Denafrips Ares 15th R-2R DAC

DENAFRIPS ARES 15TH R-2R DAC

The Denafrips Ares 15th is a true balanced discrete R-2R DAC from the brand's 15th Anniversary series. Positioned above the Enyo 15th and below the Pontus 15th, it combines precision resistor-ladder conversion, upgraded digital processing and a refined linear power supply in a compact aluminium chassis. Compared with earlier Ares generations, the 15th Anniversary edition introduces I²S connectivity, revised internal circuitry and infrared remote-control support.

TRUE BALANCED DISCRETE R-2R CONVERSION

The Ares 15th uses a fully balanced resistor-ladder architecture with dedicated PCM and DSD conversion networks. PCM signals are processed through discrete 24-bit R-2R ladders, while DSD playback uses separate 6-bit decoding circuitry with 32-step FIR filtering.

Selectable Non-Oversampling (NOS) and Oversampling (OS) modes provide two different digital reconstruction approaches. Sharp and Slow filtering options are available in oversampling operation, allowing listeners to select the processing mode that best suits their system and preferences.

FPGA PROCESSING & PRECISION CLOCKING

Proprietary FPGA processing works with adaptive FIFO buffering and reclocking to reduce dependence on the timing of incoming digital signals. Low-phase-noise oscillators provide the clock references required for digital-to-analogue conversion.

This architecture is designed to manage incoming data consistently and reduce the influence of source-related jitter. The upgraded digital platform also supports the Ares 15th's extended high-resolution connectivity.

PCM1536, DSD1024 & I²S INPUT

The Ares 15th supports PCM up to 1536kHz and DSD up to DSD1024 through its proprietary USB interface. An HDMI-style I²S input provides an additional connection for compatible digital transports and streamers, while coaxial S/PDIF and Toslink optical inputs accommodate conventional digital sources.

Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs allow connection to integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers and other equipment with suitable line-level inputs. The I²S connection requires compatible pin assignments and is not a conventional HDMI video interface.

UPGRADED 60VA O-CORE POWER SUPPLY

Ares 15th incorporates a redesigned linear power supply built around a shielded 60VA O-Core transformer. Multiple low-noise linear regulation stages provide dedicated power delivery for the FPGA, USB interface and balanced R-2R conversion networks.

The 15th Anniversary design also features a customised gold-plated copper AC inlet, improved internal regulation and an anodised aluminium enclosure available in Black and Silver. An infrared receiver supports the compatible Denafrips DN-Y3 remote control, which is included with the Audiophoria offering.

POSITIONED BELOW THE PONTUS 15TH

Ares 15th is suited to dedicated stereo systems built around a network streamer, CD transport or computer audio source. It offers balanced analogue connectivity and discrete R-2R conversion without requiring a full-width component.

For listeners seeking a higher-tier Denafrips DAC, the Pontus 15th adds a more advanced 26-bit R-2R architecture, dual O-Core transformers and expanded digital connectivity.

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