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AUDIO FORUMS >> Digital >> Pontus DAC
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Message started by Tommy Freefall on 03/18/21 at 18:29:45

Title: Pontus DAC
Post by Tommy Freefall on 03/18/21 at 18:29:45

The Denefrips Pontus is on my short-list of DACs for a potential future purchase.
Am interested in all comments - good and bad - from people who have experience with this DAC.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by ArtMan on 03/21/21 at 19:33:33

As a long time vinyl guy, the Pontus is the first DAC that I have personally heard that I enjoy as much as vinyl. It may not on the same level as 10k DACS but it is musical, quick and articulate and an excellent buy for the money. You will not regret buying it.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Doug on 03/24/21 at 12:32:11

My Pontus II has been up and running for 2 weeks now, and I am more than satisfied with it’s performance. Some have described it as being a bit relaxed, warm, soft, etc., but I haven’t experienced any of those things. I have found it to be detailed across the entire frequency spectrum, always making instruments and voices sound real, but with no digital hash or glare. It just sits there and makes beautiful music. That’s how it is working out in my system.

By the way, I have contacted Alvin 6 or 8 times by email, both before and after my purchase, and he has been immediately responsive. I’m impressed by him, so far.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by tamcongdinh on 07/02/21 at 00:40:17

Pontus is really nice DAC, good choice

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by CAJames on 07/02/21 at 03:21:47

Yes, Denafrips is clearly on to something. I got my Terminator II about a month ago and I'm still shocked every time I listen to it by how great it sounds. Especially on plain old 16/44 CDs with no oversampling (NOS), either via S/PDIF or files via USB. They sound (almost) identical to hirez files. I would strongly encourage anyone in the market for a new DAC to consider whatever Denafrips DAC fits in their budget.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Tal on 07/02/21 at 17:42:06

Had mine for about one years. Replaced a Schiit Bifrost MB. Game changer. No regrets. Buy it!

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Toni on 01/10/22 at 21:51:55

I received the Pontus a month ago and as an "old" phono lover, it is a real alternative for me. Digital is no longer "just" the worse alternative. "Unfortunately" I now need a better amplifier and I think, I have found the right devices here...

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Tony on 01/15/22 at 14:31:27

Tommy FYI,

I thought of your interest in Danafrips when I saw this ad in US Audio Mart for a good deal (?) on a Denafrips Terminator DAC - Silver. I was curious, as I often get when I see something like this, but I'm happy with my Danafrips Ares II for now.

The seller is in Danville, not far from me in Berkeley. It is in one of those desirable "high rent" SF Bay areas. Anyway, I thought I would pass this tip on to you if you were unaware. Here are some specifics:

Asking Price: USD $3800.00
Retail Price: USD $4498.00
Payment method: Cash, Paypal, Money Wire
Shipping weight: 77.16 (lbs)
Condition:
10 - Mint (?)
Date Posted: Jan 08, 22 3:12am (PST)
Edited: Jan 12, 22 8:50pm* Updated!
About Seller:
seungtaeck
Danville, CA
United States, 94506
[other classified ads]

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Tommy Freefall on 01/15/22 at 23:30:03

Tony, thanks for the heads up!

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Joey on 02/01/22 at 23:43:08

I'm also looking at the Pontus. Will be moving my Gumby to another room. I have node2 now but may try the lumin u1mini with the Pontus for my end game (ha ha) setup.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by urbino on 02/08/22 at 03:51:55

New member here. I ordered a Pontus over the weekend. I've wanted to try an R2R DAC for a long time. This one will be stepping in for the DAC module in my Mac C49 preamp. That module is no slouch. It's a balanced design that uses ESS chips. Looking forward to hearing what the Pontus can do.

Hi, all.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Joey on 02/08/22 at 13:17:08

I am also ordering one to replace my Gumby. I have been wanting to get some Tannoys, how do you like yours. I like the Turnberrys.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by Dr3wman on 12/05/22 at 22:54:13

The Pontus II is likely the way I am going. I'd pair it with the Wiim Pro Network streamer.

Still contemplating the Holo Audio Spring 3 though.

Title: Re: Pontus DAC
Post by TexJ on 07/16/23 at 01:02:57

I have the pontus on the short list too. One thing I will say about Benchmark is their service is first rate. I had a lengthy conversation with them after I sent an email. They actually called me instead of the usual back and forth emails. I might order their DAC L and let you know how I feel about it but it will be connected to an all solid state system. My Torii Jr is a while from production.