DENAFRIPS DAC ---- Owner Impressions, Feedback, General Discussion, Questions and more....


Thread for OWNER IMPRESSIONS, FEEDBACK, QUESTIONS, ETC. regarding DENAFRIPS DACs.

DENAFRIPS lists the following R2R DACs:

Ares, Pontus, Venus, and Terminator (in increasing price order).

"DENAFRIPS incorporated in year 2012, focus in developing high end audio equipment at a very affordable price. Throughout the years of intense Research & Development, and continuous improvement of the product lines, DENAFRIPS had finally settled with the current product range equipped with R-2R ladder DAC technology. The reason behind this is the designer strongly believe that R-2R DAC is the best way to reproduce music.

The name, DENAFRIPS, stand for:

D-ynamic
E-xquisite
N-atural
A-ttractive
F-idelity
R-efined
I-ntoxicating
P-ure
S-ophisticated

This mean a lot and it is the house-sound of all DENAFRIPS products." [Copied From Denafrips About Us section]
david_ten

Showing 41 responses by alvin1118

Hello guys,

I've posted some video guides to demonstrate the DENAFRIPS DAC configuration/settings:


I hope the video guides are helpful!

Many thanks.

Yours sincerely,
Alvin Chee
www.vinshineaudio.com
Good Sunday & Happy Easter! 

The frequent dropouts are likely network related. There are possibilities of deficient internet speed, high traffics volume, streaming services etc. 

A good way to verify this is like what others suggested, try to play local music content, or use a known good source like CDT to cross check. This helps to isolate and pinpoint the issue. 

Stay safe and healthy!

Alvin
www.vinshineaudio.com 
I know a guy AB tested Ares with Metrum Octave 2. 

This is what he said:
"Alvin, i was able to make the ares run. Played and listen side by side with my metrum acoustic. I think my metrum will be for sale in the next few days. The ares just sound so good."
@jerseytrain, my apologies for the delay. It has been a challenging time, unprecedented. As soon as i have an update from DENAFRIPS.

@jaytor , spot on! You explained it much better than i do. Much appreciated!

@tony1954, DENAFRIPS DAC doesn't support MQA. Can you disable this in the Bluesound?

Stay safe,
Alvin
Hello @jb45 ,

There is no US service center at the moment. DENAFRIPS products are modular design. Repairs involve boards swapping, with minimum soldering required. We don't recommend complex components-level repair. Board swapping is straight forward, it can be done fairly easily. 

There are few options to get the DENAFRIPS products serviced:

1. We will work with you to identify the problem. For example, Terminator DAC comprises of 

- Front control board
- DSP board
- Main DAC board
- PSU
- Transformers

Once we identified the fault, say for example, the likelihood is the DSP board acting up, we will ship the DSP board to you to replace. Guide to replace will be provided, similar to this: 

https://www.denafrips.com/single-post/2019/06/18/How-To-Upgrade-DSP-Board

Or, alternatively, you may

2. Ship the product back to us, we will fix it and return it to you. Our warranty policy: https://www.vinshineaudio.com/warranty

Hope this helps!

Stay safe,
Alvin Chee
www.vinshineaudio.com

Hi guys,

I'd like to clarify that DENAFRIPS does not use the Soekris DAC board.

Enjoy the music!

Rgds,
Alvin @ VINSHINE AUDIO
@jayctoy @grannyring 

For now, the warranty will be handled directly by us.

In event of the unit is faulty within 30days, we bear all cost to replace it, one-to-one. Thereafter, within a year, the customer bears the cost to ship it back to us, and we shall repair and return it at our cost. Details can be found here.

p/s: We may have US local partner(s) soon to address the repair/ service concerns. The online direct sales business model remains the same though, i.e. customers to buy directly from us. 

May reach out to me via email to discuss further. 

Many thanks.

Rgds,
Alvin @ VINSHINE
@bube Vinh Vu, thank you for bringing the complete DENAFRIPS DACs to the AXPONA!

My best wishes to a very successful show, I'm sure it will be!

Many thanks.

Rgds,
Alvin @ VINSHINE AUDIO

My FAQ response:


Good to hear from you. Hope all is well with you.

Lets call this latest DSP as BGA-DSP. It has various improvements over the previous one offered before Nov 2019:


- Intel Altera Cyclone IV FPGA with more IOs

- Improved PCB layout

- Improved components, i.e. ERO caps from Germany


Here's my take:

1. If you own and are happy with the current DSP board now, you do not need to upgrade. The high res support (PCM1536/DSD1024) and functions are exactly the same compared to the BGA-DSP.


2. But as all audiophiles, we are OCD, we are perfectionists, we like to try new things. That's the fun part of our hobby. The BGA-DSP is inexpensive (we subsidised heavily on the DSP board offer), it could be fun to play with it. We certainly need more toys at this strange time since we have unusually more time at home :)


Please stay safe, take care!


Many thanks.


Regards,

Alvin Chee

www.vinshineaudio.com
Guys,

It seems that the show went really well! Hope you guys enjoy the music with DENAFRIPS DAC in Room 1524!

Thank you @bube  Vinh Vu and team! Without them, the show couldn't have been possible. 

Respect!

Rgds,
Alvin @ VINSHINE
Hello guys,

Our warranty coverage is comprehensive.

- Defective within 30days, we cover both way shipping fee
- Within a year, we cover one way return shipping fee
- Within 3 years, client to cover both way shipping fee

DENAFRIPS DACs are rather easy to be serviced, in most case, it can be done by swapping the board. If you’re a hands on person with electronics knowledge, the board can be replaced easily with a few screws and a little soldering. The PSU and the DAC board are modular, it’s almost plug and play (except for Ares). We will work with the client to decide mutually the best economical way forward.

All these policies are in place. You’re well covered.

Many thanks.

Sincerely,
Alvin @ VINSHINE AUDIO


Hello guys,

We have had someone in mind for months now but wanted to make sure that person was up to our standard of service. After a couple of repairs were done very well, we are happy to announce the US service center in Atlanta GA, Mike Powell Audio, a 15 year veteran in the Hifi industry with the background in modification and repair as well as design and manufacturing.

Henceforth, for US customers, you do not need to ship the faulty unit back to us. Mike offers 'white glove' courier service. All you need to do is to pack the unit back in its original packaging, tape it, and wait for the courier to pick up from your doorstep. 

The turn around time is approx 1-2 weeks. Once fixed, the unit will be returned to you, door to door delivery. 

More details here: USServiceCenter

Many thanks.

Sincerely,
Alvin @ Vinshine Audio
Hello @david_ten ,

Thank you for your kind words. Yes, owners still need to contact us for RMA. We will be the front line to determine the type of fault, thereafter, engage Mike to make the necessary arrangement: Pick up - Fix - Return

Meanwhile, an interesting review of the Terminator: here.

Enjoy the music!

Rgds,
Alvin @ Vinshine Audio
Hi @wegenert,

Thank you for your support. You've done the first right step to install the USB driver for Windows (Thesycon v4.82.0), that's a good start.

To unleash the full potential of the Computer Audio System with DENAFRIPS DAC(in fact, all DAC), please consider to use the following software:

  • Roon
  • Jriver
  • Foobar
  • Audirvana 
  • Amarra
  • etc
These applications have the ability to control the USB DAC in Exclusive Mode. This is the keyword. Exclusive Mode bypass Windows Mixer, allow the applications to take full control of the USB DAC. 

For your case of Foobar, please use use WASAPI output. Some guides can be found here:
https://www.highend-audiopc.com/PDF/Fidelizer-Pro-User-Guide.pdf
https://www.thewelltemperedcomputer.com/SW/Players/Foobar.htm

Manual, Video Guides to configure NOS/OS, Filters, FAQ can be found on the DENAFRIPS website: 
https://www.denafrips.com/support

Hope this helps!

Many thanks.

Yours sincerely,
Alvin Chee
www.vinshineaudio.com


Hello guys,

Like to share the users' impression of DENAFRIPS DAC.
https://www.denafrips.com/news

I am extremely happy and encouraged to read these positive impressions. This is simply the best encouragement and drive for me to continue what i am doing and i will do better!

Thank you for your support!

Alvin Chee
www.vinshineaudio.com
Hello guys,
It has been a very busy month, I’m overwhelmed! Thank you for your strong support!
We strive to serve you even better, we’re now available to chat over Whatsapp/Wechat.

Wechat: vinshineaudio
Whatsapp: +6588534576

Do drop us a message for any inquiries/questions.

Enjoy the music!

Best,Alvin (Vinshine Audio)

I use HDMI I2S from the Soundaware D300REF (roon bridge) primarily, the said issue has never occurred to me.

Seems like it's an USB sync/handshake problem. I will try the SOtM sms-200ultra / Sonore uRendu on my end and get back.

Cheers,
Alvin
www.vinshineaudio.com
Hi @t_ramey ,

Yes i am still carrying those products. I will take this private as not to violate the forum's rules. 
Will be sending you an email shortly. 

Many thanks.

Yours sincerely,
Alvin Chee
www.vinshineaudio.com
Hello guys,

We would like to inform you that the new version Thesycon 4.86 of Windows USBAudio Driver is available.

NEW:
  • - Support for Windows 10 version 2004
  • - Various improvements and bug fixes

The history file with changes can be downloaded at:
http://www.thesycon.de/usbaudio/TUSBAudio_history.txt

Please download it here: link
https://www.denafrips.com/support

Many thanks.

Yours sincerely,
Alvin Chee
www.vinshineaudio.com
Over the past few months, we published dozens of owners' feedback here: https://www.denafrips.com/news

It has been a challenging year for everybody. However, we are flattered by your strong support. Thank you! We are grateful.

Take care and stay safe!

Many thanks.

Alvin Chee
http://www.vinshineaudio.com/
Yep, we decided not to include the generic power cord as most of the audiophiles would have their preferred power cord to use already. The generic power will likely end up in trash instead.

We've published the basic setup guides for PC/Mac computer audiophiles who use DENAFRIPS DAC via the USB input, feel free to check it out:


Cheers,
Alvin Chee
Hey Don,

I just replied to your email, sorry for the time zone differences. We shall advice the next course of action via email. Thanks!

In general, please contact us via the Support Page: https://www.vinshineaudio.com/support

• USA Repair/Warranty Supports •
1. Repair/Warranty Authorizations are required for all services
2. Kindly write to us by using the Contact Support form above. We are committed to respond within 24-48hrs. 
3. The Authorization Number will be provided once the service request is approved. 
4. Please ship the product in its original box with tracking to the appointed service center.
5. Refer to our TERMS page for the warranty terms & conditions. 
​Many thanks.

Best, 
Alvin Cheewww.vinshineaudio.com

Hello guys,

The latest licensed Thesycon Driver ( For Windows PC ) v5.0.0 is available to download here: link.


The history file with changes can be downloaded at: http://www.thesycon.de/usbaudio/TUSBAudio_history.txt


Many thanks,
Alvin @ Vinshine Audio
Thanks for the new year wishes!

One of the perks of being a business owner is .... there is no such thing as time off.
:)

Here's the complete teardown video of the DENAFRIPS Pontus II DAC. 

Happy watching!

 

Teardown: PONTUS II R-2R DAC

 

Alvin @ Vinshine Audio

Hey guys,

The latest licensed Thesycon Driver (For Windows PC) v5.12.0 is available to download here: link.

https://www.denafrips.com/support
 
TUSBAudio - Thesycon USB Audio 2.0 Class Driver for Windows

Revision History: 
http://www.thesycon.de/usbaudio/TUSBAudio_history.txt
Denafrips Terminator Plus DAC reviewed by SoundStage! Hi-Fi

  • "Denafrips has hit one out of the park. It’s now clear how they’ve built a loyal following in less than a decade. After many weeks of very enjoyable listening sessions, the Terminator-Plus proved a distinct step up in sound quality from my Bryston BDA-2 DAC in every regard."

https://www.soundstagehifi.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1579-denafrips-terminator-plus-digital-to...


Many thanks,

Alvin Chee

https://www.vinshineaudio.com/

Is the I2S of the Pontus II compatible with the I2S of the Project CD Box RS2 T?

DENAFRIPS i2s is not compatible with the Project CD Box RS2 T.

According to Project tech support, i2s (over HDMI) requires 16.9344mhz external clock input @ Pin11/12. 

Thanks, David! The four DAC reviews & comparison is the most anticipated review, ever!

 

Cheers,

Alvin @ Vinshine Audio

Finally, it's possible to update the firmware via a macOS. One of the most wanted features!

USB MCU v3.12 is the latest and greatest firmware. If you use USB input, I highly recommend to update the firmware. 

https://www.denafrips.com/usb-mcu-firmware-update-mac

 

Please reach out to us if you need help.

 

E: [email protected] 

 

Best,

Alvin Chee 

www.vinshineaudio.com 

 

New Thesycon v5.57.0 Windows OS USB Driver is out:

https://www.vinshineaudio.com/post/thesycon-v5-57-0-usb-driver-windows

 

Change Log: 

https://www.thesycon.de/usbaudio/TUSBAudio_history.txt

 

Out of curiosity, are there a lot of Windows users here?

1678406384800.jpeg



Hey guys,

Greetings!
We will be rolling out the FPGA firmware update by stages. Ares II / Enyo will be the first, follows by Pontus II and so on.

Notes:
1. The FPGA firmware update is for all DENAFRIPS DACs with the latest FPGA BGA chip.
2. It does not apply to the older DSP (Amanero, released in 2017-2019). If you have a DENAFRIPS DAC purchased after 2020, in general, it is upgradable.
3. The firmware update fixes some bugs, and enhance the sound quality for all digital inputs
4. The firmware update changes the NOS response to what Vinshine Audio believes it's NOS (Raw, Staircase Waveform output for 44.1kHz / 48kHz)


Areas of Improvement:
  • Improved Adaptive FIFO Buffer & Reclocking Architecture
  • Reduced the effect of Buffer overrun/underrun due to the Source's Clock and the DAC's Clock differences
  • Reduced Audio Latency
  • *Eliminate Phase Difference between L/R Channels
  • Optimised DSP to improve the sonic performance

Steps:
1. Identify the FPGA chip used in the DAC
2. Submit a FPGA Firmware Request via the webform found in the link below
3. Vinshine Audio shall provide a Firmware Update Tool (FUT) specifically made for the particular FPGA chip and DAC model
4. Use a Mac or Windows computer to update the firmware as detailed in the link below

Readmore:
https://www.vinshineaudio.com/post/denafrips-12th-fpga-firmware-update

Many thanks,
Alvin Chee
www.vinshineaudio.com