Ares 2 owner, and I couldn't be happier. The camera analogy is good, but it is more about how film does WAY better with the subtleties, the gradations at the borders between light and dark. This DAC is just incredible with texture and timbre. A violin has a sound we all recognize, Ares 2 has such great texture and subtlety that you hear much more of the bow on the violin string in addition to the tone. The breath (air) in the saxophone, and the reed, not just the note...you get the idea.
Indeed in the lighting world also it is the same. Cool means blueish and warm means redish light, white is middle of this. Even the display monitor also. Good analogy indeed.
Ares II was as good a hi-fi purchase I've made. Since having it in my system I've all but stopped looking at hi-fi reviews (not just dacs). I stopped my Schiit EQ. The low end is fantastic, the mids and highs sound very natural to me. For me, when something is working well, you stop thinking about it and that's exactly what this did. I have done direct comparisons to current release vinyl (ostensibly very similar if not the same mastering as digital) by switching inputs and the sound is very very close. I thought it was a bit of a stretch to spend that much on a DAC but now I don't ever think about how much it cost just that I'm glad it's in my system.
you still using the ares 2? I have an rme adi dac 2 and as great as it is, I find myself wanting something more "analogue sounding" , I keep wondering if the Ares 2 would fit that bill for me or not...
I’ve lived with the ares for a year now and I agree completely with your evaluation. I’ll sacrifice a smidge of stage depth for the smooth lower treble you describe. Listener fatigue is never an issue with the ares which is a huge plus. Spot on review as usual!
I was just having a glass of wine and thinking to myself this red has a bit of a hint of crisp crunch about it....with a lingering taste of tangential equanimity after 7ish 🍷😉 So I’m guessing it tastes just like a Denafrips 😂😬 Cheers 😉🖖
John, I'd love to see a video where you play examples of tracks featuring exaggerated examples of your musical vocabulary like "crisp crunch," "easeful," "flow," "flesh on the bones," etc. I appreciate what you're trying to do by both avoiding vague terms like "musical" and sticking to subjective terms that communicate how the music feels to hear but as a younger guy, hearing your verbal palette sometimes reminds me of a curator's blurb in an art museum: jargon that requires me to have marinated in the discourse for years longer than I have in order to understand its shared meaning. I know RUclips's compression might complicate this but I think you could equip a new generation of audiophiles with a shared subjective vocabulary.
'Musical' is indeed a vague term in language. Generally it is used to express pace, rhythm and timing and a lack of harsh, over forward presentation. All language is in constant flux - you do not receive exactly what the other is trying to say. This is always compounded and exacerbated by attempting to describe the sound of something. However - everyone who has a brain that functions well in communicating efficiently between the lymbic system and the frontal lobal system (in the broadest terms) knows when something sounds right. An acoustic instrument played reasonably well in a given space, sounds immediately right - any further analysis becomes one of nuanced aesthetics - which have most to do with the touch, emotional intelligence, technique and good taste of both player and listener - music happens as a combination of player and listener - there are degrees of sophistication here that are not to do with mathematics or even acoustic analysis. If it's music you know it. 'Rhythmic flow' and 'natural', 'timbre' always pique my interest, as very few digital devices can pretend to deliver on this basis. 'Forgiving' is also essential, as music recording did not begin with 0's and 1's. So - I would like to audition this Denafrips Dac. Thanks for the worthwhile review.
I'd be also interested in that. I have a Vincent 236mk that I find maybe a bit too round, and was waiting for this video to make the decision on which one of these 2 DACs to go to. I feel it should be the Qutest, but I'd like to hear John's opinion. Thanks for the videos. They are extremely good.
There are reviews on RUclips in which they do get compared (together with the Schiit Gungnir multibit and a few others). Bottom line: Ares II clearly is better.
I love the discussion about the power supply. I think that's so often overlooked, but it's such a key part of components. It was also interesting to see how close these two units are in size. I also love that you didn't harp on the MQA vs no MQA, just focused on the sound. Great work as usual.
The Pontus is extraordinary!!! Probably the best price/value of all the denafrips lineup!!! Amazing dac, the same sound of the ares II , but everything on to another level, more detail, quieter background , deeper soundstage!!!
I concur with almost everything you say about this DAC. I was using the Bifrost 2, and it is very good. It may even sound a touch better on some lower resolution (digitally lower rez), but in most cases, the Ares II has more life, and has a lower noise floor - the softer parts (lower volume) parts of recordings is resolved better, and has more dynamics and life. I differ only on my preference for the OS/Sharp filter - the Slow filter pushes the sibilance and string/pick area a bit forward too much, on my system. The OS/Sharp has more spacious soundstage, and oddly enough, the soundstage seem *continuous*; as in all the instruments are in the same overall space. The Bifrost 2 could have each instrument in its own space, and they sometimes seem unconnected to each other; if that makes any sense.
Darko with his best metaphor ever, the notion that a particular sound signature is like having a neon sign outside your 3rd floor apartment window. It’s nicely noirish. The Ares definitely satisfies a particular itch, it has a quality that you appreciate more and more over time. Thanks also for the comparison to the Mojo.
Love the breakdown of the unit and the explanation of how it all works. Great for newbie wonks like me just dipping our toe into the audiophile pool. Thanks!
The Ares sounds as it does (i.e. has a natural ease) because of the type of DAC processing it uses i.e. R-2R. I have a similar DIY R-2R DAC and it is just the same.
What is your diy dac? Is it a kit? Very interested in diy. Just finished 2 amp camp amps.....trying to self teach/learn. Very comforting soldering and building components.
I would love to hear your opinion on the bifrost 2 multibit. These 2 DACs get compaired to each other all the time. I believe you would prefer the schitt over the denafrips. punk rock would have a crisper but mild mid range with the schitt. Denafrips puts a bloom out, wide sound stage and softens everything up. Like tubes.
Great video! Love your show! Did you try to use the XLR instead of RCA? In my system there is a HUGE difference, the XLR outputs are superb! I use Silway2 cables, Bluesound 2, Accuphase E-405 and Ohm Walsh 2000.
Agreed, if the gear you are reviewing has balanced outputs and your other gear used also has balanced inputs you should try and use those for the review. There is quite a difference.
I'm so on the fence now between the Ares II and the Schit Bifrost II Multibit. Others have compared these two in terms of similar offerings, the Ares II being a bit more euphonic, whilst the Bifrost II Multibit a bit more detail oriented. Curious if you'd be looking into reviewing the Schit Bifrost II as it fits this same price/offering category. And SO appreciate your comprehensive review of the Ares II! It's been on my list for an upgrade for an exceedingly long time, and your review gets into the OS effect as a potential positive. Not to mention the type of music it can most benefit.
There's service and possibly upgrading to consider too. Depends on type of music, amp/speaker matching and personal taste. I'm considering the Bitfrost, among others.
It’s currently £865 in the uk from the official authorised dealer, is it still good value at that price? I’m also considering the Bifrost 2 but due to manufacturing & supply issues they are as rare in the UK as rocking horse schiit
Started out with ares ii, loved its character and now moved up the product line to Pontus II. Curious if you’d be keen to explore denafrips’ other product lines, preamps/amps etc.
@Yang Li yes, i currently have the ares 2 for a couple weeks now and am enjoying very much. i,too, want to know what your upgrade comparison is ares 2 ---> pontus 2
I would think that the musician or the recording engineer should be the one that decides how soft or sharp the recording should be. If I have a jazz musician that is tapping on the cymbals with some brushes. I want that to come through sharp and clear. I would hate to think that my DAC is deciding how sharp or dull all of my music should be.
I own this DAC and love how it's sound. You mentioned the reduced soundstage compared to the DAC Magic. What I learned is that R2-R DACs are more sensitive to phase than a DAC chip DAC because a R2R DAC lacks the phase compensation mechanism that's default embedded in a DAC chips. Connecting my ares 2 to a raspberry pi 4 I heard sound difference depending on which USB port I used to interconnect. With a ISO regen from audio tone in-between the pi and the ares DAC the differences between the pi's usb outputs are gone and....I've got a much wider soundstage. Not exactly understand what this ISO regen device does technically but ...I'm happy with it
I own both the RME and the Ares 2, both well-reviewed by John. To my 73 y.o. ears, the RME sounds clearer. As far as the treble-rolloff and non-fatiguing sound connection, I have found this can easily be achieved using the RME's filters, equalizers or tone controls. So, RME gives me a clearer and just as smooth sound as the Ares 2. I love the Ares 2 but I find its sound somewhat veiled compared to the RME. Must be my old ears. I agree with John that for Ares the Slow filter is best. For my RME, I use the SD Slow filter The major drawback of the RME is its major benefit: the complexity of its menus and many options. Many will be overwhelmed by its complexity and not get beyond its factory default settings and thus will never experience the ability too modify its sound..Usage over time remedies this. In general, I think that good equalizers or tone controls would save audiophiles a lot of money wasted on equipment purchased to achieve a"tube effect", eliminate "brightness", avoid "fatiguing sound", achieve a "meatier" sound, etc. But this is another discussion.
Agree 100%, tone controls are a must. I also own the RME, but have used Schiit Loki as well, not as flexible as RME, but still a nice add at low price to traditional dac.
I completely agree with you John !!! Denafrips dac are amazing, rich and natural sound!!! I'm in love with NOS mode, analog analog analog sound , no one will believe that is a CD!!! ALWAYS great review!!!
I'm running the Ares II with the Bluesound Node 3, with the Denafrips Iris DDC... Also running the Denafrips Hades pre and Thallo amp, with KLH Model 5 speakers. The more I listen to this system, the more I am amazed at the sound quality. Everything that has been said about all of these products is true. I love the old school sound of this system, it has taken me back to the days of my youth, the 1960's and 70's, when music for some reason always sounded better. this system has transported me back in time.
@gomez3420 That's Singapore dollars (SGD) Shipping is included!. You have to convert to your own currency. Their website now does it for you, just check the appropriate box on the top of the page;-)
Great review, thanks! That toroidal seems to be a special doughnut type (can't remember the name)... They are usually hand wound as they can't be held securely in winding machines. An expensive part. The lack of 'edges' reduce emf greatly.
John, could you or anyone here elaborate on a comment in your DAC videos. First, in my view a DAC should be an empty space, you should not be able to tell it is there. I would expect to see "color" in my speakers or amplifier. So when you say, and I don't remember your exact words, that you like the color added by the Denafrips, I was struck by that statement as being odd. Did I misunderstand or am I one of those oddballs? To me, a perfect DAC would make a digital recording indistinguishable from an analog recording of like quality.
I have this DAC and I absolutely love it. It’s made a gigantic difference to my system and I prefer it to the internal DAC of either my Bluesound Node 2i or my Innuos Zen Mini mk3. Highly recommended.
Hi Robert, thanks for sharing that. I also have the Node 2i. I used to have an older Cambridge DAC Magic and found the 2i be a big leap forward, much less harsch sounding than the Cambridge and also a much more “analog” sound profile, not unlike the description of the Denafrips. That of course makes me curious as to how you percieve the differences between the 2i and the Denafrips? Upgrade is always a possibility 😀
Having been through various DACs i lived with an Ares II for about six months before switching to a Topping D90. Not night and day by any stretch but the Topping easily wins for me. HF on the D90 just has that little bit more finesse in my rig, and the low end is far more impactful without sacrificing LF detail. Both very good dacs for the money regardless. Could happy live with either.
I find this all very educative and interesting, I am in the market for a my first dac to hook up to a bluesound node 2 and then to my Arcam 550 Avr to give it streaming capabilities, I can’t quite afford the Ares or Rme but have a great offer for an Arcam irdac 2 in perfect condition under £200 and wondering if it’s a great dac or better to save a bit more and go for the Mojo ?
Your reviews are great but I get a kick out of seeing some of my favorite music featured in your quick cut aways. Today's is like an all-star playlist of mine.
I read the gotcha, from the one more thought article on the website, and the gotchas with all these different products are amazing. I think you were correct when you started down the path of using USB Audio Player Pro on an Android phone. While this combination along with an associated DAC might not be the final word in audio purity, it works flawlessly! When I'm not listening to Qobuz, I'm able to have Android via the Roku app's private listening function send perfectly lip-synced audio via the DAC to my KEF-powered speakers. Additionally, the Samsung phone I'm using as a source is equipped with Dolby Atmos, which has a video mode that is ideal for TV. Since I've retasked my retired phone for audio duty, I've never listened to more music.
For the same amounts Aries try Netherlands 🇳🇱 based Ecdesigns power DAC .. that DAC outclass even the terminator by huge margin … designer is none other than guy John whose work on TDA 154 in DAC world is reckon highly …By the DAC technology is fractal based unlike others R2R, sigma delta etc .. No one has attempted this tech for DAC so far … lay your hand you will be in for shock
I feel this dac sits in the middle of biforst 2 and Audio GD R1. R1 has the worst USB schiit has the best. Biforst 2 sounds neutral R1 sounds wormer. Biforst 2 sounds flat R1 sounds deep. Ares2 sounds wide. I kept R1 which fed from a USB interface via I2S at the end.
RME has changed the DAC chip from AKM to ESS. Whether it's better or not I do not know. But RME has had to do it because AKM's production facilities in Japan have been out for a fire accident.
Thanks for another great video John! Olaf’s video skills is just getting better and better! I definitely agree with your assessment, I’ve in fact purchased the Ares II for my headphone listening sessions and the bigger brother Pontus II for my other audio setup.
John...would it be too much to ask for you to provide either a slower description of what component goes where in any set up that you are reviewing or maybe a little sketch of what goes where and showing what cables attach each component. I'm still quite new to this higher level Hi-Fi and sometimes get confused as to what goes where and what does what!! That said, I'm here soaking it all up; so many many thanks for your erudite commentary...most informative and enjoyable...
Good review! You characterized the Ares II well. I'd say that you and I heard very similar things both with the DAC overall and the OS/NOS and filter settings.
Thanks for this review. I purchased it because of this, I really heard the difference in my system. After reading and seeing many reviews on others I came to the right conclusion.
You say about 680E aaand now it't 939E. The new model (12th) is 1079E. Is it any better at least? You don't even see them second hand at 680E today. Very sad.
I’m torn between this and the Border Patrol. I guess there is another dac by a company called Black Ice (formerly Jolida) that has tubes in the chain (like the Border Patrol) that compared favorably to a Chord dac in blind tests and is priced well.
Darko! I have been binging your videos, but I'm still only new to high quality audio. I am planning on buying the Schiit Modi + Magni stack (in their best versions) but am afraid to sink the money simply because I can't find out how to connect it all to my *desktop* computer. From what I understand, it involved some internal work especially if you want to add I microphone (which I do). Do you have any videos going over this, or would you consider making one? Thank you, have a nice day.
I had a Denafrips Aries 2(new) and got the upgrade itch and moved to a second hand (still 2.5x the price of the aries 2) Holo Audio Spring Kitsune tuned edition (lvl3) and while that dac is better.. it's not so much better that I could have saved over $1500 and been absolutely happy with the denafrips.. I know now
Same sort of experience here except I got a Yggdrasil GS. Still prefer the Yggy. But if I knew then what I know now I probably would not have upgraded.
Great review 👌 Good music too! Got my Ares2 on 5/26/21 based on iiwi and all the other glowing reviews. Love the tonality and 3d density it conjures up thru my LS50s and LRS. Denafrips shipping is lightning fast (3 days to Montana US!) and Alvin of Vinshine very responsive to messages on WhatsApp ;-)
I noticed one of the sources is a Raspberrypi 4. Did you talk about power supplies? What would Hans Beekhuyzen say??!! I gotta assume you don’t put much importance on usb jitter, or does Denafrips Ares 2 take care of all that with the custom usb fpga and femtoclock take care of any problems coming in?
I noticed the same thing! I haven't reviewed the Ares 2 at the Denefrips website, but if I were a betting man I'd say yes, Denefrips has that covered. Saying that, John knows that the Allo DigiOne Sig out (Pi3) is the way to go. Hans Beekhyuzen agrees. iiWi reviews also agrees. The clean USB has value because it's possible that the demographic for the RPi isn't the same as those who would invest €700 in a DAC. What do you think? But I think you got it right about the fpga and femtoclock. So it could be a viable option for someone looking to get a RPi, who are willing to spend €500 on a DAC, but aren't sure which PRi to get. Save your money on an Allo bridge, get the RPi4 and this DAC. I have an Allo USBridge with Allo Shanti LPS coming in the mail... But my DAC isn't anything special
1st off, great review of my dac, I'm actually saving to jump up to the Denafrips ladder to Pontus II for main system and rotate Ares II to my office system. 2nd, how do you manage to shoot in hi-res modes and have so little dust on things in focus? I'm finding dust only on my newly cleaned computer monitor and that your room is startlingly clean of dust.......my Mr. Clean hat off to you Sir~ Oh and your review and info style is so unique and spot on, keep up the fantastic work !
You should get your hands on the IC chip based R2R DAC - Schiit Bifrost 2. It falls in between these two, offering that HDR quality res with the slightly softer, fuller, analog-esque quality of the Ares II.
I’m also sensitive to what I call upper midrange “glare” or “stridency” which you call lower treble. Besides dacs it’s also caused by amplifiers, interconnection, speakers and almost anything else in your system. Unfortunately it’s usually exacerbated by cheap and rational, but whether the sound system is hi rez expensive or low rez rational this flaw can make a system very unenjoyable to listen to. Thanks for your review.
An excellent review. Balanced, thoughtful and helpful. I've a Pontus II heading my way in a couple of weeks. It'll be interesting to see how it compares to my current DAC, the Border Patrol DAC SEi. I've had that one for several years. I'll keep one and sell the other.
@@fiogray I used the Pontus II for about a month. Tried all different configurations. It betters the Border Patrol in bass definition, detail and clarity. But I prefer the Border Patrol. I found that music heard with the Pontus II was just not as natural and immersive as with the Border Patrol. The Pontus II is an excellent DAC but for me the Border Patrol is the keeper. Sold the Pontus.
Thanks for another great video John! Yours is the slickest of all RUclips productions! Kudos to you and the Team. Any chance you could provide details of the device you’ve placed between the Raspberry pi and the USB cable? I assume it to be something similar to the Audioquest Jitterbug FMJ? I’ve got a similar setup and was curious if I could improve the sound out of the USB port. Many thanks, Fabio
Awesome 😀 John, I sincerely hope you keep doing what you do so well; educate and inform us the way you've been doing it right from the start 👌 You have a wonderful natural talent that is unique 😉 don't ever change your way of feeding us with Audio knowledge in detail without making it (to) complicated 👍 Again, keep up the great work and thank you so much for your contribution to (High-End) Audio in particular 🤗 Sincerely, José The Netherlands
Uhhh, you just made my life more complicated. I am contemplating to buy RMA ADI-2 which in UK can be found for a difference of £80-100 more than Denafrips Ares II. Can you compare the two from your listening experience, please?
The RME is more full featured. It includes preamp, headphone amp, equalization for all outputs with real time display. Probably more resolving than the Ares ii, with more detail, (it is an excellent AKM based device). Probably lacks the warm and comfy feel and flavor of the Ares ii.
I used it myself for 6 months now and couldn’t agree more. It touches my soul and moves my heart, that’s how i describe it. Thx for your videos. Super uber good.
I have this Dac and it is truly remarkable. I'm a firm believer of dacs making a difference if everything in the chain is strong. Do not your waste time if your amp and speakers aren't up to snuff.
Thank you Darko! Like always it is a pleasure to listen to your thoughts. Once a while you have suggestions for songs or albums to listen to. I would appreciate more of those. Best greetings Nezam
I didn't buy the Ares II ... but I did buy some light bulbs after watching this video
Takeaway from the video: Darko has replaced the doorstop with a marble? Piece 😱
What exactly are those things he always has called, and where can I find them?
@@ryanmclellanjr6104 he usually uses doorstops from ikea. It's just to stop light components being pulled off of the table by heavy cables
I have the bigger brother Denafrips Pontus II, it is absolutely amazing!
A couple years back he said he sourced the doorstops from Amazon.
Ares 2 owner, and I couldn't be happier. The camera analogy is good, but it is more about how film does WAY better with the subtleties, the gradations at the borders between light and dark. This DAC is just incredible with texture and timbre. A violin has a sound we all recognize, Ares 2 has such great texture and subtlety that you hear much more of the bow on the violin string in addition to the tone. The breath (air) in the saxophone, and the reed, not just the note...you get the idea.
I don't care for the DAC. I'm here for the marble thingy.
Yeah what is that
Your fluorescent lighting analogy is a great way to explain it!
Glad you think so!
Indeed in the lighting world also it is the same. Cool means blueish and warm means redish light, white is middle of this. Even the display monitor also. Good analogy indeed.
Was that just 18min of John trying not to say ‘musical’?
Have you, yet had a chance to listen to the Ares 12th Anniversary DAC?
Ares II was as good a hi-fi purchase I've made. Since having it in my system I've all but stopped looking at hi-fi reviews (not just dacs). I stopped my Schiit EQ. The low end is fantastic, the mids and highs sound very natural to me. For me, when something is working well, you stop thinking about it and that's exactly what this did. I have done direct comparisons to current release vinyl (ostensibly very similar if not the same mastering as digital) by switching inputs and the sound is very very close. I thought it was a bit of a stretch to spend that much on a DAC but now I don't ever think about how much it cost just that I'm glad it's in my system.
you still using the ares 2? I have an rme adi dac 2 and as great as it is, I find myself wanting something more "analogue sounding" , I keep wondering if the Ares 2 would fit that bill for me or not...
Fantastic!
How would you say the Denafrips Ares II compares to the Bifrost 2, seeing they're close in price?
I’ve lived with the ares for a year now and I agree completely with your evaluation. I’ll sacrifice a smidge of stage depth for the smooth lower treble you describe. Listener fatigue is never an issue with the ares which is a huge plus. Spot on review as usual!
I was just having a glass of wine and thinking to myself this red has a bit of a hint of crisp crunch about it....with a lingering taste of tangential equanimity after 7ish 🍷😉
So I’m guessing it tastes just like a Denafrips 😂😬
Cheers 😉🖖
John, I'd love to see a video where you play examples of tracks featuring exaggerated examples of your musical vocabulary like "crisp crunch," "easeful," "flow," "flesh on the bones," etc. I appreciate what you're trying to do by both avoiding vague terms like "musical" and sticking to subjective terms that communicate how the music feels to hear but as a younger guy, hearing your verbal palette sometimes reminds me of a curator's blurb in an art museum: jargon that requires me to have marinated in the discourse for years longer than I have in order to understand its shared meaning. I know RUclips's compression might complicate this but I think you could equip a new generation of audiophiles with a shared subjective vocabulary.
'Musical' is indeed a vague term in language. Generally it is used to express pace, rhythm and timing and a lack of harsh, over forward presentation. All language is in constant flux - you do not receive exactly what the other is trying to say. This is always compounded and exacerbated by attempting to describe the sound of something. However - everyone who has a brain that functions well in communicating efficiently between the lymbic system and the frontal lobal system (in the broadest terms) knows when something sounds right. An acoustic instrument played reasonably well in a given space, sounds immediately right - any further analysis becomes one of nuanced aesthetics - which have most to do with the touch, emotional intelligence, technique and good taste of both player and listener - music happens as a combination of player and listener - there are degrees of sophistication here that are not to do with mathematics or even acoustic analysis. If it's music you know it. 'Rhythmic flow' and 'natural', 'timbre' always pique my interest, as very few digital devices can pretend to deliver on this basis. 'Forgiving' is also essential, as music recording did not begin with 0's and 1's. So - I would like to audition this Denafrips Dac. Thanks for the worthwhile review.
how does the Ares II compare to the Chord Qutest?
I'd be also interested in that. I have a Vincent 236mk that I find maybe a bit too round, and was waiting for this video to make the decision on which one of these 2 DACs to go to. I feel it should be the Qutest, but I'd like to hear John's opinion. Thanks for the videos. They are extremely good.
The Ares 2 is a lot smoother than the Qutest.
Very interested in the comparison too!
There are reviews on RUclips in which they do get compared (together with the Schiit Gungnir multibit and a few others).
Bottom line: Ares II clearly is better.
Thank you for allowing comments. You will never see me leaving anything but positive on any page. Great job as usual. You do amazing work.
I love the discussion about the power supply. I think that's so often overlooked, but it's such a key part of components. It was also interesting to see how close these two units are in size. I also love that you didn't harp on the MQA vs no MQA, just focused on the sound. Great work as usual.
15:09 "Absolutely Fantastic" That's how I feel also about this DAC, especially at the price point. Would love to also see review on Pontus 2 :)
The Pontus is extraordinary!!! Probably the best price/value of all the denafrips lineup!!! Amazing dac, the same sound of the ares II , but everything on to another level, more detail, quieter background , deeper soundstage!!!
I have the Denafrips Pontus and is a fantastic pairing to my Roon nucleus and Yamaha a/s 2100.
Once you try a r2r dac you cant go back, i know i cant
As an Ares II owner and lover I agree with everything Mr Darko says here. Its a great sounding DAC.
I just ordered one of these 3 days ago, it looks like I got in just before the inevitable Darko backlog!
I concur with almost everything you say about this DAC. I was using the Bifrost 2, and it is very good. It may even sound a touch better on some lower resolution (digitally lower rez), but in most cases, the Ares II has more life, and has a lower noise floor - the softer parts (lower volume) parts of recordings is resolved better, and has more dynamics and life.
I differ only on my preference for the OS/Sharp filter - the Slow filter pushes the sibilance and string/pick area a bit forward too much, on my system. The OS/Sharp has more spacious soundstage, and oddly enough, the soundstage seem *continuous*; as in all the instruments are in the same overall space. The Bifrost 2 could have each instrument in its own space, and they sometimes seem unconnected to each other; if that makes any sense.
Darko with his best metaphor ever, the notion that a particular sound signature is like having a neon sign outside your 3rd floor apartment window. It’s nicely noirish.
The Ares definitely satisfies a particular itch, it has a quality that you appreciate more and more over time. Thanks also for the comparison to the Mojo.
Love the breakdown of the unit and the explanation of how it all works. Great for newbie wonks like me just dipping our toe into the audiophile pool. Thanks!
The Ares sounds as it does (i.e. has a natural ease) because of the type of DAC processing it uses i.e. R-2R. I have a similar DIY R-2R DAC and it is just the same.
What is your diy dac? Is it a kit? Very interested in diy. Just finished 2 amp camp amps.....trying to self teach/learn. Very comforting soldering and building components.
Agree. I have r2r and noticed the same differences when compared to price equivalent OS DACs.
Is my actual DAC,on my ears it sound very natural,never fatigue or with the classic "digital harshness"...
For me, an R2R DAC simply sounds more 3-dimensional than a Delta-Sigma DAC.
I would love to hear your opinion on the bifrost 2 multibit. These 2 DACs get compaired to each other all the time. I believe you would prefer the schitt over the denafrips. punk rock would have a crisper but mild mid range with the schitt. Denafrips puts a bloom out, wide sound stage and softens everything up. Like tubes.
Great video! Love your show! Did you try to use the XLR instead of RCA? In my system there is a HUGE difference, the XLR outputs are superb! I use Silway2 cables, Bluesound 2, Accuphase E-405 and Ohm Walsh 2000.
Agreed, if the gear you are reviewing has balanced outputs and your other gear used also has balanced inputs you should try and use those for the review. There is quite a difference.
I'm so on the fence now between the Ares II and the Schit Bifrost II Multibit. Others have compared these two in terms of similar offerings, the Ares II being a bit more euphonic, whilst the Bifrost II Multibit a bit more detail oriented. Curious if you'd be looking into reviewing the Schit Bifrost II as it fits this same price/offering category. And SO appreciate your comprehensive review of the Ares II! It's been on my list for an upgrade for an exceedingly long time, and your review gets into the OS effect as a potential positive. Not to mention the type of music it can most benefit.
There's service and possibly upgrading to consider too. Depends on type of music, amp/speaker matching and personal taste. I'm considering the Bitfrost, among others.
It’s currently £865 in the uk from the official authorised dealer, is it still good value at that price? I’m also considering the Bifrost 2 but due to manufacturing & supply issues they are as rare in the UK as rocking horse schiit
Started out with ares ii, loved its character and now moved up the product line to Pontus II. Curious if you’d be keen to explore denafrips’ other product lines, preamps/amps etc.
Was it a big difference between ares and pontus?
@Yang Li yes, i currently have the ares 2 for a couple weeks now and am enjoying very much. i,too, want to know what your upgrade comparison is ares 2 ---> pontus 2
It's the Pontus the same sound character as the Ares? Same "meat on the bones" (in Darko's words)?
Your review is spot on, congratulations! Now you've opened the Denafrips can of worms so, next model up is a must and then the next.....
Bought my Ares II when it first came out and it's been wonderful. definitely recommend
I would think that the musician or the recording engineer should be the one that decides how soft or sharp the recording should be. If I have a jazz musician that is tapping on the cymbals with some brushes. I want that to come through sharp and clear. I would hate to think that my DAC is deciding how sharp or dull all of my music should be.
The old...'but the musician wanted' trope...I always have to laugh when I see this old chestnut. copied right off the comments of ASR. zzzzz
I own this DAC and love how it's sound.
You mentioned the reduced soundstage compared to the DAC Magic. What I learned is that R2-R DACs are more sensitive to phase than a DAC chip DAC because a R2R DAC lacks the phase compensation mechanism that's default embedded in a DAC chips.
Connecting my ares 2 to a raspberry pi 4 I heard sound difference depending on which USB port I used to interconnect. With a ISO regen from audio tone in-between the pi and the ares DAC the differences between the pi's usb outputs are gone and....I've got a much wider soundstage. Not exactly understand what this ISO regen device does technically but ...I'm happy with it
I own both the RME and the Ares 2, both well-reviewed by John. To my 73 y.o. ears, the RME sounds clearer. As far as the treble-rolloff and non-fatiguing sound connection, I have found this can easily be achieved using the RME's filters, equalizers or tone controls. So, RME gives me a clearer and just as smooth sound as the Ares 2. I love the Ares 2 but I find its sound somewhat veiled compared to the RME. Must be my old ears. I agree with John that for Ares the Slow filter is best. For my RME, I use the SD Slow filter The major drawback of the RME is its major benefit: the complexity of its menus and many options. Many will be overwhelmed by its complexity and not get beyond its factory default settings and thus will never experience the ability too modify its sound..Usage over time remedies this.
In general, I think that good equalizers or tone controls would save audiophiles a lot of money wasted on equipment purchased to achieve a"tube effect", eliminate "brightness", avoid "fatiguing sound", achieve a "meatier" sound, etc. But this is another discussion.
Agree 100%, tone controls are a must. I also own the RME, but have used Schiit Loki as well, not as flexible as RME, but still a nice add at low price to traditional dac.
This is what I wanted to hear as the choice is between RME or Denafrips for me, my ears are getting older as well (I'm 37)
I figured some 73 years wisdom from these words. Thanks!
Aaah. "The Killing Moon" one if my all time favourite tracks from my youth. The bunnymen are Still a good band.
I completely agree with you John !!! Denafrips dac are amazing, rich and natural sound!!!
I'm in love with NOS mode, analog analog analog sound , no one will believe that is a CD!!!
ALWAYS great review!!!
Which one do you have? Ares II?
I'm running the Ares II with the Bluesound Node 3, with the Denafrips Iris DDC... Also running the Denafrips Hades pre and Thallo amp, with KLH Model 5 speakers. The more I listen to this system, the more I am amazed at the sound quality. Everything that has been said about all of these products is true. I love the old school sound of this system, it has taken me back to the days of my youth, the 1960's and 70's, when music for some reason always sounded better. this system has transported me back in time.
John the cost of this on their website is $1028 which is almost 850 Euro...I wish it was 680 Euro!
That's the price in Singapore dollars.
@gomez3420
That's Singapore dollars (SGD) Shipping is included!. You have to convert to your own currency. Their website now does it for you, just check the appropriate box on the top of the page;-)
That's Singapore Dollars. USD $775
639 Euro
@@alanvanderhaegen4936 Without import taxes I presume. The price on the European site is 879 euros!
Now try the Iris from Denafrips. Amazing USB converter!.
Great review, thanks! That toroidal seems to be a special doughnut type (can't remember the name)... They are usually hand wound as they can't be held securely in winding machines. An expensive part. The lack of 'edges' reduce emf greatly.
I think that doughnut is the same idea found in the HOLO DAC... Probably the most amazing product of any kind for its attention to detail...
I think they are called O-Core Toroidal Transformers.
@@sean_heisler Thnx
this DAC sound bright and awful.
John, could you or anyone here elaborate on a comment in your DAC videos. First, in my view a DAC should be an empty space, you should not be able to tell it is there. I would expect to see "color" in my speakers or amplifier. So when you say, and I don't remember your exact words, that you like the color added by the Denafrips, I was struck by that statement as being odd. Did I misunderstand or am I one of those oddballs? To me, a perfect DAC would make a digital recording indistinguishable from an analog recording of like quality.
too bad the company is a pain in the ass to deal with
Thank you for the review John. Really helpful and informative.
I have this DAC and I absolutely love it. It’s made a gigantic difference to my system and I prefer it to the internal DAC of either my Bluesound Node 2i or my Innuos Zen Mini mk3. Highly recommended.
Ate you still using the bluesound as its transport?
Hi Robert, thanks for sharing that. I also have the Node 2i. I used to have an older Cambridge DAC Magic and found the 2i be a big leap forward, much less harsch sounding than the Cambridge and also a much more “analog” sound profile, not unlike the description of the Denafrips. That of course makes me curious as to how you percieve the differences between the 2i and the Denafrips? Upgrade is always a possibility 😀
@@rog86
I am! Much clearer than the internal DAC. Bluesound Node2i and Vault2 work very well streaming Qobuz HR and storing 13,000 tracks so far;-)
Having been through various DACs i lived with an Ares II for about six months before switching to a Topping D90. Not night and day by any stretch but the Topping easily wins for me. HF on the D90 just has that little bit more finesse in my rig, and the low end is far more impactful without sacrificing LF detail. Both very good dacs for the money regardless. Could happy live with either.
I find this all very educative and interesting, I am in the market for a my first dac to hook up to a bluesound node 2 and then to my Arcam 550 Avr to give it streaming capabilities, I can’t quite afford the Ares or Rme but have a great offer for an Arcam irdac 2 in perfect condition under £200 and wondering if it’s a great dac or better to save a bit more and go for the Mojo ?
Your reviews are great but I get a kick out of seeing some of my favorite music featured in your quick cut aways. Today's is like an all-star playlist of mine.
Share that list please?😎
I read the gotcha, from the one more thought article on the website, and the gotchas with all these different products are amazing. I think you were correct when you started down the path of using USB Audio Player Pro on an Android phone. While this combination along with an associated DAC might not be the final word in audio purity, it works flawlessly! When I'm not listening to Qobuz, I'm able to have Android via the Roku app's private listening function send perfectly lip-synced audio via the DAC to my KEF-powered speakers. Additionally, the Samsung phone I'm using as a source is equipped with Dolby Atmos, which has a video mode that is ideal for TV.
Since I've retasked my retired phone for audio duty, I've never listened to more music.
For the same amounts Aries try Netherlands 🇳🇱 based Ecdesigns power DAC .. that DAC outclass even the terminator by huge margin … designer is none other than guy John whose work on TDA 154 in DAC world is reckon highly …By the DAC technology is fractal based unlike others R2R, sigma delta etc .. No one has attempted this tech for DAC so far … lay your hand you will be in for shock
I feel this dac sits in the middle of biforst 2 and Audio GD R1. R1 has the worst USB schiit has the best. Biforst 2 sounds neutral R1 sounds wormer. Biforst 2 sounds flat R1 sounds deep. Ares2 sounds wide. I kept R1 which fed from a USB interface via I2S at the end.
So how do you like it compared to the RME ADI-2 DAC FS? Close in price...
RME has changed the DAC chip from AKM to ESS. Whether it's better or not I do not know. But RME has had to do it because AKM's production facilities in Japan have been out for a fire accident.
Thanks for another great video John! Olaf’s video skills is just getting better and better! I definitely agree with your assessment, I’ve in fact purchased the Ares II for my headphone listening sessions and the bigger brother Pontus II for my other audio setup.
Couldn't sell mine fast enough
John...would it be too much to ask for you to provide either a slower description of what component goes where in any set up that you are reviewing or maybe a little sketch of what goes where and showing what cables attach each component. I'm still quite new to this higher level Hi-Fi and sometimes get confused as to what goes where and what does what!!
That said, I'm here soaking it all up; so many many thanks for your erudite commentary...most informative and enjoyable...
Good R2R, just gets tone right. ;)
Good review! You characterized the Ares II well. I'd say that you and I heard very similar things both with the DAC overall and the OS/NOS and filter settings.
Thanks for this review. I purchased it because of this, I really heard the difference in my system. After reading and seeing many reviews on others I came to the right conclusion.
You say about 680E aaand now it't 939E. The new model (12th) is 1079E. Is it any better at least?
You don't even see them second hand at 680E today. Very sad.
I’m torn between this and the Border Patrol. I guess there is another dac by a company called Black Ice (formerly Jolida) that has tubes in the chain (like the Border Patrol) that compared favorably to a Chord dac in blind tests and is priced well.
what about RME ADI-2 DAC FS??
Darko! I have been binging your videos, but I'm still only new to high quality audio. I am planning on buying the Schiit Modi + Magni stack (in their best versions) but am afraid to sink the money simply because I can't find out how to connect it all to my *desktop* computer. From what I understand, it involved some internal work especially if you want to add I microphone (which I do). Do you have any videos going over this, or would you consider making one?
Thank you, have a nice day.
Thanks for this review ..it is really good to see and hear you enthusing again
I had a Denafrips Aries 2(new) and got the upgrade itch and moved to a second hand (still 2.5x the price of the aries 2) Holo Audio Spring Kitsune tuned edition (lvl3) and while that dac is better.. it's not so much better that I could have saved over $1500 and been absolutely happy with the denafrips.. I know now
Same sort of experience here except I got a Yggdrasil GS. Still prefer the Yggy. But if I knew then what I know now I probably would not have upgraded.
@@edwarddodge7937 The Yggdrasil is a tank. A tank that can be upgraded.
Great review 👌
Good music too!
Got my Ares2 on 5/26/21 based on iiwi and all the other glowing reviews.
Love the tonality and 3d density it conjures up thru my LS50s and LRS.
Denafrips shipping is lightning fast (3 days to Montana US!) and Alvin of Vinshine very responsive to messages on WhatsApp ;-)
I noticed one of the sources is a Raspberrypi 4. Did you talk about power supplies? What would Hans Beekhuyzen say??!! I gotta assume you don’t put much importance on usb jitter, or does Denafrips Ares 2 take care of all that with the custom usb fpga and femtoclock take care of any problems coming in?
I noticed the same thing! I haven't reviewed the Ares 2 at the Denefrips website, but if I were a betting man I'd say yes, Denefrips has that covered. Saying that, John knows that the Allo DigiOne Sig out (Pi3) is the way to go. Hans Beekhyuzen agrees. iiWi reviews also agrees. The clean USB has value because it's possible that the demographic for the RPi isn't the same as those who would invest €700 in a DAC. What do you think?
But I think you got it right about the fpga and femtoclock. So it could be a viable option for someone looking to get a RPi, who are willing to spend €500 on a DAC, but aren't sure which PRi to get. Save your money on an Allo bridge, get the RPi4 and this DAC. I have an Allo USBridge with Allo Shanti LPS coming in the mail... But my DAC isn't anything special
He's seemingly using some jitterbug dongle if you look at the video.
1st off, great review of my dac, I'm actually saving to jump up to the Denafrips ladder to Pontus II for main system and rotate Ares II to my office system. 2nd, how do you manage to shoot in hi-res modes and have so little dust on things in focus? I'm finding dust only on my newly cleaned computer monitor and that your room is startlingly clean of dust.......my Mr. Clean hat off to you Sir~ Oh and your review and info style is so unique and spot on, keep up the fantastic work !
You are very precise with explaining and breaking things down. I will check out the Ares 2. My plan is to combine it with the iFi Zen Stream.
Cheers.
How does the Aries 2 compare to the Aries? Is the Aries 2 vastly improved or not so much?
Thank you
Wow, looks like a worthy upgrade.
kind of wish John would be less careful with what he says.
You want him to say musical?
@@pkal244 😁
'musical'. Ugh. Now I need to take a shower. 🤣
Yeah use some more dirty words lol
Yes was waiting for this one, need Darko's approval before I buy ;-)
What I'm hearing from some is this isn't NOS... Crazy they're allowed to call it NOS if it's not.
You should get your hands on the IC chip based R2R DAC - Schiit Bifrost 2. It falls in between these two, offering that HDR quality res with the slightly softer, fuller, analog-esque quality of the Ares II.
Finally :) Who else thought John forget about the third dac, because he was busy enjoying the Sub? ;)
That flourescent light metaphor really is a great one. I'll steal that for myself thanks. (Need it to justify buying a R2R dac...)
I’m also sensitive to what I call upper midrange “glare” or “stridency” which you call lower treble. Besides dacs it’s also caused by amplifiers, interconnection, speakers and almost anything else in your system. Unfortunately it’s usually exacerbated by cheap and rational, but whether the sound system is hi rez expensive or low rez rational this flaw can make a system very unenjoyable to listen to. Thanks for your review.
'Corporeal" is exactly the word! Nicely written John.
An excellent review. Balanced, thoughtful and helpful. I've a Pontus II heading my way in a couple of weeks. It'll be interesting to see how it compares to my current DAC, the Border Patrol DAC SEi. I've had that one for several years. I'll keep one and sell the other.
Any update on this? Which one do you like best, Pontus or Border Patrol?
@@fiogray I used the Pontus II for about a month. Tried all different configurations. It betters the Border Patrol in bass definition, detail and clarity. But I prefer the Border Patrol. I found that music heard with the Pontus II was just not as natural and immersive as with the Border Patrol. The Pontus II is an excellent DAC but for me the Border Patrol is the keeper. Sold the Pontus.
Great review Darko. Mind review the Denafrips Pontus and compare with the Ares 2?
I'd like to know too.
Thanks for another great video John! Yours is the slickest of all RUclips productions! Kudos to you and the Team.
Any chance you could provide details of the device you’ve placed between the Raspberry pi and the USB cable? I assume it to be something similar to the Audioquest Jitterbug FMJ?
I’ve got a similar setup and was curious if I could improve the sound out of the USB port.
Many thanks,
Fabio
How does this unit compare to the RME adi-2?
Awesome 😀 John, I sincerely hope you keep doing what you do so well; educate and inform us the way you've been doing it right from the start 👌
You have a wonderful natural talent that is unique 😉 don't ever change your way of feeding us with Audio knowledge in detail without making it (to) complicated 👍
Again, keep up the great work and thank you so much for your contribution to (High-End) Audio in particular 🤗
Sincerely,
José
The Netherlands
I don't think it's "real balanced" without 4 resistor ladders.
Actually, I think the specs are that it has 8 resistor ladders - 4 for each channel.
Thanks for this review- I would love to hear your your take on the Dernafrips Ares 12-1
Thanks John great as always 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Looking forward to the Transporter review! I stupidly sold mine and regret it immensely.
J. I usb my hiby5 to my dac. It's a little fiddly, being careful with my cable but it sounds great
You cannot control the volume in Roon with the 200m. Can you control the volume with the Ares II?
great video, thanks. try an Audio Note UK Dac Mr. Darko, you will be surprised....
Uhhh, you just made my life more complicated. I am contemplating to buy RMA ADI-2 which in UK can be found for a difference of £80-100 more than Denafrips Ares II. Can you compare the two from your listening experience, please?
The RME is more full featured. It includes preamp, headphone amp, equalization for all outputs with real time display. Probably more resolving than the Ares ii, with more detail, (it is an excellent AKM based device).
Probably lacks the warm and comfy feel and flavor of the Ares ii.
You negotiated that very well. Good video again, thank you.
I used it myself for 6 months now and couldn’t agree more.
It touches my soul and moves my heart, that’s how i describe it.
Thx for your videos. Super uber good.
Love your use of adjectives bud! They really resonate with me, like where you mention fluorescent vs incandescent lighting. Subbed!
Denafrips makes alot of things people need to be looking for.. the Hestia and Hyperion stack is insane for the money..
I have this Dac and it is truly remarkable. I'm a firm believer of dacs making a difference if everything in the chain is strong. Do not your waste time if your amp and speakers aren't up to snuff.
Your reviews are TRULY SUPERB. Thanks Mr. Darko.
Thank you Darko! Like always it is a pleasure to listen to your thoughts. Once a while you have suggestions for songs or albums to listen to. I would appreciate more of those. Best greetings Nezam
As a Slim Devices alum, it was great to see a Transporter shoutout. Hope it's still working well. :)