Denafrips Ares II DAC

Description

The Denafrips Ares II is one of the most influential digital-to-analog converters of the past decade in the affordable high-end audio market. Introduced as the successor to the original Ares, the Ares II brought true discrete R-2R ladder DAC technology to a price range previously dominated by delta-sigma chip-based designs. Its combination of robust construction, balanced architecture, extensive format support, and distinctly musical presentation quickly made it a favorite among audiophiles seeking a more analog-like digital experience.

Unlike conventional DACs that rely on integrated conversion chips, the Ares II uses a fully discrete resistor-ladder (R-2R) design with carefully matched precision resistors. Denafrips employs multiple resistor networks per channel in a true balanced configuration, along with FPGA-based digital processing and FIFO buffering to minimize jitter and timing errors. The DAC supports PCM resolutions up to 24-bit/1536 kHz and native DSD up to DSD1024 through its USB input. Users can select between oversampling (OS) and non-oversampling (NOS) modes, as well as different digital filter options to tailor the presentation to their tastes.

Sonically, the Ares II has earned a reputation for delivering a rich, natural, and engaging sound. Compared with many delta-sigma DACs, listeners frequently describe it as smoother and less analytical, with excellent tonal density and realistic timbre. The presentation tends to emphasize musical flow and coherence rather than spotlighting every detail. Soundstage reproduction is often praised for its depth and dimensionality, while bass performance is noted for its weight and texture.

Build quality is another strength. Despite its compact dimensions, the Ares II features a heavy aluminum chassis and a substantial internal linear power supply. Connectivity includes USB, dual coaxial inputs, dual optical inputs, balanced XLR outputs, and single-ended RCA outputs, making it easy to integrate into a variety of systems.

Many enthusiasts view the Ares II as an entry point into the world of high-end R-2R DACs. Its combination of performance and value has made it a common recommendation for listeners who find some modern DACs overly clinical or sterile. Even years after its introduction, it remains a benchmark against which many similarly priced DACs are compared.

Review Quotes

Home Theater HiFi

“The Denafrips Ares II DAC does sound different from the majority of DACs out there.”

Headfonics

“Wide and natural with defined layering and neutral tonality.”

HiFi Trends (via Denafrips)

“Warmer, romantic ‘tubey’ perspective to music.”

Audiophile Community Feedback

“The richness it brings to tone and timbre is wonderful.”

Product Specifications

• DAC Architecture: Fully discrete R-2R resistor ladder
• Configuration: True balanced design
• PCM Support: Up to 24-bit/1536 kHz
• DSD Support: Native DSD64 to DSD1024
• Digital Inputs:
  • USB Audio
  • 2 × Coaxial S/PDIF
  • 2 × Optical Toslink
• Analog Outputs:
  • Balanced XLR
  • Single-ended RCA
• Output Level:
  • 2.2 Vrms (RCA)
  • 4.4 Vrms (XLR)
• Operating Modes:
  • NOS (Non-Oversampling)
  • OS (Oversampling)
• Digital Filter Options:
  • Sharp
  • Slow
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Approximately 115 dB
• Dynamic Range: Greater than 119 dB
• Weight: Approximately 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg)
• Chassis: Heavy-gauge aluminum construction
• Internal Clocking: Femto-grade crystal oscillators with FIFO buffering

For listeners seeking a DAC that prioritizes tonal realism, musical engagement, and the distinctive character of R-2R conversion, the Denafrips Ares II remains one of the most respected and widely recommended options ever produced in its range.