Denafrips Ares II DAC review. Amazing budget DAC?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sound Demo Time Stamp Ares II 12:40 Musical Paradise 13:38 I forgot to mention that you need to change the tubes in the Musical Paradise DAC to 6922 to bring out its potential. You will have to factor that into the cost.

[@vinylseeker867]

I hope you will compare AresII to Topping d90 one day..Same price and both have solid reviews.Like what youre doing and youre very objective thats why i want to hear about Topping d90 from you.

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

I remb the tubes from your Musical Pardice review, that i watched several times 😆

[@mikecees2230]

@@vinylseeker867 For me Topping D90, Ares II and Musical Paradise are the three most interesting DACs at this time. I was considering the Ares but after hearing Thomas' sound demo I'm not so sure it would be the best choice for my current system. I do however understand why he says it's a good match for the Borea BR03.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@vinylseeker867 Yeah I am very interested in the Topping DAC myself and almost bought the D30 just to try. Perhaps once I finished reviewing all the gear I have, I will reach out to them.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120 Yeah, with the Musical Paradise, changing the tubes is a must.

[@audioprom2662]

I really like the short sound demo at the end. Specially the short section that demonstrate the stark difference between the two. Short, precise, and effective! Speaking about the difference though...wow!

[@WombatVC]

Not really a valid demo when done via KZbin encode>compress>decode.

[@46wireboy]

And to think I'm endlessly seeing fruitbats saying all dacs are the same as long as they measure well; showing they were designed OK.

[@victormoreno2767]

Wow! I follow various HiFi review channels, from Steve to Zero Fidelity and your channel is becoming the one that stands out. The music comparison at the end is a home run. Lot of good advise in this video too. You are becoming the HiFi Sensei!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the compliment. We all offer something different and glad you enjoyed my content.

[@rizalahmad4207]

Love the demo section. Really do helps on pin pointing the criteria that you have mention in your assessment. The difference is quite obvious between the two.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you enjoyed it, I will try to use that demo going forward whenever I can since it is copyright free.

[@jungtarcph]

@@ThomasAndStereo yeah it is really good for hearing differences... Normally I can never hear the difference between DACs

[@denniswade4998]

Great video, Thomas! You really have a knack for capturing the nuances of equipment. I'm always left with a good grasp of what to expect from the equipment you review. I'm glad you take time to emphasize how important gear synergy is. It's easy to get excited about something and forget that you need to think about the system you're putting it into. I am still very happy with my Musical Paradise D1. With the right tubes it sounds very good. The sound demo was interesting. Yes, I know it's KZbin, but I liked the bass on the Aires. However, the MP-D1 did sound more analog.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, if you are enjoying what you have, then don't bother trying other stuff. The MP DAC is also a great DAC.

[@dvlduvall]

For $700, it is a great way to experience R2R. Ordered today. Amazing review and thoughts.

[@dvlduvall]

@Sean MacDonald it is. I like how it handles super high rates easily. I can use Audirvana upsampling. And of course all the Audiophile jargon... separation of instruments, etc

[@nicktaylor7680]

Wow listening to the sound check at the end it apparent what a big yet detailed sound the denafrips has very impresive -thank you Thomas.

[@sthr2110]

Constructive criticism: For your spoken word, the audio is VERY quiet. Even with a volume booster, I have my MBP turned up to 2/3. When I switch to other videos by other YT'ers, I have to remember to turn the volume down or I'll get BLASTED with sound!

[@Ryan-yi6su]

Hello Thomas it's been awhile I have an excellent question for you In one of your videos you mentioned monitor audio how the speakers are bright I also have an Onkyo receiver which is probably bright so my question is what type of DAC would smooth things out

[@ThomasAndStereo]

IFI Neo, denafrips, ladder schumann but you might get more return by getting a smoother poweramp. If you lack power and missing bass, it will naturally sound brighter.

[@Ryan-yi6su]

​@@ThomasAndStereo Would vtv 2 channel tube / opamp Amp connected to my Onkyo would work? Do you have affiliate link

[@Sup3riorr]

To me Ares II sounds better more airy and better soundstage, while the second dac was sounding more like a closed in sound much more narrow according to my hd800

[@mikegoppert4177]

Huge difference to me. Ares II far more clear and expansive.

[@timothymoorman7437]

Night and day difference between the two dacs. Quite surprising though just how large the gap. I own the Ares II and agree with your findings completely, but would like to add that its not uncommon for me to jump, contort, finger-snap and attempt to boogie while listening. It's not pretty.

[@michaelwright1602]

I just purchased the Ares II... Game changer for me. Paired with the Model 5 speakers, I went back in time. There was that sound I grew up with, those records on the record player. I heard an immediate difference in SQ upon installing the Ares II in my system. Dean Martin and his orchestra sounded like it should, like it would have back in the Las Vegas Sands showroom, which I have been too. That bite from the chip DACs was now gone. The shrillness of the horns, gone. Dean's voice was silky smooth, like I expect it to sound. Even Frank Sinatra sounded good, LOL! The Ares II took that live recording to another level vs my Gungnir and or Cambridge DACs. Yep, game changer. And here I thought it was my system, no it was the DAC. So, if you are sitting and listening to music, even casually, and find it is no longer enjoyable and you just can't put your finger on what is wrong, maybe give the Ares II a look. Is it the best DAC in the world? Hell, I don't know. What I do know, is that I can now sit and listen to my tunes without getting a headache.

[@DistroUser]

I would love a comparative review of the Denefrips and the Bifrost 2...are you up to the challenge? Cheers

[@cau8365]

Thanks for another great video Thomas. It's very informative and wonderful sound demo.

[@ronaldmcdonald2456]

You're DEEP! And like good wine---for which I've also had some great recipes over the years :)---you keep getting better. The Ares was on my radar a few months ago, BUT, I also had a need for some sort of preamp to go with my new Neurochrome power amp. I ended up with the Singxer SDA-2 after looking at a few others in that category. The decision was heavily influenced by availability and delivery time. It's not bad and it'll hold me over for a year or 2 as I build my dream system. Ultimately, I want to end up with the Denafrips Terminator...combined with a balanced tube preamp; speakers utilizing a sophisticated electronic crossover; and a SWARM-style bass array. In the meantime, thanks for providing first-class entertainment as I travel the path.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, yeah I like to check out their Terminator one day too and how it compares to the $4k DAC that I have tried. Maybe some time in the future. Now I noticed the Singxer measured really well on audiosciencereview but how does it sound? Are you satisfied and what DAC are you comparing it to?

[@ronaldmcdonald2456]

@@ThomasAndStereo Every instrument is accounted for on the Singxer. Very detailed. To the point of sounding a bit edgy. It may be that the Singxer could use a little more breaking in. My old MyDAC is smoother and more well rounded. A friend's Topping DX7Pro is also a lot smoother and more homogenized than the Singxer. On the other hand, I had a couple of days of bliss with the Singxer when I switched from Daphile to Euphony OS. The sound became absolutely sumptuous, and all that detail in the Singxer found a reason for being. That was expecially true when natively playing DSD recorded selections. The bigger the file the better it seems. The bliss didn't last because the Euphony started skipping very badly. Apparently all that ArchLinux-based software needs a lot more processing power than my little Celeron-equipped Partaker mini computer is capable of partaking in.:) I'm now back to Daphile, the unbreakable one. It can't go toe-to-tow with Euphony, or Audiophile Linux, BUT, it's always there when you need it. I'll update my impressions once I've had a few months of pounding on the Singxer.

[@cybergod77]

Thks for the review Thomas and I have the Denafrips Ares II. The sound demo comparison was very useful and I do prefer the Ares II over the MP-D1 MK3. The latter sounded softer, more laid back and less dynamic.

[@rothschildianum]

After listening to several reviews about this Denafrips Ares, I ordered one since it is not expensive, and my new Denon CD player sucks! I used to use a $4K CD player. The old CD player has problem with the laser, and they cannot fix the laser anymore. Therefore, on July 3rd I placed an order directly to Denafrips in Singapore, and this morning I received the Denafrips Ares II. I connected right away to my system. I cannot believe what I heard. It is a huge improvement in all aspects. The timbre of human voices or any musical instruments sound much better than what Denon CD player or my $4K CD Player can produce. I am REALLY happy with $738 that I spent on this DAC. I really recommend this DAC if you want to improve the quality of your CD player without spending a lot of money.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Hi Selmer, thanks for taking the time to let me know and share your experience! I am really happy the Ares II really worked for you.

[@mmma4096]

Hi, I have a Marantz NA-11S1, do you think this Denafrips Ares II DAC are better in sound and quality? do you think is a good idea to replaced with this one? Thanks and let me know.

[@matthewhilty4209]

I thought id like the Ares more but i found myself "chair dancing" to the musical paradise. Go Figure.

[@igaldins]

Me too! :) Chair dancing on the paradise but not on the Ares! (I like Naim gear)

[@geraldgreene5563]

Hi Thomas, Happy new year.. another year of enjoying the music and hopefully ending the pandemic, I have a question regarding the Lumin D2 verus bluesound node 2i/denefripp Aries II, which do you believe would be superior. Thanks!

[@NiSHAN256]

I have the same experience too, the best way to hear the technologies is to try the entry level products, the higher end you go the more things that sound similar.

[@edwarddodge7937]

There's a bass resonance at the end of the third note from the synth (left channel only). Not sure if it's really there because the Ares reproduces it and the Musical Paradise does not. That being said, I sort of prefer that the Musical Paradise sits back a little bit from the images. Sounds more refined. That being said, you really can't go wrong with either of these.

[@mariocassar6087]

Hi Thomas. I now had the Denafrips Ares2 for about four weeks. I can confirm that this is an excellent DAC , with excellent soundstage, and in my system with the Innuos ZEN3, Yamaha A-S3000, and the Canton Ref.8K , and Mogami and Canare cabling, it is producing the sound I prefer, especially on classical music and jazz. I must say....not for the price, but at any price, it is a fantastic DAC in the right room and system!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for sharing!

[@nunofernandes4501]

Hi Thomas, do you think my system would be "worthy" of the Ares II? It's a Rega Elex-R amp with Dali Oberon 5 speakers, would I get most of the mojo out of it? Or is the Ares too good for my gear?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have no idea what you have now so there is no frame of reference. It will do something to your system but it depends what is your taste. Your system is pretty good but you would probably get more return spending money on the speaker instead. Check out this video and it explains why I can't really answer you like that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHSulqyVpNWho6c

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Nice looking unit, nice price tag. Clicked on the Denafrips link, impressive looking build quality! I am in the market for a DAC. Will definitely consider this one. Thank You for another great detailed, comprehensive review. Have a great one Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, the inside looks pretty cool.

[@billwillard9410]

Thanks; have been anticipating this one for a while; wanted to see how your review and Jay’s compared.

[@mhelenesephoto]

I was one of those people waiting for this review and was on the fence between these two. I took leap on the Musical Paradise and am pretty sure it was the right choice. Great review and thanks for including the sound demo!!!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats, make sure you change to better 6922 tubes.

[@mhelenesephoto]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you, any ones in particular Gold Lions or something else

[@sambalsamurai9672]

Excellent Review +1 subbed Comparisons Intro Voice Siblance Crystals Base Denafrips Ares II 12:41 12:56 13:04 13:19 13:28 Musical Paradise 13:41 13:55 14:03 14:18 14:30

[@hudo]

What an excellent review, and where you hit the point: comparison with other gears and how synergy is important when choosing whats the best for you, and if something is "the best thing up to X money"! Other reviewers, even Stereophile, do not give enough emphasis on comparisons so its much harder to guess if something would work good in particular system. Keep up the good work!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, I guess partially is because my videos are not actual 'reviews' but a chat with friends. So there is no limitation on what I have to do in my videos. For example, I don't go over the specifications sometimes in my videos.

[@supergiddy3]

Hi Thomas, informative as always. Being familiar with the Buchard S400’s warmish top end, how do you feel it would combine with the ares 2? Was thinking that plus the Billie amp further down the line and budget, ha. Curious about your thoughts!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

With the S400, I don't have good success myself with class D so no sure how it wil perform with the Billie. You will have to ask Jay at the next best thing studio. I wish I have a S400 so I can try it with the Ares II but Jay would be better at answering this question.

[@supergiddy3]

Thomas & Stereo Thanks so much, I’ll reach out Jay!

[@MrPhins]

First video of yours I've watched and really enjoyed your insights. I was sold on the Ares. Then I heard the demo and I found the vocals on the MP "smoother"? and more appealing. Also, the intro on the Ares more detailed but a bit too much in the high end. I'm def no audiophile but the difference surprised me. So now I've got a conundrum lol. Regardless, subbed.

[@gnpd07]

Thomas, I have not heard the ARES 2. Can you tell me how you think it would pair with the Willsenton R8? I am considering the ARES 2, bifrost 2, or Topping D90. My aim is natural and spacious, not clinical or dry. Playing through double impacts, no sub. Thank you

[@garyherman6623]

Hey Thomas....great review. Do you have a suggestion for a stand alone streamer to pair with the Denafrips AresII or Pontus?

[@olegpa]

Hello Thomas , firstly thanks for a review. A little general question. When we decide either the dac (for example) is bright or dark sounding, do we take in consideration the interconnect cables ? In my case I have AQ King Kobra and Nordost Purple ... And they change so much tonallity of any system I tryed. The same I can say for speaker cables. And I would say I am so tired beacause of this change of sound made by interconnects. I have no found the one I like. If there was the good solution all in one like Marantz PM7000N but better sound quality I would go with this. Also, if the audio was like the computer where there is a standard interfaces and intefchangable modules it would be so good. Imagine only, Like you upgrade graphic card in your desktop, the same way you upgrade and put module dac of any company in your audio box. And there is not any interconnect cables 🙂👍

[@donbustoarigato2997]

Tough call, good review. For me what is important is for the DAC to be the least digital and the most analog sounding. If that means softening or rolling off the highs then so be it.

[@takeiteasy6154]

So you don't want a verbatim master tape?

[@LeoRousseau]

I just ordered this dac this morning. It's going to replace a Schitt Modi Uber and I can't wait to break it in. Thanks for the review Thomas!

[@ohnonate]

Hi Leo, How are you finding the Dac?

[@zaneislandd4650]

Hi Thomas, that demo in the end is really nice. Also helped that you pointed out the differences what we could try to listen. Apart from soundstage (which is impossible to compare with headphones) I think I agree with Brightness and bass comments at least. Difference is audible and I dont know which one to prefer, musical paradise seem easier maybe to listen for this song. Keep it up with great content and hopefully these comparisons in other videos as well - together if you could tell what to listen in those. Obviously just demos as our systems vary but I think at least I can teach myself to try to understand what to listen!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, I will try to include a small clip if possible in the future.

[@ethr95awd]

wow the ares crushed it in the demo for me

[@ccwnyc5671]

It did. But how accurate can my TV audio be? Pretty cool though. Worth a real demo.

[@jdavis234]

Your own dac was crushing it. You can’t really hear a dac out of another dac 😆

[@billbones1000]

Thomas you got me all worked up for a new DAC! Didnt want to spend more than 500$ CAD. Just got an 8 year old PS Audio digital link 3 of CAM for well below my maximum budget and man, compared to my old Cambridge DAC magic it's a game changer!! I get the feeling that when it comes to DACs, used is the way to go.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Do you like the PS audio DAC you got? If yes, enjoy it!

[@billbones1000]

@@ThomasAndStereo yup, big improvement in every metric over the old DAC magic I had......and for 400$ it's probably alot of DAC for the $!

[@Ryan-yi6su]

Hello Thomas I'm just wondering do you have a good better best stand-alone dac for home stereo. Budget would be $600 Canadian or less We aren't rich like Thomas I don't think most people have 15,000 $ plus speakers so we might not notice the flaws. Just a thought

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have a video coming soon on the SONCOZ Dac that is quite surprising. Around the price you are looking at and it is no joke.

[@ohnonate]

Great review Thomas! Would the Ares II pair up nice with the Topping Pre90 ? Thanks

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I think so but I have never tried.

[@jhabawack]

Thanks for this review. I really want to try r2r and tube DACs. Do you think adding a tube buffer amplifier between a solid state pre and power amps is enough to get some tube goodness?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No, adding a tube buffer might add some 'roundness' to the sound but not the holographic soundstage. That is my experience so far. Even the Tube DAC does not add as much of a big soundstage than putting a real tube preamp in the system.

[@LuxAudio389]

Thanks for the demo. Just got a chance to hear it.

[@xstensl8823]

how well does the Denafrips delineate instruments compared to the Bitfrost? how does it compare to the Qutest? due to Covid i can not fly to SGN. going nuts. thanks

[@divertiti]

You need to try the Denafrips Terminator, it's several levels above. Did you try different cables? The brightness might be your silver cables

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes, I did try different cables so I was able to get it to sound the way I like with them. Terminator? Maybe some day.

[@benpit2762]

Thanks for the video Thomas, definitely heard great things about the Ares II. Something happened to the soundstage when I bypassed my Woo Audio WA7 tube headphone preamp, R2R is just incredible! Cheers

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I need to try more R2R DACs.

[@vramsrini]

Thomas, could you comment on how you expect Ares ii to sound with Willsenton R8 driving LS50 Thanks

[@mikegoddard7354]

You need to review the mid tier Venus II or Pontus and test those different settings. Most reviewers are finding there is a clear difference

[@armandorancano6415]

Hi, Thomas, I'm a subscriber to your channel and considering buying a Pontus. However, I have read that improvements from the Ares, which I now have, are accompanied by a loss of warmth. I have Klipsch IV speakers. If there is a loss of warmth upgrading to the Pontus, depending on the amount, it might impact my system's SQ adversely. I would very much appreciate your thoughts on this. Your channel is a must-read for me. Many thanks.

[@briancampbell7712]

I'm thinking of getting the new Vincent SV-737 hybrid...designed in Germany...it has a optical and coaxial...how much would it benefit me to use one of your favorite DAC's with it?...Why is it that only the cheaper built Korea and china Dac's have an hdmi ? I'd love to use one with eArc...thank you!

[@mpitogo]

Hi @thomas & Stereo What are your thoughts on OS vs NOS and OS with Slow vs Fast? For me NOS was what drew me into this DAC vs my McIntosh C47 DAC. I’ve switch all digital to the Ares exclusively. Lately I’ve been playing with the NOS vs OS + filters.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I never really try comparing the both as I don't really have the time. Right now, I am testing the Lumin and some other budget streamer so my time is spent on those DAC/Streamer instead. Sorry. Maybe you can share you experience here and if someone ask me, I will just reference them to the is comment.

[@stephencosta6814]

👍💪🤗 well this is the fastest 14 minutes that ever went by in my life LOL I've been waiting for this a very long time thank you, very much I've made up my mind I'm going for ares i have musical Paradise Mark 3 i think this is a good mix keep up the great work please stay safe we need you Thomas a big fan... Steve Costello🙏🙏👌👌🤗

[@Luckystudio13]

Steve, want to sell the musical paradise to me ?? :) message me.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Now, you have to change the tubes in the MP to 6922, get some good ones and you will see it will level up.

[@oldskool80sfan12]

Best review as always, loving the sound demo, it sounds like music playing from outdoors I love it! Great stuff.

[@brewt1mer]

I ordered my ares 5 weeks ago..can’t wait to get it in my system ...

[@dannyng5427]

I just received mine., this DAC sounds so good, no regrets.

[@prathibha1230]

Hello Thomas, How is SMSL-400 compared to ARIES-II, I saw your that review also? whats your take I like the smooth sounding Dac's

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Smoother top end and stronger bass with the SMSL M400. Ares II soundstage is wider.

[@linnemeyerhere]

I own this same Aries II and love the sound it produces with my PrimaLuna integrated, nice review !

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, I had tried the older Prima Luna Dialogue before and it is great.

[@ohnonate]

Hi Alan are you using a pre amp?

[@larsv6144]

Thomas, as always great review. Nice to "test" different gear by hearing your sound demos first. Gives a good a good indication to follow up on. In this case I prefer the ..... . As I wrote at your SMSL M400 review, I am looking at 3 dacs (Ares 2, M400 and Musical Paradise MK3). In your demo I slightly prefer the Musical Paridise, as it sounds a little warmer, less bright.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, only thing is for the MK3, you need to change tubes. Having said that, to really test, I need to run all 3 DACs with the same frontend and speakers to really compare. Sadly I no longer have the ARES2 and M400.

[@krmatiu]

Hi Thomas, another great review. You think this will increase the sound stage on a tube headphone amp?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I would guess maybe a bit.

[@bobdupuy5910]

You should take a look at the Topping D90. It has received a very favorable review compared with the Aries II.

[@joeybrooks5625]

D90 is not as good imo

[@bobdupuy5910]

@@joeybrooks5625 Please read the reviews of both by Soundnews. This guy has the most comprehensive DAC KZbin reviews. He compares the Denafrips Venus to the D90. The Aries II simply cannot keep up with very fast attacking music the way the D90 can, nor can it come close to matching the bass of the D90. My have strong bass, but not too tight. However the D90 gives my speakers much greater control in the low end. Also the D90 requires at least 100 hours of break in to hear its full potential.

[@17cream]

@@joeybrooks5625 agree 100%, not a fan of the D90, not that it’s a bad DAC but doesn’t have the attributes of the Ares II.

[@tobbietsai392]

Thomas, great review. Thank you.

[@cd-rom.]

Thomas! Friend, do you have a spare otg cable laying around? I’m curious if this dac can use a phone as a usb input source. I would most definitely appreciate the insight!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't have a usb cable that would fit my phone.

[@angelgabrielsandovallinare4131]

Hello, it is my first time in your channel and I am very impressed with your explanations. I have a Marantz pm6006 and a pair of B&W 606. Will this DAC be good for my setup?

[@18yearsoldnot]

I use a marantz hd dac 1 with my pm6005. Make sure you use Qobuz from a Mac/pc and use the usb. Also if you can , use Audirvana.

[@tomasbroulik7496]

Do you think this one can be a major upgrade from built in Bluesound Node (2021 model) solution?

[@Luckystudio13]

Thanks Thomas for the review ! the difference is night and day ! To my ears* the Ares high frequency is just too vivid and fatiguing ! Will a tube amp tame the high frequency thing down a bit ? The Musical Paradise to my ears* just need a little tiny lift on the upper mid range and high end in order to be perfect. Is there a DAC that you know of that sounds in between these two guys ?

[@h2ophilter]

I'd go for the RME DAC ADI-2. Its a little more expensive but its comes with 2 speaker outs, 2 headphone outs, EQ controls and tons of useful features.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well, remember don't think of absolute terms but relative terms. The Ares II might be just right in your system but in this sound demo, it is brighter than the MP. Also, the song itself is mixed to be really bright. Search for it on youtube and compare that version to my recorded version. If that version is bright on your system, factor that in. At the end of the day, don't judge any gear with sound demo as it is just for fun. My exasound DAC is in between these 2 guys with it being closer to the MP.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@h2ophilter I like the look of the RME.

[@h2ophilter]

@@ThomasAndStereo I love mine. It's a neutral and feature rich DAC. And the realtime EQ spectrum certainly looks cool. It definitely doesn't get the attention it deserves in the hifi community.

[@Luckystudio13]

@@ThomasAndStereo Know of any other good tube DACs ? I checked out the original recording on youtube and that plays in between the MP and the Ares II in my system via just straight bluetooth ! funny how in this analog business, it is all relative to our hearing/preference and nothing is black and white.

[@vittoriomartinidonati]

Hello Thomas, thanks for your great reviews, (my system is Willsenton R8 and MA Silver 200 an I listen only to Spotify, at the moment I am using a BT transmitter from my phone) I want to buy a streamer, thinking about Bluesound Node 2I and I am wondering if you can suggest other options since Bluesound has already been out for 2 years, or maybe it would make more sense to buy a cheaper streamer with a better external DAC (like Denafrips Ares 2 ) ,. Or maybe the Bluesound is good enough....

[@vittoriomartinidonati]

Hello Thomas, I await your reply

[@Ceko]

Bluesound is a pretty solid choice. The Marantz NA is also very good.

[@sunvalleydrivemusic2332]

Thomas! I saw the Bluesound Node2i in your video pans, were you reviewing with the Node2i? (I have the Node2i and am wondering if an external DAC will be a good thing)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I did make a video on the Node 2i.

[@sunvalleydrivemusic2332]

@@ThomasAndStereo is that what you ran the Denafrips through for review purposes?

[@flatericy]

Did you try ares ii as an external dac on bluesound 2i?

[@sunvalleydrivemusic]

@@flatericy yeah, I ended up buying it and admittedly I was a bit of a DAC skeptic but now I’m a believer!

[@flatericy]

@@sunvalleydrivemusic thank you for theinfo

[@newton5954]

Ares 2 vs schiit gungnir multibit what's better sound? This dacs are close in $ over all sharpness openness details etc. What do you think ? Should compare this to the d90 and multibit schiit gungnir

[@manuelgaring7793]

Hi Thomas, Good day. Just want to ask on which DAC will you prefer, the Denafrips Ares II or Schiit Bifrost 2? Thank you.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have never heard the Bifrost 2. Sorry.

[@manuelgaring7793]

@@ThomasAndStereo thank you on the quick revert👍

[@LordVictorHalgaard]

I get the point you were making, and it is very true in many ways, that being said: There most certainly is a "best" dac at any price range. Whether it the best sounding, or the one you like the most, is something entirely different. I really wish people, especially in HiFi could learn do understand objective vs subjective evaluation.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I get what you are saying. For example , DAC A can have the best tightest bass out of all the DAC in the $700 zone. However, will DAC A have the best instrument separation out of all the DAC in the $700 zone. If not, then is it still the best? This is a great question to chat over beer.

[@Andrew.Z34]

I've always held back on buying an external DAC as I primarily play CDs. You again, ignited this curiousity with this review esp on the Musical Paradise DP-1. I wonder if you could help me out if it would make a significant improvement if I'm using a Musical Paradise MP-301 Mk3 amp and a Pioneer PD-D6-J for my CD player then PURCHASE the MP-D1 and use the pioneer for just transport? Thanks! Always love your reviews, I just wish you could make more and release them more often.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I would say it depends on your system Sure , the higher end DAC will sound different but you might want to spend you rmoney first on something else that will give you more of a performance boost. I say this because you have running a MP-301, it would not make sense to get a DAC that is twice the price of your Integrated amp.

[@Andrew.Z34]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks! I'll probably just settle with my system for now. I'm quite okay with the MP-301 for now as it's driving High Effeciency speakers and have dual subs connected via high-level output as well. Keep up the good work sir

[@CUDAbuster]

Thomas, an off topic question for you. It seems that the Canadian market has a lot of very good condition vintage HiFi gear. I can rarely find such gear in the US that nice. I see gear pop up once in a while for sale in Canada, but never seem to find a shop up there that specializes in high quality vintage gear. Do you have a place near you that does?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Hi, no there is no place near me that does it. I use canuckaudiomart myself and kijiji.ca. In theory, the States should have a bigger vintage market with 10x the population. I don't follow vintage gear myself but I do see a few nice one showing up on kijiji from time to time.

[@carlosmanuelmendizabalmedi5460]

Excellent review Thomas. Had you the chance to test Denafrips Ares !! vs Topping D90? Thanks.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Unfortunately not

[@StefanUrkel]

Thomas: do you think this could go with KEF LS50? Also, do you believe in such a thing as an audiophile setup to recreate accurately the experience as the artist intended? Rather than tweaked to suit your own taste?

[@planchernewfinish]

Hi thomas, the ares II was a very good dac wished i'd had a bit more time with it:) of the the bat it was a fun dac the high end wasnt to bad nothing a cable couldnt adjust, the bass welll a sub can fix that. But yes the textures were good gave depth to the instruments. As usual very informative to listen to your review ! Ooh and i think your roasted on an other youtube channel,you should look into that:)

[@ronaldmcdonald2456]

Yep! Cables as tone controls. I've rolled several different cable recipes over the years and I'm a firm believer.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Haha, I chat with Sean and Jay frequently so it is all in good fun. I will get back at them...someday :) Yeah, I am glad I got to try it in your system as I try to share as much of my real-life experience with my viewers. I like to try it at different locations and different systems to get a better idea of how it performs in the real world.

[@planchernewfinish]

I would try MIT 330 shotgun interconnect with that dac, the 330 has a rolloff on the top end.

[@musicjewell9329]

Damn 850 is budget... I'm too darn broke I guess ha. Thanks for video!!! Love them

[@MultiLikom]

Hi Thomas, great video! i want to ask you something and i really need you to answer me. i own kef r3 speakers and hegel h90,sometimes can be bright and in your face to much for my ears. i want to buy a dac because i think that is the solution, i listen clasic music, rock, jazz, acoustic guitar and relaxing music in general. also electronic music (trance, house, dance). i think that i like smoother and refined. based on your experience and the above what dac you think is better in my sistem, of course choosing from ares 2 and musical paradise? Thanks

[@ThomasAndStereo]

What DAC do you have. The MP with 6922 tubes will be smoother. The Ares2 is slightly tilted up on the top end.

[@MultiLikom]

Thomas & Stereo Thomas & Stereo for now I'm using hegel h90's internal dac. I tried the qutest chord and apart from a slightly more accurate stereo image and the placement of the instruments there is not a big difference between the integrated one. I wonder if it would be better to raise money and buy a second hand mcintosh, I heard they are kings when it comes to refinement. Thank you very much for your earlier answer

[@simonklotz8817]

Thomas, i need your advise. I have a Focal Clear headphone and i have Triangle Br03-speakers with a IOTAVX-amp. i'm currently thinking about buying an Ares II to just play around with it in my HP- and especially in the speaker-setup. You write: "With the Triangle Br03, it was very special since we are using a speaker that has a lot of midrange texture with a DAC having also a lot of midrange texture." Well ... what kind "special" do you mean? In a good or in a bad way? Because, from my point of view, the Br03's are already rather bright speakers. Now you say, that the Ares II is also a bright DAC. Wasn't that a bit too much? Imo my Focal Clears are also rather bright - not piercing bright, but still bright. I've heard so much good about the Ares II but i'm just curious if it would overbrighten both my setups.. what do you think? You can ignore the amp i'm using with my Focals since i will upgrade this anyway at some point in time. But if it's a no-go with the Br03's, there will be no Ares for me..

[@robk5745]

As soon as I heard bright I decided not for me, can you review the $999 musical paradise dac?

[@ccwnyc5671]

He did a full review. Are you referring to another MP tho?

[@robk5745]

CCWNYC yes MP has a bigger and better version for $500 more. Check out their website, looks like a crazy dac

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Perhaps eventually I will. Regarding bright, it is relative. It might work well in your system.

[@aleksandarstojceski3139]

I would call it open but not bright. It's not like B&W bright .

[@HailKingCeezer]

That demo was very obvious but i wonder if in person, it sounds a little too forward and "harsh" to pair with Klipsch or other horn based speakers?

[@young_padawan]

Hi Thomas! How does the denafrips ares pair with the Klipsch RP-8000 F you have back there? Keep up the good work 👍🏻

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't remember trying it with the RP8000F. Sorry.

[@dorischen1642]

@thomas I have adx5000 headphone, can I check with you whats the budget choicd for my dac n amp or all in one choice?

[@lwwells]

I'd really be curious to hear a comparison to the Chord Qutest.

[@-havoc-tzu-3197]

I have the qutest and the ares2.. ares 2 is more holographic, qutest is more precise. I prefer ares 2 for music, and i use qutest for gaming because of the ares2 buffer delay.

[@OrganNLou]

Hi Luke, I have owned the Ares II now for a couple of weeks and I am VERY IMPRESSED! Having owned the Chord Hugo, the Ares II prompted me to sell the Chord. MAGIC!!

[@lwwells]

@@OrganNLou Interesting. Can you compare and contrast at all? Do you listen with headphones or a 2 channel setup?

[@OrganNLou]

@@lwwells Hi Luke, Chord do make excellent dacs that produce hyper detail (often a little forward-flat in perspective). The denafrips dac has a very natural, but detailed sound. Massed strings which can sound rather artificial through most dacs, sound so smooth and dynamic with the Ares II. Voices are handled with body (presence). Staging is extraordinarily good! My system is 2 channel, (GoldenEar speakers,VTL Pre,Pass Amp, Nordost cables)

[@lwwells]

@@OrganNLou Thank you for your thoughts.

[@khanzilla4722]

Hi Thomas, How do you record audio using your SLR? I have a Rode VideoMic Pro plugged into my Nikon D750. I have the put the gain on the mic to +20 dB, and mic volume in camera to 8 (higher volumes in the camera settings introduce a lot of hiss). I recorded everything but the sound is very lack luster and also there is a lot of hiss. Any tips? Thank you!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I use a lapel mic. I do have a Rode mic and I don't use it as it is as you said, lack luster. However, thinking about it, have you tried to bring it closer to the person. I used an 85 mm or 50 mm lens, maybe I should use a 35mm lens and put the camera closer?

[@khanzilla4722]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks for the suggestion. How do you record audio from the speakers to capture their sound signature and presentation? Which mic do you use for that? Thank you! I may have to change cameras for video. Might look into the Nikon mirror-less or D500.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@khanzilla4722 To record sound clips, I use a Tascam Dr 07 mic. Thanks.

[@khanzilla4722]

@@ThomasAndStereo I forgot I have a Blue Yeti mic. I'll try that out. And how far do you place the mic from the speakers? Is it at ear level in your main listening position?

[@RP-mm9ie]

Hi is it better than bluesound 2i,is it very bright.I bought the freya after your review.I is so nice,Thanks.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

It depends on your current setup, it could be just right and not too bright. In fact, you might even love the 'extra detail' you get. Hope you liked the Freya. Check out my response to Nemo propaganda on comparing to the Node 2i.

[@thaynamite]

Where is the budget DAC mentioned in the title ? Cheers thaynamite :)))

[@lesrobert2777]

Hi Thomas. For now , my system is Buchardt s400 (Magnepan 1.7) + Kinki Studio EX-M1 + Arcam Irdac + laptop. If i swap my actual dac with Ares2, does it make a big difference? Thanks.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I think so but also check my other reviews on the other DACs too.

[@De132an]

For your readers to consider. The Ares II does provided NOS and OS, the latter with slow or sharp filters. These 3 variations on the sound do make a difference and should be experimented with if you need to match to a particular system characteristic, that is to say if your system is on the bright side of neutral or on the warm side, as Tomas laments during the entire review. Even going from recording to a recording, on a micro level you can even use these filters to improve the recording from one another, simply push a button. So “two button” toggling to me sounds pretty innocuous especially when the manufacturer went through the added costs and giving the end users these flavor options at such a modest price point. All for around $700US. Is it a $4,000 dac? No. Does one need to spend that much money in 2020 to get really good sound? Nope! Dacs have come a long way.

[@donaldbryant5295]

Luna? Is off topic. How about a review on the carver crimson 275 as compared to pprimaluna

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sure, if they reach out to me.

[@mechantl0up]

Ares 2 sounds very different in OS and NOS modes. You have basically two different DACs. I found that for my electrostatic headphones the NOS mode lacked detail. Although, for some other drivers that are less revealing that mode may be sufficient. OS, however, brings up the detail level without making the DAC sound too digital.

[@humanitech]

The one left in this range might the NME API-2 with filter and eq. Now that sounds as if it's versatile to tailor the sound

[@sc51153826]

Hi Thomas, just as an update, I just got the Pontus (one up from the Ares2) after the initial warm-up of 3 days this thing is a beast of performance! The size and scope of the soundstage is scary good. The performers in the recordings are so palpable it is scarily realistic, and this is notably even more vivid when I connect in balanced. The width and size of the soundstage are enormous and substantial. The bass is visceral and tactile, even at low levels. My mind is blown! Did you find a similar difference with the Ares2 on RCA and Balanced too? Also, my DAC is set to NOS and Slow filter.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I remember they told me with the upgrades they did, it can approach the terminator. I was supposed to get one in for review.

[@sc51153826]

@@ThomasAndStereo after owning the Denafrips Pontus for about a month now I found the digital source, power and balanced cables can make this DAC into something really incredible and life-like sounding. Using the balanced output is much better than RCA and, the only way to take full advantage of the design. IMHO

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@sc51153826 Thanks Simon for sharing so others will benefit from this knowledge too.

[@sc51153826]

@@ThomasAndStereo FYI, I am using Curious Evolved USB, Clarus Crimson Balanced and Power cables🙏🏻

[@StefanUrkel]

@@sc51153826 Just curious but did you ever try Ares II? How about non-R2R like SMSL m400? Wondering what you think of those compared to the latest Pontus revision.

[@aleksandarstojceski3139]

If you listen large symphonic pieces you'll like the Ares. Also reproduces grand piano like nothing else.

[@fiogray]

What does the Ares do well with Large symphonic pieces?

[@joenogueira2801]

I use an Ares II with a Schiit Freya + and that combo is a match made in heaven in my system ( Bluesound node 2 - Schiit Aegir x2- B&W Matrix 3 series 2 and 2xRythmik F12SE)

[@Dilyaev]

Using NOS or OS fast/slow?

[@joenogueira2801]

Dilyaev : OS slow is my preference.

[@StefanUrkel]

I bet you have a pretty airy and wide soundstage with that setup. Do your pair of Schiit Aegir run warm or hot? I’m considering them since they cost about $1600 a pair and are on Stereophile’s class A recommended list, along with the likes of the $3000/pr PS Audio Stellar m700 monoblocks. But I worry about the wattage not being enough. I heard they can drive KEF LS50 pretty well and sound good together, but that Magnepan LRS can clip using the Aegir. So, long-term, if I ever end up with less sensitive speakers and need more power, I’m concerned the Aegirs won’t be as “future proof”.

[@joenogueira2801]

@@StefanUrkel Soundstage is phenomenal and sound cohesion exceeds my expectations. This B&W model likes a lot of current, which is a problem for Aegir. I have one good Aegir which can drive both speakers full range without issues, but the other was replaced 3 times and still can't do that. My initial intention was to vertically bi-amp but given the circumstances, I''ve had to compromise and use the weaker Aegir to drive both tweeters, while my good Aegir runs the mid range (down to 70Hz). Oddly enough, the good Aegir works harder and never gets hot, while the weaker Aegir is always hot even if it's only driving tweeters! I use an active Bryston 10B Crossover to send the low bass to the subs. The Bryston uses Butterworth crossovers (same as B&W) No issues with this set up and I can play as loud as my ears can tolerate (average 90dB). The take away here is that, there's a consistency issue with Aegir, so your mileage may vary... however, their sound is truly charming and their uncanny ability to retrieve details is what got them on the A list recommendation.

[@StefanUrkel]

@@joenogueira2801 Seems like a consistency issue in their production if you had to replace one of the Aegir 3x and it still can’t drive the speakers full range but the other one can. Thanks for the input. Did the Schiit technicians give you any idea why you are experiencing that inconsistency?

[@knobbshots]

Thx Thomas. Sound demo helpful, Ares crushes it for me (my taste). Was curious how much MP dac was, but I can look it up

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

So now you need to review the Denafrips Terminator :)

[@mrtitms]

Thanks thomas! Did you play with the Freya and Ares together? Would it be redundant in terms of soundstage enhancement?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I did and I actually had it in the original video and edited it out. The reason is because it was not conclusive. At Mr LSIM707 home, Ares II + Freya did not increase the sound stage. However, when he put the Ares II with the PS audio gaincell DAC, he said it created a big soundstage that he can simply remove tubes (Freya) from his system. At my home, the Ares II + Freya did increase the soundstage. It is not conclusive cause he tried it over the weekend and given he is in another province, I did not get a chance to go validate it.

[@jonassmitt-amundsen1995]

The different setting make a big difference on this DAC. It is easy to make it more analogue and warm or more detailed. I found it strange that you did not check it out.. Great channel by the way.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for sharing!

[@NikhilKumar-tw9dp]

what ares 2 is sounding bright in mid treble despite touted to be natural and other ds dac sounding cleaner in mid treble ?

[@46wireboy]

Thomas, you should try an r2r dac closer to the exa's price. I'm curious to see if it remains your endgame dac.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I am sure if I look hard enough, there are plenty of DAC that will perform amazing at that price. That is the beauty of this hobby, so many choices.

[@joshuabrain9751]

Well listening to this through Focal Clear headphones running balanced to a Auralic Gemini 2000. I'll be getting the Denafrips for my speaker system, it sounds so analogue, i love it!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Make sure you read a few more reviews because sound demo should be use for fun though and not as evaluation.

[@joshuabrain9751]

Thomas & Stereo thanks Thomas, certainly will be! Unfortunately living in Tasmania I have to take a short plane ride to demo nearly anything. One proper HiFi shop in the state and they don’t stock a real lot of gear.