The Denafrips Ares II is the DAC you are looking for

[@dank.6942]

Ares 2 owner, and I couldn't be happier. The camera analogy is good, but it is more about how film does WAY better with the subtleties, the gradations at the borders between light and dark. This DAC is just incredible with texture and timbre. A violin has a sound we all recognize, Ares 2 has such great texture and subtlety that you hear much more of the bow on the violin string in addition to the tone. The breath (air) in the saxophone, and the reed, not just the note...you get the idea.

[@thomaswachter7782]

Thank you for allowing comments. You will never see me leaving anything but positive on any page. Great job as usual. You do amazing work.

[@michaelmartin3026]

I’ve lived with the ares for a year now and I agree completely with your evaluation. I’ll sacrifice a smidge of stage depth for the smooth lower treble you describe. Listener fatigue is never an issue with the ares which is a huge plus. Spot on review as usual!

[@nwr99nwr99]

As an Ares II owner and lover I agree with everything Mr Darko says here. Its a great sounding DAC.

[@ricicle5]

Your fluorescent lighting analogy is a great way to explain it!

[@DarkoAudio]

Glad you think so!

[@mtiken]

Indeed in the lighting world also it is the same. Cool means blueish and warm means redish light, white is middle of this. Even the display monitor also. Good analogy indeed.

[@michaelwright1602]

I'm running the Ares II with the Bluesound Node 3, with the Denafrips Iris DDC... Also running the Denafrips Hades pre and Thallo amp, with KLH Model 5 speakers. The more I listen to this system, the more I am amazed at the sound quality. Everything that has been said about all of these products is true. I love the old school sound of this system, it has taken me back to the days of my youth, the 1960's and 70's, when music for some reason always sounded better. this system has transported me back in time.

[@marcgabor9690]

Ares II was as good a hi-fi purchase I've made. Since having it in my system I've all but stopped looking at hi-fi reviews (not just dacs). I stopped my Schiit EQ. The low end is fantastic, the mids and highs sound very natural to me. For me, when something is working well, you stop thinking about it and that's exactly what this did. I have done direct comparisons to current release vinyl (ostensibly very similar if not the same mastering as digital) by switching inputs and the sound is very very close. I thought it was a bit of a stretch to spend that much on a DAC but now I don't ever think about how much it cost just that I'm glad it's in my system.

[@jessielees]

you still using the ares 2? I have an rme adi dac 2 and as great as it is, I find myself wanting something more "analogue sounding" , I keep wondering if the Ares 2 would fit that bill for me or not...

[@MB-uw6eh]

Fantastic!

[@booradley3146]

I bought this DAC in Jan and fell in love with it after the first 1 hour. I then went onto a forum later (after doing AB testing with my old DAC) and tried to recount the difference I felt/experienced and they crucified me for it! Telling me that DACs make no difference and it's just 1 and 0 conversion etc. Ha! I love it and I think it really makes the difference. I use this rigged into my system about 8 hours a day whilst editing/photo shooting and I am never tired of it. It's connected to a Yamaha AS-2100 and a pair of ProAc speakers. Just lovely. At first I was a bit dubious of spending so much money on a website/company so far away, but it arrived in 3 days (not 10) and was amazed at the build quality. Well worth it!

[@robbiefest]

I currently own a Bryston BDA1 Dac. I love the sound but I'm curious about the Denafrips so I'm picking one up tomorrow. I tried a topping DAC in my system and absolutely loathed it. If anyone says DACs make no difference, that would be similar to a person who has no taste buds saying all food tastes the same. That might be the truth for them, but it's NOT the truth for everyone. I pity the person who can't tell the difference between music and bland sound. Music needs musical components in all it's chain of reproduction and if you have a harsh DAC that just crunches numbers and is thin, harsh, etc, in it's presentation, then how can all DACS be the same? ETC ETC.. and so goes the old conversation.. ie.. cables make no difference.. etc... maybe for those people NOTHING makes a difference and they're just absolutely tone deaf.

[@jackchrisomalis5850]

I own both the RME and the Ares 2, both well-reviewed by John. To my 73 y.o. ears, the RME sounds clearer. As far as the treble-rolloff and non-fatiguing sound connection, I have found this can easily be achieved using the RME's filters, equalizers or tone controls. So, RME gives me a clearer and just as smooth sound as the Ares 2. I love the Ares 2 but I find its sound somewhat veiled compared to the RME. Must be my old ears. I agree with John that for Ares the Slow filter is best. For my RME, I use the SD Slow filter The major drawback of the RME is its major benefit: the complexity of its menus and many options. Many will be overwhelmed by its complexity and not get beyond its factory default settings and thus will never experience the ability too modify its sound..Usage over time remedies this. In general, I think that good equalizers or tone controls would save audiophiles a lot of money wasted on equipment purchased to achieve a"tube effect", eliminate "brightness", avoid "fatiguing sound", achieve a "meatier" sound, etc. But this is another discussion.

[@mikeweatherford5312]

Agree 100%, tone controls are a must. I also own the RME, but have used Schiit Loki as well, not as flexible as RME, but still a nice add at low price to traditional dac.

[@Robinson8491]

This is what I wanted to hear as the choice is between RME or Denafrips for me, my ears are getting older as well (I'm 37)

[@citytianyu]

I figured some 73 years wisdom from these words. Thanks!

[@psi3845]

I completely agree with you John !!! Denafrips dac are amazing, rich and natural sound!!! I'm in love with NOS mode, analog analog analog sound , no one will believe that is a CD!!! ALWAYS great review!!!

[@fiogray]

Which one do you have? Ares II?

[@Leo-yn5fx]

I have this Dac and it is truly remarkable. I'm a firm believer of dacs making a difference if everything in the chain is strong. Do not your waste time if your amp and speakers aren't up to snuff.

[@williekenk]

I love the discussion about the power supply. I think that's so often overlooked, but it's such a key part of components. It was also interesting to see how close these two units are in size. I also love that you didn't harp on the MQA vs no MQA, just focused on the sound. Great work as usual.

[@wingtang2380]

Have the Ares 2 now for a year and the listening experience is just soo good!! and wonderful

[@caseycjc1890]

I'm so glad you decided to open up the comments.

[@radicalaudiodesign]

I used it myself for 6 months now and couldn’t agree more. It touches my soul and moves my heart, that’s how i describe it. Thx for your videos. Super uber good.

[@StEtienne1979]

Have the Ares 2 now for a few weeks and tweaked with the latest firmware. Holy moly!!!! Totally worth the money, the listening experience is just soo good!!

[@josephramos7979]

Love the breakdown of the unit and the explanation of how it all works. Great for newbie wonks like me just dipping our toe into the audiophile pool. Thanks!

[@shadowboxer47]

Bought my Ares II when it first came out and it's been wonderful. definitely recommend

[@carloslopez6382]

Thanks for this review. I purchased it because of this, I really heard the difference in my system. After reading and seeing many reviews on others I came to the right conclusion.

[@JTB--]

I didn't buy the Ares II ... but I did buy some light bulbs after watching this video

[@MrMcAvennie]

Having been through various DACs i lived with an Ares II for about six months before switching to a Topping D90. Not night and day by any stretch but the Topping easily wins for me. HF on the D90 just has that little bit more finesse in my rig, and the low end is far more impactful without sacrificing LF detail. Both very good dacs for the money regardless. Could happy live with either.

[@Kruptosman]

I find this all very educative and interesting, I am in the market for a my first dac to hook up to a bluesound node 2 and then to my Arcam 550 Avr to give it streaming capabilities, I can’t quite afford the Ares or Rme but have a great offer for an Arcam irdac 2 in perfect condition under £200 and wondering if it’s a great dac or better to save a bit more and go for the Mojo ?

[@Pawman1]

I just ordered one of these 3 days ago, it looks like I got in just before the inevitable Darko backlog!

[@RobertBorley]

I have this DAC and I absolutely love it. It’s made a gigantic difference to my system and I prefer it to the internal DAC of either my Bluesound Node 2i or my Innuos Zen Mini mk3. Highly recommended.

[@rog86]

Ate you still using the bluesound as its transport?

[@dr.struve851]

Hi Robert, thanks for sharing that. I also have the Node 2i. I used to have an older Cambridge DAC Magic and found the 2i be a big leap forward, much less harsch sounding than the Cambridge and also a much more “analog” sound profile, not unlike the description of the Denafrips. That of course makes me curious as to how you percieve the differences between the 2i and the Denafrips? Upgrade is always a possibility 😀

[@carlitomelon4610]

@@rog86 I am! Much clearer than the internal DAC. Bluesound Node2i and Vault2 work very well streaming Qobuz HR and storing 13,000 tracks so far;-)

[@Camride]

As an Ares 2 owner I agree with pretty much everything. I absolutely love this dac.

Do you know it's SINAD?

[@SP-wj8wh]

@ R2R DAC SINAD will definitely be lower than the competition who doesnt use R2R. But SINAD is not everything. What's most important is music should sound like music, and not like electronics

[@NeilBlanchard]

I concur with almost everything you say about this DAC. I was using the Bifrost 2, and it is very good. It may even sound a touch better on some lower resolution (digitally lower rez), but in most cases, the Ares II has more life, and has a lower noise floor - the softer parts (lower volume) parts of recordings is resolved better, and has more dynamics and life. I differ only on my preference for the OS/Sharp filter - the Slow filter pushes the sibilance and string/pick area a bit forward too much, on my system. The OS/Sharp has more spacious soundstage, and oddly enough, the soundstage seem *continuous*; as in all the instruments are in the same overall space. The Bifrost 2 could have each instrument in its own space, and they sometimes seem unconnected to each other; if that makes any sense.

[@eazydraw4681]

Thanks for this review ..it is really good to see and hear you enthusing again

[@TorToroPorco]

Darko with his best metaphor ever, the notion that a particular sound signature is like having a neon sign outside your 3rd floor apartment window. It’s nicely noirish. The Ares definitely satisfies a particular itch, it has a quality that you appreciate more and more over time. Thanks also for the comparison to the Mojo.

[@rvenden]

Excellent piece, John. Thank you. I totally agree with your analysis. After going through multiple sun-$800 DACs, I bought an Ares II and loved. Balanced, natural-sounding and harmonically-rich. A terrific piece.

[@chriscalley1548]

Just received the Ares ii DAC the other day, I was looking to upgrade the Pro-ject "Prebox S2 digital" DAC I have been using for several years. The S2 is a nice DAC and I wasn't sure what the Ares ii would bring to the table. I have to say that the Ares ii compared to the S2 is night and day. Bass - a huge and unexpected improvement. A genuinely organic/natural sound (to my ears), that comes closer to analog than anything I've heard before. I can hear the breath of the vocals, and the sound of saxophone keys being pressed. The sound is, for lack of a better term, "spacious". I expect even more improvement as the DAC is broken in. Thanks for the review John.

[@bitx5]

I am looking to upgrade my pre box s2 as well, thank you for posting your impressions I guess I am more confident to upgrade to the ares 2 now!

[@hansbogaert4582]

I own this DAC and love how it's sound. You mentioned the reduced soundstage compared to the DAC Magic. What I learned is that R2-R DACs are more sensitive to phase than a DAC chip DAC because a R2R DAC lacks the phase compensation mechanism that's default embedded in a DAC chips. Connecting my ares 2 to a raspberry pi 4 I heard sound difference depending on which USB port I used to interconnect. With a ISO regen from audio tone in-between the pi and the ares DAC the differences between the pi's usb outputs are gone and....I've got a much wider soundstage. Not exactly understand what this ISO regen device does technically but ...I'm happy with it

[@madridpunch]

As with most Darko videos the highest value for me was the some of the music mentioned. This time its Joanna Newsom. Since I've started watching John I've got a pair of KEF Metas and about 60 new CDs. Thanks

[@davidrusso4750]

Your reviews are TRULY SUPERB. Thanks Mr. Darko.

[@spencerdavis1853]

John, I'd love to see a video where you play examples of tracks featuring exaggerated examples of your musical vocabulary like "crisp crunch," "easeful," "flow," "flesh on the bones," etc. I appreciate what you're trying to do by both avoiding vague terms like "musical" and sticking to subjective terms that communicate how the music feels to hear but as a younger guy, hearing your verbal palette sometimes reminds me of a curator's blurb in an art museum: jargon that requires me to have marinated in the discourse for years longer than I have in order to understand its shared meaning. I know KZbin's compression might complicate this but I think you could equip a new generation of audiophiles with a shared subjective vocabulary.

[@paramidge8935]

'Musical' is indeed a vague term in language. Generally it is used to express pace, rhythm and timing and a lack of harsh, over forward presentation. All language is in constant flux - you do not receive exactly what the other is trying to say. This is always compounded and exacerbated by attempting to describe the sound of something. However - everyone who has a brain that functions well in communicating efficiently between the lymbic system and the frontal lobal system (in the broadest terms) knows when something sounds right. An acoustic instrument played reasonably well in a given space, sounds immediately right - any further analysis becomes one of nuanced aesthetics - which have most to do with the touch, emotional intelligence, technique and good taste of both player and listener - music happens as a combination of player and listener - there are degrees of sophistication here that are not to do with mathematics or even acoustic analysis. If it's music you know it. 'Rhythmic flow' and 'natural', 'timbre' always pique my interest, as very few digital devices can pretend to deliver on this basis. 'Forgiving' is also essential, as music recording did not begin with 0's and 1's. So - I would like to audition this Denafrips Dac. Thanks for the worthwhile review.

[@joenogueira2801]

Your review is spot on, congratulations! Now you've opened the Denafrips can of worms so, next model up is a must and then the next.....

[@larryh9525]

I read the gotcha, from the one more thought article on the website, and the gotchas with all these different products are amazing. I think you were correct when you started down the path of using USB Audio Player Pro on an Android phone. While this combination along with an associated DAC might not be the final word in audio purity, it works flawlessly! When I'm not listening to Qobuz, I'm able to have Android via the Roku app's private listening function send perfectly lip-synced audio via the DAC to my KEF-powered speakers. Additionally, the Samsung phone I'm using as a source is equipped with Dolby Atmos, which has a video mode that is ideal for TV. Since I've retasked my retired phone for audio duty, I've never listened to more music.

[@2501mandala]

One of your best videos, John. Especially like the fluorescent/incandescent bulb analogy. Spot on. Keep up the good work, sir!

[@kennethdias9988]

My Apple TV streams my Apple Music to my Yamaha Aventage reciever and the spatial produced music is amazing your whole listen room becomes a sweet spot

[@smellyoldsock1553]

Had it since March 2021. Paired with RPi4 or Bluesound Node 2i, Topping A90, Feliks Audio Euforia and Sennheiser HD800S. To my ears it's a superb DAC and I see no need to spend anymore on a DAC.

[@andreacountry8471]

Is my actual DAC,on my ears it sound very natural,never fatigue or with the classic "digital harshness"...

[@benpit2762]

Thanks for another great video John! Olaf’s video skills is just getting better and better! I definitely agree with your assessment, I’ve in fact purchased the Ares II for my headphone listening sessions and the bigger brother Pontus II for my other audio setup.

[@timdelongchamp1597]

So a noob here.....I subbed a year or so ago....been watching your videos....been a closet "audiophile" for a while now (although I use that term loosely....) .....always had a hard time relating sound heard through the internet over someone else's video and what the music actually sounds like in person....we all know it's IMPOSSIBLE to watch some dudes video and really feel how the music sounds......with that said.....you're explanation with the lights.......DUDE....seriously....this should be the gold standard for how sounds are expressed over the internet. Thank you for putting it that way because it makes total sense (as an office worker....glare.....or should I say "air bite")......LOL......I hope to see this type of comparison in future videos....I know I'm almost a year late, but I hope you see this. Thank you :)........oh we're not done....after watching this video a few times....I have figured out how I prefer my wife and what "mode" I prefer her in....She's a Dac Magic by default but I'm having a hard time toning her down to a more manageable "Aries 2"....time will tell :D #wavelength

[@spda242]

Takeaway from the video: Darko has replaced the doorstop with a marble? Piece 😱

[@ryanmclellanjr6104]

What exactly are those things he always has called, and where can I find them?

[@flynnbach8073]

@@ryanmclellanjr6104 he usually uses doorstops from ikea. It's just to stop light components being pulled off of the table by heavy cables

[@bjornliden1]

I have the bigger brother Denafrips Pontus II, it is absolutely amazing!

[@sabrowenie]

A couple years back he said he sourced the doorstops from Amazon.

[@josenebrus8183]

Awesome 😀 John, I sincerely hope you keep doing what you do so well; educate and inform us the way you've been doing it right from the start 👌 You have a wonderful natural talent that is unique 😉 don't ever change your way of feeding us with Audio knowledge in detail without making it (to) complicated 👍 Again, keep up the great work and thank you so much for your contribution to (High-End) Audio in particular 🤗 Sincerely, José The Netherlands

[@mwgoldfix]

I have this - bought it direct from the distributor in Singapore - its a fabulous DAC and even more so for the outlay -- I was hesitant to buy a Chinese manufactured unit but within the first couple of listens all was forgotten -- there are some other great reviews of this on YT but glad you got around to reviewing this John

[@tusharshukla1990]

Finally :) Who else thought John forget about the third dac, because he was busy enjoying the Sub? ;)

[@Sparta155]

The Ares sounds as it does (i.e. has a natural ease) because of the type of DAC processing it uses i.e. R-2R. I have a similar DIY R-2R DAC and it is just the same.

[@nivsole0717]

What is your diy dac? Is it a kit? Very interested in diy. Just finished 2 amp camp amps.....trying to self teach/learn. Very comforting soldering and building components.

[@richardadamson1427]

Agree. I have r2r and noticed the same differences when compared to price equivalent OS DACs.

[@JoVD]

The doorstop went from METAL to STONE , I like the visual details and camera work , keep going Darko !

[@tdhstrategycreation4744]

I own the Ares II for a couple of months now. The Mojo I've owned and listened for years. Now I use them both. John Darko's take on the sound is spot on. In my setup, the Ares is used with a Bluesound Node for a streamer, an Accuphase e303 amp and a pair of JM Reynaud Duet's. Works great. By the way: service from Denafrips / Vinshine audio is excellent. Buy with confidence.

[@18yearsoldnot]

What amp do you use with the mojo for headphones? I found the mojo to be a bit flavourless and neutered (only from the headphone out) so then I got the ares 2 and thought I was done. But then… I plugged my mojo into my arcam rhead and was completely blown away by the dynamics and smoothness of that combo albeit a bit less airy than the ares 2, however, for pure dynamics the mojo + smooth sounding headphone amp is killer.

[@johnlg2209]

Thank you for the review John. Really helpful and informative.

[@kl9941]

Have this DAC for a year and a half and just ordered the Pontus II, the next step up. Great sound!

[@bdmcn]

likewise. taking delivery of my new Pontus tmw. Big hopes.

[@BeyondResolution]

Denafrips makes alot of things people need to be looking for.. the Hestia and Hyperion stack is insane for the money..

[@concretec0w]

Love your use of adjectives bud! They really resonate with me, like where you mention fluorescent vs incandescent lighting. Subbed!

[@GreenArrowNetwork]

'Corporeal" is exactly the word! Nicely written John.

[@peterschattmann8298]

Your reviews are great but I get a kick out of seeing some of my favorite music featured in your quick cut aways. Today's is like an all-star playlist of mine.

[@carlitomelon4610]

Share that list please?😎

[@MaakBow]

Aaah. "The Killing Moon" one if my all time favourite tracks from my youth. The bunnymen are Still a good band.

[@edcataldo7019]

The never ending battle between ease and detail. The detail from my DAC Magic 200, SMSL DA9, & Klipsch KG5.5’s in my 16’x21’ bedroom walks that crispy crunchy line. The Aries 2 probably begs for some Wharfedales

[@saverioricchiuto5386]

In the last year and a half “anyone” on KZbin reviewed this DAC. But as an Ares II owner I’d say no one got even close to the perfectly spot-on description you just did. Now everyone can understand why they could love this little DAC or why they should absolutely avoid it so not to be disappointed: just saying “it’s superb” doesn’t help people who may have a different taste. Awesome video.

[@johnratcliffe6438]

Which filter do you prefer? I just bought an Ares II with Iris DDC. I really can't decide. I think I prefer OS Slow.

[@saverioricchiuto5386]

@@johnratcliffe6438 exactly the one I use

[@arthurdemeyer]

I don't care for the DAC. I'm here for the marble thingy.

[@HaraHetta]

Yeah what is that

[@clivewilliams9460]

You are very precise with explaining and breaking things down. I will check out the Ares 2. My plan is to combine it with the iFi Zen Stream. Cheers.

[@d00mch1ld]

Wow, looks like a worthy upgrade.

[@robh9079]

Exactly my experience with Ares. Kind of does the Analogue thing without sounding as though it's been manipulated into that mould - effortless. OK, OK - the lighting analogy nails it!

[@donbowman707]

I have always utilized delta-sigma DACs and have never considered an R2R type implementation. I'm kind of a measurement guy when it comes to buying DACs but your statement about "hyper-realistic" when referring to ESS or AKM started me down a different road when choosing a new DAC. The Ares just seems more natural musically (compared to my M400) when listening to music of all types--streaming or otherwise. This "lower end" DAC has really surprised me in so many little ways when listening to music. Thank you for your work.

[@FliskerX]

15:09 "Absolutely Fantastic" That's how I feel also about this DAC, especially at the price point. Would love to also see review on Pontus 2 :)

[@psi3845]

The Pontus is extraordinary!!! Probably the best price/value of all the denafrips lineup!!! Amazing dac, the same sound of the ares II , but everything on to another level, more detail, quieter background , deeper soundstage!!!

[@michaeldasilva8834]

I have the Denafrips Pontus and is a fantastic pairing to my Roon nucleus and Yamaha a/s 2100.

[@xianfr]

I like the way all videos are built. I also like when some products appear time to time in different videos, meaning you cannot be disappointed at all by them. With your advice I’ve purchased Campfire Polaris 2 👌 Today I’ve ordered the Mojo. I’m sure I will enjoy an entry level audio with my Qobuz, Audirvana and Elegia. Thanks for all your reviews 👍

[@johnkom2339]

Thanks to all the positive review, the manufacturer has raised prices for Ares considerably (Pontus even more, if I'm not mistaken). And I'm still not sure if this China Dac maker has a 30-day return no-questions since they didn't answer me. (P.S.: they did finally reply and their answer was NO. In other words, they'll only accept returns for units damaged or non-functioning. So, buyer beware!). After considering this situation, I think I'll stick with my system which is a mongrel of an MSB Link Dac, powered by a dedicated power supply that also powers an AA Dti Pro device. This combo gives me pretty good digital sound, non-fatiguing, liquid and reasonably detailed and lively. I can't imagine that the Ares is going to better it.

[@garyalexander5686]

An excellent review. Balanced, thoughtful and helpful. I've a Pontus II heading my way in a couple of weeks. It'll be interesting to see how it compares to my current DAC, the Border Patrol DAC SEi. I've had that one for several years. I'll keep one and sell the other.

[@fiogray]

Any update on this? Which one do you like best, Pontus or Border Patrol?

[@garyalexander5686]

@@fiogray I used the Pontus II for about a month. Tried all different configurations. It betters the Border Patrol in bass definition, detail and clarity. But I prefer the Border Patrol. I found that music heard with the Pontus II was just not as natural and immersive as with the Border Patrol. The Pontus II is an excellent DAC but for me the Border Patrol is the keeper. Sold the Pontus.

[@peterlarkin762]

Great review, thanks! That toroidal seems to be a special doughnut type (can't remember the name)... They are usually hand wound as they can't be held securely in winding machines. An expensive part. The lack of 'edges' reduce emf greatly.

[@nickburak7518]

I think that doughnut is the same idea found in the HOLO DAC... Probably the most amazing product of any kind for its attention to detail...

[@sean_heisler]

I think they are called O-Core Toroidal Transformers.

[@nickburak7518]

@@sean_heisler Thnx

[@thirdkey9]

Listening to stuff like Nebulosity by Moeller or Fontaines DC’s televised mind via this DAC was a whole new shift for me. I saw your review on the initial broadcast and it later led me to the recent tipping point to try it out. Having gone from audio tech minimalism and mostly headphone listening to a return to digging on vinyl again, an R2R seemed the best DAC path forward and when building a new system. Incandescent indeed, my initial experience mirrored your discerning assessment and now, jumping from my turn-table to this phenom component keeps the whole vibe in the same house. Thank you!

[@VaxtorVax]

A very interesting comparison, quite keen to get a listen!

[@shuckylad]

You negotiated that very well. Good video again, thank you.

[@dominikrodler8010]

Ha! Thanks for reminding me about We Have Explosive! Seeing it in your video reminded me of how much I loved the record. Dug it up again and am banging it right now 🤩

[@kjbiz]

I have been running this Ares 2 from my Mac mini and Oppo BDP-103 (both not the end game) into Audiolab 8300A and out through KEF LS50’s and this Dad likes it and more importantly my ears like it. Not too shiny shiny..but allows me to sit in the chair and listen. Cheers for the show!

[@tablameister]

Thanks for the review. Ordering a Denafrips Ares II.

[@pennesalmone6350]

I upgraded the DAC of my Bluesound with the Ares II and in my chain it smokes anything I compared it to, not only in it's price range but even for 2x 3x the price. In the end I kept my Bluesound because of its streaming capabilities and the convenient mobile app (much better than the Tidal app) and use it with the Ares II as DAC. Not very price efficient but the sound + the convenience is worth every penny. I fully agree with Darko's summary, the most (no I will not use the "m" word) vinyl like sound I've heard from a DAC. One thing to be aware of is that if anything happens, support over distance is cumbersome (need to check that European dealer) even if Alvin really does EVERY effort to help you out... Despite of it, it's definitely a keeper, I don't think anything comes even close to it in its (and even in higher) price ranges in my (admittedly limited) experience.

[@ElvenSpellmaker]

I don't suppose you've tried the Schiit Bifrost 2 and whether it's worth getting this DAC?

[@pennesalmone6350]

@@ElvenSpellmaker no, unfortunately I couldn't try it (just as I could't try the Ares, I ordered it "blindly" based only on the common ground of many reviews). But Bifrost/Gungnir was on my shortlist... Still thinking about going for their preamp or amp (Freya/Aegir) again just based on feelings without facts... I'm still happy with my passive preamp and vintage amp though...

[@henrygraf7860]

Thanks for remaining me how my 1978 record collection sounded.

[@paulf.5261]

I was just having a glass of wine and thinking to myself this red has a bit of a hint of crisp crunch about it....with a lingering taste of tangential equanimity after 7ish 🍷😉 So I’m guessing it tastes just like a Denafrips 😂😬 Cheers 😉🖖

[@TheBlissfulWalrus]

I have a Pontus II and I agree with basically everything you said haha. OS mode, slow filter, it sounds much better to my ears than any other DAC I've heard. In particular I A/B'd it with the topping D90, the Pontus II is so much nicer to listen to by comparison and the difference is pretty obvious on almost every track I tried.

[@aranfin1403]

How would you say the Denafrips Ares II compares to the Bifrost 2, seeing they're close in price?

[@andygrundman]

As a Slim Devices alum, it was great to see a Transporter shoutout. Hope it's still working well. :)

[@charlesclifton1006]

Your review of the Ares2 echos some of the other reviewer's sentiments about the uniqueness of this DAC's qualities relevant to a non fatiguing type of smooth sound. (mouthful). Oddly, as soon as you brought up the Mojo and then as well, the Ares ability to switch between NOS/OS I guess you could say ... I got it. "It" being perhaps the flexibility I may need because of the rather expensive tube preamp I am having built here in Vancouver and its ability to be "smooth" etc etc. At the asking price, the DACs ability, and the fact that its balanced...... very very tempting, In any case, another entertaining and educational review by one of the finest audio reviewers on the planet.

[@adambrosgall6107]

Space-tech?!

[@charlesclifton1006]

@@adambrosgall6107 Adam, very sorry for responding so late but yes, Albert is a genius. I've had the privilege of actually visiting him at his home/business and he oozes integrity. I actually own one of his buffers fed by a Schiit balanced DAC but I really want a particular pre-amp he disigns.... Space-tech is one of the best kept secrets in the audio world.

[@jackvanderwerf1294]

I saw a review, more than a year ago, raving about the Aries, performing at 2-3 times it's price point. I just got done watching a review that spoke to the Aries II brightness on the upper end, compared to a $4000 dac, run through $19000 speakers. Overall, that review was probably through a $40,000 system. You on the otherhand, start off with the premiss of how does it measure up, at a $700-750 and under entry level price point for a dac (yet you said, some may prefer an entry level $2000 and under while others say $500 and under). On average, people with equipment, have maybe a $1000 (on the highend) and under in whatever system they have, and they just want to know, how can I get my - XY&Z - to sound better. I think you did that, keeping with an apples to apples comparrison, as well as the qualities those components bring. Both the photography and lighting analogies were excellent. The sequencing and pace of your vids are spot on. J

[@josexavierjr.5633]

Echo & The Bunnymen! Gang Of Four!! I'm having flashbacks.............thanks John! The Denafrips is slowly easing into my radar..................

[@thebostonaudiophile]

Good review! You characterized the Ares II well. I'd say that you and I heard very similar things both with the DAC overall and the OS/NOS and filter settings.

[@n.a.2387]

Thank you Darko! Like always it is a pleasure to listen to your thoughts. Once a while you have suggestions for songs or albums to listen to. I would appreciate more of those. Best greetings Nezam

[@pascaljean2333]

You said it. I could listen to my ares all day, but my delta sigma only a few hours.

[@americana1544]

Excellent !! Thank you for this fine presentation and your insightful details !! Short story - I've been streaming audio to my high-end system using the analog outputs from the built-in DAC on my PC CPU !! It produced wonderful, detailed, rich, layered clean sound with amazing tonality, and I've been surprised about that !! That computer crashed (but I will fix it very, very soon), so no problem I switched in another PC that I had, and put it in place of the crashed PC - but this replacement PC produced awful, awful punchy, bass dynamic poor detail no-air sound out the analog port.. So anyway, now I'm on a DAC quest. Your help here is very much appreciated !!

[@danfranz2538]

I had a Denafrips Aries 2(new) and got the upgrade itch and moved to a second hand (still 2.5x the price of the aries 2) Holo Audio Spring Kitsune tuned edition (lvl3) and while that dac is better.. it's not so much better that I could have saved over $1500 and been absolutely happy with the denafrips.. I know now

[@edwarddodge7937]

Same sort of experience here except I got a Yggdrasil GS. Still prefer the Yggy. But if I knew then what I know now I probably would not have upgraded.

[@johnratcliffe6438]

@@edwarddodge7937 The Yggdrasil is a tank. A tank that can be upgraded.

[@FromBajor]

Yes was waiting for this one, need Darko's approval before I buy ;-)

[@sammccaig6684]

Was that just 18min of John trying not to say ‘musical’?

[@edwarddodge7937]

Great "budget" combo: HD6XX + Asgard 3 (or Jotenheim 2) + Ares II. My previous DACs: Modi, Modi Multi-Bit, Khadas Tone Board. Personally I recommend the Ares II as the baseline DAC for any system. If you simply can't justify spending more than $200 on a DAC, I'd recommend the Khadas.

[@Roof_Pizza]

I think you just convinced me that I'd have to spend huge bucks to get a significant upgrade over the DAC in my TOTL Yamaha. 8:22. Thanks for that.

[@davidhalliday7776]

Great analogy. Linn DS is the fluorescent my good old Linn Numerk is the incandescent.

[@alanhargreaves5999]

Thanks John great as always 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@osirismarbles5177]

Darko, looking healthier for some reason. Healthier with more age is +. Good on you!

[@DarkoAudio]

It never hurts to lose a few kilos. 😉

[@kenrickhadley4499]

John, i know that high pitch in the lower treble that you are talking about. it is not pleasant to me either. I love your review of this Dac. I have watched it a few times to decide on getting this Dac. It will be my first. Thanks for speaking to us as if we are friends that are seeking the same treasure.

[@nivsole0717]

I would love to hear your opinion on the bifrost 2 multibit. These 2 DACs get compaired to each other all the time. I believe you would prefer the schitt over the denafrips. punk rock would have a crisper but mild mid range with the schitt. Denafrips puts a bloom out, wide sound stage and softens everything up. Like tubes.

[@nasty__nate_]

Cup of coffee ready, tube amp warming up beside me, and loving every analogy used in this video. If only the Bifrost 2 was included in the series...

[@nicolasczimbalos7843]

how does the Ares II compare to the Chord Qutest?

[@lluismolina]

I'd be also interested in that. I have a Vincent 236mk that I find maybe a bit too round, and was waiting for this video to make the decision on which one of these 2 DACs to go to. I feel it should be the Qutest, but I'd like to hear John's opinion. Thanks for the videos. They are extremely good.

[@photomusicman9413]

The Ares 2 is a lot smoother than the Qutest.

[@zabriskie_]

Very interested in the comparison too!

[@MarcelNL]

There are reviews on KZbin in which they do get compared (together with the Schiit Gungnir multibit and a few others). Bottom line: Ares II clearly is better.

[@riccitone]

I'm so on the fence now between the Ares II and the Schit Bifrost II Multibit. Others have compared these two in terms of similar offerings, the Ares II being a bit more euphonic, whilst the Bifrost II Multibit a bit more detail oriented. Curious if you'd be looking into reviewing the Schit Bifrost II as it fits this same price/offering category. And SO appreciate your comprehensive review of the Ares II! It's been on my list for an upgrade for an exceedingly long time, and your review gets into the OS effect as a potential positive. Not to mention the type of music it can most benefit.

[@nc3419]

There's service and possibly upgrading to consider too. Depends on type of music, amp/speaker matching and personal taste. I'm considering the Bitfrost, among others.