than on streaming.
Hi Randy, saw your comparo for ares II and Pontus II. Re: optical connections, I have used optic splitters that solve the problem of having only 1 toslink input on the dac . They are inexpensive. BTW, I purchased Heresy IV's because they are smallish and Don't block my windows. They do however require a subwoofer.
I have been thinking about exactly what you are discussing here Randy and I didn't know much about them. I'm mostly a record guy and I got the Zen you like but I have so many great cds too. So if I'm listening to cds, I leave on digital or is it auto switched to analog? Really good show bro. Oh and you gave me the go on the speakers to get when on your last chat and your desert island gear. Just might take awhile. Thanks.
Thanks! Hey Randy great video as always, just FYI you can get a BNC to RCA adapter on Amazon for just a few bucks. Also if your using an RPI streamer you can get I2S from the 40 pin connector, so there you go just salved two of your connector issues LOL.
The Ares II has made me spend so much money on hifi. I like it more than other dacs. I like it more than the dacs in AVRs. So I have made a separate home theatre system and separate music listening system as a way to compromise and not get rid of my ares II dac. I like the noise elimination of the XLR connections so naturally I made a purifi amp to go with my lovely Ares II. All these separates and HT systems in the same area have given me a ground loop that I have finally solved but when it comes down to it I can make up reasons why I can change everything else except the Ares II dac. It makes my 15 year old paradigm monitor 7s sound so good.
I got the Pontus II in January. It had static in signal. I was like, WHAT?!? Contacted Vinshine (Denifrips) and they had me flash the USB with files downloaded from their website with my laptop. A bit of a pain, drivers were not signed and windows doesn’t like that anymore. Had to do special windows boot up. Got past that, but flash didn’t fix it. Dang! Then they sent me a new USB II board… the one that’s in the Terminator. 😎 Put that in (it was easy, plug and play) and now it sounds sublime. Took about 3 weeks to work it all out. Vinshine does support their products and they are very responsive. They had a guy in Buda TX send me the board FedEx. Good people. I LOVE this DAC!! I’m running it with: Willsenton R8 Stock tubes BlueSound node 2i Heresy IVs
I owned the Pontus II for about 6 months (Sept 2021 - March 2022). In all honesty, I couldn't tell any difference between it and my Topping D90 (non-MQA)... except for the price. I tried all kinds of tweaks, but nothing ever really made a difference to my ears. A few reviewers told me the real benefits of the P2 could be heard with headphones. After 5 years working in talk radio, I can't stand those things clamped on my dome now. I ended up selling both my P2 and D90. I bought the FiiO K9 Pro ESS and have been quite pleased with it. I think I'm done with dac shopping for a few years. Excellent video, mate!!
Hi, Just joined your channel, love all that you do, but I must say, you are a funny guy, I watch your channel for all the electrical goods but love the fun aspect you bring, great videos, 👍 👌 😀
Ok Randy…help me out here. I have a Denon AVR-X3500H receiver that I mostly listen to music and occasionally movies. If I were to add a DAC to my system then where/how does this connect? Also what do the balanced connections connect with? Is that just high-end equipment? I don’t have those odd connections on any of my equipment. Your help/knowledge would be greatly appreciated. TIA.
Now that you are reviewing in the $1800 range we need the cheapaudioman take on the Chord Qutest. Love Denafrips Ares 2 on my speaker setup but picked up a Qutest for my headphone set up. Of corse I had to try it on my speakers… Two examples of dacs making a big positive difference, while at the same time sounding completely different than each other.
Ya got bit by the bug! I've been enjoying the heck out of my Pontus II DAC with Iris DDC combo connected by I²S for a few months. My previous digital front end was an Oppo UDP-205 universal disc player with ESS 9038 chipset which is a fine performer. Give the Pontus II / Iris about 6 weeks to burn in. Between 4 and 6 weeks the sound transforms dramatically for the better. By far worth the difference in price from the Ares II.
Trying to figure out what's the difference between a dac and a stereo receiver?? Is a dac different because it doesn't have a am fm receiver built in? I'm so confused about what the difference is and would my system benefit from one.
There's one other DAC technology that merits a mention, in addition to R2R and Delta-Sigma, and that's the "Ring-DAC" technology. Trouble is, the cheapest Ring-DAC available these days is, like, $12,000. The last affordable one that I'm aware of was in the Arcam FMJ CD23, which retailed for about $2500 and doesn't have a digital input.
Nice review! I have a SMSL DO200 fed from an ipad air to my Rogue Cronus Magnum III. I'm thinking of going for an Ares II to see what all the excitement is about. My system sounds pretty good but I'm always chasing that rabbit.
I have had the Denafrips Pontus II for 8 months now. It's been wonderful. I have it hooked up to a Soundaware D300 streamer (Roon endpoint) via the I2S (HDMI) cable. The pinout is compatible. This combination works so well sonically. It's wonderful detail in the upper registers with rich full bass in the lower end.
@@tommccarthy3385 realism...dynamic range, imaging mostly depends on the headphone or speakers you are using, and that is true, imaging can not be measured well....yet. but telling me a human ear can measure sound better than a precise electronic devices?. please
My current DAC is the Topping D90 (original version, $700 at time of purchase). I love it for the detail, I listen for barely audible sounds and instruments and the D90 delivers. I have been watching a lot of Denefrips reviews. I get the impression that I would need to get the Pontus II to match the detail of the D90, do you concur? By the way, I have 2 USB sources, my laptop connects directly the USB input on the D90. My mobile player connects to an inexpensive (relative to high end) USB interface (DoukAudio U2 Pro, $56 at time of purchase). I use the IIS output from that to connect to the D90.
What about a NAD C165BEE + C275BEE combination? Will the Pontus clearly sound better on that? (I have speakers from 1996 that were around 6 grand back then.)
That summary was spot on.. Shouldn’t be shy on RCA coaxial connections for sure. Connections seem to be an issue on a lot of equipment these days; missing receptacles, missing tape loops, pre-outs missing main ins missing, the list goes on and on. It’s all part of that over exaggerated effort to minimize the audio chain and associated costs that can be marketing blurbed away. The manufacturers assume they know what the average customer is looking for at every price point or want you to spend more on the next level up. The consumer is constantly assaulted and insulted by what the capitalist market will bear to maximize profit margin and only giving the illusion of value to the customer, not actual value. Sometimes they get it right, but it’s not the common occurrence, and if it happens, it doesn’t stay that way for a long!
Hey Randy, So I'm looking to upgrade my system, or should I say replace. Thinking of going with the bucharht S400 MKII speakers and the KEF KC62 Subwoofer. Looking for an amp/dac/streamer that pairs well with the speakers. 99% of my music listening is through Spotify, I do also have a Music Hall Turntable that I listen to on occasion and a CD player. I wouldn't mind in all in one solution "amp/dac/streamer", but open to options. Looking to spend around $2,000ish Thanks
I went to Denafrips to buy the Ares II after watching your review a while ago. It was out of stock so I stepped up to the Pontus II. Holy schiit! My jaw was dropped and stayed on the floor for a month at least. I was using the DAC in the Bluesound Node with NAD C298 power amp and KEF LS50. The difference Pontus II made was even bigger than my last speakers upgrade (from Elac Debut Reference). I had no idea DAC can make big differences like this. But I agree with your take on the available inputs. They should take out at least one AES input for another optical.
It was shocking, I should have bought the Pontus right out of the gate too... I kick myself now, but will order one here in a few weeks. The Ares II totally changed how I listen to, and enjoy music. It was that profound.
@@michaelwright1602 I bought Ares II and Iris two weeks ago and am disappointed. Flat image, not enough resolution or detail. Trying to decide whether to replace with Pontus or Yggy LiM.
Randy, My question would be, how do the DAC's in Anthem AVR's, Peachtree amps, NAD products and other similar units stack up to the external DAC's you review. I never hear anyone making these comparisons. Only those to cell phones, computers and old CD players. Would those of use that own some of these products gain by going to an external DAC ?
He pretty much covered that in this review, chip DACs pretty much have the same sound signature, and I can say that has been my finding too. The Ares II was the game changer, and completely revamped how I listen to music. It is now an enjoyable experience. These chips DACs, integrated units and stand alone killed me with ear fatigue, the Ares II solved that issue, Pontus II will be coming in a few weeks.
I like my Ares II. It has a quirk that I've experienced when listening to my PC via USB and possibly specific to RUclips: When I change videos, or if I tap the right arrow (skip ahead) the audio will occasionally be garbled or distorted. If I tap the mute button for a sec, when the sound resumes it "finds itself" and sounds great again. I haven't experienced this in any other scenario, but I haven't tried to. Regardless, of half-a-dozen DAC sources that I own, it's my favorite.
I'd be curious to check what USB interface chip they use, if you have to install a driver, etc. If you use Winblows, it's so bad and unstable, i wouldn't be surprised of the problems you have...
Thank you for this review Randy. I enjoy your channel for value oriented audio gear. But I also enjoy other channels that review the higher end. I may never buy, but I enjoy a little window shopping. Keep up the great work! 👍👍👍
Using DAC's I2S connected to DDC's I2S is the biggest jump on the SQ of the digital audio realm, hands down. It took proper pairing and good literacy of audio gears used though.
I2s sounds like a headache considering there is no standard and the fact that they are pinned differently. I ended up with the Gheshelli J2 with the Padauk wood and clear plastic similar to the one you showed but different wood. Couldn't be happier. I had an iFi but returned it for the J2. Combined with the SMSL SA400, which is more power than I need but that's never a bad thing IMO. Not sure why SMSL set the fan to not kick in until it reaches 65C which is HOT. Lucky if you go into the service menu you can change this. I set it to 52C. After long sessions, it stays at 54/55C, which is much better as computer CPUs start throttling at 60C so unsure why SMSL set the fan out of the box to not kick in until 65C. For speakers, I got the ELAC Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52 Bookshelf Speakers. Just checked and they are 30 percent off on Amazon (489) which is a very good deal. They do need break in time but once they do, the balance and imaging is amazing. For movies/TV I have the Sony HT-A7000, 300W wireless sub, and the new rears which are just 2 smaller 90W A9's that can run on battery for 10 hours or 90 minutes on a 10 minute charge. As you can imagine, speaker placement is amazing due to true wireless and they can be calibrated with a push of a button. I have an optical cord going from my Samsung to the Gheshelli DAC. This way I can. Use them with movies/TV after 0laying around with the delays so everything is in synch. The Sony setup by itself sound amazing for the few 5.1 SACDs I have but for stereo sou d the Elac's win every day of the week. Both the Elac's and Gheshelli we're purchased based.on your recommendation and I couldn't be happier with the combo.
It not a headache at all if you use a Denafrips DDC then there won't be any problems at all. It only becomes complicated if you're using another piece of equipment that doesn't use I2s-A for the HDMI port or I2s-C for the RJ-45 port.
what do you think about the Chord Mojo 2? I bought the topping e50 based on your reviews and i like it, but I can't stop tweaking and always think about upgrading my audio gear. I'm a fan a nd would like to know what you think about the mojo 2.
Bought the SMSL SA300 DAC/AMP after watching your video, and found a pair of Yamaha NS-10m sitting on a shelf in my parents garage, powers them nicely. Would love to see these iconic studio speakers reviewed and why they are so popular in studio! Thanks for the content
Yamaha's are so popular in studios because all studios have them and know their sound. It's more about consistency and familiarity, not quality. They are actually not great if you're just looking for neutral, but if you are familiar with them you can go to another studio where they have them and still make a mix that sounds good. If every studio had different monitors it would be harder for folks to work elsewhere and get the same results.
have you got a chance to check Schiit Yggdrasil? (the original A2 or OG how they call it today - the best of the three variants available... in my opinion). To my taste and experience Yggy is the work of genius. Performed on par against multiple time more expensive gear. The only catch is it has to be always on. Compared to Dave/Mscaler was inferior until I left it on for a 4-5 days. Then it was in the game, in my system even nicer, though I was surprised how close sound signature of both was (compared to some other expensive gear)
One benefit of the Pontus II over the Ares II is the i2s connection. Not found on cheaper Dac's. A lot of people will not need it or use it. BUT! If you are into SACD's then the benefit is great. CD/SACD stand alone players play cds and can be hooked up with external dac's, SACD playback is subjected to be played only through the unit and not an external dac or maybe so! Enters the Oppo bdp-105D with HDMI out, cabling hdmi to i2s to i2s input on the Pontus II and here we go it takes the SACD playback to another level of sound. Must admit I have not heard it myself so ! I have the Oppo hooked up to RME adi-2 fs dac ( which does not have the i2s connection ) The i2s could be for some regarding SACD a revelation ! Would be worth a look/listen if you still have the Pontus II on hand, compare the the two. regards.
Randy, you bring up a bit a good point; when these dacs get more expensive, they should have more coaxial and even optical input connection options (like the J2).
Try using the DSD processor in foobar to upsample ripped cds to DSD512 and on to the Pontus. It makes even mediocre cds sound really good in non upsampling mode and with upsampling, amazing. No need for big bucks high rez files when upsampled stock cds smokes most of them...
I would think that the law of diminishing returns would be in effect here. Going from a cheap chip based DAC to an expensive chip based DAC would yield benefits, as would going from there to a R2R DAC. Would it be illogical to think that the benefits would decrease drastically from there?
All the original CD players used R2R ladder DACs, then the chips came along. I’ve seen a lot of expensive DACs that use saber chips, but there seems to be a trend in high-end DACs that are R2R. What gives? Also why did you connect a preamp to an integrated amp, or did you use the power out of the integrated amp?
I owned a Denafrips Pontus II for a short while. I had an Aris II then bought a HiFi Rose RS250 streamer with the intention of running it through the Aris II but the internal dac on RS250 was just better and by a good margin. The Aris II was sold but after awhile the upgrade bug struck again and the logical upgrade was the Pontus II. After it arrived I was amazed by RS250 again. The Pontus II seem to present a wider Soundstage but the RS250 internal dac presented a smoother more detailed sound. I was shocked and the Pontus was sold. The Pontus II is a stunningly beautiful piece of kit but the RS250 is well thought out and hard to beat in the dac department.
I own the Pontus II also for over a year now and I can't agree more! Pontus II sharpens up the signal, it is not apparently bright, but the audio loses relaxed balanced presentation. I have a very transparent system and Pontus II has made everything worse. Thinking of adding Schiit Freya + and engage in tube rolling to fix the problem.
Considering Denafrips or the JNOG2 from Geshelli Labs. Curious your comparison findings between Denafrips, Topping, and the Geshelli Labs AKM JNOG per sonic experience not so much feature comparison.
Hey Randy beware the denafrips cannot safely output to the rca and xlr outputs simultaneously. Bad things will happen. It even says it in the manual. I guess its ok if you have only single ended amps or just balanced. However, if you also have both you have to unplug one set of outputs while you use the other. Why a company charging the money they are for a product didn't consider this I don't understand it. How hard would it have been to add an output selector in 2022????
A friend of mine lent me the Pontus II to listen to and compare to my Ares II. The Pontus II is better. I am going to live with the Ares after returning the Pontus. Not sure how long I’ll last. One youve heard greatness, its hard to unhear.
Realize that for a couple of bucks, you can get an RCA to BNC adaptor, so you can have an additional SPIDF connection...just sayn'... and yes, I love my Pontus 2...
Love my Pontus II also. You are right, you still get 2 coax inputs, one is on BNC, but you can get an rca-bnc adaptor for a few bucks, or use a coaxial cable with rca on one end and BNC on the other end. All you are losing is one optical input for 2 aes inputs and importantly for me an I2S input I use for SACD from my Oppo via a $60 HDMI to I2S breakout box.
Randy, you represent an honest “see both sides” point of view, which is getting rarer by the hour in this divided world we inhabit. I began and have stuck with your channel as you’ve grown, and it’s been great to see. You have been an Everyman Audiophile and refreshingly not disconnected from middle-class father reality, well, until spending $1800 on a DAC is suggested as significant audio system ‘value’. Where most people wouldn’t spend that on a set of SPEAKERS, arguably the most important piece, I can’t relate in the slightest. The DIY CSS Critons, which I bought due to your enthusiasm-they are truly awesome and have brought incredible improvement and joy - for HALF of what this DAC costs. I’m sorry, it’s in the 1% realm with expensive cables, risers and power conditioners. Your loyalty and passion for the Aries II was already on the high end. It’s unfortunate to see, but this looks more like you are trying to grow beyond the confines of the original CheapAudioMan. By seriously reviewing this segment of gear, you’re potentially risking alienation of the ‘value’ crowd that has supported you channel. IMO, $1800 DAC’s are better suited for 70k Ron at NRD.
I may try that $12 DAC and see if it sounds superior to the older Sony DVD player I'm currently using for CD'S. Some disc's seem um, a little strident through my old Kenwood receiver and the popular Sony SC5 bookshelf speakers. The DVD player has coaxial SPDIF out. Don't like optical TOSLINK, connectors and cables I've experienced seem kind of crappy.
I bought a Schiit DAC for $100.00 to connect an old Panasonic DVD player to a Pioneer SX550 receiver and it made a huge difference. I believe you have one or two months to check it out and return it if not happy. Worth to try it.
Aries II is a just a bit south of $850 with the way the dollar has been fluctuating lately. Worth every penny, like Randy says, it will reset your brain to what great audio should sound like
Excellent, I was thinking about going Pontus II for the I2S connection. I’m considering the Jayz Audio transport, compatible with Pontus I2S. But I’m going in now knowing that the improvement will not be day and night. Defining value is very valuable!
my bet is that if the difference would be day and night, why would one design a machine with several different inputs to start with. - but if you go for a Jays Audio transport (they just released a flagship new model), then I think at that price point it is a bit of a waste at that level not to utilize the I2S output. You could consider the Musician Pegasus - that is priced between the Pontus and Ares, has I2S that matches the Jays and comes from the Denafrips factory anyway.
I have a Schiit Gungnir Multibit and the Pontus 2 is the one DAC that keeps tempting me... never having heard a Denafrips, I have no idea how it would compare - but I've considered ordering A Pontus 2 many times!
I recently, April 2022, purchased the Ares II and the price was $878 U.S. in total. It used to be $750 or so but those days are over. It’s nearly $900 now. I’ve also had buffer overrun issues with the optical connections resulting in occasional pops, similar to a vinyl pop. The solution was to switch to USB, which wasn’t my preferred method. The Ares II is very enjoyable to listen to and since there is no return policy I’ll be keeping it. Just wanted to share some additional real-world experience that it’s nearly $900 and the optical connections can have issues depending on your source. Thanks and keep up the good work.
Hi Randy, I know you’ve done versions of this before, but maybe go even more basic for us old analogue types? If I want to “digital” music other than CD, because I want to access a zillion tunes/albums in high quality, I assume that means a streaming service. I also assume that getting that streaming service into my stereo in the highest quality way is through a hard wired connection to my internet? Or no, is WiFi ok? Where would Bluetooth come in at all? I assume keeping my phone and Bluetooth out of the chain, even with an external DAC is the way to go? I guess my question is: what is the best: a) streaming service, b) streaming device, c) DAC and d) connection method to get digital music into and out of my old school two channel stereo in the highest quality way to rival or beat CDs. Looking for something reasonable and simple (ideally one box that does it all for streaming and DAC- minus the amp and preamp- I don’t want an integrated amp with dac/streamer) and something that lets me see info about the music I am streaming. Thanks!
I have a Node 2i streaming through a Doge 7 tube dac with 8 West German Telefunken tubes. Sounds incredible and the streamer goes all the way up to 192k over wifi yet a cd transport can only provide 44.1 cd quality through a dac unless you have i2s connections. Most people seem to agree if your going through an external dac anyway, node or 2i Bluesound provides the best fuctionality which is all that really matters. Transport quality of the streamer is debateable on whether it makes much difference but there is clocking to improve jitter and better power supplies people say affects soundatage, etc. Dacs are analagous to phono catridges in that most think it makes 90% of the difference, where the transport (streamer, CD spinner, turntable, etc. is only about 10%). Unless your transport is really bad (node is great) it will sound as amazing as your dac can. Don't use cheap cables. I had a $29 SVS digital cable between my Dac and stream literally stop playing 192k songs. I was delighted to find it was just the cable and not my expensive dac going bad. Really weird that cable stop playing 192 but still played anything below. And you just use Bluesound app or Tidal connect etc. to play songs over wifi. Your phone has no affect on sq. Only thing ethernet hardwire might improve is dropouts. Bluetooth will degrade your sound to below cd quality. Qobuz is best service for hi res
Too many use terms like night and day, but on a forum one person had both but sold the Ares II as they felt it offered no sonic improvement. I think at this level you need speakers and amps that can reveal what this type of DAC is capable of otherwise you’re wasting your money.
@@doifeellucky OK thank you. I am currently running the Bluesound, a Wlisenton R8 and Klipsch LaScalas. Do you think the Denafrips Ares or Potus would be worth the upgrade?
@@ii1825 I’ve got no idea I’m afraid. You might want to look at Tarun ‘A British Audiophile’ channel as he is a big fan of the R8 and has used both DACs.
Denafrips Pontus 2 www.denafrips.com/pontus
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I'm thinking about buying the Audiolab 6000CDT. Would you be interested in doing a review on it if I ship it to you? You can ship it back to me afterwards.
Dynamic range of the Pontus 2 is 121dB. Pretty sure the best DACs in the world right now have a dynamic range of 125dB. So the Pontus is right up there.
Funny side note: 121dB is 23dB shy of 144dB (the dynamic range of a 24 bit signal) So even the best DACs in the world don't/can't fully reproduce the dynamic range of a 24 bit signal. Not that it matters. I doubt you're listening to your music at a volume louder than a gunshot.
@Audio Jack, prime day,the 6000cdt on sale for $489 with an additional $150 off if you apply for the prime store credit card and are accepted!
Hi Randy, for those of us who are truly on a tight budget, the price difference between a Gishelli J2 AKM vs the Denafrips Ares II is substantial. I understand that there are definitive differences between the chip delta sigma construct vs the R2R. That said, both you and almost all other content creators rave over the Gishelli J2 AKM matching or exceeding their $1,000 delta sigma counterparts. And, you comment in this video that the Gishelli is your second favorite DAC to the Ares II. So, is it possible you could do a dac to dac review between the two explaining why or why not the $500 price difference might be justified to us working audiophiles who need to hear it from the cheapaudioman? Thanks
Welcome down the rabbit hole Randy! I agree, you can get very good performance for not a lot of money. But when you start going high end, you get benefits such as detail without graininess, smooth even. Thats when music start to become special.
Great review, I appreciate this as a Ares II owner. I like how you review more expensive gear from time to time to have more experience to be able to recommend cheaper alternatives.
I also owe Ares ii but somehow I feel it has more relax on top end. just a bit more warmer on my Dali's
Ares ii/Enyo owner also. Love it❤
This answers many of my questions about DACs in general. Good video!
Excellent, thanks for the heads up and the value comparison's you offered.
“Hi value” can apply to not so cheap equipment. You do you Randy, I appreciate your reviews for any and all components.
I appreciate that!
Yeah Randy is high value and not so cheap!
@@cheapaudioman Comparative value is a thing we all can appreciate. I think under 2k for the front end components is about as high as many of us can go per item. That being said I dont mind reasonable aspirational gear to buy being shown as it lets us be informed about the most common reasonable step up from the sub grand market.
Randy, I like your suggestuon for an Ares 3 DAC. Good video, BTW!
I love your videos. Very good stuff Randy. As always.
I paid $830 last week for the Aries ii. Got it 4 days later. Love the thing.
I've been waiting for this review!
Agree the Pontus 2 is for better for higher end 2 channel systems.
The I2S connection handles SACD as native DSD rather than PCM so if you have I2S outputs from your SACD player you will get DSD playback as the SACD signal is fully exposed.
This dacs makes a big difference for headphones?
How do you come to the conclusion that "the Pontus II is for better for higher en 2 channel system" ? Do you think it's better than an SMSL SU-1? Why? And do you think you would you ear any difference in a blind test?
I bought the Denafrips Ares II (based in part on your review) and love it.
I got Pontus 2 with Hermes ddc and I can say when I listen to my music I’m on heaven with my kefR11 speakers insane details
Cheers buddy:)
Absolut killer combo. The hermes gets even more soundstage, smoother sound and better imaging out of the pontus 2. Always, if your system is resolving enough etc. Also recommend the I2S connecton. And Pontus 2 needs 200 h of Burn in. After that, absolut spectacular. Hermes plus Pontus: match in heaven.
I agree that the point of diminishing returns may edge in for some here. My listening to a friend’s Pontus and the Ares2 is part of what motivated me to purchase the Ares 2……standing as the most significant and pleasurable DAC upgrade I’ve had in years. The thing is built like a tank though I just could not get motivated enough during critical listening to thrown in for the Pontus….instead electing for a balanced pre-amp to pair with the Ares.
I bought based on your ares 2 video, cost is 800+ USD for a while now. Very happy! Stopping here for now….😁
Just ordered an ares 2, thanks to you my man!
Great review as always Randy. What do you normally use as a streaming source with a DAC like the Aries II?
Well done. Your ears are spot on. I also have the Pontus 2 and also the Terminator Plus. Believe it or not, I prefer the Pontus a lot of the time… It has character, kicks ass!
Hi Randy. Love your videos. Hoping you can help me with some thoughts on how next to upgrade my system.
Currently I am using the Bluesound Node --> Rega Elex-R --> Elac Uni-Fi UB52.
What would you recommend to add next?
We have a very similar taste in music.
I would appreciate your help. Cheers.
Nice review. Your British Audiophile buddy recommends I2S inputs coupled with a digital re-clocker like Denafrips Iris for best sound.
Hey man I really enjoy your videos.
Question, can you plug the DAC to the computer, then use line level inputs to plug to amp? Or does the amp need a USB input for direct audio signal?
Great review Randy! The Ares II was also a game changer for myself. The chip DACs were killing my ears. Yes, they sounded great, but after an hour or so, or even less, my ears were bleeding... They all sounded the same to me... And then I said screw it, I need to hear this Denafrips DAC everyone is raving about... It is magical, it allowed me to finally sit and enjoy my music. I enjoyed the Ares II so much, I bought their Iris DDC, Hades preamp and Thallo amplifier to go with my KLH Model 5 speakers. Time to upgrade to the Pontus II, and then my audio journey should be over. At least for awhile. Your take on the connections was spot on too, something folks should take into consideration. Keep up the GREAT work!
Nice review again, both was on my list, thanks for giving an exact opinion. I wish the Ares would have a BNC - british gear often have it, like my exposure 3010s2 cd player. J2 has a great look, hard to let the wooden case and the nice colora go :/
Excellent video, it sounds like if one more willing to set up I2S with the Pontus in a true high end system it would make a big difference. In other words not really cheap audio. Keep up the good work.❤
that looks like a BMF !! 😆
me Burson Composer is my favorite dac love rolling 4x dual discrete op-amps lets me fine to the sound ! And its a PreAmp with a REMOTE !!
great job thanks Ran the audio man
Appreciate your insights Randy. Do you think a higher end DAC (like the Ares 2 or Pontus 2) has as much affect on the sound of music from CDs as it does for the sound of music that is streamed? I ask because I spend much more of my listening time on CDs than on streaming.
I really think you’ll love it. I have a bryston bcd 1 and the Pontus to me just smokes it
Hi Randy, saw your comparo for ares II and Pontus II. Re: optical connections, I have used optic splitters that solve the problem of having only 1 toslink input on the dac . They are inexpensive. BTW, I purchased Heresy IV's because they are smallish and Don't block my windows. They do however require a subwoofer.
Hi Cheapaudioman, what connection is best ares to bluesound ?
I have been thinking about exactly what you are discussing here Randy and I didn't know much about them. I'm mostly a record guy and I got the Zen you like but I have so many great cds too. So if I'm listening to cds, I leave on digital or is it auto switched to analog? Really good show bro. Oh and you gave me the go on the speakers to get when on your last chat and your desert island gear. Just might take awhile. Thanks.
There is a digital volume control in the Denafrips application, you may need a firmware update to activate it.
Thanks! Hey Randy great video as always, just FYI you can get a BNC to RCA adapter on Amazon for just a few bucks. Also if your using an RPI streamer you can get I2S from the 40 pin connector, so there you go just salved two of your connector issues LOL.
Eddie! Thanks so much for your support. I did see that a BNC to RCA existed. Good to know
The Ares II has made me spend so much money on hifi. I like it more than other dacs. I like it more than the dacs in AVRs. So I have made a separate home theatre system and separate music listening system as a way to compromise and not get rid of my ares II dac. I like the noise elimination of the XLR connections so naturally I made a purifi amp to go with my lovely Ares II. All these separates and HT systems in the same area have given me a ground loop that I have finally solved but when it comes down to it I can make up reasons why I can change everything else except the Ares II dac. It makes my 15 year old paradigm monitor 7s sound so good.
I got the Pontus II in January. It had static in signal. I was like, WHAT?!? Contacted Vinshine (Denifrips) and they had me flash the USB with files downloaded from their website with my laptop. A bit of a pain, drivers were not signed and windows doesn’t like that anymore. Had to do special windows boot up. Got past that, but flash didn’t fix it. Dang! Then they sent me a new USB II board… the one that’s in the Terminator. 😎 Put that in (it was easy, plug and play) and now it sounds sublime. Took about 3 weeks to work it all out. Vinshine does support their products and they are very responsive. They had a guy in Buda TX send me the board FedEx. Good people. I LOVE this DAC!! I’m running it with:
Willsenton R8 Stock tubes
BlueSound node 2i
Heresy IVs
The BNC connector input is electrically the same as the S/PDIF RCA, you can just put an RCA to BNC adaptor on the end of your cable and be good to go.
I owned the Pontus II for about 6 months (Sept 2021 - March 2022). In all honesty, I couldn't tell any difference between it and my Topping D90 (non-MQA)... except for the price. I tried all kinds of tweaks, but nothing ever really made a difference to my ears. A few reviewers told me the real benefits of the P2 could be heard with headphones. After 5 years working in talk radio, I can't stand those things clamped on my dome now. I ended up selling both my P2 and D90. I bought the FiiO K9 Pro ESS and have been quite pleased with it. I think I'm done with dac shopping for a few years. Excellent video, mate!!
Thanks for the video, I'm thinking of buying one of the two, but thanks, I'll buy the Ares II with the IRIS. All the best.
I absolutely love my Pontus II. It's a game changer in my system.
It replaced my Cambridge CXN v2.
Totally replaced the CXN v2? Or do you feed the Pontus II with the CXN v2? I have a CXN v2.
I was considering the CXN v2. But was told the Chord Qutest will sound more accurate
Hi,
Just joined your channel, love all that you do, but I must say, you are a funny guy, I watch your channel for all the electrical goods but love the fun aspect you bring, great videos, 👍 👌 😀
Ok Randy…help me out here. I have a Denon AVR-X3500H receiver that I mostly listen to music and occasionally movies. If I were to add a DAC to my system then where/how does this connect? Also what do the balanced connections connect with? Is that just high-end equipment? I don’t have those odd connections on any of my equipment. Your help/knowledge would be greatly appreciated. TIA.
Now that you are reviewing in the $1800 range we need the cheapaudioman take on the Chord Qutest. Love Denafrips Ares 2 on my speaker setup but picked up a Qutest for my headphone set up. Of corse I had to try it on my speakers…
Two examples of dacs making a big positive difference, while at the same time sounding completely different than each other.
I have a qutest on my headphone setup and adore it.
Good job randy! I definitely have no interest in a dac that costs more than a few hundred bucks, but still nice to get your take on it, thanks again!
Thanks 👍
It depends on the rest of your system if you have revealing system the denafrips ares and pontus can be good difference
Ya got bit by the bug! I've been enjoying the heck out of my Pontus II DAC with Iris DDC combo connected by I²S for a few months. My previous digital front end was an Oppo UDP-205 universal disc player with ESS 9038 chipset which is a fine performer. Give the Pontus II / Iris about 6 weeks to burn in. Between 4 and 6 weeks the sound transforms dramatically for the better. By far worth the difference in price from the Ares II.
Trying to figure out what's the difference between a dac and a stereo receiver?? Is a dac different because it doesn't have a am fm receiver built in? I'm so confused about what the difference is and would my system benefit from one.
There's one other DAC technology that merits a mention, in addition to R2R and Delta-Sigma, and that's the "Ring-DAC" technology. Trouble is, the cheapest Ring-DAC available these days is, like, $12,000. The last affordable one that I'm aware of was in the Arcam FMJ CD23, which retailed for about $2500 and doesn't have a digital input.
Nice review! I have a SMSL DO200 fed from an ipad air to my Rogue Cronus Magnum III. I'm thinking of going for an Ares II to see what all the excitement is about. My system sounds pretty good but I'm always chasing that rabbit.
I have had the Denafrips Pontus II for 8 months now. It's been wonderful. I have it hooked up to a Soundaware D300 streamer (Roon endpoint) via the I2S (HDMI) cable. The pinout is compatible. This combination works so well sonically. It's wonderful detail in the upper registers with rich full bass in the lower end.
"This combination works so well sonically. It's wonderful detail in the upper registers with rich full bass in the lower end." compared to what?
Why do you need a comparison? Take it at face value, after all, it’s an opinion, not a lab test, sheet.
@@izumispa2993 because what you are claiming to hear is not humanly possible, that is why.
@@Lauren080508 Which measurements capture imaging ability or realism in tone?
@@tommccarthy3385 realism...dynamic range, imaging mostly depends on the headphone or speakers you are using, and that is true, imaging can not be measured well....yet. but telling me a human ear can measure sound better than a precise electronic devices?. please
My current DAC is the Topping D90 (original version, $700 at time of purchase). I love it for the detail, I listen for barely audible sounds and instruments and the D90 delivers. I have been watching a lot of Denefrips reviews. I get the impression that I would need to get the Pontus II to match the detail of the D90, do you concur?
By the way, I have 2 USB sources, my laptop connects directly the USB input on the D90. My mobile player connects to an inexpensive (relative to high end) USB interface (DoukAudio U2 Pro, $56 at time of purchase). I use the IIS output from that to connect to the D90.
Great review, as always. Thanks for talking me back down to just wanting the Ares II.
What about a NAD C165BEE + C275BEE combination? Will the Pontus clearly sound better on that? (I have speakers from 1996 that were around 6 grand back then.)
That summary was spot on.. Shouldn’t be shy on RCA coaxial connections for sure. Connections seem to be an issue on a lot of equipment these days; missing receptacles, missing tape loops, pre-outs missing main ins missing, the list goes on and on.
It’s all part of that over exaggerated effort to minimize the audio chain and associated costs that can be marketing blurbed away. The manufacturers assume they know what the average customer is looking for at every price point or want you to spend more on the next level up. The consumer is constantly assaulted and insulted by what the capitalist market will bear to maximize profit margin and only giving the illusion of value to the customer, not actual value. Sometimes they get it right, but it’s not the common occurrence, and if it happens, it doesn’t stay that way for a long!
Man ain't that the truth!
I have a PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC and I love it. I haven't heard any Denafrips products, but they get great reviews.
If you open up the Pontus II is there just an Aries II inside with some extra wires and stuff?
lol. and some elves switching connections like an old school phone bank
Hey Randy, So I'm looking to upgrade my system, or should I say replace. Thinking of going with the bucharht S400 MKII speakers and the KEF KC62 Subwoofer. Looking for an amp/dac/streamer that pairs well with the speakers. 99% of my music listening is through Spotify, I do also have a Music Hall Turntable that I listen to on occasion and a CD player. I wouldn't mind in all in one solution "amp/dac/streamer", but open to options. Looking to spend around $2,000ish
Thanks
Check out the Lumin M1 for a full amp/dac/streamer combo. You can find them used under $2,000 and will fit your needs perfectly.
I went to Denafrips to buy the Ares II after watching your review a while ago. It was out of stock so I stepped up to the Pontus II. Holy schiit! My jaw was dropped and stayed on the floor for a month at least. I was using the DAC in the Bluesound Node with NAD C298 power amp and KEF LS50. The difference Pontus II made was even bigger than my last speakers upgrade (from Elac Debut Reference). I had no idea DAC can make big differences like this. But I agree with your take on the available inputs. They should take out at least one AES input for another optical.
It was shocking, I should have bought the Pontus right out of the gate too... I kick myself now, but will order one here in a few weeks. The Ares II totally changed how I listen to, and enjoy music. It was that profound.
@@michaelwright1602 Haha I don't know about upgrading from Ares to Ponus. Maybe you should go higher haha.
@@michaelwright1602 I bought Ares II and Iris two weeks ago and am disappointed. Flat image, not enough resolution or detail.
Trying to decide whether to replace with Pontus or Yggy LiM.
Randy, My question would be, how do the DAC's in Anthem AVR's, Peachtree amps, NAD products and other similar units stack up to the external DAC's you review. I never hear anyone making these comparisons. Only those to cell phones, computers and old CD players. Would those of use that own some of these products gain by going to an external DAC ?
He pretty much covered that in this review, chip DACs pretty much have the same sound signature, and I can say that has been my finding too. The Ares II was the game changer, and completely revamped how I listen to music. It is now an enjoyable experience. These chips DACs, integrated units and stand alone killed me with ear fatigue, the Ares II solved that issue, Pontus II will be coming in a few weeks.
I just got my Pontus ii and I love it.
Wow, the cheap audio man is no longer cheap. Super high quality DAC shoot out. Thank you.
well I'm doing a $200 dac amp tomorrow... so yeah. let me know your recommendations on new names.
I like my Ares II. It has a quirk that I've experienced when listening to my PC via USB and possibly specific to RUclips: When I change videos, or if I tap the right arrow (skip ahead) the audio will occasionally be garbled or distorted. If I tap the mute button for a sec, when the sound resumes it "finds itself" and sounds great again. I haven't experienced this in any other scenario, but I haven't tried to. Regardless, of half-a-dozen DAC sources that I own, it's my favorite.
I'd be curious to check what USB interface chip they use, if you have to install a driver, etc. If you use Winblows, it's so bad and unstable, i wouldn't be surprised of the problems you have...
On a side note, can’t wait to hear your take on the new Klipsch RP-600M II.
I have been in debates over the ares 2 or pontus 2..... you've come at a great time
Thank you for this review Randy. I enjoy your channel for value oriented audio gear. But I also enjoy other channels that review the higher end. I may never buy, but I enjoy a little window shopping. Keep up the great work! 👍👍👍
I agree 100%. It seems Randy is have great fun tasting all of the goodies. Like a kid in a candy store. I'm envious. Have a great day Gino!
@@welderfixer 👍
Using DAC's I2S connected to DDC's I2S is the biggest jump on the SQ of the digital audio realm, hands down. It took proper pairing and good literacy of audio gears used though.
Why do you think that? Did you think this makes a difference also for headphones?
Does the Pontus II have the same signal delay as the Aeres which can be a factor when watching TV?
@@johnm3544 Thanks.
I2s sounds like a headache considering there is no standard and the fact that they are pinned differently. I ended up with the Gheshelli J2 with the Padauk wood and clear plastic similar to the one you showed but different wood. Couldn't be happier. I had an iFi but returned it for the J2.
Combined with the SMSL SA400, which is more power than I need but that's never a bad thing IMO. Not sure why SMSL set the fan to not kick in until it reaches 65C which is HOT. Lucky if you go into the service menu you can change this. I set it to 52C. After long sessions, it stays at 54/55C, which is much better as computer CPUs start throttling at 60C so unsure why SMSL set the fan out of the box to not kick in until 65C.
For speakers, I got the ELAC Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52 Bookshelf Speakers. Just checked and they are 30 percent off on Amazon (489) which is a very good deal. They do need break in time but once they do, the balance and imaging is amazing.
For movies/TV I have the Sony HT-A7000, 300W wireless sub, and the new rears which are just 2 smaller 90W A9's that can run on battery for 10 hours or 90 minutes on a 10 minute charge. As you can imagine, speaker placement is amazing due to true wireless and they can be calibrated with a push of a button.
I have an optical cord going from my Samsung to the Gheshelli DAC. This way I can. Use them with movies/TV after 0laying around with the delays so everything is in synch.
The Sony setup by itself sound amazing for the few 5.1 SACDs I have but for stereo sou d the Elac's win every day of the week. Both the Elac's and Gheshelli we're purchased based.on your recommendation and I couldn't be happier with the combo.
It not a headache at all if you use a Denafrips DDC then there won't be any problems at all. It only becomes complicated if you're using another piece of equipment that doesn't use I2s-A for the HDMI port or I2s-C for the RJ-45 port.
what do you think about the Chord Mojo 2? I bought the topping e50 based on your reviews and i like it, but I can't stop tweaking and always think about upgrading my audio gear. I'm a fan a nd would like to know what you think about the mojo 2.
I bought a Mojo 2 and for me it is no better than my Zen DAC V2 I use in another system. Even ASR rate it but I wish I’d returned it.
@@doifeellucky thanks for your imput, you have probably saved me a case of buyers remorse
Where can I buy a Denafrips pontus ll ?
Bought the SMSL SA300 DAC/AMP after watching your video, and found a pair of Yamaha NS-10m sitting on a shelf in my parents garage, powers them nicely. Would love to see these iconic studio speakers reviewed and why they are so popular in studio! Thanks for the content
Yamaha's are so popular in studios because all studios have them and know their sound. It's more about consistency and familiarity, not quality. They are actually not great if you're just looking for neutral, but if you are familiar with them you can go to another studio where they have them and still make a mix that sounds good. If every studio had different monitors it would be harder for folks to work elsewhere and get the same results.
@@Jon-nz3dm that makes sense for consistency, thanks
19:28 There is a "Ares III" now called the Ares 12th. Look forward to hear your opinion on it.
DAC's ... have you heard anything from Aune? Looking for an opinion on the X1s GT
have you got a chance to check Schiit Yggdrasil? (the original A2 or OG how they call it today - the best of the three variants available... in my opinion). To my taste and experience Yggy is the work of genius. Performed on par against multiple time more expensive gear. The only catch is it has to be always on. Compared to Dave/Mscaler was inferior until I left it on for a 4-5 days. Then it was in the game, in my system even nicer, though I was surprised how close sound signature of both was (compared to some other expensive gear)
How do I order an Ares 2 in the original config. ( not the Ares 12)
One benefit of the Pontus II over the Ares II is the i2s connection. Not found on cheaper Dac's. A lot of people will not need it or use it. BUT! If you are into SACD's then the benefit is great. CD/SACD stand alone players play cds and can be hooked up with external dac's, SACD playback is subjected to be played only through the unit and not an external dac or maybe so! Enters the Oppo bdp-105D with HDMI out, cabling hdmi to i2s to i2s input on the Pontus II and here we go it takes the SACD playback to another level of sound.
Must admit I have not heard it myself so ! I have the Oppo hooked up to RME adi-2 fs dac ( which does not have the i2s connection )
The i2s could be for some regarding SACD a revelation ! Would be worth a look/listen if you still have the Pontus II on hand, compare the the two. regards.
"I have not heard it myself." 😂😂😂
Randy, you bring up a bit a good point; when these dacs get more expensive, they should have more coaxial and even optical input connection options (like the J2).
Decided to get the new SMSL DO100, performs almost as great as Topping D90
Try using the DSD processor in foobar to upsample ripped cds to DSD512 and on to the Pontus. It makes even mediocre cds sound really good in non upsampling mode and with upsampling, amazing. No need for big bucks high rez files when upsampled stock cds smokes most of them...
I would think that the law of diminishing returns would be in effect here.
Going from a cheap chip based DAC to an expensive chip based DAC would yield benefits, as would going from there to a R2R DAC.
Would it be illogical to think that the benefits would decrease drastically from there?
All the original CD players used R2R ladder DACs, then the chips came along. I’ve seen a lot of expensive DACs that use saber chips, but there seems to be a trend in high-end DACs that are R2R. What gives?
Also why did you connect a preamp to an integrated amp, or did you use the power out of the integrated amp?
Do you still think this is worth the extra money over the 12th anniversary ares?
I owned a Denafrips Pontus II for a short while. I had an Aris II then bought a HiFi Rose RS250 streamer with the intention of running it through the Aris II but the internal dac on RS250 was just better and by a good margin. The Aris II was sold but after awhile the upgrade bug struck again and the logical upgrade was the Pontus II. After it arrived I was amazed by RS250 again. The Pontus II seem to present a wider Soundstage but the RS250 internal dac presented a smoother more detailed sound. I was shocked and the Pontus was sold. The Pontus II is a stunningly beautiful piece of kit but the RS250 is well thought out and hard to beat in the dac department.
I own the Pontus II also for over a year now and I can't agree more! Pontus II sharpens up the signal, it is not apparently bright, but the audio loses relaxed balanced presentation. I have a very transparent system and Pontus II has made everything worse. Thinking of adding Schiit Freya + and engage in tube rolling to fix the problem.
Update: after applying room correction in HQPlayer, overall sound signature improved to some extent, it's now more natural and less edgy....
Considering Denafrips or the JNOG2 from Geshelli Labs. Curious your comparison findings between Denafrips, Topping, and the Geshelli Labs AKM JNOG per sonic experience not so much feature comparison.
hey i´m randy and i was the cheap audio man
Hey Randy beware the denafrips cannot safely output to the rca and xlr outputs simultaneously. Bad things will happen. It even says it in the manual. I guess its ok if you have only single ended amps or just balanced. However, if you also have both you have to unplug one set of outputs while you use the other. Why a company charging the money they are for a product didn't consider this I don't understand it. How hard would it have been to add an output selector in 2022????
Is Randy going to become the NOT SO - Cheapaudioman? Like seeing a little change from the norm!!
A friend of mine lent me the Pontus II to listen to and compare to my Ares II. The Pontus II is better. I am going to live with the Ares after returning the Pontus. Not sure how long I’ll last. One youve heard greatness, its hard to unhear.
Realize that for a couple of bucks, you can get an RCA to BNC adaptor, so you can have an additional SPIDF connection...just sayn'... and yes, I love my Pontus 2...
Love my Pontus II also. You are right, you still get 2 coax inputs, one is on BNC, but you can get an rca-bnc adaptor for a few bucks, or use a coaxial cable with rca on one end and BNC on the other end. All you are losing is one optical input for 2 aes inputs and importantly for me an I2S input I use for SACD from my Oppo via a $60 HDMI to I2S breakout box.
Denafrips' power supplies and R2R ladder network structures are a killer combo. The connection options are a puzzle, though.
So...the I2S is an integrated DDC of sorts?
Randy, you represent an honest “see both sides” point of view, which is getting rarer by the hour in this divided world we inhabit. I began and have stuck with your channel as you’ve grown, and it’s been great to see. You have been an Everyman Audiophile and refreshingly not disconnected from middle-class father reality, well, until spending $1800 on a DAC is suggested as significant audio system ‘value’. Where most people wouldn’t spend that on a set of SPEAKERS, arguably the most important piece, I can’t relate in the slightest. The DIY CSS Critons, which I bought due to your enthusiasm-they are truly awesome and have brought incredible improvement and joy - for HALF of what this DAC costs. I’m sorry, it’s in the 1% realm with expensive cables, risers and power conditioners. Your loyalty and passion for the Aries II was already on the high end.
It’s unfortunate to see, but this looks more like you are trying to grow beyond the confines of the original CheapAudioMan. By seriously reviewing this segment of gear, you’re potentially risking alienation of the ‘value’ crowd that has supported you channel. IMO, $1800 DAC’s are better suited for 70k Ron at NRD.
I may try that $12 DAC and see if it sounds superior to the older Sony DVD player I'm currently using for CD'S. Some disc's seem um, a little strident through my old Kenwood receiver and the popular Sony SC5 bookshelf speakers. The DVD player has coaxial SPDIF out. Don't like optical TOSLINK, connectors and cables I've experienced seem kind of crappy.
I bought a Schiit DAC for $100.00 to connect an old Panasonic DVD player to a Pioneer SX550 receiver and it made a huge difference. I believe you have one or two months to check it out and return it if not happy. Worth to try it.
The Schiit Modi 3 is likely the next step if the cheapo DAC doesn't work.
you can get a BNC converter and run coax. i use the second for home theater.
Aries II is a just a bit south of $850 with the way the dollar has been fluctuating lately. Worth every penny, like Randy says, it will reset your brain to what great audio should sound like
Excellent, I was thinking about going Pontus II for the I2S connection. I’m considering the Jayz Audio transport, compatible with Pontus I2S. But I’m going in now knowing that the improvement will not be day and night. Defining value is very valuable!
my bet is that if the difference would be day and night, why would one design a machine with several different inputs to start with.
- but if you go for a Jays Audio transport (they just released a flagship new model), then I think at that price point it is a bit of a waste at that level not to utilize the I2S output. You could consider the Musician Pegasus - that is priced between the Pontus and Ares, has I2S that matches the Jays and comes from the Denafrips factory anyway.
I have a Schiit Gungnir Multibit and the Pontus 2 is the one DAC that keeps tempting me... never having heard a Denafrips, I have no idea how it would compare - but I've considered ordering A Pontus 2 many times!
If going Pontus you need a ddc to go I2S. Singxer su6 , matrix spdif 2, or gustard u18.
randy you need to try the holo may dac with some zenwave cables.
Randy the "NOT SO CHEAP AUDIO MAN" .
there it is. you were the first one to comment that. Only took 7 minutes
That's what happens now that he's a big wig with his 100k+ subscribers.
Yup sold out for the expensive stuff that doesn’t have affiliate links. It’s a bold strategy. Going to see how it works
@@cheapaudioman In all fairness you did mention 12 $ DACs. Wishing you much sucess with the channel. I do enjoy it..
@@cheapaudioman that made me chuckle
I recently, April 2022, purchased the Ares II and the price was $878 U.S. in total. It used to be $750 or so but those days are over. It’s nearly $900 now. I’ve also had buffer overrun issues with the optical connections resulting in occasional pops, similar to a vinyl pop. The solution was to switch to USB, which wasn’t my preferred method.
The Ares II is very enjoyable to listen to and since there is no return policy I’ll be keeping it. Just wanted to share some additional real-world experience that it’s nearly $900 and the optical connections can have issues depending on your source.
Thanks and keep up the good work.
Hi Randy, I know you’ve done versions of this before, but maybe go even more basic for us old analogue types? If I want to “digital” music other than CD, because I want to access a zillion tunes/albums in high quality, I assume that means a streaming service. I also assume that getting that streaming service into my stereo in the highest quality way is through a hard wired connection to my internet? Or no, is WiFi ok? Where would Bluetooth come in at all? I assume keeping my phone and Bluetooth out of the chain, even with an external DAC is the way to go? I guess my question is: what is the best: a) streaming service, b) streaming device, c) DAC and d) connection method to get digital music into and out of my old school two channel stereo in the highest quality way to rival or beat CDs. Looking for something reasonable and simple (ideally one box that does it all for streaming and DAC- minus the amp and preamp- I don’t want an integrated amp with dac/streamer) and something that lets me see info about the music I am streaming. Thanks!
I have a Node 2i streaming through a Doge 7 tube dac with 8 West German Telefunken tubes. Sounds incredible and the streamer goes all the way up to 192k over wifi yet a cd transport can only provide 44.1 cd quality through a dac unless you have i2s connections. Most people seem to agree if your going through an external dac anyway, node or 2i Bluesound provides the best fuctionality which is all that really matters. Transport quality of the streamer is debateable on whether it makes much difference but there is clocking to improve jitter and better power supplies people say affects soundatage, etc. Dacs are analagous to phono catridges in that most think it makes 90% of the difference, where the transport (streamer, CD spinner, turntable, etc. is only about 10%). Unless your transport is really bad (node is great) it will sound as amazing as your dac can. Don't use cheap cables. I had a $29 SVS digital cable between my Dac and stream literally stop playing 192k songs. I was delighted to find it was just the cable and not my expensive dac going bad. Really weird that cable stop playing 192 but still played anything below. And you just use Bluesound app or Tidal connect etc. to play songs over wifi. Your phone has no affect on sq. Only thing ethernet hardwire might improve is dropouts. Bluetooth will degrade your sound to below cd quality. Qobuz is best service for hi res
How do the lower end Denafrips DAC's sound compared the to DAC in the Bluesound Node?
Too many use terms like night and day, but on a forum one person had both but sold the Ares II as they felt it offered no sonic improvement. I think at this level you need speakers and amps that can reveal what this type of DAC is capable of otherwise you’re wasting your money.
@@doifeellucky OK thank you. I am currently running the Bluesound, a Wlisenton R8 and Klipsch LaScalas. Do you think the Denafrips Ares or Potus would be worth the upgrade?
@@ii1825 I’ve got no idea I’m afraid. You might want to look at Tarun ‘A British Audiophile’ channel as he is a big fan of the R8 and has used both DACs.
@@doifeellucky Thanks lucky.
i2s from what i know is used for the DDC which you didnt mention , the DDC is a reclocker