One careful owner, purchased in Nov 2021 from the authorised Australian distributor, this DAC has performed flawlessly from new.
Includes the sturdy original packaging. Can send double-boxed by Australia Post, postage at cost to buyer.
Some reviews:
The Denafrips Pontus II DAC Review. | Steve Huff Hi-Fi and Photo
DENAFRIPS PONTUS II R2R DAC by Greg Voth
Denafrips Pontus II DAC | REVIEW - pt.AUDIO
DENAFRIPS PONTUS II R2R DAC SPECS
DAC Architecture
True balanced R‑2R ladder DAC
Multiple high precision R‑2R resistor arrays for ultra‑linear conversion
Proprietary USB interface - 24bit PCM / DSD
Licensed Thesycon USB driver
Equipped with independent high‑speed proprietary FPGA for D/A processing
FEMTO adaptive FIFO buffer re-clocking precision
Digital Audio Support
PCM: 24‑bit / 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192 kHz on all inputs.
Up to 1536 kHz PCM via USB & I²S.
DSD:
Up to DSD1024 on USB & I²S
DSD64 via Coax/AES/Optical
Inputs
USB2.0 Type B Connector
I²S via HDMI LVDS
Coaxial RCA (SPDIF)
AES/EBU ×2
Coaxial BNC (75 Ω)
TOSLink Optical ×1
Analog Outputs
XLR: 4.4 Vrms
RCA: 2.2 Vrms
Performance
Frequency Response: 0 Hz – 70 kHz (‑3 dB)
THD+N: ~0.0025 %
Signal‑to‑Noise Ratio (SNR): ~115 dB
Dynamic Range: > 117 dB
Stereo Crosstalk: ≤ 100 dB
Power / Physical
Power: 100‑230 VAC, 50/60 Hz worldwide
Power Consumption: ≤ 30 W
Dimensions: 320 × 330 × 80 mm
Weight: ~8.5 kg
The item being advertised is sold "as is", and no warranty should be assumed unless otherwise indicated and agreed between the Buyer and the Seller. Photos representing the item being advertised form part of the description unless otherwise specified.
### Sound Quality
Reviewers consistently highlight exceptional detail, clarity, imaging, and a wide soundstage post-burn-in (often 10–21 days or more), describing it as smooth, musical, and analog-like with low noise, tight bass, and strong dynamics without brightness or edginess. Vocals are vivid and tangible, with holographic 3D imaging and good timing; oversampling option enhances musicality by softening edges. Many note it outperforms comparably priced DACs like the Denafrips Amber 3 in resolution and air. However, out-of-box sound is often "lethargic" or uninvolving, improving dramatically later. A minority criticize it as "dead sounding," thin in lows, artificial in highs, or lean/not rich.
### Build Quality
Widely acclaimed as outstanding for the price, featuring a sturdy aluminum chassis with engraved details, encapsulated dual linear power supply, and high-quality internal components like precision R-2R networks and FPGA decoding. Described as "stand out" and premium, akin to higher-end models like the Terminator.
### Reliability
Few direct complaints; long burn-in is a common theme (up to weeks for full potential), with users reporting it "opens up" afterward, suggesting initial performance stabilizes over time. No widespread failure reports in these discussions, though one ex-owner used it 6 months without issues noted.
### Strengths
- Musical engagement and value: Bold, lively, warm sound that draws listeners in for hours; "huge system upgrade" and "bang for buck."
- Versatility: Balanced dual-mono R-2R design with low distortion; excels in resolution, micro-details, and dark background.
- Soundstage and vocals: Stellar imaging, depth, and lifelike vocals.
### Weaknesses
- Burn-in dependency: Poor initial sound requires patience.
- Tonality variability: Can sound thin, lean, or artificial in some systems; not the warmest or fullest.
- System matching: Best in warmer setups; may emphasize details too much otherwise.
### Overall Reputation
Highly regarded in audiophile communities as a top R-2R DAC for its price, earning awards for performance/value and frequent "keeper" status among enthusiasts who prioritize musicality over measurements. Positive reviews dominate (e.g., "jaw-dropping," "killer DAC"), but skeptics question subjective hype, and it's seen as divisive based on preferences. Consensus favors it for those seeking detailed, non-fatiguing digital playback after proper setup.
### Typical Price Range by Condition
- Used/Excellent condition: AUD $1,750–$2,700. Examples include AUD $1,750 (excellent, with box, StereoNET VIC), AUD $1,900 (12th Anniversary, StereoNET VIC), and A$2,716 (silver, excellent, Reverb AU). "Like brand new" listings align here, often including original packaging.
- New/15th Anniversary models: AUD $3,349 RRP (standard Pontus II); AUD $3,699 at Australian retailer Dacman Audio. These feature upgrades like improved power supplies and firmware.
| Condition | Price Range (AUD) | Key Examples |
|-----------|-------------------|--------------|
| Used/Excellent | $1,700–$2,700 | $1,750, $1,900, $2,716 |
| New/15th Anniv. | $3,300–$3,700 | $3,349 RRP, $3,699 |
### Key Factors Affecting Value
- Condition and accessories: Excellent/like-new with boxes fetch higher prices (e.g., $1,750 vs. potentially lower without).
- Variant: Standard Pontus II trades lower than 15th Anniversary (upgrades in oscillators, capacitors, FPGA); 12th Anniversary similar to standard.
- Location and shipping: Australian listings (VIC/NSW) emphasize local pickup to avoid costs; international used prices convert to ~AUD $2,000–$3,000 but less relevant.
- Market trends: Used prices hold 50–80% of RRP due to strong reviews and demand for R2R ladder design; recent 2026 listings show stability.
Prices based on 2024–2026 Australian and global data; local demand and forex may cause slight fluctuations.
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