Audio GD is supposed to be very good also but if we check spec the R2R ladder resistors in audio GD are 0,1% precision (DA M1 modules) but Ares has 0.01% resistors and the top Denafrips models even use 0,005% resistor ladders.The Ares gets some very good user reviews. But as noted at Head-Fi, the Ares uses many small capacitors in its design... http://www.head-fi.org/t/833690/denafrips-ares-r2r-discrete-ladder-dac-close-up-view |
"Have you directly compared the Ares to the well-regarded dacs from Metrum and Schiit? " Not yet; I've only compared the Ares, Soekris and Audio-GD to each other, all recent purchases within the last couple months. Two months ago I also purchased a Yggy from another popular site and stupidly sent a check. The seller disappeared, I never received the Yggy. Expensive mistake. At this point I'm trying to discover a "diamond in the rough" at a lower price point, that's why I bought four. When I determine which one sounds best, I'll sell the others to purchase a Yggy again or maybe a Holo Spring for comparison. Ares has a unique sound, detailed but relaxed. I'm not quite used to it, but I like it. I'm sure you can google to find others who have compared Ares to other mega expensive dacs. ~Tom |
