Hi, For Sale is my Faultless Denafrips Pontus ll which is the 12th Edition Upgrade. Purchased early in 2024 from Vinshine. This is a wonderful dac but alas I have been lured by more expensive dacs.
The Denafrips Pontus II DAC has a smooth, analog-like warmth and emotional depth. Great soundstage, I found the sound tall & wider compared to the previous dac. (Eversolo 6)
Its Black - I found it difficult to Photograph, light reflecting from every which way.
Also available listed separately is the Denafrips Hermes 12th
I have the original boxes and packaging. It can be collected or shipped, postage to mainland Australia is included. From a Non Smoking & Pet free home.
WARRANTY INFORMATION (Private Seller)
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.
This content has been generated using AI analysis. While we strive to ensure accuracy and quality, AI-generated material may occasionally contain errors or omissions. All information should be independently verified, and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers or editors.
User reviews and community discussions praise the Denafrips Pontus II DAC for its analog-like musicality, smooth detail retrieval, and value, though it requires extensive burn-in and has some noted limitations in transparency and bass extension.
### Sound Quality
Reviewers consistently highlight a smooth, natural, and engaging presentation that avoids digital harshness, with exceptional imaging, wide soundstaging, and micro-detail retrieval. Highs are radiant and extended without glare, mids are organic and flowing (especially vocals), and bass delivers authoritative slam, though it lacks authority below 30Hz. It excels across genres, handling complex passages with rhythmic fidelity, dynamic contrast, and a dark background, often described as "analog-like" due to its R-2R design prioritizing perception over ultra-low distortion. Out-of-box sound can be lethargic, improving dramatically after long burn-in (e.g., 10 days or more). Compared to competitors like Lampizator (warmer) or Chord (punchier but thinner), it balances detail, dynamics, and smoothness without being analytical.
### Build Quality
The unit is described as beautiful, heavy, and well-constructed for its size, with a true balanced dual-mono R-2R design using high-precision networks and FPGA processing for low noise and error—reflecting high-end parts value.
### Reliability
Few direct complaints on longevity; one ex-owner noted no standout issues over 6 months, though burn-in patience is emphasized as key to satisfaction. No widespread reports of failures in reviews.
### Strengths
- Musicality and smoothness: Blends detail with natural flow, forgiving of poor recordings.
- Value: Excellent at its price, outperforming many peers in engagement and space.
- Versatility: Strong across music types, with stellar imaging and transients.
### Weaknesses
- Burn-in dependency: Initial sound is uninvolving; full potential needs time.
- Subtle shortcomings: Slightly smoothed leading edges (vinyl-like), limited bass depth below 30Hz, and soundstage depth not fully immersive.
- Not universally transformative: Marginal gains in some setups (e.g., 5% improvement).
### Overall Reputation
The Pontus II enjoys a highly positive reputation among audiophiles for advancing digital sound with "magic" and no typical digital flaws, earning awards and recommendations as a top value DAC—though some skeptics question subjective hype. It's seen as a "keeper" for those seeking relaxed, detailed playback.
### Sound Quality
Reviewers consistently highlight a smooth, natural, and engaging presentation that avoids digital harshness, with exceptional imaging, wide soundstaging, and micro-detail retrieval. Highs are radiant and extended without glare, mids are organic and flowing (especially vocals), and bass delivers authoritative slam, though it lacks authority below 30Hz. It excels across genres, handling complex passages with rhythmic fidelity, dynamic contrast, and a dark background, often described as "analog-like" due to its R-2R design prioritizing perception over ultra-low distortion. Out-of-box sound can be lethargic, improving dramatically after long burn-in (e.g., 10 days or more). Compared to competitors like Lampizator (warmer) or Chord (punchier but thinner), it balances detail, dynamics, and smoothness without being analytical.
### Build Quality
The unit is described as beautiful, heavy, and well-constructed for its size, with a true balanced dual-mono R-2R design using high-precision networks and FPGA processing for low noise and error—reflecting high-end parts value.
### Reliability
Few direct complaints on longevity; one ex-owner noted no standout issues over 6 months, though burn-in patience is emphasized as key to satisfaction. No widespread reports of failures in reviews.
### Strengths
- Musicality and smoothness: Blends detail with natural flow, forgiving of poor recordings.
- Value: Excellent at its price, outperforming many peers in engagement and space.
- Versatility: Strong across music types, with stellar imaging and transients.
### Weaknesses
- Burn-in dependency: Initial sound is uninvolving; full potential needs time.
- Subtle shortcomings: Slightly smoothed leading edges (vinyl-like), limited bass depth below 30Hz, and soundstage depth not fully immersive.
- Not universally transformative: Marginal gains in some setups (e.g., 5% improvement).
### Overall Reputation
The Pontus II enjoys a highly positive reputation among audiophiles for advancing digital sound with "magic" and no typical digital flaws, earning awards and recommendations as a top value DAC—though some skeptics question subjective hype. It's seen as a "keeper" for those seeking relaxed, detailed playback.
This content has been generated using AI analysis. While we strive to ensure accuracy and quality, AI-generated material may occasionally contain errors or omissions. All information should be independently verified, and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers or editors.
The fair market price for a Denafrips Pontus II DAC in AUD is approximately A$1,800–A$2,700, with new units around A$3,000–A$3,350 (RRP) and used excellent-condition units typically A$1,750–A$2,700.
### Price Range by Condition
- New: Recommended retail price (RRP) is A$3,349 AUD, aligning with manufacturer pricing for similar models like the Pontus 15th at around US$2,019 (equivalent to ~A$3,000+ depending on exchange and import).
- Used (Excellent condition): Recent listings show A$1,750 (with original packaging, Victoria, Australia) and A$2,671 (silver model, plus shipping).
Prices vary significantly by condition, with used units selling at 50–80% of RRP due to depreciation in the high-end audio market.
### Key Factors Affecting Value
- Condition and accessories: Excellent condition with original boxes boosts value (e.g., A$1,750 listing notes "excellent" with packaging).
- Model variant: Standard Pontus II vs. updated 12th/15th Anniversary editions (with upgraded power supply, oscillators); listings mix these but command similar used prices.
- Location and shipping: Australian listings (e.g., StereoNET, Reverb AU) are lower than potential imports; buyer-paid shipping adds A$100+.
- Market rarity and demand: Infrequent sales ("don't come up too often") support higher used values, driven by positive reviews praising R2R performance.
- Currency/region: Manufacturer prices in SGD/US$ convert lower pre-import (e.g., ~US$1,700), but AUD retail reflects duties.
These estimates draw from 2022–2026 Australian classifieds and global sites; check current listings for fluctuations.
### Price Range by Condition
- New: Recommended retail price (RRP) is A$3,349 AUD, aligning with manufacturer pricing for similar models like the Pontus 15th at around US$2,019 (equivalent to ~A$3,000+ depending on exchange and import).
- Used (Excellent condition): Recent listings show A$1,750 (with original packaging, Victoria, Australia) and A$2,671 (silver model, plus shipping).
Prices vary significantly by condition, with used units selling at 50–80% of RRP due to depreciation in the high-end audio market.
### Key Factors Affecting Value
- Condition and accessories: Excellent condition with original boxes boosts value (e.g., A$1,750 listing notes "excellent" with packaging).
- Model variant: Standard Pontus II vs. updated 12th/15th Anniversary editions (with upgraded power supply, oscillators); listings mix these but command similar used prices.
- Location and shipping: Australian listings (e.g., StereoNET, Reverb AU) are lower than potential imports; buyer-paid shipping adds A$100+.
- Market rarity and demand: Infrequent sales ("don't come up too often") support higher used values, driven by positive reviews praising R2R performance.
- Currency/region: Manufacturer prices in SGD/US$ convert lower pre-import (e.g., ~US$1,700), but AUD retail reflects duties.
These estimates draw from 2022–2026 Australian classifieds and global sites; check current listings for fluctuations.
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