"One of The Best R-2R DACs under $1000, Upgraded"
In celebration of DENAFRIPS's 12 years of exceptional digital audio expertise, the Ares 12th-1 Anniversary Edition incorporates highly sought-after features such as I²S input, a redesigned anodised aluminium chassis, and various performance enhancements.
If you're a music enthusiast who values high-quality, expressive, and analog-like sound, the Ares 12th-1 DAC could be a crucial component in your stereo audio setup.
FOUNDATION of GOOD SOUND
The Ares 12th-1 has been enhanced with an anodized aluminum chassis, now offered in both silver and black colors.
This highly desired option fulfills the preferences of potential customers who seek a DAC in a compact form factor, particularly with a silver color choice. Building upon the immense popularity of its predecessor, the Ares 12th-1 further elevates the already impressive build quality of the Ares 12th.
The Ares 12th-1 introduces a simplified AC main power socket. This change is not a cost-cutting measure but a deliberate choice.
DENAFRIPS has customized the AC mains power socket in-house using UPOCC gold-plated copper. As a firm advocate of high-quality power supply being the bedrock of superior sound, DENAFRIPS has opted for a non-switched AC mains socket in the Ares 12th-1.
This adjustment brings the Ares 12th-1 closer to achieving an exceptional level of perfection.
Alongside the UPOCC gold-plated AC mains socket, the Ares 12th-1 boasts an enhancement in the form of a 60VA O-Core Shielded Transformer. This transformer is meticulously crafted in-house by DENAFRIPS engineers, utilizing UPOCC copper.
The oversized 60VA O-Core Shielded Transformer delivers substantial power to the multi-stage linear power supply of the DAC. This improvement ensures that the Ares 12th-1 receives an abundant and stable power supply for optimal performance.
FOUNDATION of GOOD SOUND
Good quality power supply is the foundation of good sound
The Ares 12th-1 features an upgraded Linear Power Supply section, incorporating a capacitors bank branded with 'DENAFRIPS', OEM in accordance to DENAFRIPS specification for audio. On top of the constant current LDO Linear Regulators, a large heatsink is securely attached. To power the FPGA, modular USB module, and balanced R-2R Ladder Networks, eight multi-stage LDO Linear Regulators are employed.
DENAFRIPS meticulously hand-winds the oversized O-Core transformer in-house, incorporating multiple layers of copper shielding between the windings. This design choice effectively reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic fields (EMF).
ENHANCED FEATURES
The Ares 12th-1 offers the convenience of connecting to DENAFRIPS DDC (Digital-to-Digital Converter) and/or other compatible I²S transports, allowing users to maximize the benefits of the I²S connection.
This DAC operates as a non-oversampling R-2R DAC, ensuring that the signal fed to the DAC maintains its original sampling rate without any additional processing.
The Ares 12th-1 stays true to being a genuine NOS (Non-Oversampling) DAC, preserving the integrity of the audio signal without any alteration.
R-2R DAC for MUSIC LOVER
The Ares 12th-1 R-2R DAC is an ideal choice for music enthusiasts who possess a modest stereo audio system. Its remarkable capability to convey music with a profound emotional connection is truly awe-inspiring.
Experience the joy of rediscovering your music with the Ares 12th-1 DAC, finely tuned to deliver a rich analog tone.
FEATURED REVIEWS
(Ares II / Enyo)
HI-FI Trends: Highly Recommended!
I highly recommend it for those who have systems on the hyper-detailed side, I think it will be a good balance. I also recommend it for those who want a good representation of what R2R DACs have to offer without spending a boatload of cash. Highly Recommended!
Credit:
Paul Cash
Twittering Machines Favorite DACs
If you want excitement from your digital music, the ARES II does that. If you want natural beauty, the ARES II does that too. If you want to stop chasing bits and fretting over sampling rates, file formats, and DAC topologies, the ARES II offers a cure. Finally, if you want to sit down with your music and let the world slip away for an albums- or days- or weeks-worth of time, the Denafrips ARES II is your little red pill.
Credit:
Michael Lavorgna
Audiophilia Star Component Award
The Denafrips Ares II is a pretty incredible value at $750 (S$1028), it is a no-frills device with tank-like build quality and a natural analog sound signature that will please many digital-skeptics. A lot has been made about this DAC’s ability to punch above its weight, and I do think it sounds better than many competing units in and above its price bracket.
Credit:
MICHAEL JOHNSON @ Audiophilia
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel
Over the last decade ladder converters have drastically gained in popularity, especially in the higher price ranges. This Denafrips Ares II only costs about € 780 but still has a linear power supply, balanced outputs and even does PCM 1,536 kHz and DSD1024.
Credit:
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel
A British Audiophile - Outstanding Award
The Denafrips Ares II is a well reviewed and highly acclaimed DAC. In this video, I take a look and see what the fuss is about. I discuss the virtues and drawbacks of R2R DACs vs Delta-Sigma designs. I also share some technical insights about the Ares II which have not been in the public domain before.
Credit:
Tarun @ A British Audiophile
Five Stars & Alpha-Audio Approved Award
The little Denafrips Ares II looks very cute but surprised us by its mature presentation and versatility. You can choose the setting that best suits your setup and there are enough connections to connect multiple sources. It is built like a tank and is full of quality components. is a unique device that charms and intrigues. The Denafrips Ares II is truly a divine d/a converter!"
Credit:
GEOFFREY VANHOUWAERT
6moons ARES II DAC - Realsization Award
Let's try to refine the picture for Ares II. The comparison to a high-quality 2A3 SET is still spot on. Ares II has that luscious sweet midrange you'd expect, with a sunny treble to illuminate the soundstage without putting anything in a harsh light. It doesn't quite have the ephemeral lightness of a 45 SET but far more robust bass and it avoids the bloat and slowness of lesser 300B amps.
Credit:
Frederic Beudot @ 6moons
