Denafrips Ares 2 DAC Review - The Most Important Component I Have Ever Heard

Denafrips Ares 2 www.denafrips.com/ares
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Denafrips Ares 2 www.denafrips.com/ares

[@Thevikingcam]

Got the ARES II today. I was a long time DAC denier.. That is now gone forever. I concur that indeed DAC IS THE MOST IMPORTANT component in your system. I just cannot believe how big, humongous difference there is with ARES and SMSL SU-9 DAC. It is like now for the first time hear any music in true stereo that is not actually stereo but full blown 3D world around your head. I use STAX L700 and T1 amp. Anyone who still claims "DACs dont matter" you are SO wrong. Totally wrong.

[@cheapaudioman]

Glad you love it. Pretty special component, isn’t it? Are you saying the SU9 is spacious as well? I haven’t heard that one yet

[@Thevikingcam]

@@cheapaudioman No, SMSL SU-9 feels like im listening mono DAC haha... My head is still spinning while im listen ARES with STAX L700..

[@cheapaudioman]

@@Thevikingcam yeah. If I’m listening to a different DAC I have to stop listening to the Ares for about a week so it doesn’t totally bias my opinion of the other DAC

[@cheapaudioman]

@@Thevikingcam I pinned this comment. I love seeing comments like this. Glad you’re enjoying it

[@kateg151]

Hey guys. In my humble opinion all audio equipment can be toned, and in this episode it sounds like you guys have got a very good buffer or just a preset equalizer setting... Try some budget tube preamp or tube dac, you may find one you like better. I am not against anything or anyone, but I have seen enough people being fooled by commercial marketing strategies and wasting their money they earn from hard work for nothing.

[@SAngel-dj1lv]

It's a rocktopus, man. Wellcome to the Roctopocalypse🤘

[@johnnixon2504]

I have really enjoyed watching your journey. Thanks for bring us along.

[@De132an]

Bought an Ares 2 for my Stax set up, loved it. Then bought a Pontus 2 for my home audio system, loved it. For a realistic priced audiophile these dacs have become my end games! Old is new again and affordable, thank you Denafrips.

[@svtcontour]

How does the Pontus 2 compare to the Ares II? I have the Ares II and am eyeing the Pontus 2 :)

[@kl9941]

Your description was a literal repeat of my experience the first time I played the Ares II in my system. "Stunning" was the word that came to mind of that moment. Outside of different speakers, I have never heard such a difference in musical presentation from any equipment change in the many systems I have owned for decades. Well after a year and a half I purchased the Pontus II. "Gorgeous" is the word describing my experience when listening to this fabulous piece of equipment.

[@zackw4941]

My friend bought an Ares II a couple years ago. I got to hear it in February 2019. At the time, I owned three DACs ranging from $350 to $1600, including one that was a $1k option integrated into an expensive tube amp I had just acquired. (For 1/3 of retail, thankfully.) To date, all the DACs I heard were a bit cleaner than a sound card and all sounded pretty much the same, except the one in the new amp was very colored. I could tell zero difference between my $350 DAC and $1600 DAC. I listened to his Ares for about 15 seconds, took my headphones back off and said, SOB, it's better! It had more resolution, more depth, separation, etc. Checked all the technical boxes. More importantly, it was musical. I wouldn't call it colored, but it definitely has a sweet tone to it. It's just wonderful to listen to. In an act of friendly oneupmanship, I blew my tax return on a Venus II, after doing a lot of research on the differences in their lineup. It is also wonderful in all the same ways. It is also barely any better than the Ares. I only listened to them side by side for a short time, but I could not tell a difference save for a *very tiny* increase in depth and cleanliness and then, only with my very best equipment. (LCD-4 headphones and Audiovalve Solaris tube amp.) With my Topping A90, or his Schiit Ragnarok 2, I could not tell the DACs apart. Bottom line, go buy an Ares and don't look back. If I could go back two or three years and tell past Zack to buy an Ares and A90 as they become available, I would save a LOT of money and want for nothing. I am addicted to tubes now and won't give them up as my "Sunday ride." That is a different discussion, but I will say that the Denafrips DACs go a long way to breath life and 'soul' into otherwise sterile solid state systems.

[@michaelwright1602]

Same experience here, took all of a few seconds listening to know my DAC journey for music had ended. I went and purchased an entire Denafrips system, Iris DDC, Hades and Thallo amps, paired with KLH Model 5 speakers. Audio Heaven!

[@zackw4941]

@@michaelwright1602 Very nice setup! I have since sold my Venus actually. I got back in touch with my Audio-gd roots and purchased an R1 DAC and Master 19 amp. I am very happy with both of them and still had money left over from the Venus. I would still say that the Venus is a tiny bit sweeter and more musical than the R1 and maybe a hair more composed in busy passeges. But it is absolutely splitting hairs. The thing I had noticed with the Venus is that it's re-clocking of the signal necessarily adds some delay. Not much, but I use my system for video and games as well as straight music. It's just enough to throw off lip-sync and it got to bothering me. The R1 has no lag. I am also getting more interested in speakers. Been running JBL Studio 580's for a couple of years now. I got an Emotiva TA-1 last year and recently added a Schiit Vidar. I'd been auditioning a pair each of SVS SB3000 and REL HT1205 subwoofers. They are both very good and I was just about dead set on the SVS. However, the Vidar drives my speakers in full range so much better than the TA-1, I've decided to return all the expensive subs and stick with my cheap ones until I can swing better full range speakers. I'm eying the Tekton Moabs.

[@booradley3146]

I got the ARES II in January this year after an amp upgrade and it's just gorgeous. It's plugged into a Yamaha AS 2100 and the combo is just sublime. When I got the AS2100 I felt like something was a little missing when I was listening to digital music (which is the dominant source of playback these days). It turns out this DAC was the icing on the cake. It has more fall off, more depth and timbre than what I had before. Couldn't agree more with your review, it's really hard to put it into words the feeling. Maybe it just feels more real and airy? Just love it.

[@boballard6040]

I think I have watched every Ares ll review over the past year, like twice. Always wanted one but for some reason couldn’t justify the move. Of all the videos this one is the most emotional and passionate. Got one on order finally! Thanks Randy, Happy Holidays!

[@damn5987]

What did you think of it in the end?

[@EricRhodeslives]

Thank you Randy. I had been considering this before your review. But really couldn't afford it. Your review pushed me over the edge. Just, Wow!!!

[@markcarrington8565]

Nice video, Randy. My experience of moving up the audio food chain has been through learning about the importance of components used to make the gear. A great linear power supply with the best quality caps will introduce fewer artefacts into the sound. The Denafrips has both. With less noise in the sound, the micro details have a fighting chance of surviving the amplification and conversion to soundwaves further down the chain. Result, less hi-fi, more music. Most people choose hi-fi based on the tonal balance and for that reason, they concentrate on the speakers before all else. What you have proved to yourself is that source matters more. If an average pair of speakers can sound good and the best pair you have can sound great, you don’t have to worry about the cost of the DAC. Just buy cheaper speakers. You can always upgrade the amp and speakers later, but in the meantime you won’t be gritting your teeth every time you hear the sibilance on the vocals.

[@austinbpharmd]

High praise coming from you, Randy. This is what I will be saving for based on your recommendation.

[@danielzmau8015]

I had the Ares II and loved it so much that two weeks later I upgraded to Denafrips Venus. Together with a nice Burson Soloist 3XP preamp and a pair of Focal Shape 65 active monitors, magic happens. Anyway, for the money or even for 4X the money, the Ares II is an amazing DAC.

[@artanderson8827]

I have a suggestion for you. When you switch from OS to NOS, also push the phase reverse switch. It might surprise you how good NOS can sound when in proper phase.

[@mmgee]

An awesome source always makes tunes more better, thanks ☺️

[@mrl43]

You've nailed it. I have never ever had a product and thought, ok, this is it, I don't need to keep looking, nor will I ever feel the need to keep looking. It's so refreshing to find something like this. Hopefully the Hestia preamp will be the same!

[@jctai100]

Just waiting for customs to clear my Pontus II. Thanks for the extra purchase confirmation Randy!

[@soxfan0727]

I’d been on the fence about this DAC until I watched your review. Just got mine yesterday and have been binge listening since hooking it up. This one is truly a game changer…I love it. Thanks for posting this review.

[@odwatchguy]

Thanks Randy really enjoyed the review. I think this is a great goal dac for me, not something that I can obtain at this moment in time but good to know its there. This will help me cut a couple of steps out of the musical journey, Prozor, Modi, skip Sabre and Burr Brown and save to get the Denafrips.

[@KevinTernes]

Thanks Randy. I've seen other people's reviews and recommendations for this DAC. But based on your recommendation, I will likely purchase this DAC next month.

[@chrish.4067]

Just do it ! ✌

[@twenty4seven368]

I bought the Ares II DAC for my Hegel H160 partially due to this review and I agree that it improved my listening experience. The imaging has better layering and voices and instruments have more air. Definitely worth the upgrade.

[@knobbshots]

Yup, been wanting one of these for quite a while, ever since Steve G and his buddy Herb R talked about it being their reference, good enough for me! And now you! Saving my lunch money😉

[@NeilBlanchard]

You have captured what I experience when listening to the Denafrips Ares II. It is what is sometimes described as "transparent" - it lets the music come through. It is smooth - but also very detailed. It is clean and incredibly resolving - the lower volume parts of the music, all sound dynamic and three dimensional. The space the music was recorded in, feels like it has been transported into your room - or if it is close-miked and mixed in a studio, the musicians are playing in your room. It helps your system sound better than it (probably) ever has before. And yet, lower quality recordings also sound better, than with other DACs. Slight correction - if the Optical 1 light is out (OS oversampling) and the Optical 2 light is on - then that is the Slow filter slope. Fast filter is when the Optical 2 light is off.

[@carlitomelon4610]

Agreed! Nos is quite special with the right recording. Beautiful & Worth trying. Tube like? I believe so!

[@dialecticalmonist3405]

"Lower quality recordings sound better" THAT is what I needed hear. THANK YOU.

[@greenbeginner9221]

Whoa! Kickin' it up a notch with the B-roll product close up.

[@nikapin23]

Randy thanks for the great vids.... pace yourself we are going up in the price range.... We all are CheapaudioMan fans...

[@bedrosdaoudian8927]

I have the Denafrips Ares II and I totally confirm everything he says. The artists and musicians are in the room. Every instrument sounds exactly the way it sounds in reality. The richness, impact and details of the instruments are the exact thing you expect to get if you get that instrument and play it in the room. The power of drums, the richness of electric or acoustic guitars and the reality of vocals can bring huge enjoyment and you feel you are physically present with the artists and the instruments. I know this since I play several musical instruments myself. The instruments feel exactly in the room. Excluding perfect vinyl recordings, this is the most realistic sound I've ever heard. I had a rough beginning with it due to wrong wiring... but once the problem got fixed, the results were jaw dropping ! I have used many expensive DACs before, but nothing comes close...

[@jeffyoung2980]

I came across your channel recently and was pleased to see a reviewer who takes cost/benefit and diminishing returns into account for us audiophiles who have to budget carefully. I was also pleased to see a lot of overlap between your recommendations and choices I made for my current set up. ( CSS 1TD DIY speakers, Bluesound Node 2i open box $350, Audiolab 6000CDT open box $375, Fantasia Audio upgrade for my old Hafler DH220 $260, all of which saved me enough money for my two retail price must haves, Schiit Freya+ Preamp, and Denefrips Aries 2 DAC. My speaker stands and equipment rack I fabricated with leftover walnut I had after laying a new floor in the bedroom. I was raised with a waste nothing ethic that sticks to this day. Perhaps you could do a video on open box as a way of saving money. It has worked out well for me.

[@tycheesey]

I couldn't wait for your Bifrost review. I just bought the Denafrips AND the Bifrost 2! Such a lovely review. Thanks for all you do, Randy!

[@tycheesey]

@@johnm3544 still waiting for the BF2. So far, the Denafrips has been game changing in my setup. I will update you when I have both in hand.

[@Reeeepicheep]

What’s your preference between the two dacs?

[@tycheesey]

@@Reeeepicheep the Denafrips is a lot more fun, whereas the Bifrost is mostly business. I prefer the Denafrips.

[@Reeeepicheep]

@@tycheesey It’s funny because many say the exact opposite and that the Bifrost is more fun and the Ares is a more refined mature sound. Subjectivity!

[@tycheesey]

@@Reeeepicheep I wouldn't count on the Denafrips being accurate, it is a flavored sound with air inserted into the soundstage. The Bifrost is very clinical and sterile in its reproduction, with a slight low-end bump.

[@mrenlightened]

I just bought the Denefrips Ares 2. I also have the SMSL M500 and DA-9. I use the Ares 2 in two combinations - (a) Ares 2 - DA-9 - LSiM 702s and (b) Ares 2 - L30 (as preamp) - a very cheap ($22) class A/B tube amp - Def Tech SM55. The soundstage produced by the (b) Ares2 - L30 - Class A/B tube amp - SM55 (where the Ares 2 alone is 2x the cost of the rest) is astounding compared to even the Ares2 - DA-9 - LSiM combination, which goes to suggest that the downstream equipment, speaker, and position (and not necessarily the most expensive gear) need to be paired up properly to truly appreciate the Ares 2. The M500 - DA-9 - LSiM is even flatter but great for electronic/pop/movies. Until the Ares 2, I really didn't appreciate what a highly textured soundstage could sound like. I haven't been able to tell the NOS and OS modes apart quite easily yet, and so that remains a work in progress. However, before you run out and buy such an expensive dac, make sure you understand what a sound stage is and how you can create one with your current gear. Then you will likely be able to appreciate Ares 2 better. If you don't know what a sound stage sounds like (like I didn't until recently), it will be just another unsatisfying and expensive purchase. Get Ares 2 only if you care about the sound staging and tonality of your music, not because it is the "best dac". My M500 is more accurate than the Ares 2 in that regard.

[@ramttc]

I’ve had my Ares II for a year and I agree with your assessment of this little gem 100%. Everything just sounds better. I have it Paired with the Boyuurange A50 driving a pair of Teton mini Lore’s, I binge listen everyday! I may upgrade speakers or my amp, but the Ares II is here to stay for a long time.

[@cheapaudioman]

I feel the exact same way, my friend. It’s brilliant

[@rossmoore7868]

Yes. Everything Peter says is true. On the basis of owning the Ares 11 I have been upgrading the other elements of my system and it keeps delivering. I listen to classical (other genres too) and the way it handles acoustic instruments is sheer joy. The Topping E90 MQA sounds thin and glassy in comparison with a harsh upper end. There is simply not the same texture and weight to the sound. Technically, it’s all there but compared to the Denafrips it sounds - well, digital. And the Denafrips handles EDM excellently too - open and layered and energetic. What’s not to love here? It’s revolutionised my listening experience. It’s a magic machine

[@aerofart]

The Denafrips ARES 2 made a huge difference in my system - presence, dimensionality, sound stage, clarity, detail, fullness, control, are all words I use to describe the experience. Inserting a tube preamp into my signal chain that ends with very good Class D amplification and $3k bookshelf speakers was icing on the cake. Very happy with my system.

[@chrish.4067]

Right on man! ✊✌ I can live happily with my Topping D90... but the Ares II makes me happy. It's exactly as you say it is. It helps create music with meat on the bones. I'm done listening to new DACs for a while. What I really like is that I still have not read the manual for the Ares. It was simple to plug and play. Simple is good for this old guy. And to use an analogy, the Ares ii is like the most beautiful woman, and she has a sweet kind personality ❤

[@prathibha1230]

I got this and I'm glad that I got this, without falling into the game of MQA etc. thanks for the review

[@-Ambos-]

great video! glad I just found this chanel. Now I have to listen to the denafrips next to the Merason Fertot to decide which one to take. Btw Merason is a great new DAC manufacturer from swizerland who currently is shockung testers what they get for the money. Maybe nice for your videos

[@CriPPleR_HD]

If you had the opt 2 filter light on, that would be Slow Filter. Nice review! Love my Ares 2 which is connected to my main set up. I have a Bifrost 2 out for delivery for my headphone setup. Looking forward to comparing them!

[@barrygalvin8631]

I’ve been looking for a ladder DAC for a while. I was considering buying Aries 2 DAC. I picked up a used mass drop airist DAC. It does not have Balanced but I am pleased for now. I would love to compare this to the Aires 2! Great Review Randy. Love your sea creature!

[@JohnScheppler]

Great Review and can't wait for the Dac Attack. 🤔 Let's see now if only I could sell eleven Rock'nRoll Octopuses I could get a Denefrips Ares 2.

[@Chopstick2U]

My first HiFi DAC was a Schiit Modi Multibit. I was gonna buy a Modi 2, and I just got excited by the hype and splurged on the multibit version. I've always been happy with how the DAC sounded, but I didn't have much to compare it with. It's validating to see that R2R tech is becoming more popular, but now I wonder how much I'd benefit from upgrading my entry level R2R Mimby to something like the Aries. Looking forward to the Bifrost comparison!

[@gnpd07]

Yep, I concur. I received the Ares ll yesterday. seriously amazing.

[@derekf7772]

Totally agree with the CAM. Bought this a few months ago and the impact on my desktop speaker setup is astonishing. Soundstage extends way past my speakers. It’s almost spooky at times.

[@PelletEnvy]

Your best video yet! Well done sir. What are you using as a source for the Denafrips? Which input did you prefer? Thank you.

[@nc3419]

Part of the experience is how it sounds with movies and shows as well. The soundtracks in them are top notch nowadays. That could be another aspect between dac comparisons. One could be better for music than shows, vice versa or even a good all-rounder. Alot of us are happy with 2 channel for everything.

[@BFArch0n]

You're missing out on atmos I would love to here ares tech implemented into 10 channels instead of just 2

[@nc3419]

@DFKnightmare I know but I'm 2 channel and all the limitations s that has...I'm fine with it. For those that max out what it has to offer, it's a nice experience

[@ericharrelson32]

I have the Denafrips Terminator-Plus DAC with Gaia DDC, but I haven't put in the system-2 chain yet. This video makes me want to go home and set it up. I was looking for a DAC for my office headphone rig, I'm going to try the Ares, Pontus, and Venus. Thanks for the enthusiastic description of the Ares.

[@popzeus3000]

Yep it's an incredible DAC. Recently got a DDC for it to convert USB computer audio to coaxial. And it's even better.

[@russellharvey7096]

Which one?

[@exodusvelo]

tell about the mac problems... LOL

[@popzeus3000]

@@russellharvey7096 Singxer F1. It runs on USB bus power, which was what won me over :D

[@russellharvey7096]

@@popzeus3000 Cool. I guess that means the Ares USB is poorly implemented? I've also experienced big improvements with the Schiit Eitr into an old (pre-USB) Benchmark DAC1.

[@popzeus3000]

​@@russellharvey7096 It's more like they had a budget and they decided to put more of it towards other places on the board. Coaxial tends to sound better than USB anyway.

[@michaeldasilva8834]

I wad fortunate to pickup less than one year old Pontus v2 last December for 1K. I have nothing but high praise for the musicality of this dac especially connected thru my roon nucleus to my Yamaha AS 2100. If you are looking for a superior r2r ladder dac, Denafrips is right up there with some of the best ones available in the market today!

[@zorce]

Really like your videos and this DAC is something up my alley. Any recommendations for a speaker amp with subwoofer output to match with it? Keep it up!

[@carlsitler9071]

"I didn't know what I didn't know." Exactly my experience when I got my Sanskrit 2. Mind blowing. All my gear is now very good but I don't know if any piece is great. My whole system (dac, preamp, headphones, amp and speakers) cost $700 (used speakers were originally $1300 new). I have decided on many upgrades (Sundara, BasX A2, XLS Encore) and now I know the dac upgrade.

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

I didn't know what I didnt know 😆 I am right there with Ran Man- My 1st Denafrips R-2R . Great Job my dude !

[@patrickwalker3438]

Just ordered. I've been looking for the one DAC that I'll keep for good as others come and go. This looks like that DAC. What I am most appreciative of in these reviews is that I get turned on to companies like this. I would never come across this company on my normal web-searches. Very excited to get this and connect it in the shelves. Many thanks.

[@damn5987]

What did you think of it in the end?

[@patrickwalker3438]

@@damn5987 absolutely wonderful. It’s the DAC I use most. It works brilliantly with many amps and the cool thing is the different amps I use I seem to notice different things. If it were a neutral DAC I would only be hearing the characteristics of the amp but with the Ares II, because it’s not neutral, I’m hearing the relationship between the characteristic of it relating to the characteristics of my amp

[@JeffLawsonLegal]

I got mine tonight. I got it set up and running into another cheapaudioman suggestion: the Aiyima a07. It's unbelievable how consequential this DAC is. Headphones or floor standing speakers, just incredible.

[@nickelbut10]

I have the bifrost 2 currently but was eyeing this DAC up as my final upgrade so I'll wait until the DAC attack video and either stick with the bifrost 2 or pull the trigger on this one. Thanks Randy!

[@MissRoseyCheeky]

"DAC ATTACK", how bloody hilarious are you! Look Randy, I'm subscribed to your channel, god only knows why. I know NOTHING about speakers, amps, DACS, cables, I don't know what the hell front ported is, seriously dude, I have no clue. BUT, I am subscribed and I listen to your reviews which mean absolutely nothing to me but I still listen. I didn't know I needed one of these DAC things - I'm an Aussie and the only DACS I know are the ones we refer to over here as "Pants" or to "get dacked" which means to get your pants pulled down...anyway, I still don't know what the heck this is.....BUT bring on the DAC attack and well done on your channel. You really have a fine voice for audio books.

[@josexavierjr.5633]

Randy, you sound like you're in love with this DAC! Same thing happened to me when I upgraded to Parasound and AudioLab stuff......I hear you loud and clear! An Apple Mac Mini hooked up to the Denafrips might be a good thing...................

[@bretspangler8717]

Just ordered mine, heavily weighted on your recommendation, the price has gone up, was just short of 1K and 3 to 4 weeks backorder as of 12/8/2021. 3 days later mine has shipped, they are back in stock, make sure USA buyers do not choose the VAT(eu) option, a 200$ EU luxury tax, I did and the kind people in sales fixed it for me, excellent customer service. Now I am going crazy knowing it will be here any day!

[@damn5987]

What did you think of it in the end?

[@jurumal]

Preach, brotha! EVERYONE needs to conduct their own testing on DACs/cables/whatever and come up with THEIR OWN conclusions.

[@Stormpix]

Can't wait to hear what you think about the Bifrost, compared to the Ares 2! I've heard great things about both, and would love to hear your views!

[@humanitech]

Great review but it starts to show that although budget gear is fab...there are next level gains from spending more...not crazy money but the next tier up..is where things sonically just get very good.

[@maxdahlstrand]

Hi! Thanks for great chanel!! I have the Ares2 (slightly modified). I love it! It is amazing! Please try to use the XLR outputs! They are MUCH better than the RCA on this dac! Also, using really good power cables (for example AudioQuest Monsoon), makes even more wonders with the sound!

[@michaelrose4082]

Randy, I love your channel. I enjoy your irreverent take on things! I've ordered the ARES II and am trying to figure out all the bits and pieces I need to connect my iPad to it (cables and converters and Pi, oh my). Can you share your preferred method? Thanks!

[@bigbrudi]

very interesting review. would love to see a comparison with the merason frerot.

[@GreatReset-ex1gg]

Can confirm, I had the same experience with the Ares II. Had it along with a Topping D90 and the SMSL VMV D1. The difference between the 3 is small right after swapping between them and the other 2 have a bit more clarity that's apparent right off the bat... BUT time and time again I did not want to unplug the Ares while I had no problem with the others. It just does something to the music the other 2 don't. Order one if you're thinking about it! I kept the D1 for my desktop system and the Ares for my main. The D90 was too sterile, for lack of a better word.

[@17cream]

Flat, bright and detailed are my experience with Topping.

[@SamuelBarrPhotography]

Hi Randy, great review as always. Just fyi there is currently no return policy for Denafrips. But, everyone who's tested their DACs raves about them. Their "Terminator" has been called the best DAC at $10K or less. Now, there is a "Terminator 2" model so I'm sure it is aimed for those above the $10K DAC market.

[@brucemitchell5092]

Moved up from a Schiit Bifrost to a Mytek Liberty. Wow, just oodles of detail were apparent that I’d missed with the Bifrost. Then I purchased an Ares II. It was a lateral move in terms of detail and imaging, but the Ares II sounds smoother in the treble to me. I kept the Ares, and have not regretted it, however the Liberty has many strong points, especially transparency. The Ares is a very nice DAC that seems to do everything right, with good imaging.

[@xstensl8823]

i listened to the Liberty DAC 1 not the lattest version 2, however my 7 year old NAD D1050 sounded better. so for now it stays. would love to hear the Aries but no return policy.. and the nearest retailer is in Singapore. its a real leap of faith

[@carloscgr713]

Did you have the Bifrost 2 or the past one?

[@brucemitchell5092]

@@carloscgr713 No, it was a nonmultibit Bifrost with the AK4490 chip. I don't know how the Bifrost 2 would sound.

[@sting0072007]

Hope you're staying cool! Rock on 😎

[@neilfisher7999]

Thanks Randy! This is one of the reviews I have been waiting for. I'll also be interested in the comparison as well as some subscribers viewpoints. I think this will be my next upgrade. I have a Bluesound Node 2i streamer and would like to run it through a better DAC. Some have said this makes streaming sound really close to listening to vinyl. Musicality is what I prefer over everything else. I like a natural sound. Seems like this might be the ticket.

[@NeilBlanchard]

Yes, I think it is. I have the Node 2i as well, and I was using the Bifrost 2; which as Randy says is a very good sounding DAC - also multibit aka R2R aka ladder DAC. It is also balanced; though I have a single-ended system. I have a Linn Axis turntable, and the both the Bifrost 2 and the Ares II are as good or better than the Axis with a very good LP.

[@myu4039]

I have that combo. Sounds very analogue, I love it.

[@neilfisher7999]

@@NeilBlanchard cool, thanks for the info!

[@neilfisher7999]

@@myu4039 great, thank you. Seems like more and more people agree.

[@thesupergamermario3701]

Soo i just plug my streamer into the denafrips? I have the ayrlic S50 pro.

[@HHTTRRNN]

I was so impressed with the Ares that I sold it and bought the next model up, the Denafrips Pontus. It was worth every penny! BTW, the Denafrips DACs sound MUCH BETTER when used on a separate A/C circuit with no other audio equipment running on that circuit. You can demo this by using a heavy duty extension cord to connect the DAC to another room outlet that is wired to a different circuit breaker than your HiFi is on. Preferably it should be on the same 120V phase as the other HiFi equipment.

[@MCMTL]

Fast forward 5 years, The Cheap Audio Man will be the Mid-Fi Man.

[@louiesipes2257]

Nailed it brother👍

[@pascaljean2333]

I had it. It is fantastic. For me it was about fatigue. I couldn't have long listening sessions with delta sigma. But the ares i could listen all day long

[@jwooldridge11]

Thanks for the review Randy, I've been looking at the Denafrips for a while now, I was deciding between the Topping D90 se and the Ares 2. My wallet won't thank me but I think that it's going to be the Ares 2, I haven't seen a bad review about it and it's cheaper than the Topping.

[@chrish.4067]

I have both in my system now. I can live happily with either the Ares II or the D90, but the Ares II is all that they say. The D90 is no slacker though! All the best ✌

[@jwooldridge11]

@@chrish.4067 Thanks Chris, I'll probably end up getting the D90 se as well, I have the Topping D50s with the linear P90 power supply, it's an excellent DAC and even with the extra cost for the P90 power supply it's great value for the money.

[@chrish.4067]

@@jwooldridge11 I would love to keep both. 😀 but then the sensible part of me says no. Some people will like the more detail of the D90 better. It's still very musical. I use it in my main speaker system. I'll have to try it with my phones, though that's not my gig so much.

[@onepieceatatime]

While I was listening to this in the car, I had to put my phone down to start driving. My son then said, "The Cheap Audio Man fits in a cup holder. You can tell him I said that." So, there you go.

[@jbenz9348]

I listen to a lot of his reviews while driving too. Olde Ride along Randy.🤠

[@amb3cog]

Me three. Right now actually. But I pulled over to do something real quick.

[@robsandler1818]

Not sure if it was pointed out already, but Denafrips has a “No Return” Policy and given that most of their competitors allow for an in home evaluation period, I would never trust a company that doesn’t allow you try their products in home or at a Hi Fi Store.

[@fifa3]

The community really shouldn't be supporting companies that do this. Wish this was talked about more.

[@filippiasec]

JFYI, in EU you always have 14 days for return if buying online.

[@robsandler1818]

@@filippiasec It says right on the Denafrips site that they can’t afford to allow returns except for defective equipment. So I purchase a “Schiit BiFrost”. The last DAC I purchased, SMSL SU-8S, went back because it was fatiguing with way too much high end detail and it got a lot of favorable reviews, so I don’t want to pay double the price for a Denafrips that I can’t evaluate with my own system and room dynamics.

[@filippiasec]

@@robsandler1818 Sure, im just saying that in EU you could do that easly. But I agree, that lack of capacity to test is the reason to buy elsewhere.

[@tablameister]

@@fifa3 You are certainly free to buy from whomever you want.

[@Nobobs62]

I just don’t understand haters like Peter. He is convinced that it has to measure better in order to hear a difference, cool I have no problem with that. To each his or she own. When someone has a different view, they are wrong and don’t know what they are talking about. Why the need to trash someone?? Cheap audio man don’t let haters get you down. You make great videos for people like me who don’t really care about measurements just how something sounds in their system. Your videos help people found new components they mite like to try. If they sound better, cool! If not cool! Thanks for what you do!

[@bdmcn]

Nice review. And accurate. The Ares II is the best dac under $1500 imo. I recently owned the Chord Qutest and sent it back. Naturally, for about the same money, I bumped up to the Pontus II. I digress, I would even take the Ares II over the Qutest. The sound blooms with realism. Best bang for buck out there. I had the SMSL M400 prior to Ares II …. no comparison. Ares II is magical. If you can afford its big brother, don’t hesitate there either. The Ares II is a no-brainer at this price point.

[@robertreynolds2212]

How do you compare it to the Pontus II? I’m interested in purchasing one.

[@bdmcn]

@@robertreynolds2212 To my ears, on my system, the Pontus is more detailed, tighter and bigger bass, and has a more spacious sound. More defined outlines around instruments. It’s a marked difference from Ares, but still Denafrips house sound angling for analog. I decided also to buy the Iris DDC, which arrives next week. I really want to jump to I2S. Pontus is great.

[@fiogray]

@@bdmcn which one would you say has more weighty sound, more midbass punch? Ares or Pontus?

[@bdmcn]

@@fiogray Anything midbass or bass punch goes to the Pontus, for me. Pontus bass is defined and just right. Ares has this ‘bloom’ to the midbass/bass region - and I think it gets perceived as weighty bass, but to my ears, it’s loose and undefined. At first it was impressive to me, but then I realized what I was, or wasn’t, hearing. The Pontus has a rightness to it. The level of detail alone puts the Pontus on a different level. Simply, it’s a better version of the Ares, and worth its price imo.

[@fiogray]

@@bdmcn thanks for your response, it's helpful.

[@luisperez-fs2gz]

I am feeding my Aries 2 with an Audiolab CD Transport. They make an amazing combination.

[@chrish.4067]

Totally agree. CDs finally sound great!

[@ginom407]

Great Review! Looking forward to the review from the Patreon group! I may need to start saving my allowance (hahaha) 😆

[@TonyBologna999]

Okay, you convinced me to give this a shot. I placed an order, but there was no place to enter the discount code (FYI). I'll be comparing this to the SMSL SU-9 that I also purchased recently, and will be keeping whichever DAC is best. Thanks for the review.

[@rhonda837]

which did you keep?

[@TonyBologna999]

@@rhonda837 I returned them both. I got an amazing deal on a Denon PMA-1600NE (half off), and the overall package (it has a built-in DAC) is amazing with my setup.

[@rhonda837]

which did you like more denafrips or smsl?

[@9mmmike642]

I’m a metal head, so when something sounds great and is heavy…that’s just a bonus!

[@wzywgwzywg]

You gotta do a vid on the "Restorer" function on Denon receivers. I was ready to ditch my whole system before I tried it, and it saved me a lot of coin. Works great for heavily compressed vinyl like hip hop. Set to "Low" and thank me later.

[@GTsmokeya1]

I have been watching reviews on the Denafrips for years now and I finally folded and ordered one. Can't wait to get it and really see if it lives up as I hope it does. Thanks Randy!

[@gagecauchois6180]

My Ares II in combination with my Widows Surface Pro, Schitt Loki, Ayon Scorpio amp, and Klipsch Heresy 3's, sounds amazing!

[@dicmccoy]

Randy is traveling further down the rabbit hole. That's awesome! Now hurry up and get a device that has Dirac. You'll be just as mind blown as the Denafrips.

[@dceldeen]

Hi, you may want to re-review the Ares II (now Enoy) or any of the others since they are all getting firmware updates specific to each. I just updated my firmware that Alvin put out and it is a night and day change. Not just me, but others on the forums are hearing a significant improvement. Thanks for the great fun reviews!

[@nwr99nwr99]

I have one of these and totally agree with this review. It is a fantastic bit of kit. I've owned naim dac v1, chord mojo, chord qutest, and audioquest dragonfly DACs and it outperforms them all imho.

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

Do you think its worth the money?

[@nwr99nwr99]

@@pointsbeingmade7996 Impossible to answer really because it depends on your individual circumstances and value judgements. For me, in my system, I consider that it is good value- it makes a big difference. Previously I had a Qutest in the system which costs 50% more than the Ares ii, but didn't sound 50% better. The Qutest also had an issue with sticking buttons which doesn't inspire confidence in a £1200 DAC. The Ares ii is very well made. I love the understated look of the front panel with led lighting that doesn't burn your eyes in low light. The switching of filters and modes is a pain to remember but once you've found the combo you like then you don't need to fiddle anyway. Its a very natural sounding DAC, and as Randy says in the review, it gives a great sense of space across the soundstage. I can't see me changing it anytime soon because I think you'd probably be spending a large amount of cash for only a small gain. As always though it comes down your own ears/wallet/partner at the end of the day lol

[@homerjones3291]

IMO this is a go-to DAC that will serve you well for a long time, if it fits how your system is configured. If you don’t have a DAC or have a very inexpensive one, get this one and forget about it; it’s cheaper in the long run to get a quality unit first off than to incrementally upgrade and lose money on reselling every step of the way. Yes, the features set here is limited - no preamp, Bluetooth, wifi, MQA, or remote. The dance you go through to change the NOS/OS and filter settings is a pain, but I imagine that most people set it at their preferred settings (if they even had one; I could never pass a blind test myself) and leave it. AND I will mention again that there’s no return/refund policy from Vinshine. One more thing, which I hesitate mentioning, but I get email newsletters from Vinshine and they warned that prices will be going up soon.

[@romeozulu57]

Installed the most recent fpga firmware today and it's fantastic. The update procedure is a little pain in the b***, but it's worth it !! Do it ! Now !

[@fletchermunson6225]

Good DAC. I preferred the Schiit Gungnir but then it costs nearly twice as much. No files on the Ares. I also liked the MSFL 400 but I'd give the nod to the Ares . Personally I liked it out of oversampling mode. Just personal taste. Both are excellent.

[@michbest]

You actually didnt show the device. Most of reviewers are stroking the gear to play better :) Nice review anyway and thanks for new audio direction. Now I have to listen to it somehow.

[@bruunm1975]

So want to get one of these to slot in between my Rega Brio-R and my Node2i, but the volume on my rega is sooooo jumpy and I can't use the Bluos app for volume once I have gone to external DAC... Great job Randy!

[@cdelapaz5]

Ahhh crap,, my wife is going to be so mad. I did not need to watch this

[@patricelarochelle7295]

lol

[@russm535il]

Randy I have a Musical Fidelity v90 do you think the Denafrips would be a significant upgrade ?? Also I saw your review of tube amps have you listened to a Rogue ?? I have a Rogue Cronus Magnum 2 paired with Golden Ear Triton 2 plus speakers and really enjoy it . Since the speakers have powered subs the tube amp can handle the mids and highs what it does best . Great channel thank you for the excellent reviews ! Russ Dejulio Pittsburgh PA

[@jctai100]

A big reason certain DACs sound better than others is simply the analog output stage.

[@charleskatz2606]

Cool looking forward to schiit shootout.This and the Bifrost 2 and Mytek Brooklyn or Benchmark Dac3 are on my list so they would be great to compare as well.Kool beans

[@z90012]

Very nice

[@DistroUser]

I own and have lived with the Schiit Bifrost 2 for almost 2 years so I am truly familiar with its particular sound. It has a crisp, clear and open presentation that can be quite palpable at times with music and video. With all the favorable reviews of the Ares II I decided to purchase the unit thinking I would replace my Bifrost. Well, that didn't go as planned. I found the Ares ll great for long listening sessions and yes it's smooth and analog like. What I found lacking in particular was in the treble region..no clarity or openness like the Bifrost. It was especially noticeable with videos which allow the recording to come alive or fleshed out or in other words lacking air. My two cents!

[@rajendrabiswas]

Will a bifrost go with 50 impedance headphone

[@DistroUser]

The Bifrost is ONLY a DAC, there are no headphone jacks

[@willblomker1393]

@@DistroUser this is very helpful as I’m considering these 2 and will use with video. Thank you for posting. I’ve read some people complain of a delay with the Ares and video so lips aren’t synced to words. Did you find that to be the case? Overall impressions with video?

[@DistroUser]

​@@willblomker1393 Yes, the Ares has syncing issues with video and optical connections and all audio sounds slowed down a bit as if processed in some form.

[@n00buo]

Had both, Bifrost has more detail, Ares is very close OS slow, I always used NOS tho

[@patrickblum2456]

great review and I have one and what you say is just about wright. If you want to have even more jaw dropping experience get yourself a sotm streamer and switch !!!! not cheap but jaw dropping !!!!!

[@fogesf6169]

Another component on my wish list

[@fabraham7]

I think you should include a comparison b/w the SMSL VMV D1SE vs the ARES II

[@kamertonaudiophileplayer847]

The most right implementation for DAC. Buy it if you can.

[@michaelwright1602]

Game changer DAC for me, heard the difference in sound immediately upon installing it in my system. The Delta Sigma DACs were crushing my ears, to much detail and harshness. I wanted the 60’s and 70’s sound I grew up with, and the Ares II delivered. I was so impressed, I went hog wild with Denafrips gear, adding their Iris DDC, Hades pre and Thallo amp. The sound coming out of my KLH Model 5’s transports me back in time… Very happy. Side note, and the only downside to the Ares II that I found is it’s lack of ability to play well with movies. I think a Delta Sigma DAC is much better, especially with the spoken word. That digital sound quality of the Delta Sigmas is a better fit in that regard. Just my opinion and experience with my particular system.