It is nice to have someone talk about a piece of stereo gear with a straight forward no BS style. This reviewer hits the high points of the hardware, explains the low points in a very lucid way and then tells you how it will effect your wallet and the parameters you will need to meet to have it work in your system. I will make a point of listening to the British Audiophile again... good on ya Sir.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Michael. That is very much appreciated 👍😊👍
@maximo900193 жыл бұрын
Well done. There’s no one better on the web at explaining how in digestible terms!
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend. Very kind and much appreciated 😊👍👍
@Coneman33 жыл бұрын
Yes, Tarun’s reviews are concise, informative, slick and easy to watch.
@robcaputo9708 Жыл бұрын
@@Coneman3 I couldn’t have said it better!
@nathaniel49693 жыл бұрын
Upgraded from Ares to Pontus a few weeks ago - my experience is just like what you describe. If you're reading this, and thinking of getting the Ares - just jump up to the Pontus.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences Nathaniel 😊👍
@SUde-vd1qo3 жыл бұрын
Really good presentation...especially appreciated the point or system level at which the improvements are most notable. ty.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you S Ude 😊👍
@jeremiahchamberlin44993 жыл бұрын
What he said (S Ude).
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@jeremiahchamberlin4499 thank you 😊👍
@mikes68443 жыл бұрын
In the land of hi-if gear I can only aspire to own but your review doesn’t distract from the quality of the vid and the enjoyment I get from watching. Thank you 👍🏻
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Al ways a pleasure to hear from you Mike. I appreciate your support 😊👍
@lpspinners87362 жыл бұрын
I feel Tarun has THE BEST delivery, content and cadence of voice not to mention his experience and knowledge level. His unique abiliry is what draws me to looking for his videos. I have watched many, many channels on the subject of audiophile gear, but I now start with his videos.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
@@lpspinners8736 thank you my friend. It is wonderful to have feedback like that. It is greatly appreciated 👍😊👍
@josephmasi67212 жыл бұрын
I just found this reviewer. He is the best of the many I have heard. Others often leave me lost in the details, but he tackles the details and separates the essential from the frills. This review led me to believe that I DON'T need to upgrade to the Pontus II right now. I have been considering the BHK 250 power amp from PS Audio first. After that, I'll watch this review again. Good job. British Audiophile.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Joseph. Very kind and much appreciated 👍😊👍
@jameschan24043 жыл бұрын
Hi Tarun, you also got a outstanding performance.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you James. Very kind 😊👍
@vasanthma99853 жыл бұрын
Really love your videos... by far the most comprehensive, well structured and articulated. Keep going, Tarun!
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Vasanth. Very kind of you to say and much appreciated 😊👍👍
@TheCangle3 жыл бұрын
I have a Pontus II as well but use it in a headphone system. Coming from the RME ADI-2 I'm quite happy with the more natural and detailed sound that I am hearing. I agree with all you had to say and it's nice to see others appreciate gear that I quite like myself.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing your experiences and you kind words of support my friend 😊👍
@jeremylynnchagaspereira39263 жыл бұрын
I’m a few steps behind you. I just moved up to the RME ADI-2 from the Audiolab M-DAC Mini, and find it a big improvement. But, as Tarun says, with my set up, going to a more expensive DAC like the Pontus II would be wasting money (assuming I had that kind of money). However, I am no longer a doubter about splashing cash on a better DAC if one can afford it.
@Nightjar7263 жыл бұрын
I found the RME ADI-2 very shallow as far as soundstage. Had very little depth and I thought it had some grain on the highs. How is the Pontus II compared to that ? Thanks
@TheCangle3 жыл бұрын
@@Nightjar726 Yeah I’ve noticed that as well when listening to the ADI-2 in place of the Pontus. With headphones the ADI-2 sounds much more in my head and the stage is very flat. With the Pontus the stage is more in front of me and I find the imaging to be more clear. The treble on the Pontus is more detailed than the ADI-2 but presented in a smooth way that is not fatiguing
@Nightjar7263 жыл бұрын
@@TheCangle thanks man. Yes EXACTLY what I heard with the RME. I was kinda disappointed with all the praise it gets. But funny enough I got a Benchmark DAC3 lately which I have been auditioning for over a month and while it sounds more real ( timbre) than the RME , it has a flat soundstage as well. And still isn’t as real sounding as my Marantz. I really want to try the Pontus or some denafrips dac. Thanks
@Anand.Asrani3 жыл бұрын
Very well done Tarun ! addressing all important queries of a serious buyer ..
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Anand. Very kind of you to say 😊👍
@jim5863 жыл бұрын
Hi Tarun, I took delivery of a Pontus 11 this week. I just thought I’d make a comment that when I initially plugged it in I thought It had a fault. I emailed Denafrips customer service with a heavy hart. I had a little play with cables and the fault lay there not with the dac! I checked my email and they had personally responded already! That was very reassuring. Obviously I responded saying there was no fault. It’s replaced a Topping D70 and is in a totally different league. Much bigger sound stage and the bass, wowsers. Cheers
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Hi Jim, great to hear about your experiences. Thank you for posting. I hope the Pontus II gives you many years of musical satisfaction 😊👍
@jim5863 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks Tarun and apologies for my misspelling of the word heart. Obviously I’m excited about this product, Ha
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@jim586 you should see how many typos I do 😊👍
@redstarwraith3 жыл бұрын
My eyes usually glaze over trying to watch a video about DACs, but you did a masterful job with this one.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you buddy 😊👍
@mrmeaner3917 Жыл бұрын
Well Tarun, I think I’m finished (maybe) you started my chase down the rabbit hole with the Ares II, then I went on to Pontus II and now my system is Sugden A21SE, Auralic Aries G1 with Hoerwege PSU upgrade, Denafrips Terminator DAC & Proac D2R speakers, sounds rather nice. Cheers for the great reviews and advice.
@abritishaudiophile7314 Жыл бұрын
That is a lovely system that you have put together 😊
@TheNaka92 жыл бұрын
Just sold the Qutest and bought the Pontus II and It is clearly better. It is less digital and just reveals your music in a natural way. The Qutest was vey good especially with my Aurelic streamer but so so with the Cambridge Audio CXC transport. The Pontus II is a giant leap in enjoyment:)
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you buddy. Good to know 😊
@robertwang78252 жыл бұрын
Very big upgrade for my system , Big Bang for the buck. Very happy with the Pontus 2. Great recommendation Tarun.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
That is great Robert. So pleased that you are enjoying it 👍😊👍
@slowestrider49182 жыл бұрын
Thank you Tarun for clearly explained this DAC. You review weighted heavily on my purchase of the Pontus II. I got nervous when first hooked it to my system. There was a lot of static out of the left speaker at OS mode but silent at NOS mode. Alvin quickly replied and suggest unplug the power cord, wait 30 seconds before plug power cord back in. I didn't follow his suggestion for I got worried and pushed the Stand By button to stop it. When press the Stand by button again and issue went away, not static. In fact, my system is much more quiet than before the Pontus II. I use it with Bluesound Node 2I, Muzishare X9 and Cornwall IV. Before Pontus II, there is some static/buzzing noise out of both speakers. After the Pontus II, it not only provides more realistic vocal, instruments, sound stage...it also cleaned up those static noises. It makes me believe the Node 2I generates unwanted sounds picked up by those 102dB sensitive speakers. The DAC must filtered those unwanted noises. All my family members quickly commended how good it sounds. The only different is now I connected XLR from Pontus II to X9 while before was RCA to RCA. Perhaps XLR helps avoid picking up static/noise from upstream equipment or surrounding cable? Thanks again for all your clear and precise reviews.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend. Great to learn about your experiences. Glad to know the noise issues have been sorted. 102dB speaker will pick up anything in the chain 👍😊👍
@mariagiordano39023 жыл бұрын
only live once cant take any of it with you , I guess im getting the pontus after having my eye on the ares2 you sold me on . thanks
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
You have a great attitude to approach life Maria. Thank you for watching and please let me know how you get on with the Pontus II 😊👍
@lpspinners87362 жыл бұрын
Tarun, I am VERY impressed with your videos and your ability to articulate characteristics of various audiophile gear and the differences vs other products. Very well done! It's the reason I look for your opinion on fine audio gear! I agree with others that your content is #1 on KZfaq.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank my friend. Getting feedback like that makes all the hard work worthwhile 👍😊👍
@thorenjohn3 жыл бұрын
Another excellent and thoughtful piece. Your comments on the paring of dac with amp/speaker systems was particularly enlightening, and the sound quality description, so clear. Thank you.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend. Very kind of you to say 😊👍
@genesis667 Жыл бұрын
I've owned numerous chip dacs but after trying the Ares I was sold the sound is so smooth. I just ordered the Pontus. I have Bowers 805 D3 speakers so I think it will be a good match. Great review!
@abritishaudiophile7314 Жыл бұрын
Thank you 👍
@hvyfknhitr9424 Жыл бұрын
Thanks, and what do you think paird with the 805's by now? My same situation and am leaning toward this with the Iris.
@genesis667 Жыл бұрын
@@hvyfknhitr9424 It sounds great with the 805's.. There is no sibilance at all which most other Dacs I've tried that has been an issue with the 805's. It's just slightly warm but not as warm as the ARES II which I had prior. It's clearly above the ARES II which for the price is great...
@hvyfknhitr9424 Жыл бұрын
Thanks, just getting into a streamer running into my Madrigal Proceed AVP's dac, sounds pretty good as is through Sig 805's.... more to learn and to experiment with.
@robertreynolds22123 жыл бұрын
Currently own the Ares II. Im tempted to purchase the Pontus II & see what the differences are. If it’s really that much better, I’ll sell my Ares & keep the Pontus as my endgame.
@bdmcn3 жыл бұрын
You won’t regret a move to the Pontus.
@robertreynolds22123 жыл бұрын
@@bdmcn Update: Purchased one, absolutely no regrets. Soundstage above all is the biggest difference, with a nice pair of cans, this really takes you into the clouds.
@bdmcn3 жыл бұрын
@@robertreynolds2212 Congrats! Now you might consider the Iris DDC, if you don’t have it. I just got one and it allows me to use I2S to Pontus. The Iris transformed my sound again. A must, imo. There’s even more detail, presence and depth. Simply amazing. I’m truly at my endgame.
@robertreynolds22123 жыл бұрын
@@bdmcn I haven’t! Will definitely have to check it out.
@bdmcn3 жыл бұрын
@@robertreynolds2212 I’m running middle-of-the-road Supra USB from mac mini to Iris. Then a Supra I2S/HDMI from Iris to Pontus. I could probably eek out slightly better sound with a $400 HDMI, but I like the warmth/depth of the Supras. The addition of the Iris was not a subtle change, it was substantial, and def worth it to me. Good luck!
@enjoyunreality2 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much for this review. This was the case that now im a owner of an denafrips pontus 2. its burning in since one week and its incredible!!! Weighty , organic, holographic big soundstage and very smooth!!! I love it!! The difference to the build in dac in an bluesound node 3 streamer or an audiolab 6000a play is very very big. Its kind of a different thing, not comparable!!
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
I totally agree. The Pontus II is not cheap but even just a few years ago this DAC would have cost multiples more 😊👍
@gleamtarrest63102 жыл бұрын
Did you have any issues with shipping?
@dynodin812 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the input! I've been looking for a DAC to upgrade for my 6000a and I'm glad you've heard a noticeable difference with the Denfrips in that Amp. I was afraid that Pontus was going to be overkill for Audiolab 6000CDT and 6000a.
@herosandwich79403 жыл бұрын
Wonderful stuff, love what this company does too.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Hero 😊👍
@mauricecuffee72203 жыл бұрын
You’ve done it again. Great review. Now I have to upgrade my Denafrips Ares II!
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Maurice. Very much appreciated 😊👍
@fabraham72 жыл бұрын
Taren! Thank U very much for those honest comments on whether it is worth for someone should shell out an additional $1000 to get the PONTUS 11, based on the law of diminishing returns. I plan to purchase the Aresa II instead of the Pontus II
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you buddy 😊👍
@arlandercard Жыл бұрын
I bought this DAC and love it . This has much to do with your review. I am having a problem. I am being discreet hoping to get my problem resolved. I will keep you posted.
@abritishaudiophile7314 Жыл бұрын
Thank you. I hope you get the issue resolved 😊
@jam25243 жыл бұрын
I wanted the Pontus one , And have been on the fence. After your review and the new updates I just ordered the Pantus 2 Thank you
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
That is great JAM. Please let me know how you get on 😊👍👍
@san01yt3 жыл бұрын
Another great review Tarun!!! Thank you.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Sandeep 😊👍
@markphilpot87343 жыл бұрын
This Denafrips DAC is well more than it’s price suggests and handily beats others at twice this price. R2R DACs are just more real sounding than single or multiple Delta Sigma DACs and this has been well proven. The transport of choice would likely be the Project RS 2 T. It has an IS2 output to go to the DAC direct. If you do a comparison between your options, you will likely come to the same conclusion. There are many opinions on this and mine is my own as yours is your own. If you own one, you know. The only DAC which supersedes this one is the Terminator DAC which Denafrips also makes. The R2R solutions offered by this company offer a value for the dollar other DACs can’t hold a candle to. If you are going to spend your hard earned dollars for a piece of equipment, at least buy something worthy that has upgrade ability. Their design ethic is far superior as is their execution of that design. The O ring transformers are a huge contributor to the sound as these guys are sizable and quiet. I am prejudiced in my opinion of R2R DACs as opposed to delta sigmas regardless of manufacturer. The real deal is in the listening and that is the last word. You can’t go wrong with their products. It’s that simple. The weak link in many systems is the processor. It’s up to you. Your money and your call. Opinions are just that. You must make your own choices. Let your ears decide. Great review Tarun. I’m likely to attract haters, but truth is stronger than fiction. Stay safe my mates!😊👍🏻😷
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Always a pleasure to hear your insights based on your vast professional and personal experience. Plenty of wisdom for those who have open minds too. Thank you Mark 😊👍
@anthonycollard57452 жыл бұрын
PROJECT IS NOT I2S COMPATIBLE
@markphilpot87342 жыл бұрын
@@anthonycollard5745, wrong!
@fts813 жыл бұрын
Outstanding! I’ve been considering dacs for my vintage setup, I’m learning a lot from you! Thanks, Tarun
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Felipe. I appreciate all the support you give me 😊👍
@vaksilvaksil99392 жыл бұрын
I have eres 2 with my vintage 7070 sansui, work marvelous
@jiik41972 жыл бұрын
Thanks Tarun! Great stuff again. Now I know what DAC to try next with my current setup =)
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Jii 😊👍
@robertwang78253 жыл бұрын
It will be my next upgrade for sure , now using a Matrix mini i pro3. In China it is selling for the equivalent of 1,099 pounds , so it makes it even more worthwhile to get it. Have always enjoyed your reviews with the technical aspect as well. Keep up the good work.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Robert. Much appreciated 😊👍
@TheCharlesAtoz3 жыл бұрын
Tarun- A British company I am intrigued with is Music First Audio. Good video.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Charles. I haven’t heard any of the Music First Audio amps 😊👍
@markcarrington85653 жыл бұрын
Hi Tarun, great review, as always. I love the philosophy of Denafrips, as demonstrated by their use of capacitor arrays. The reason I use slit foil smoothing caps is because they behave like multiple smaller caps, but they can be placed straight into the old holes on the boards. When I have saved up enough up my pennies I will certainly go for one of these. Cheers, Mark
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Mark. There design and implementation is impressive 😊👍
@johnbradshaw58913 жыл бұрын
Another excellent presentation and review, Tarun. Articulate and accurate.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you John. Very kind of you to say 😊👍
@BSabbath3 жыл бұрын
Great review as usual. The comparison with other DACs (speacially with Chord) will help everyone. I liked the part "When to upgrade (setup & partnering equipment)".
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Shahed. Very much appreciated 😊👍
@simonirvine16282 жыл бұрын
Tarun, I have just purchased one. I can't stop smiling....
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
That is great Simon. It is a great DAC which gets better once fully run in 😊👍👍
@xstensl88233 жыл бұрын
hi Tarun, i have a NAD D1050 which is now 8 years old. its a marvelous all rounder. hard to beat for its original $600 price point. you are right a good DAC can be had now for $500. digital has come of age. any modest DAC made since 2013 can out perform a DAC made in the 90's not sure if the Aires 2 could beat it.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences Rudy 😊
@DavidD-eo8ts3 жыл бұрын
I enjoy your reviews, keep up the good work. I auditioned the Aries II for a couple of weeks and as a result ordered the Pontus II. I normally use the DAC in my Audio Aero La Fontaine to decode Tidal but now using the Pontus II I much prefer the Pontus. On the right recordings the soundstage and depth give the impression of being at the recording session (especially orchestral works). That realism is something I've been chasing for years. I can't imagine how the Terminator II might sound.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you David. I appreciate your support and you sharing your experiences 😊👍
@locmanw15833 жыл бұрын
I own Ares II. Is Pontus II worth the upgrade?
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@locmanw1583 that will depend on the rest of the system 😊
@locmanw15833 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 ok thanks 😊
@ro-courbandevelopment8972 жыл бұрын
Am enjoying your reviews.... you make it easy for me to part with my money!
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend. This hobby can hit the wallet hard 😊👍
@mosfet5003 жыл бұрын
Thanks Tarun for another high quality review. My problem is that what continually makes manufacturers look good is the chip designers. If we look at test instruments, scopes AWGs, etc. we can see two things, one a marked improvement in specs and capability and, two, lower prices over shorter and shorter spans of time. There's no reason to believe that this trend won't continue and components like DACs will show the greatest improvements over time. Sure, we could say wait ten years but then you'd be without a DAC but I don't think that's the case, I think waiting a year might show some real DAC improvements. Ladder networks are pretty cheap and, while you could go crazy on resistors, after a point no one can hear hear the difference, I've challenged people to prove that and none have to date. In fact if we go to supplier indexes like Mouser we can find high quality 0.1% resistors at very reasonable prices. It won't be long before Shiit or one of the other bargain companies implements most of what you see here at a much lower price. As for power supplies, I'm not so sure that we can hear all those changes, 10,000 uF is 10,000 uF, can someone hear the difference between a bank of smaller caps? They'd have to prove it to me in a DBT and nobody has done that yet. Once that noise floor hits a certain level it's basically beyond human hearing and once we start talking about levels below 110 db, well, no one can hear that and I seriously doubt it's going to make a substantial difference relative to the added expense. In fact it might even be cheaper for manufacturers to use smaller caps. They buy them in bulk and the more they get the cheaper they get. Again, thanks for another well done review.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you mosfet500. I appreciate you watching and sharing your experiences 😊👍
@bshah48313 жыл бұрын
Great review and sounds like a great find. Appreciate your honest and pragmatic assessment of this DAC.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend 😊👍
@cantfindanamefree3 жыл бұрын
I just got a pontus ii. Streamer is bluesound node 2. I have owned the Chord Qutest, the Ares ii and now upgraded to pontus ii. Amp is Arcam A49, Speakers Fyne Audio 502SP. For me personally I would say get Ares ii vs chord qutest. It's cheaper, more interesting and suports more input/output options. Pontus ii is a step ahead of Ares. Really pulls out some nice details. Interesting regarding using the slow filter. I personally use fast mostly, I think it will depend on the system. Fast filter has more detail in top end I feel. For a bright system maybe the slow will be better. Is the pontus ii worth it vs the node or Ares. Once you've heard it you'd probably miss it. It's subtle differences. But that also really brings to life the music. With the pontus vs the node, everything is more open. Hi hat, symbols way more natural and apparent. Particularly you can hear the sound of the tip of the stick, a real snappy sound, I play drums so this is what stood out to me. A better 3d image. Switching back to the node is sounds flat and muddy (it lacks separation,). Having said all the above. Pre pontus/Ares I thought the node sounded nice. Now I have upgraded I wouldn't go back. Qutest I actually sold and used the node 2, just felt it wasn't enough to justify the extra and bought a rel sub which made more difference with the magnepan 1.7i I was running at the time.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences 😊
@cantfindanamefree3 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 thanks for taking the effort to reply. You're review helped me choose to upgrade. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on why you recommend the slow filter, what the difference you heard between the two?
@drod4912 жыл бұрын
Interesting, if you would quantify in terms of percentage. How much in in percentage does the pontus 2 better than the Ares 2? 10% better? Or more? TIA
@drod4912 жыл бұрын
How much in percentage numbers would you say Pontus 2 is better than the Ares 2? TIA
@cantfindanamefree2 жыл бұрын
@@drod491 I think I'll struggle to give a percentage. Its been a while since I had the ares. What I can say is that the ares is all about the big sound stage and 'feeling' of the music. What it lacks is maybe some detail retrieval and clarity. Pontus takes the pros of the ares ii, cranks that up, plus adds the detail/clarity of say a chord qutest, maybe more so but its been even longer since i had a qutest. Hard to say if it's worth double the money. I think it depends on your system really and budget.
@supremeboy3 жыл бұрын
Great review as always. Really enjoyed it.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you buddy 😊👍
@Vincent-of7yv3 жыл бұрын
Great review, very well explained. Very easy to understand even for non-English people.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Vincent 😊👍
@alexherceg94963 жыл бұрын
Great review! Down to earth as usual. I like that you talk about system matching and diminishing returns. Indeed this is revealing, but the amp and speakers have to be up to the task! I think there is going to be a return to R2R ladder DACs amongst the audiophile crowd… or at least moving away from digital filters and FPGAs. Thanks for being down to earth (with your humble Chord Mojo), it’s a good reality check to realize we don’t all need to rush out and buy immediately. I’ve got a Hegel H120 and contemplating this as an upgrade. I think I’d notice it, but again as you say it’s borderline because Hegel’s are very good. Thanks for your insights as usually - no BS and very insightful. Strongly recommend!
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Alex. I greatly appreciated your kind words of support. I think you are right. The FPGA DACs seemed to move the needle in performance in the last decade. The R2R ladder DACs are having a resurgence in this decade and for good reason. They seem to do certain things well that Delta Sigma DACs still struggle with. All this can only be good news for the consumer 😊👍👍
@MrMarcolondonuk3 жыл бұрын
Tarun, I am Hifi lover for decades. I am Italian, living in London for 25 years now. I have Stanley Beresford in my system, with some special mods. The sound quality is amazing. I can let you try the modified Beresford DAC in your system if you want & if you are based in London. Marco Bianchi
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Marco. That is so kind. Unfortunately, I am not based in or near London. Also, with the amount of gear I have to switch around, I would be nervous to have your pride and joy in my care. I really appreciate your generosity and thought though 😊👍
@MrMarcolondonuk3 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Tarun thank you for your reply. Absolutely, it makes total sense, I thought you were in London! I made A to B comparisons in my room of Denafrips Ares II vs Beresford modified, the Denafrips got trashed. I have 1973 Klipsch La Scalas for speakers, Transcription Audio 211 for power amp, Croft Charisma for pre-amp and Roksan DP1 for transport.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@MrMarcolondonuk that must be some DAC you have. Thank you for sharing 😊👍
@beherit983 жыл бұрын
looking forward for your I2S test video, great video on the Pontus 2
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Jan. Coming soon 😊👍
@beherit983 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Especially keen to learn if you see a benefit on using the denafrips iris as an i2s bridge between my music playing pc and the pontus 2 .
@beherit982 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Hey Tharun, It's been made aware in a forum that there might be a latency issue with the pontus that might affect watching live shows, concerts and such. I am planning to use it as a desktop dac and implement it in my main system in the future. Have you noticed a lag or delay as such watching a performance with the pontus ?
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
@@beherit98 interesting. I had it running for a couple of months and didn’t notice a lag when watching videos. But then I wasn’t looking out for it either 🤔
@Kah0ona3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this video Tarun, nice to compare it to the Hegel H95 dac, since that's my new amp. I wondered a lot recently where an external DAC (be it the Ares II or this bigger brother) would stand against a built-in chip-based dac like in the Hegel. For now, I'll keep it like this then. (Kef LS50 meta + Kef KC62 + bluesound node 2i for the tidal streaming over coax to the Hegel h95)
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
You have a very well balanced system Marten. Thank you for watching 😊👍
@yannick9303 жыл бұрын
Great review again ! * add on , on those chip dacs the power supply is still based on miniature components (specially the caps and resistors) and from what i'm observing the big difference comes from that. It's impossible to have a full develop sound with it. Not enough energy so they have to make a trade off, big enrgy but lack of transparency or transparency but no energy. Plus the small stuff doesn't sound so good. I changed some coupling caps on a chip dac that i'm tweaking, better caps tends to increase the soundstage and the layering of things and the decae. seperating with different regulation the chips on the dac gives more clarity, the black background. Better resistors tends to free the transients. My guess better impedance matching but i'm still investigating.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Yannick. There is no better way to gain experience than trying it yourself as see what works 😊👍
@yannick9303 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 😀 it's so fun. Have you tried a raspberry pie ? (I'm glue to my phone waiting for the mail guy to deliver mine)
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@yannick930 I haven’t but it is something I should look at when I get a chance 😊
@zindahoon3 жыл бұрын
Fantastic review , so much information ℹ️ can’t thank you enough Tarun
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Atri. Very kind of you to say 😊👍👍
@seanjoell3 жыл бұрын
Informative and comprehensive as all-ways, good job and thanks.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Sean 😊👍
@seanjoell3 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Your welcome.
@ruusta80423 жыл бұрын
@@seanjoell *You're
@seanjoell3 жыл бұрын
@@ruusta8042 thatts be'ng aaa lilte pikkie!, dont u th'nk!
@gerard37973 жыл бұрын
Thx for the review. Try the new Merason Frerot, the Burr Brown TDA1794a is hybrid between R2R and oversampling. You can later on expand it with the POW1 linear power supply, but already with the switching stock supply it sounds much better than anything I tried from Topping, Burson, Denafrips, etc. With LPSU it is closer to the Pontus in terms of pricing. It is also made in Europe/Switzerland and you can just get it for a demo from a dealer. This might well be the new reference dac to beat at 1k that really brings you a lot of the total magic of 4-5k Dacs. The difference with their own 4-5k reference Merason Dac1 is very small when you use it with a clean source, because the Frerot has no reclocker (to save cost). I know someone who changed his Metrum Adagio for the Dac1, it is that good. He also put the Frerot in his system and was amazed on how close the Frerot was. He uses an Innuos reclocker and also had the Denafrips Terminator for a short time. Because it has no reclocker, I use the Frerot (Dac1’s little brother) with the Matrix Spdif 2 reclocker to convert my noisy PC usb signal to Spdif. This is also a device well worth it’s money and brings you the technological advantage of reclocking technology used in dacs like the topping D90 etc. This combo finally brings hi-end CD player quality to the PCM/streaming world for me, without the digital glare/hardness that all other Dacs had and without the lack of presence/coherence and excitement that the cheaper R2R dacs have. Also read the few online reviews, it is still pretty much under the radar 😉! I
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Gerard. I appreciate you sharing your experiences. I haven’t come across the Merason DAC1. Thank you for the heads up 😊
@dansisternas91585 ай бұрын
Hi, Do you still have the DAC FREROT? I'm about to buy it with POW1. I'm hesitating between Frerot + Pow 1 and R2R DAC like Pontus 2 or Holo Audio Cyan 2. Best regards.
@sginfdfw3 жыл бұрын
I enjoyed your review on the Pontus II DAC, and it was timely; I'm currently looking for a DAC replacement. Let me share with you why I'm looking to replace my beloved DAC. I recently replaced my CD transport that suddenly stopped working; I've enjoyed it for 21-years. The gem was a Parasound C/BD-2000 Belt Drive Compact Disc Transport I purchased back in 1999, a beautiful sounding transport for $2,000. Like you, another KZfaqr gave a glowing review of an unusual piece of audio gear - a CD transport. I said to myself; I'm going to purchase it. I couldn't believe my ears when I plugged in my new CD transport to my current DAC, a Parasound D/AC-2000 Ultra! The music that emanated from my speakers was purely magical. The new transport seemed to put my old Parasound C/BD-2000 to shame. How could this be? How could a sub $600 CD transport eclipse a renowned CD transport from 1999 costing $2,000? This transport, Audiolab 6000 CDT, is a hidden gem. After reading your review of the Pontous II and other gear on your channel, I think you would do a much better job reviewing the merits of this beautiful CD transport. I would like to hear your opinion on how well it mates the Denafrips Aries II and the Pontus II.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching and your suggestion. I haven’t had any response from IAG (patently company) to my last couple of emails so I am unsure when I will be able to review more of their products 😊👍
@sginfdfw2 жыл бұрын
@Joao Faria, the 6000 CDT output digital XLR so I use the Mogami 3080 AES/EBU Digital Audio Cable. In fact, I use XLR connections on all analog and digital connections except the turntable and phono preamp.
@treyhorn56453 жыл бұрын
Great review. That's a beautiful unit. Hope all is well brother ✌️👍
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you buddy. It is. I hope all is well with you too 😊👍
@cruise20232 жыл бұрын
Hi! Tarun, I have the RME adi-2 fs dac, I like it + has additional features that a lot of dacs don't. With my Willsenton R8 Int, I have the Oppo bdp-105D player. I can use the RME dac and Oppo as a transport to play cd's.To note I have only recently found a solution to playing SACD on my Oppo with an outboard dac. One can purchase a box that converts to i2s for about about $50us, the Pontus II has a i2s connection which can connect from the Oppo to the dac via a HDMI to i2s cable, this will play your SACD collection with the external dac. The Ares II does not have this connection. Any SACD listener would benifit greatly with this connection on a seperate dac like the Ponus II . I have not heard it but the understanding is playing SACD on a cd /sacd player compared to using an outboard dac via i2s is like chalk and cheese. I do not know whether you are aware of this, but after listening to you review, thought I would bring it up...Regards from New Zealand.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Interesting. Thank you for sharing Alain 😊
@mrgadget48633 жыл бұрын
Thank you. Very good description and overall judgement
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Mr G 😊👍
@garyalexander56863 жыл бұрын
Hi Tarun - I took delivery of my own Pontus II this week. I was surprised and pleased to see your review. I've been using a Border Patrol DAC SEi for the past several years. I've always been happy with the sound. I think that I just became curious about the Denafrips DACs and decided to take a chance. Obviously mine is not yet broken in but some qualities are already evident. The Pontus II has tauter, better-defined bass performance than the Border Patrol DAC. It provides more detail and a cleaner sound, much like increasing the focus on a telescope. Most importantly for me it avoids that lean, clinical sound presented by some DACs. But will it replace my beloved Border Patrol? That remains to be seen. As usual, your description of the equipment under review is spot-on. Thanks for another brilliant review.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Hi Gary, very kind of you to say and much appreciated. Great to hear about your experiences. Thank you for sharing them 😊👍
@thepickyaudiophile2 жыл бұрын
Hi Gary, did it replace your Border Patrol?
@MarcelNL Жыл бұрын
I have been complaining about my sound system under several of your video, but now I'm basically certain that the first thing I'll do is buying a Pontus 12th anniversary edition. That probably will give the biggest improvement; start with the source. The speakers are very linear and they actually can go very deep. I just get a weird bump somewhere in the bass that I don't like. The Pontus can give more warmth in the mids, and that's what I really miss. It gives the music more body and soundstage; that I also really miss in my current setup.
@abritishaudiophile7314 Жыл бұрын
Sounds like you will enjoy what the Pontus 12th does 😊
@MrRogermash3 жыл бұрын
Great video.This dac looks really good.Thanks for sharing
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Roger. I was very impressed with it 😊👍
@stephencosta68143 жыл бұрын
👍🥰Well let me just start out by saying you’re very handsome you speak so clearly and calmly excellent you are very knowledgeable and very trustworthy this will be my it’s Dac it’s just going to take me a good while to save up $2000. This was the Dac I was already interested in till your review sealed the deal for me👍💪🙏🏻
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Steve. Extremely, kind of you to say. I hope when you get it, it does live up to expectations. Please let me know how you get on 😊👍👍
@MadMaxx19773 жыл бұрын
Fantastic presentation and review! Subscribed! I'm looking at the Pontus 2 or Gustard X26 Pro as my end game DAC. I'm leaning toward the Pontus because I've tried several Delta Sigma based DACs and have felt a bit underwhelmed. Thanks so much for your thoughtful explanation.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Than you MM. I greatly appreciate your support. Good luck with the DAC hunt 😊👍
@daanw822 жыл бұрын
I'm having the same dilemma! Were you able to compare? Did you make a choice?
@MadMaxx19772 жыл бұрын
@@daanw82 Actually I went in a different direction. I bought the Pontus 2 but in all honesty, I really couldn't tell the difference between it and other dacs like the Topping D90 or RME ADI. From what I've read and from talking to other reviewers, the differences are best heard with headphones. I'm not a headphone guy. I listen through speakers like the LS50 Metas. I stuck with the Pontus for a few months then decided I just wasn't satisfied with spending $1700 on a DAC that didn't really sound much better than less expensive DACs. So, I sold it and got almost the entire original price for it. These DACs hold their value like Apple products. I went back to my D90 until the FiiO K9 Pro ESS was released. Tried it and found the sound to be very appealing. Sold my D90 and have been happily listening to the K9 for a couple weeks. It cost half the price of the Pontus, which was a nice bonus. Lots of reviews for the K9 ESS on KZfaq. Check them out before making any decisions. Hope this helps.
@daanw822 жыл бұрын
@@MadMaxx1977 Thank you for your reply, yeah this helps a lot! I was already worried if i could hear any difference.
@MadMaxx19772 жыл бұрын
@@daanw82Glad to help!
@shanestephenson84233 жыл бұрын
G'day Tarun It's Shane from Australia. Nice video mate, I recently had the opportunity to have a good session with a terminator plus a friend of mine purchased. I found it a little analytical and digital for my tastes. I have a Luxman DA-06 which seems to hit the sweet spot for me. I also appreciated your comments on how you would pair this and with what system good practical suggestions. I love the channel and always look forward to the next. 🎧😁👍
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
G’day to you too Shane. Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences 😊👍
@joaquinbarreto93982 жыл бұрын
Love your videos as always. Can't wait to see your JBL 4309 review. I'm leaning towards the Yamaha AS1200 but I'm not ordering it until I see your 4309 review. If it appears like the Yammie is a good choice then the question would be Aries 2 or Pontus 2, like you said it'll depend if your speakers will be able to take advantage of the performance level of the Pontus and I hope it's something you'll touch on in the review. Thanks as always!
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you JB. Not long to wait for that review 👍
@joaquinbarreto93982 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 awesome thx for the update. I was literally just listening to your smsl d1se video.
@hushpuppykl3 жыл бұрын
TQ for the review. 😬 Don’t you find that there are compromises with DACs? We want that analogue sound with R2R but we need to sacrifice a bit of the high extension and a smidge of the mids. No glossy sound like what we get from delta sigma DACs. I found that the Pontus paired well with a good sounding tube amp. It shines there.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
It think it varies on an individual design basis. I couldn’t say for sure but I think the Pontus II was a tad learner in the low mids that what I remember the Ares II to be. It is considerable better in a lot of other respects though 😊
@broadwaychris Жыл бұрын
Terrific review, thank you
@abritishaudiophile7314 Жыл бұрын
Thank you buddy 😊👍
@aerofart3 жыл бұрын
Another great review, Tarun! Your videos don't come frequently enough! On one of your other videos I mentioned that I have an RME ADI-2 FS DAC. I've since replaced it with the Denafripes Ares 2 and the difference is night and day as it plays through my B&W 705s2 speakers and Peachtree 300 integrated amplifier that loops out to a tube-based OTL Schiit Valhalla 2, which acts as a tube preamp stage to the Peachtree and brings even more richness to the overall sound. That said, I believe my present configuration has enough resolution overhead to realize the gains offered by the Denafrips Pontus II, but was hoping you might be willing to share your thoughts about it.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend. I should be getting the RME ADI-2 FS in for review. It has been delayed due to the AKM file impacting on availability of stock. I am looking forward to reviewing them 😊👍
@richardstevens85483 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Tarun, I have the RME and think it's great. When you get the item for review please ensure that you have the latest firmware update AND do a 'bit-perfect' test on the input(s) by means of the downloadable files form the RME website. I can't see how, if it passes said tests it can be bettered by the Pontus -or any other DAC. After all all 0s and 1s are the same...aren't they?
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@richardstevens8548 thank you for the heads up Richard 😊
@ionutplesea56932 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Hi Tarun, have you been able to get the RME in for review? Anxiously looking forward to this😊 They already implemented a new EES chip instead of the AKM one. Thanks
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
@@ionutplesea5693 I had to push it back due to the summer break but it should be coming soon 😊
@andershansson63043 жыл бұрын
Great review! I upgraded to the Pontus II from a Qutest some time ago. And even if the Qutest is a great sounding DAC, the Pontus is from a DAC perspective a significant improvement. I also have the Willsenton R8. Very good tube amp for the money. But it is an amp with even more potential. I do recommend to try some tube rolling. Especially regarding the 6SL7 tubes. These arerused for the important voltage gain stages and therefore have great importance for the harmonics and thus the sound. I can recommend to try NOS tubes like Philips/Mullard ECC35, Tungsol 6SU7WGT or the METZ 6SL7. These tubes really make the R8 shine on a new level! My favourite this far is the METZ. Really amazing sound. By the way - I have the KT88 version of the R8.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Anders. I recently reviewed the R8 and was very impressed. I have got the distributors send me some uprated tubes so will be doing some tube rolling 😊👍
@jimfarrell46353 жыл бұрын
Very interesting, Anders. I have a Qutest and wondered about potential upgrade paths. One option is picking up a used M-scaler to add to the Qutest at some point but the other (cheaper) option would be selling the Qutest and going R2R with the Pontus 2, so it's good to hear you had a positive experience with the change.
@JeradBenge3 жыл бұрын
So far, I'm in love with the Tung-Sol 6SU7WGT's, but I have not yet tried the METZ 6SL7's. If you don't mind me asking, what is it that leads you to prefer the METZ 6SL7's?
@andershansson63043 жыл бұрын
@@jimfarrell4635 I had the same thoughts as you have. Should I upgrade with the M-Scaler? Then I got an opportunity to borrow an MSB Premiere DAC. This was to me something else. Was that level really possible? Yes I know it's very unfair to compare this with Qutest. But it opened my eyes for R2R DACs. And in my system the Pontus II is not far behind the MSB. Actually very close. I do not know the level of sonically improvement with the M-scaler. But a good R2R like the Pontus II gives very very much value for the money. Probably hard to beat.
@andershansson63043 жыл бұрын
@@JeradBenge I can definitely understand you're in love with the Tung Sol 6SU7WGT. To me they are on a shared 2nd place together with the Philips/Mullard onces. There are differences between those ones but overall to me they are on the same level. Then we have the METZ. In my system the imaging in the sound stage is even better than the already great Tung Sol 6SU7WGT.
@NosTubes583 жыл бұрын
Beautiful review as always………, and just what I needed to push me towards placing an order for one next week. Thanks young man.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching and your support my friend. Please let me know how you get on 😊👍👍
@yorch90002 жыл бұрын
I congratulate you for the clarity of your explanation and experience, few say it as well as you. I have a dac pre box s2 digital and I would like you to tell me how much is the difference if you could say with a percentage with the pontus that or how much percent it would improve. I have an Amplifier Rotel with a pre Gas and a Q11 kef and where do you recommend me to upgrade?
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Jorge. Hard to put a percentage on it as it depends on so many variables. There is a massive difference between the S2 Pre Box and the Pontus II as long as you have system revealing enough to highlight it. You have a well balanced system. The Pontus II would be overkill. If you are upgrading, I would start with speakers first 😊👍
@frankverschoof80833 жыл бұрын
Very helpfull, i have my eye on the pontus for a while....
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Frank 😊👍
@zeissiez3 жыл бұрын
Great review and great product. Two thumbs up 👍+ 👍
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Zeis and thank you again 😉👍👍
@rainman32693 жыл бұрын
Another faultless well thought out review ... Becoming a channel well worth a look when trying to make decisions about audio hifi equipment ... Thanks ... 😎
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you RM 😊👍
@calaf_7253 жыл бұрын
Thank you for another great review Tarun. I would be very interested to know how good it is specifically with DSD files.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
The DSD also goes through the ladder network which is rare on a R2R design. My DSD files sounded great 😊👍
@Nightjar7262 жыл бұрын
A good buddy of mine from an audio forum sent me his Venus II to audition. God I don’t know how to say this. I don’t think the timbre is done too well. I hope I don’t insult anyone since these DACs are so highly regarded. I need to listen more but , the timbre is lacking a bit. The soundstage however is large and well layered. Very well done there. And dead silent. I will listen more and report back.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Interesting. Please do 😊
@avro663 жыл бұрын
Thanks for another great review tarun, I've been following denafrips products keenly, you are correct with your findings, at the price I don't think they have much to worry about.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Paul. I appreciate you sharing your experiences 😊👍
@InternetUser-d7s3 жыл бұрын
This guy is articulate!
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Des. Much appreciated 😊👍
@redleather1003 жыл бұрын
Oh no 🤦🏻♂️ now I’m going to have to buy one . I have a Cambridge audio edge a. To be honest the inbuilt dac is very good but just intrigued how the Pontus will sound . Would love to see you review the edge one day to get your thoughts . Thanks for the great review it’s made my mind up👍
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
That is great Nathan. Thank you for watching and the suggestion 😊👍
@redleather1003 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 would be nice and fitting for your channel, 😜
@ruusta80423 жыл бұрын
If you haven't made the buy yet, try contacting Musicraft or Willow Tree Audio to see if they'd be able to help you with a home demo.
@damirzarko59342 жыл бұрын
Tarun, great review as always. I have a question about the synergy of the system with Deanfrips Pontus II. Other reviewers often refer to it as smooth sounding as opposed to more analytical and very detailed sounding Sigma Delta DACs. In my system I have a Naim Supernait 3 integrated amplifier and Harbeth M30.2 40th Anniversary speakers. It is a very natural sounding combination with a deep base and no harshness or brightness in the upper range. My current DAC is the Arcam irDAC with SBooster 12 V linear power supply. It is a great sounding DAC, but I think I can realise the full potential of my Naim-Harbeth combination with a higher quality DAC closer to their price range. Denafrips Pontus II is at the top of my list, but I am worried about my system sounding too smooth and rolled off considering that the Harbeth speakers are definitely not on the bright side. Should I perhaps consider a different type of DAC like the Chord Hugo 2?
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Damir. I think you will get a significant upgrade from both the Hugo 2 and the Pontus II. I haven’t AB the two but the Hugo 2 may be more detailed whilst the Pontus II more natural. I wouldn’t describe either as smooth.
@TheNaka93 жыл бұрын
Hi Tarun. Great review, but I wish that you could talk about the main differences between the Pontus II and the Chord Qutest - which I have but never feel in love with...
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you. I didn’t have the Qutest here 😊
@BelgianDrummer2 жыл бұрын
Great review Tarun! I just ordered the Pontus II. Since it doesn’t come with a power cable, what kind/type would you recommend? Thank you in advance and keep up the great work 😀 Best wishes from Belgium
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Luk. I built my own power cables 😊👍
@BelgianDrummer2 жыл бұрын
I just watched your video on making your own power cables ( becausse of your answer I remembered I saw it in your video list) and I am going to give it a go 😉 I can do this!
@toddhupp3 жыл бұрын
wow super review.def going with pontus now vs quetest. the sd chips definitely gave a harshness to them .interesting you liked the kt88 s with Pontus. I have found retubing my Prima Luna prologue 5 with Gold Lions really made an improvement. btw do u like the new pro acs with the ribbon tweeters?
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Todd. Very kind. I am hoping to do some tube rolling with the Willsenton R8 😊👍
@webkuma2 жыл бұрын
Hey, Tarun! Perfect review as always :) In case you would have some time to answer this, I would be grateful: I have ProAc Response 1.5 (later this model has evolved to D15, D18, D20). Currently I'm thinking about Exposure 3510 to power them so the question is which of the DACs I should get with it? Ares II or Pontus II?
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend. You could get away with the Ares II but I would go to the Pontus II. Your system will be resolving enough to highlight the differences 😊👍
@webkuma2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@uclaxab6 ай бұрын
Tarun, your reviews are incredibly informative as I delve deeper into this hobby. You provide a practical perspective with the right blend of technical insights which I appreciate as an Engineer. I am keen to upgrade my DAC which is currently the AKM4490 that's within my Michi X3 integrated Amp. My digital source is the Eversolo DMP-A6 Master Edition although I use it purely as a transport over USB. Speakers are Sonus Faber Sonetto V. I am assuming the Pontus II 12th Anniversary will provide an appreciable upgrade but I started exploring the Holo Audio Spring 3 as well and I am utterly confused as to which direction to go. The price difference is significant enough however I am not the type to upgrade equipment frequently so I am seeking an option that will last. I am seeking a bigger soundstage and detail, although I do love the AKM. Would welcome your thoughts on the Pontus v. Spring v. Aeres given my components. Appreciate all that you do. Thank you.
@dzemoski453 ай бұрын
Nice, how do you like your speakers? I’m researching them for myself.
@uclaxab3 ай бұрын
@@dzemoski45 love the speakers. pairs nicely with the Michi. Paired the Sonettos with a set of Rel S/510 subwoofers. Haven't bought the DAC yet as I am now leaning more towards the Holo May.
@karlhendricks8864 Жыл бұрын
Hi Tarun , how are you in the UK, I'm in Fremantle Western Australia, after seeing this video I pulled the trigger and brought one , question what settings modes did you like ? Filter on or off & oversampling on or off ? Really enjoy your videos cheers mate.
@abritishaudiophile7314 Жыл бұрын
Hi Karl, I have it set to positive phase (light on), with oversampling (light off) and using the slow filter (press mute, then mode with Opt light off). The unit will sound awful when new and needs a very long burn-in time. I talk about it in my recent Venus II review 😊 kzfaq.info/get/bejne/Y-CnZ89nnq6ncWQ.html
@karlhendricks8864 Жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 thanks Taran always appreciate your feedback and instructions easy for me to follow , and enjoy your content and the way you present you videos.
@chrisroselli2190 Жыл бұрын
Hello Tarun Doesn't the opt led off indicate sharp filter?
@filofilo81273 жыл бұрын
Good review as always Tarun. BTW I have been made aware that the Mission 770 Freedom is to be reissued. I had 770's through the 80's into the 2000's. Would be of interest if you get the opportunity to review them.....Cheers.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you filo. I appreciate the heads up 😊👍
@oliverbayani53012 жыл бұрын
Woo! What a smooth review. Will the Pontus 2 be overkill for the Whardfedale Evo 4.4 paired with a Cayin LA34?
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Oliver. You should be okay with the Ares II 😊👍
@oliverbayani53012 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks for the reply. Cheers! :)
@johanekelof29713 жыл бұрын
I ordered one last wednesday. Can't wait for it to arrive :)
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Please allow a decent run-in and then let me know how you get on 😊
@johanekelof29713 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Will do! Going to pair it with a Lumin U1 Mini streamer.
@johanekelof29713 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Forgot to tell you about the rest of the equipment. Audio Analogue AACento amplifier with PMC Twenty5.24 speakers on IsoAcoustics Gaia II.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@johanekelof2971 that is a very nice system you have there. I think the Pontus II will we a worthy addition 😊
@marcossousa48913 жыл бұрын
Hi Tarun Any chance you will test denafrips amplification? Would be amazing to hear your thoughts on products such as hestia and hyperion. Sounds like amazing value for money
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Hi Marcos, I have made plans to do that 😊👍
@sebastiandroguettpizarro95512 жыл бұрын
Hi ! Very good job with that review ! My current system it’s a Hegel H190 with sonus faber sonetto II , I listen from qobuz through Audirvāna , I’m thinking in buying the Pontus II , do you think I’m going to achieve a more natural sound and a better separation of instruments?
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Sebastian. I haven’t heard the Sonetto II as yet but the Pontus II is a significant upgrade over the internal DAC in the H190. However, you won’t get the best out of it unless you upgrade the amp and speakers down the line 😊👍
@ericelmore27429 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for your review. Trying to decide between Pontus 2 and the merason frerot with power supply. What unit would come out on top??I watch your review on frerot vs Aries 2 and with power supple added to frerot it came out on top.
@abritishaudiophile73149 ай бұрын
It would be close between the Pontus and Frerot + Pow1. They have slightly different presentation. That should be the determining factor 😊
@backrack013 жыл бұрын
Nice review. Short but sweet. :) Would a simple passive volume control be more than good to use with this(or even the aries)? A couple Side notes... I can't shake this feeling that denafrips will be coming out with updated Ares this yr. I've heard the Topping D70s is neck to neck with the ares II. It'd be nice to hear your opinion on that comparison...if u ever get a chance to get ur hands on the d70s.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you buddy. I would like to review the Topping D70. As for a passive preamp, it can be a good choice if you keep cable lengths to a minimum and if the upstream and downstream components have a good impedance ratio.
@siddharthakataki2 жыл бұрын
Bought one today based on your recommendation. amazing DAC. Wonder how Terminator would be like
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
That’s great. Thank you for letting me know. I hope for review more of their products. So hopefully will find out at some point 👍😊👍
@llee42253 жыл бұрын
Thanks for another excellent review. I enjoyed how you can delineate the nuances in sound differences that others just glean over. I have the Pontus 1+ (upgrades DSP) but without the PSU and other minor changes. It take several months before the unit "burn-in" to have a smoother and detailed top end. I don't have on hand other DAC of similar level to compare but it very much matches with description. I previously had a Hegel Rost and really love its treble where cymbals actually sounded like brass verse steel but not sure if that was due to the amplifier.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Hi Louie, thank you for watching and your kind words of support. Great to learn about your experiences. The Pontus II is quite an upgrade from the internal DAC in the Rost. Still I suspect that the symbols sounding like brass may be due to a problem elsewhere 😊👍
@petermartin94943 жыл бұрын
The difference between the Pontus and a Chord Mojo is night and day? Well, hell yes!
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Peter. The Mojo is a very good DAC and still awesome value 😊
@bjornlagerwall3 жыл бұрын
Great review! 🙏 I wonder how my old Hegel HD25 compares with the Pontus II. Have you heard it? Thank you for all excellent videos!
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Björn. I haven’t heard the HD25 😊👍
@vincemason22 жыл бұрын
Tarun, awesome review. Do you plan on reviewing the Denafrip Venus II ? Thank you.
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
Thank you Vincent. Very kind. I hope to do that soon 👍😊👍
@armandorancano64153 жыл бұрын
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 of loss, 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.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you Armando. Very much appreciated. I didn’t have them both here at the same time but my impression is that the Pontus II is tonally a touch cooler in presentation than the Ares II. The Pontus II is clearly a superior DAC which will shine if the rest of your system is up to the same standard. I think the extra touch of distortion in the Ares II probably masquerades as warmth. Ultimately, your decision should rest in whether you can compensate for the warmth that you desire in amplification. Good luck 😊👍
@armandorancano64153 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks so much for your feedback. I have a Willsenton R8 which provides plenty of warmth so I think it will be a go.
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
@@armandorancano6415 please let me know how you get on 😊👍
@armandorancano64152 жыл бұрын
@@abritishaudiophile7314 It's not as if other reviewers have not covered the Denafrips products and the Willsenton R8, but yours have been the ones that convinced me to take the plunge. Acting on your recommendations was possible because I had already acquired the Klipsch Forte IV and my rig had the resolving chops to make a proper evaluation of the gear possible. Still, it was a risk because Denafrips products cannot be returned. Only time will tell, but so far the responsiveness of Alvin and Vinshine, as well as the obvious quality of the products, exceeded my expectations. I won't relate my whole experience here but I am including a link to a writeup I offered Alvin for his web site. No exchange of favors. I can't write about something that does not make me feel strongly. I love to write as much as I like listening to music, and writing about products that not only meet but exceed expectations gives me great joy. Please check out the link below. It relates my journey following my query to you in the channel. I hope I can enjoy what I have for many years. Should my life be cut short, however, I smile knowing that I won't have to go gear hunting when I come back in a next life. If there isn't one, well, it's been more than worth it so far :) My remaining future purchase will be a Decware Zen Triode amp. It should arrive sometime in this life time :) I trust it will make the magic more complete. Cheers! www.denafrips.com/single-post/so-decision-points-ares-ii-or-pontus-ii
@abritishaudiophile73142 жыл бұрын
@@armandorancano6415 thank you for sharing the link Armando. I love your writing style, engaging, clear and free of jargon. I throughly enjoyed reading about your experiences with Denafrips products 👍😊👍
@brynybach77413 жыл бұрын
This one's obviously done the rounds a bit as it looked a bit grubby around all of the buttons. A bit of a shame really as it spoilt the image for me a bit. I have the Aries ll and have been thinking of upgrading to this. It obviously works in the same way as the Aries ll re the OS etc. Alas I can't seem to get mine to alter any of these settings. I'm using a optical Toslink so wonder if that has anything to do with it as I noticed your USB LED was lit up. You promised future video on connectors will be interesting. Keep up the good work, I always enjoy your videos.👍
@abritishaudiophile73143 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences 😊👍
@michaelmartin30262 жыл бұрын
Brilliant review as always, might be time to upgrade from the ares I I !