DENAFRIPS 'ARES' R2R discrete ladder DAC - close up view

[wkvk]

Comparing genuine quality R2R output vs. opamp output stage.

Answer: all depends on your downstream gear.

I'm sorry, but which is which?

 

[sajunky]

I'm sorry, but which is which?

Gustard use opamps in the audio path. Refer to the Gustard R26 thread where manufacturer's claims had been put under review.

 

[wkvk]

Gustard use opamps in the audio path. Refer to the Gustard R26 thread where manufacturer's claims had been put under review.

I didn't know that. Pardon my ignorance.

 

[sajunky]

I didn't know that. Pardon my ignorance.

I don't see like that, you are welcome. We are all learning.

 

[MacMan31]

I'm looking into getting one of the Ares DACs. Has anyone had issues updating the firmware on these? A post on Reddit was talking about "micro glitches" from buffering.
https://old.reddit.com/r/audiophile...rips_ares_ii_enyo_firmware_13_318_impression/

 

[Ufanco]

I'm looking into getting one of the Ares DACs. Has anyone had issues updating the firmware on these? A post on Reddit was talking about "micro glitches" from buffering.
https://old.reddit.com/r/audiophile...rips_ares_ii_enyo_firmware_13_318_impression/

I updated mine twice now, first to 1.2 then to 1.3 using a Mac by carefully following direction supplied by Vinshine audio without issue. Currently using a Wiim pro and do not experience any micro glitch issues. The improvement in audio quality was worth it.

Are you buying used? Maybe check with owner if firmware update was done?

 

[MacMan31]

I updated mine twice now, first to 1.2 then to 1.3 using a Mac by carefully following direction supplied by Vinshine audio without issue. Currently using a Wiim pro and do not experience any micro glitch issues. The improvement in audio quality was worth it.

Are you buying used? Maybe check with owner if firmware update was done?

Yeah I'd buy one used if I can. Just not sure if I should go for the Ares II, 12th or 15th. I was considering switching from my Schiit Gungnir MB to an Ares DAC.

 

[Ufanco]

Has anyone done the IanCanada clock update to the Ares II Dac? Was wondering if it was worth it? Debating about either trying this or upgrading to the new denafrips pontus 15th.

https://iancanada.ca/products/denafrips-ares-12th-ii-r-2r-dac-clock-upgrade-kit

 

[sygnus21]

Yeah I'd buy one used if I can. Just not sure if I should go for the Ares II, 12th or 15th. I was considering switching from my Schiit Gungnir MB to an Ares DAC.

Be aware that as soon as the 15th got released, "Denafrips" will no longer sell the 12th edition of anything if a 15th is out. Someone in this thread picked a Pontus 12th-1, and got the 15th cause that's what Denafrips is pushing now.

If you specifically want a 12th-1 buy used, or find at another vendor who still has stock. Reminder warranty support if buying used or from unauthorized vendor. Particularly important if you brick your unit during a firmware update.

Anyway, I'd go with (have) a 15th as they're the most recent releases, and are supposed to be closer to the (previous) upper end models - in a Pontus 15, you get something of a Venus 12th-1 build.

 

[MacMan31]

Be aware that as soon as the 15th got released, "Denafrips" will no longer sell the 12th edition of anything if a 15th is out. Someone in this thread picked a Pontus 12th-1, and got the 15th cause that's what Denafrips is pushing now.

If you specifically want a 12th-1 buy used, or find at another vendor who still has stock. Reminder warranty support if buying used or from unauthorized vendor. Particularly important if you brick your unit during a firmware update.

Anyway, I'd go with (have) a 15th as they're the most recent releases, and are supposed to be closer to the (previous) upper end models - in a Pontus 15, you get something of a Venus 12th-1 build.

I would most likely find something used as I cannot afford gear brand new. I was looking at this one on CAM.
https://www.canuckaudiomart.com/details/650162402-denafrips-ares-ii/

I noticed the newer Ares versions only have one coax and one optical connection. The Ares II has two each plus the USB-B.

 

[sygnus21]

I noticed the newer Ares versions only have one coax and one optical connection. The Ares II has two each plus the USB-B.

Yeah, that was the "original" Ares II, but that model has been discontinued and supplanted by both the 12th and 15th. In place of one of the USB ports is an I2S port now. None include USB-C though...

Original Ares II...

Ares 12th-1 rear panel...

Ares 15th rear panel...

 

[MacMan31]

Yeah, that was the "original" Ares II, but that model has been discontinued and supplanted by both the 12th and 15th. In place of one of the USB ports is an I2S port now. None include USB-C though...

Original Ares II...


Ares 12th-1 rear panel...


Ares 15th rear panel...

Well they did not get rid of a USB port. They replaced a coax and optical digital with the I2S port.

 

[Ufanco]

I would most likely find something used as I cannot afford gear brand new. I was looking at this one on CAM.
https://www.canuckaudiomart.com/details/650162402-denafrips-ares-ii/

I noticed the newer Ares versions only have one coax and one optical connection. The Ares II has two each plus the USB-B.

Looks like it’s already been updated to newest firmware. I would ask how long is left in warranty since he is original owner.

 

[MacMan31]

Would it be more of a side grade to trade my Schiit Gungnir MB for an Ares? I don't think I'd care if it's the Ares II, 12th or 15th.

 

[NYer718]

Has anyone done the IanCanada clock update to the Ares II Dac? Was wondering if it was worth it? Debating about either trying this or upgrading to the new denafrips pontus 15th.

https://iancanada.ca/products/denafrips-ares-12th-ii-r-2r-dac-clock-upgrade-kit

I'm also inquiring about this. Am I better off buying the Ares 15 or modding my current 12th-1? Is this mod basically making the 12th-1 into the 15 sound-wise?