Denafrips

The DENAFRIPS Ares 15th Anniversary Edition is a discrete R-2R ladder DAC that serves as the entry-level model in the company’s product lineup. It builds upon the original Ares and Ares II models, incorporating technical and cosmetic refinements aimed at improving performance and compatibility.

Technical Specifications:

• DAC Type: R-2R (resistor ladder), fully discrete design

• Architecture: True balanced, dual-DSP, dual R-2R network

• Supported Formats:

  • PCM: Up to 24-bit / 1536kHz

  • DSD: Native DSD up to DSD1024 (USB and I²S inputs only)

• Digital Inputs:

  • USB (STM32F446 advanced USB module)

  • Optical (TOSLINK)

  • Coaxial (RCA)

  • AES/EBU (XLR)

  • I²S (HDMI, non-universal pinout)

• Analog Outputs:

  • RCA (single-ended)

  • XLR (balanced)

• Clocking:

  • Upgraded low-jitter crystal oscillators

• Oversampling Modes:

  • Selectable Oversampling (OS) and Non-Oversampling (NOS)

• Power Supply:

  • Linear power supply with O-core transformer

  • Independent regulation for analog and digital sections

Notable 15th Anniversary Edition Changes:

• New USB module supporting higher sample rates and DSD1024

• Enhanced FPGA firmware with refined digital processing

• Improved clocks and jitter reduction

• Minor adjustments to layout and shielding

• Updated faceplate design with 15th Anniversary badge

Physical Specifications:

• Chassis: Aluminum (CNC-machined)

• Dimensions: Approx. 215mm (W) x 230mm (D) x 45mm (H)

• Weight: Approx. 3.5 kg