Am I Spending $1800 on a DAC! Denafrips Pontus 2 Review

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Denafrips Pontus 2 www.denafrips.com/pontus
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Recommended Streamer
WIIM Mini amzn.to/33CL99w
Bluesound Node shop-links.co/cgGiqJ2UFIO
Recommended Speaker List
Around $100 (These prices will fluctuate between $75 - $150)
Sony SSCS5 - Lively amzn.to/3pZNnGk
Pioneer AJ First Gen - Laid Back
Neumi BS5 -Neutral amzn.to/3q0SR3B
Around $200
Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ - Crystal Clear and Punchy emotiva.com?aff=9
Elac Debut b5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/2WPNQxw
Wharfedale Diamond 11.2 (In and Out of Stock) - Laid Back/Bassy/Detailed amzn.to/37W8hPA
JBL Stage A130 - Neutral/Great All Arounder at $179 the best value amzn.to/3t7gOHe
Around $400
Klipsch RP600M - Neutral amzn.to/3pBoXCf (This speaker’s price can fluctuate between $440-630 which is really dumb)
Jamo C93ii Bit - Boosted on Top amzn.to/3beIG6F (Can also be found cheaper at Crutchfield)
Q Acoustics 3030i - Neutral with Punch - amzn.to/2OQkpLo
Around $500
SVS Prime bit.ly/2LozJgF
Wharfedale Diamond 12.2 bit.ly/2ZckoD9
Around $600
Elac Uni-Fi UB5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/3s3srPG
Elac Debut Reference - Buttery but Detailed amzn.to/39bt6WC
Polk Reserve R100 - Neutral
Aperion Novus - Neutral and probably the best desktop speaker one can get $599 bit.ly/2Q1H9rW
Aperion Novus Open Box $449 bit.ly/3us8zGx
Wharfedale Diamonds Lush and Detailed amzn.to/3aBAso0 Come as singles
Recommended Amp List
Under $100
Aiyima A07 - Neutral and Full amzn.to/3g9YLNf
Around $130
SMSL AD18 - DAC/Amp Lively on top but solid tone controls amzn.to/3rVZxkN
SMSL SA300 $140 amzn.to/3u83oLs
Around $250
SMSL DA-9 Balanced Amp amzn.to/34SdbLs
Around $400
Emotiva TA-100 - DAC, Phono Stage, Pre Outs - Balanced and Tasty emotiva.com?aff=9
Vista Audio Spark www.vista-audio.com/products.htm
Recommended DACs
FX D01 amzn.to/3d9GY6U
SMSL SU8s amzn.to/2SWTGiw
Denafrips Ares 2 www.denafrips.com/ares
Subs
Emotiva SE8 emotiva.com?aff=9
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SVS SB1000 Pro bit.ly/3scmwsc

Опубликовано:

3 авг 2024

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Комментарии : 483

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

Denafrips Pontus 2 www.denafrips.com/pontus ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------www.patreon.com/cheapaudioman ----patreon.com/cheapaudioman ----Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF ----Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt ----Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH ---amzn.to/3GkNaop ---CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K --apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P -massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5 -Amazon Unlimited Music and Disney Plus Free Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9

@Jack-oc2fc 2 года назад

I'm thinking about buying the Audiolab 6000CDT. Would you be interested in doing a review on it if I ship it to you? You can ship it back to me afterwards.

@danielprivate7442 2 года назад

Dynamic range of the Pontus 2 is 121dB. Pretty sure the best DACs in the world right now have a dynamic range of 125dB. So the Pontus is right up there. Funny side note: 121dB is 23dB shy of 144dB (the dynamic range of a 24 bit signal) So even the best DACs in the world don't/can't fully reproduce the dynamic range of a 24 bit signal. Not that it matters. I doubt you're listening to your music at a volume louder than a gunshot.

@waynesharaf6369 2 года назад

@Audio Jack, prime day,the 6000cdt on sale for $489 with an additional $150 off if you apply for the prime store credit card and are accepted!

@notguilty5802 Год назад

Hi Randy, for those of us who are truly on a tight budget, the price difference between a Gishelli J2 AKM vs the Denafrips Ares II is substantial. I understand that there are definitive differences between the chip delta sigma construct vs the R2R. That said, both you and almost all other content creators rave over the Gishelli J2 AKM matching or exceeding their $1,000 delta sigma counterparts. And, you comment in this video that the Gishelli is your second favorite DAC to the Ares II. So, is it possible you could do a dac to dac review between the two explaining why or why not the $500 price difference might be justified to us working audiophiles who need to hear it from the cheapaudioman? Thanks

@sleepyf1 2 года назад

Welcome down the rabbit hole Randy! I agree, you can get very good performance for not a lot of money. But when you start going high end, you get benefits such as detail without graininess, smooth even. Thats when music start to become special.

@Feliciano12v 2 года назад

Great review, I appreciate this as a Ares II owner. I like how you review more expensive gear from time to time to have more experience to be able to recommend cheaper alternatives.

@sainaveenbali Год назад

I also owe Ares ii but somehow I feel it has more relax on top end. just a bit more warmer on my Dali's

@tedkay5272 Месяц назад

Ares ii/Enyo owner also. Love it❤

@gregbartley2475 2 года назад

“Hi value” can apply to not so cheap equipment. You do you Randy, I appreciate your reviews for any and all components.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

I appreciate that!

@yayhoo8848 2 года назад

Yeah Randy is high value and not so cheap!

@joshuasterling2144 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman Comparative value is a thing we all can appreciate. I think under 2k for the front end components is about as high as many of us can go per item. That being said I dont mind reasonable aspirational gear to buy being shown as it lets us be informed about the most common reasonable step up from the sub grand market.

@lpspinners8736 2 года назад

Randy, I like your suggestuon for an Ares 3 DAC. Good video, BTW!

@salmonline 2 года назад

I paid $830 last week for the Aries ii. Got it 4 days later. Love the thing.

@rehanamutlagh9473 2 года назад

I got Pontus 2 with Hermes ddc and I can say when I listen to my music I’m on heaven with my kefR11 speakers insane details Cheers buddy:)

@pravahamassage1437 5 месяцев назад

Absolut killer combo. The hermes gets even more soundstage, smoother sound and better imaging out of the pontus 2. Always, if your system is resolving enough etc. Also recommend the I2S connecton. And Pontus 2 needs 200 h of Burn in. After that, absolut spectacular. Hermes plus Pontus: match in heaven.

@SparksFun 2 года назад

Agree the Pontus 2 is for better for higher end 2 channel systems. The I2S connection handles SACD as native DSD rather than PCM so if you have I2S outputs from your SACD player you will get DSD playback as the SACD signal is fully exposed.

@YTjuanchicod 11 месяцев назад

This dacs makes a big difference for headphones?

@guyboisvert66 6 месяцев назад

How do you come to the conclusion that "the Pontus II is for better for higher en 2 channel system" ? Do you think it's better than an SMSL SU-1? Why? And do you think you would you ear any difference in a blind test?

@tablameister 2 года назад

I bought the Denafrips Ares II (based in part on your review) and love it.

@ramonbmovies 2 года назад

This answers many of my questions about DACs in general. Good video!

@legrandgroves8560 2 года назад

I bought based on your ares 2 video, cost is 800+ USD for a while now. Very happy! Stopping here for now….😁

@newsboyaudio 2 года назад

I love your videos. Very good stuff Randy. As always.

@BobTrainor 2 года назад

I got the Pontus II in January. It had static in signal. I was like, WHAT?!? Contacted Vinshine (Denifrips) and they had me flash the USB with files downloaded from their website with my laptop. A bit of a pain, drivers were not signed and windows doesn’t like that anymore. Had to do special windows boot up. Got past that, but flash didn’t fix it. Dang! Then they sent me a new USB II board… the one that’s in the Terminator. 😎 Put that in (it was easy, plug and play) and now it sounds sublime. Took about 3 weeks to work it all out. Vinshine does support their products and they are very responsive. They had a guy in Buda TX send me the board FedEx. Good people. I LOVE this DAC!! I’m running it with: Willsenton R8 Stock tubes BlueSound node 2i Heresy IVs

@superdougie10 2 года назад

Excellent, thanks for the heads up and the value comparison's you offered.

@t0nyxgq 2 года назад

I've been waiting for this review!

@robk5745 Год назад

Just ordered an ares 2, thanks to you my man!

@michaelwright1602 2 года назад

Great review Randy! The Ares II was also a game changer for myself. The chip DACs were killing my ears. Yes, they sounded great, but after an hour or so, or even less, my ears were bleeding... They all sounded the same to me... And then I said screw it, I need to hear this Denafrips DAC everyone is raving about... It is magical, it allowed me to finally sit and enjoy my music. I enjoyed the Ares II so much, I bought their Iris DDC, Hades preamp and Thallo amplifier to go with my KLH Model 5 speakers. Time to upgrade to the Pontus II, and then my audio journey should be over. At least for awhile. Your take on the connections was spot on too, something folks should take into consideration. Keep up the GREAT work!

@Brian_Romska 2 года назад

Good job randy! I definitely have no interest in a dac that costs more than a few hundred bucks, but still nice to get your take on it, thanks again!

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

Thanks 👍

@andreasmoller9798 Год назад

It depends on the rest of your system if you have revealing system the denafrips ares and pontus can be good difference

@MadMaxx1977 2 года назад

I owned the Pontus II for about 6 months (Sept 2021 - March 2022). In all honesty, I couldn't tell any difference between it and my Topping D90 (non-MQA)... except for the price. I tried all kinds of tweaks, but nothing ever really made a difference to my ears. A few reviewers told me the real benefits of the P2 could be heard with headphones. After 5 years working in talk radio, I can't stand those things clamped on my dome now. I ended up selling both my P2 and D90. I bought the FiiO K9 Pro ESS and have been quite pleased with it. I think I'm done with dac shopping for a few years. Excellent video, mate!!

@izumispa2993 2 года назад

Well done. Your ears are spot on. I also have the Pontus 2 and also the Terminator Plus. Believe it or not, I prefer the Pontus a lot of the time… It has character, kicks ass!

@markfreedman2470 Год назад

Excellent video, it sounds like if one more willing to set up I2S with the Pontus in a true high end system it would make a big difference. In other words not really cheap audio. Keep up the good work.❤

@DavidArcher76 2 года назад

The Ares II has made me spend so much money on hifi. I like it more than other dacs. I like it more than the dacs in AVRs. So I have made a separate home theatre system and separate music listening system as a way to compromise and not get rid of my ares II dac. I like the noise elimination of the XLR connections so naturally I made a purifi amp to go with my lovely Ares II. All these separates and HT systems in the same area have given me a ground loop that I have finally solved but when it comes down to it I can make up reasons why I can change everything else except the Ares II dac. It makes my 15 year old paradigm monitor 7s sound so good.

@karolyfreyler5716 2 года назад

Nice review again, both was on my list, thanks for giving an exact opinion. I wish the Ares would have a BNC - british gear often have it, like my exposure 3010s2 cd player. J2 has a great look, hard to let the wooden case and the nice colora go :/

@goahead3995 2 года назад

I absolutely love my Pontus II. It's a game changer in my system. It replaced my Cambridge CXN v2.

@Jedi71 Год назад

Totally replaced the CXN v2? Or do you feed the Pontus II with the CXN v2? I have a CXN v2.

@Percival1919 Год назад

I was considering the CXN v2. But was told the Chord Qutest will sound more accurate

@juliancrun 2 года назад

Thanks for the video, I'm thinking of buying one of the two, but thanks, I'll buy the Ares II with the IRIS. All the best.

@RetroResurrectionAI 2 года назад

Thanks! Hey Randy great video as always, just FYI you can get a BNC to RCA adapter on Amazon for just a few bucks. Also if your using an RPI streamer you can get I2S from the 40 pin connector, so there you go just salved two of your connector issues LOL.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

Eddie! Thanks so much for your support. I did see that a BNC to RCA existed. Good to know

@grassnake7122 2 года назад

Hi, Just joined your channel, love all that you do, but I must say, you are a funny guy, I watch your channel for all the electrical goods but love the fun aspect you bring, great videos, 👍 👌 😀

@joshuaschneck 2 года назад

Nice review. Your British Audiophile buddy recommends I2S inputs coupled with a digital re-clocker like Denafrips Iris for best sound.

@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120 2 года назад

that looks like a BMF !! 😆 me Burson Composer is my favorite dac love rolling 4x dual discrete op-amps lets me fine to the sound ! And its a PreAmp with a REMOTE !! great job thanks Ran the audio man

@lanx0003 2 года назад

Wow, the cheap audio man is no longer cheap. Super high quality DAC shoot out. Thank you.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

well I'm doing a $200 dac amp tomorrow... so yeah. let me know your recommendations on new names.

@shipsahoy1793 2 года назад

That summary was spot on.. Shouldn’t be shy on RCA coaxial connections for sure. Connections seem to be an issue on a lot of equipment these days; missing receptacles, missing tape loops, pre-outs missing main ins missing, the list goes on and on. It’s all part of that over exaggerated effort to minimize the audio chain and associated costs that can be marketing blurbed away. The manufacturers assume they know what the average customer is looking for at every price point or want you to spend more on the next level up. The consumer is constantly assaulted and insulted by what the capitalist market will bear to maximize profit margin and only giving the illusion of value to the customer, not actual value. Sometimes they get it right, but it’s not the common occurrence, and if it happens, it doesn’t stay that way for a long!

@NosEL34 2 года назад

Man ain't that the truth!

@ThayneHardy 2 года назад

I have had the Denafrips Pontus II for 8 months now. It's been wonderful. I have it hooked up to a Soundaware D300 streamer (Roon endpoint) via the I2S (HDMI) cable. The pinout is compatible. This combination works so well sonically. It's wonderful detail in the upper registers with rich full bass in the lower end.

@Lauren080508 2 года назад

"This combination works so well sonically. It's wonderful detail in the upper registers with rich full bass in the lower end." compared to what?

@izumispa2993 2 года назад

Why do you need a comparison? Take it at face value, after all, it’s an opinion, not a lab test, sheet.

@Lauren080508 2 года назад

@@izumispa2993 because what you are claiming to hear is not humanly possible, that is why.

@tommccarthy3385 2 года назад

@@Lauren080508 Which measurements capture imaging ability or realism in tone?

@Lauren080508 2 года назад

@@tommccarthy3385 realism...dynamic range, imaging mostly depends on the headphone or speakers you are using, and that is true, imaging can not be measured well....yet. but telling me a human ear can measure sound better than a precise electronic devices?. please

@Keithwithfever 2 года назад

I went to Denafrips to buy the Ares II after watching your review a while ago. It was out of stock so I stepped up to the Pontus II. Holy schiit! My jaw was dropped and stayed on the floor for a month at least. I was using the DAC in the Bluesound Node with NAD C298 power amp and KEF LS50. The difference Pontus II made was even bigger than my last speakers upgrade (from Elac Debut Reference). I had no idea DAC can make big differences like this. But I agree with your take on the available inputs. They should take out at least one AES input for another optical.

@michaelwright1602 2 года назад

It was shocking, I should have bought the Pontus right out of the gate too... I kick myself now, but will order one here in a few weeks. The Ares II totally changed how I listen to, and enjoy music. It was that profound.

@Keithwithfever 2 года назад

@@michaelwright1602 Haha I don't know about upgrading from Ares to Ponus. Maybe you should go higher haha.

@johnratcliffe6438 Год назад

@@michaelwright1602 I bought Ares II and Iris two weeks ago and am disappointed. Flat image, not enough resolution or detail. Trying to decide whether to replace with Pontus or Yggy LiM.

@Woofy-tm8si 2 года назад

Ya got bit by the bug! I've been enjoying the heck out of my Pontus II DAC with Iris DDC combo connected by I²S for a few months. My previous digital front end was an Oppo UDP-205 universal disc player with ESS 9038 chipset which is a fine performer. Give the Pontus II / Iris about 6 weeks to burn in. Between 4 and 6 weeks the sound transforms dramatically for the better. By far worth the difference in price from the Ares II.

@officerockstar 2 года назад

I recently, April 2022, purchased the Ares II and the price was $878 U.S. in total. It used to be $750 or so but those days are over. It’s nearly $900 now. I’ve also had buffer overrun issues with the optical connections resulting in occasional pops, similar to a vinyl pop. The solution was to switch to USB, which wasn’t my preferred method. The Ares II is very enjoyable to listen to and since there is no return policy I’ll be keeping it. Just wanted to share some additional real-world experience that it’s nearly $900 and the optical connections can have issues depending on your source. Thanks and keep up the good work.

@CriPPleR_HD 2 года назад

Now that you are reviewing in the $1800 range we need the cheapaudioman take on the Chord Qutest. Love Denafrips Ares 2 on my speaker setup but picked up a Qutest for my headphone set up. Of corse I had to try it on my speakers… Two examples of dacs making a big positive difference, while at the same time sounding completely different than each other.

@pietossing Год назад

I have a qutest on my headphone setup and adore it.

@aidanpallister7784 2 года назад

Great review as always Randy. What do you normally use as a streaming source with a DAC like the Aries II?

@stevefick3919 2 года назад

I have a PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC and I love it. I haven't heard any Denafrips products, but they get great reviews.

@christian2123 2 года назад

Nothing wrong with covering some aspirational gear from time to time! I love the shark week analogy. Part of enjoying your channel is living vicariously through you and hearing about the gear that comes through your door. You've always stayed grounded in the approach to reviewing more costly gear with a "but is it worth it" perspective. Invest once is my philosophy. If it's that good and you get many years of enjoyment out of it then you're in a better place than spending less and chasing better sound by turning your gear over more frequently.

@cruise2023 2 года назад

One benefit of the Pontus II over the Ares II is the i2s connection. Not found on cheaper Dac's. A lot of people will not need it or use it. BUT! If you are into SACD's then the benefit is great. CD/SACD stand alone players play cds and can be hooked up with external dac's, SACD playback is subjected to be played only through the unit and not an external dac or maybe so! Enters the Oppo bdp-105D with HDMI out, cabling hdmi to i2s to i2s input on the Pontus II and here we go it takes the SACD playback to another level of sound. Must admit I have not heard it myself so ! I have the Oppo hooked up to RME adi-2 fs dac ( which does not have the i2s connection ) The i2s could be for some regarding SACD a revelation ! Would be worth a look/listen if you still have the Pontus II on hand, compare the the two. regards.

@tedkay5272 Месяц назад

"I have not heard it myself." 😂😂😂

@papschmear 2 года назад

I have been in debates over the ares 2 or pontus 2..... you've come at a great time

@ginom407 2 года назад

Thank you for this review Randy. I enjoy your channel for value oriented audio gear. But I also enjoy other channels that review the higher end. I may never buy, but I enjoy a little window shopping. Keep up the great work! 👍👍👍

@welderfixer 2 года назад

I agree 100%. It seems Randy is have great fun tasting all of the goodies. Like a kid in a candy store. I'm envious. Have a great day Gino!

@ginom407 2 года назад

@@welderfixer 👍

@4thewinir344 2 года назад

Randy, you represent an honest “see both sides” point of view, which is getting rarer by the hour in this divided world we inhabit. I began and have stuck with your channel as you’ve grown, and it’s been great to see. You have been an Everyman Audiophile and refreshingly not disconnected from middle-class father reality, well, until spending $1800 on a DAC is suggested as significant audio system ‘value’. Where most people wouldn’t spend that on a set of SPEAKERS, arguably the most important piece, I can’t relate in the slightest. The DIY CSS Critons, which I bought due to your enthusiasm-they are truly awesome and have brought incredible improvement and joy - for HALF of what this DAC costs. I’m sorry, it’s in the 1% realm with expensive cables, risers and power conditioners. Your loyalty and passion for the Aries II was already on the high end. It’s unfortunate to see, but this looks more like you are trying to grow beyond the confines of the original CheapAudioMan. By seriously reviewing this segment of gear, you’re potentially risking alienation of the ‘value’ crowd that has supported you channel. IMO, $1800 DAC’s are better suited for 70k Ron at NRD.

@waynesharaf6369 2 года назад

Hi Randy, saw your comparo for ares II and Pontus II. Re: optical connections, I have used optic splitters that solve the problem of having only 1 toslink input on the dac . They are inexpensive. BTW, I purchased Heresy IV's because they are smallish and Don't block my windows. They do however require a subwoofer.

@veniceog 2 года назад

A friend of mine lent me the Pontus II to listen to and compare to my Ares II. The Pontus II is better. I am going to live with the Ares after returning the Pontus. Not sure how long I’ll last. One youve heard greatness, its hard to unhear.

@TheRsxer63 2 года назад

I just got my Pontus ii and I love it.

@JoeGsPizza 2 года назад

Great review, as always. Thanks for talking me back down to just wanting the Ares II.

@YouSoundButtHurt 2 года назад

Nice review! I have a SMSL DO200 fed from an ipad air to my Rogue Cronus Magnum III. I'm thinking of going for an Ares II to see what all the excitement is about. My system sounds pretty good but I'm always chasing that rabbit.

@thirdkey9 2 года назад

I agree that the point of diminishing returns may edge in for some here. My listening to a friend’s Pontus and the Ares2 is part of what motivated me to purchase the Ares 2……standing as the most significant and pleasurable DAC upgrade I’ve had in years. The thing is built like a tank though I just could not get motivated enough during critical listening to thrown in for the Pontus….instead electing for a balanced pre-amp to pair with the Ares.

@robskinnershow 2 года назад

Hi Randy. Love your videos. Hoping you can help me with some thoughts on how next to upgrade my system. Currently I am using the Bluesound Node --> Rega Elex-R --> Elac Uni-Fi UB52. What would you recommend to add next? We have a very similar taste in music. I would appreciate your help. Cheers.

@cabronesse386 2 года назад

Using DAC's I2S connected to DDC's I2S is the biggest jump on the SQ of the digital audio realm, hands down. It took proper pairing and good literacy of audio gears used though.

@YTjuanchicod 11 месяцев назад

Why do you think that? Did you think this makes a difference also for headphones?

@insurrectionindustries1706 2 года назад

I actually use the Pontus 2, and the balanced output really helped get the best out of my system in very real ways. The output voltage was much better for my pre-amp which is low gain, and overall made my system work much better together.

@Lauren080508 2 года назад

could you give an objective proof of your claim?

@insurrectionindustries1706 2 года назад

@@Lauren080508 . I am just referring to the fact that the balanced output voltage is close to 4.4 volts which is about double the unbalanced voltage. That is helpful for my Schiit freya plus which has unity gain (O db) on the solid state output stage. Simply matches better with the freya or other low gain balanced preamps. Wouldn’t be needed with a more typical 10-14db of gain but nice for my situation.

@Lauren080508 2 года назад

@@insurrectionindustries1706 I see , I understand your logic, but at the end , will it make a discernible difference in your music, I have a feeling will not, but you could prove me wrong

@insurrectionindustries1706 2 года назад

Yes, the difference is not subtle, but that is simply due to my system and the specific voltage gain, input and output impedances of my components. These are real engineering factors that change the way my system operates which is clearly audible, but for people with different equipment such an integrated amp it would likely make no difference at all. It’s just important to know how components interact with each other

@craigrobertson9667 2 года назад

The BNC connector input is electrically the same as the S/PDIF RCA, you can just put an RCA to BNC adaptor on the end of your cable and be good to go.

@richarddecarolis7178 2 года назад

Realize that for a couple of bucks, you can get an RCA to BNC adaptor, so you can have an additional SPIDF connection...just sayn'... and yes, I love my Pontus 2...

@nacarp2000 2 года назад

Love my Pontus II also. You are right, you still get 2 coax inputs, one is on BNC, but you can get an rca-bnc adaptor for a few bucks, or use a coaxial cable with rca on one end and BNC on the other end. All you are losing is one optical input for 2 aes inputs and importantly for me an I2S input I use for SACD from my Oppo via a $60 HDMI to I2S breakout box.

@74Martinho74 2 года назад

hey i´m randy and i was the cheap audio man

@scotto541 2 года назад

As an avid viewer here, I don't mind the expensive reviews as long as they don't take over, And as long as Randy reminds people that these reviews help with perspective. One can know how much value one gets from cheap audio better if they know how it compares to expensive equipment.

@MrRamperez01 2 года назад

On a side note, can’t wait to hear your take on the new Klipsch RP-600M II.

@digitalmediaproductions7976 9 месяцев назад

Hey man I really enjoy your videos. Question, can you plug the DAC to the computer, then use line level inputs to plug to amp? Or does the amp need a USB input for direct audio signal?

@SuperBoobooman 2 года назад

Bought the SMSL SA300 DAC/AMP after watching your video, and found a pair of Yamaha NS-10m sitting on a shelf in my parents garage, powers them nicely. Would love to see these iconic studio speakers reviewed and why they are so popular in studio! Thanks for the content

@Jon-nz3dm 2 года назад

Yamaha's are so popular in studios because all studios have them and know their sound. It's more about consistency and familiarity, not quality. They are actually not great if you're just looking for neutral, but if you are familiar with them you can go to another studio where they have them and still make a mix that sounds good. If every studio had different monitors it would be harder for folks to work elsewhere and get the same results.

@SuperBoobooman 2 года назад

@@Jon-nz3dm that makes sense for consistency, thanks

@iggythechamp 2 года назад

I replaced a Mytek Brooklyn Dac with the Pontus ii a few months ago. The Pontus let’s digital music sound like Analog. Lush soundstage. Vocals are clear yet non fatiguing. I find myself sitting and Listening to multiple albums . The Mytek was a great versatile machine. But, in no way is the sound signature comparable. I’m sure I’ll pony up the $ for the Terminator ii . But for now, I’m completely happy with the Pontus.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

Felt exactly the same way about the ares compared to everything else I had heard

@shitsandwich1983 2 года назад

i use a mytek liberty dac but want my next dac to be denafrips or chord. this is good info. thanks.

@johnratcliffe6438 Год назад

@@cheapaudioman I find my new Ares II with Iris DDC to be completely underwhelming. Disappointing.

@YTjuanchicod 11 месяцев назад

@@johnratcliffe6438really?

@CinemaDemocratica Год назад

There's one other DAC technology that merits a mention, in addition to R2R and Delta-Sigma, and that's the "Ring-DAC" technology. Trouble is, the cheapest Ring-DAC available these days is, like, $12,000. The last affordable one that I'm aware of was in the Arcam FMJ CD23, which retailed for about $2500 and doesn't have a digital input.

@shipsahoy1793 Год назад

Randy, you bring up a bit a good point; when these dacs get more expensive, they should have more coaxial and even optical input connection options (like the J2).

@TheBababa420 2 года назад

Randy the "NOT SO CHEAP AUDIO MAN" .

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

there it is. you were the first one to comment that. Only took 7 minutes

@markc5677 2 года назад

That's what happens now that he's a big wig with his 100k+ subscribers.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

Yup sold out for the expensive stuff that doesn’t have affiliate links. It’s a bold strategy. Going to see how it works

@TheBababa420 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman In all fairness you did mention 12 $ DACs. Wishing you much sucess with the channel. I do enjoy it..

@davdidit6 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman that made me chuckle

@paulschafer49 2 года назад

Appreciate your insights Randy. Do you think a higher end DAC (like the Ares 2 or Pontus 2) has as much affect on the sound of music from CDs as it does for the sound of music that is streamed? I ask because I spend much more of my listening time on CDs than on streaming.

@rangerscoach Год назад

I really think you’ll love it. I have a bryston bcd 1 and the Pontus to me just smokes it

@Terry12345 2 года назад

I owned a Denafrips Pontus II for a short while. I had an Aris II then bought a HiFi Rose RS250 streamer with the intention of running it through the Aris II but the internal dac on RS250 was just better and by a good margin. The Aris II was sold but after awhile the upgrade bug struck again and the logical upgrade was the Pontus II. After it arrived I was amazed by RS250 again. The Pontus II seem to present a wider Soundstage but the RS250 internal dac presented a smoother more detailed sound. I was shocked and the Pontus was sold. The Pontus II is a stunningly beautiful piece of kit but the RS250 is well thought out and hard to beat in the dac department.

@momtazularefin Год назад

I own the Pontus II also for over a year now and I can't agree more! Pontus II sharpens up the signal, it is not apparently bright, but the audio loses relaxed balanced presentation. I have a very transparent system and Pontus II has made everything worse. Thinking of adding Schiit Freya + and engage in tube rolling to fix the problem.

@momtazularefin Год назад

Update: after applying room correction in HQPlayer, overall sound signature improved to some extent, it's now more natural and less edgy....

@robertwoodward9231 2 года назад

I have been thinking about exactly what you are discussing here Randy and I didn't know much about them. I'm mostly a record guy and I got the Zen you like but I have so many great cds too. So if I'm listening to cds, I leave on digital or is it auto switched to analog? Really good show bro. Oh and you gave me the go on the speakers to get when on your last chat and your desert island gear. Just might take awhile. Thanks.

@AudioExplorer 2 года назад

Excellent, I was thinking about going Pontus II for the I2S connection. I’m considering the Jayz Audio transport, compatible with Pontus I2S. But I’m going in now knowing that the improvement will not be day and night. Defining value is very valuable!

@alphaniner3770 2 года назад

my bet is that if the difference would be day and night, why would one design a machine with several different inputs to start with. - but if you go for a Jays Audio transport (they just released a flagship new model), then I think at that price point it is a bit of a waste at that level not to utilize the I2S output. You could consider the Musician Pegasus - that is priced between the Pontus and Ares, has I2S that matches the Jays and comes from the Denafrips factory anyway.

@chuckjones1477 2 года назад

Randy, I don’t base my hifi purchases on the law of diminishing returns. It’s my belief that when you are seriously involved in a hobby *everything you’re doing and buying* is beyond the law of diminishing returns. That’s what a hobby is! It’s basically the definition of “hobby.” I love what you do because we hobbyists have budgets-often limited-and we want to get the best sound we can within our budgets. But, once we are considering, say, a pair of speakers that cost $1000, we’re beyond limited returns. From there on it’s a set of purchases that a non-hobbyist who goes into Target for a sound bar will never understand.

@absolutium 2 года назад

Law of diminishing returns has an essential aspect to it.. Time. Ideally your chosen 1000usd speakers punch above its price but.. if those perform just as good as 750 usd speakers but can do it for twice the time.. well you got a winner.

@PlaybackMansion 2 года назад

Great Video!!

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

thanks, brother

@bretspangler8717 2 года назад

There is a digital volume control in the Denafrips application, you may need a firmware update to activate it.

@Emilg5 2 года назад

Try using the DSD processor in foobar to upsample ripped cds to DSD512 and on to the Pontus. It makes even mediocre cds sound really good in non upsampling mode and with upsampling, amazing. No need for big bucks high rez files when upsampled stock cds smokes most of them...

@tggonzales7971 2 года назад

Aries II is a just a bit south of $850 with the way the dollar has been fluctuating lately. Worth every penny, like Randy says, it will reset your brain to what great audio should sound like

@keeferdog5617 Год назад

I asked Alvin (@Vinshine Audio) to install a second rca coax on CO2 and pull the bnc rca connector. Done. My Pontus ll arrived from China with two rca coax connections. No biggie. Yes, the Pontus is worth the extra cabbage vs an Ares ll in a good audiophile 2 channel system. Desktop, headphone dudes will want the smaller footprint of the Ares. Yes, it’s a kick-ass dac for the cash…whos got the stash.

@hsinkai1557 23 дня назад

The best review ever

@markcarrington8565 2 года назад

Hey Randy, nice review. I think it’s fair to say most people don’t have 2k to spend on a DAC. The folks that do are probably the kind who seek the best sources and digital processing. So that would be a dedicated streamer and perhaps a digital to digital converter (eg. Denafrips Gaia) to reclock the signal using the I2S (usually I squared S btw). By the time you get to the amp, you’re probably up to 5k spend. The only input they’re likely to use optical on would be the TV, as that’s generally all they got. It’s the worst option. So I would say Denafrips knows its customers’ needs and provides the optimum inputs for the market segment.

@Nic4433 2 года назад

I recently got an Ares II based on your review of it and I love it! I paired it with a Schiit audio Jotunheim 2 amp and I am very happy with the combo. Music is crystal clear and detailed.

@michaelwright1602 2 года назад

It was a true "Game Changer" to my ears too... The Ares II replaced the Schiit Gungnir.

@tommorrison9724 2 года назад

Denafrips' power supplies and R2R ladder network structures are a killer combo. The connection options are a puzzle, though.

@andreisopu 2 года назад

Happy with my E30 but I like your take on expensive gear, keep it up 👍 ignore the haters, why wouldn't you want to know how expensive stuff compares to cheaper?!

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

appreciate that

@hypnoz7871 2 года назад

Because they have been measured. Expensive DACs are snake oil/placebo, many scientific test have concluded that you can't differenciate them in a blind test. Measurements also show this again and again.

@andreisopu 2 года назад

@@hypnoz7871 I appreciate measurements too, like I said I use Topping E30 which is objectively a great DAC and to me it sounds great. But there are other channels for objective/measurement reviews (which I also follow, maybe even more), but I don't come here expecting that.

@keithjohnson2863 2 года назад

My current DAC is the Topping D90 (original version, $700 at time of purchase). I love it for the detail, I listen for barely audible sounds and instruments and the D90 delivers. I have been watching a lot of Denefrips reviews. I get the impression that I would need to get the Pontus II to match the detail of the D90, do you concur? By the way, I have 2 USB sources, my laptop connects directly the USB input on the D90. My mobile player connects to an inexpensive (relative to high end) USB interface (DoukAudio U2 Pro, $56 at time of purchase). I use the IIS output from that to connect to the D90.

@robertorodriguez2609 2 года назад

I remember when stand alone DACs, in boxes as big as a 200 wpc amp, were sold for 2k and more in the 90s. to pay 2k for a dac in this age and day is the zenith of m-o-r-o-n-e-r-y 😁

@bobb.9917 2 года назад

Not if you have a system where you can hear the improvements that this R2R DAC offers. It’s the zenith of ENJOYMENT! 😎

@mopnem 11 месяцев назад

Whenever I watch this channels vids,He always takes forever to get to the actual review.. he’s literally taking the time to explain what a Dac is for a Dac at this price range, like? But at least he has time clips

@Hypofx 2 года назад

agree im using with a denafrips Athena and a Kinki M7 Pontus II great value

@robertwilliams1215 2 года назад

Is Randy going to become the NOT SO - Cheapaudioman? Like seeing a little change from the norm!!

@jamesmachado8874 Год назад

Killer transports have the AES output, allowing the user to place the DAC at a much longer distance without signal loss it is like having a balanced connection. The Pontis is the better choice if you think you will also do a transport upgrade. I have the Pontis and Jay's audio transport a great pairing but there are many other great combinations as well.

@michaelstaruszkiewicz8798 2 года назад

Denafrips makes great gear, just WAY Out of my Price Bracket; I'm happily running a SMSL SU-9 which was $440 US since I was an early adopter. It feeds my single-ended Tube Amp while my balanced output feeds my Schiit Amplifier & NAD Receiver: Sundara & Mangird Tea headphones & Linn Kan Mk.1 Stand Speakers with SVS 3000 Micro Subwoofer. Keep up the Great Work! Mahalo.

@Ezees23 2 года назад

The Su-9 is a great value DAC. It's a few steps up from the entry level DACs in resolution, smoothness, and SQ presentation while not falling substantially behind DACs near $1K. I have it feeding my Gustard H20 hp amp driving HFM Arya SEs. It's a good value option still, IMO.

@JaapBol 2 года назад

It is called I Squared S ... Like your videos and attitude btw 👍

@a.j9645 2 года назад

As Brian Romska (from a really cool country I guess!!?🙂) wrote earlier.. This is too expensive for my taste! But... I love the review and video anyway. We are not here only to find cheap good stuff. We love hifi and its (in my opinion) very cool to see some more high end stuff once in a while🙂 This dac costs as much as my main system atm, but hey! I. Am. Climbing! 😁🇸🇪

@Brian_Romska 2 года назад

Yay!

@nesutoneko 2 года назад

I have a Schiit Gungnir Multibit and the Pontus 2 is the one DAC that keeps tempting me... never having heard a Denafrips, I have no idea how it would compare - but I've considered ordering A Pontus 2 many times!

@lazzzzze1 Год назад

19:28 There is a "Ares III" now called the Ares 12th. Look forward to hear your opinion on it.

@Hirnlego999 2 года назад

Decided to get the new SMSL DO100, performs almost as great as Topping D90

@JoshFisher567 2 года назад

I2s sounds like a headache considering there is no standard and the fact that they are pinned differently. I ended up with the Gheshelli J2 with the Padauk wood and clear plastic similar to the one you showed but different wood. Couldn't be happier. I had an iFi but returned it for the J2. Combined with the SMSL SA400, which is more power than I need but that's never a bad thing IMO. Not sure why SMSL set the fan to not kick in until it reaches 65C which is HOT. Lucky if you go into the service menu you can change this. I set it to 52C. After long sessions, it stays at 54/55C, which is much better as computer CPUs start throttling at 60C so unsure why SMSL set the fan out of the box to not kick in until 65C. For speakers, I got the ELAC Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52 Bookshelf Speakers. Just checked and they are 30 percent off on Amazon (489) which is a very good deal. They do need break in time but once they do, the balance and imaging is amazing. For movies/TV I have the Sony HT-A7000, 300W wireless sub, and the new rears which are just 2 smaller 90W A9's that can run on battery for 10 hours or 90 minutes on a 10 minute charge. As you can imagine, speaker placement is amazing due to true wireless and they can be calibrated with a push of a button. I have an optical cord going from my Samsung to the Gheshelli DAC. This way I can. Use them with movies/TV after 0laying around with the delays so everything is in synch. The Sony setup by itself sound amazing for the few 5.1 SACDs I have but for stereo sou d the Elac's win every day of the week. Both the Elac's and Gheshelli we're purchased based.on your recommendation and I couldn't be happier with the combo.

@user-ml4xh9fh7q 3 месяца назад

It not a headache at all if you use a Denafrips DDC then there won't be any problems at all. It only becomes complicated if you're using another piece of equipment that doesn't use I2s-A for the HDMI port or I2s-C for the RJ-45 port.

@xstensl8823 Год назад

you can get a BNC converter and run coax. i use the second for home theater.

@billywindsock9597 2 года назад

Good to see the Sith Audio sales team over your shoulder.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

we had a meeting after the video

@andrewmervynscott 11 месяцев назад

You have a Parker Hannifin mug. That's where I work. Caught my eye for sure.

@jonsays3762 2 года назад

Thanks for the 411z. I’d love to try one, but I can’t do without a remote. Yes, I walk the dogs a mile and a half 5 days a week, but I can’t live without the convenience. I have the same problem with SVS soundbase, and am looking to get rid of it cheaply. Also… the quake theme in your transitions isn’t doing you any flavors. :p Here’s yer upthumb.

@kurt120032002 2 года назад

since you mentioned "end game" I must say I also asked myself, right from the beginning, where do I stop, at what point I say "this is it" and I am happy with my system. So obviously I defined to myself how do I want my music to sound, but also that can't be it, because there is no end to better gear, so for me personally (I want to stress out that this is for me) I want my gear to be interesting. First nothing made in China. everyone has Chinese products, thank you very much. 2nd I want it to be crazy, maybe a speaker amp for headphones, something with outside source, something with VU meters like SPL, 3rd Whatever I choose it need to be built with intend. what that means? it means the people who engineered that needs to have had a goal in mind, and that product to be the closest they got in that regard. A product that stood mostly unchanged for a long time on the market, like Chord products, like SPL, RME, Sibelius, Rockna. Not something Hifiman lower headphones or AudioGD, that changes every single year. Maybe this will help someone define their own rules for the end game and not go endlessly for a better gear. I now got a Chord Qtest and it would have been an end game dac for me if it wasn't for the Rockna Wavelight. I know it is not remotely the same thing, but I can't pass to have a good item hand made in my own country, but if Rockna would have been build anywhere else... Qtest would have been my end game dac.

@beslemeto Год назад

Well i am happy you found the Geshelli DAC for much cheaper price ;)

@tommccarthy3385 2 года назад

I do wish the Pontus had another coax out or, in the alternative, that my Node 2i had a USB out (I hear the new Node got USB output capability through a firmware update. Not the 2i, evidently). On the other hand, USB + coax + optical + I2S on the Pontus is probably sufficient for most people. The one aspect of the review that surprised me was that you didn't find much difference between the Pontus and the Ares. I haven't heard the Ares so I can't weigh in myself, but most reviewers who've heard both (e.g., Tarun/A British Audiophile, Darko) thought the Pontus was a real step up.

@nelsono4315 Год назад

the Pontus 2 has gotten rave reviews all over. $1800 is not that bad. Unfortunately my low budget ass remains happy with the Geshelli Labs DAC paired with the Cambridge CXC CD transport. Another excellent review.

@tomat4135 2 года назад

FINALLY! someone on youtube pronouncing i-two-s correctly (in my book anyway) As an ee and product designer of pa/communication gear we (the ee community) have called it i2s for decades.. My heart is overflowing with joy every time you say i2s. Thank you, Randy!

@RetroResurrectionAI 2 года назад

From Wikipedia: I²S (Inter-IC Sound, pronounced "eye-squared-ess"), is an electrical serial bus interface standard used for connecting digital audio devices together. It is used to communicate PCM audio data between integrated circuits in an electronic device. The I²S bus separates clock and serial data signals, resulting in simpler receivers than those required for asynchronous communications systems that need to recover the clock from the data stream. Alternatively I²S is spelled I2S (pronounced eye-two-ess) or IIS (pronounced eye-eye-ess). Despite the similar name, I²S is unrelated to the bidirectional I²C (IIC) bus. But call it what you want tomato potato lol.