Help Choose between Dacs

Audio Gear Talk
1

We like the Denafrips sound but can’t demo them in Ireland.

We have the funds to purchase either the 12th Anniversary Ares II or 12th Anniversary Pontus II. But are trying to decide if the extra €1000 will be money well spent on our system.

Background:

  • Gave up a very hi end system 10 years ago (burnt out on upgradeist)
  • Currently
    • Only listen to 16/44.1 from Qobuz via Roon
    • Latest Bluesound Node
    • Rega Elec-R integrated amp
    • Dali Opiticon 6 mk 2 speakers
    • Room very well controlled with acoustic panels
  • Only wish to get the Dac up to the level of the Rega and Dali

With this price range system, and no plan for future upgrades, would you suggest the Ares ii or Pontus ii as the best-balanced system.

2

I personally found the pontus far too soft and rolled off, an honest sound it wasn’t. Was like the equivalent of audio syrup, too sickly sweet to actually enjoy. The ares may be less inclined that way, but if you’re looking for something more neutral, id suggest neither is what you want

3

David, Would you have a suggestion for my little system?

4

I have heard the Ares II and did a comparison against the Schiit Bifrost 2/64 and the Mojo 2. The Ares felt a little soft and less dynamic.

Of the 3, I preferred the Bifrost 2/64 and the Mojo 2. When I was back in the UK, I picked up the Mojo 2 at around £500. Unbeatable at that price.

I will also say that DACs make a minor difference in comparison to the amp and speakers. I would look to spend that extra €1000 on a real nice set of headphones or even saving it.

I heard the Rega amp the other day on some Kef R3 Meta, was very impressed with it.

1 Like
5

I had a matrix audio element I…… although I’ve now ended up replacing with a chord Hugo TT, I remain unconvinced it’s a huge step. I’d suggest a matrix dac of any kind is probably about as good as dacs need to get, the Element I was about as neutral as a very neutral thing.

6

It always amazes me to see how many peoples replies dont actually answers the question from TS. That said, i currently own the Ares 2 which is just epic and currently looking into the Pontus 2 because the Ares 2 is just soo good. So havent heard it yet. But since the resale value is still good of the Ares 2 i would recommend going for the Ares 2. If you love it just keep it and stay there. You already said you gave up on upgrades so why start again. The Ares 2 is just awesome and yes the Pontus 2 will be better but the Terminator would be better then that… where does it end :wink: Good luck

for more then half a year now, upgrade from the SMSL SU-8S which was already an impressive