Anyone regretting Pontus 2 firmware upgrade


I was notified of Pontus 2 upgrade for April 1st. I checked on Audiogon what people were saying of Pontus upgrade, not all reviews were positive. Most said they enjoyed improvement. More detail tighter bass. 

 

Some claim bright and glassy with loss of bass, also stating not as musical. Reading this stopped my plans of the upgrade for now. I’m not looking for a more high fi sound. My system is all tube and very detailed as it is and very happy with Pontus in second system. Is this upgrade reversible? Some brought up “brick” I have no idea what that is but understand it needs to be sent in for repair.

 

I would like to do the upgrade but until I understand what I’m in for I plan to hold off on update. Does anyone agree? 

 

 

paulcreed

I'm holding off a bit.  A few weeks ago I opened it up to get the pic of that chip and there is "stuff" on it.  Whitish smudge of something, almost covering the number.  Did not expect that on a piece of audio equipment at this level.  Sent both Vinshine and Denafrips an email(w/pic).  The response was disappointing. Very nonchalant about it.  "Just some leftover flux or such during fabrication.  Do not worry.  Clean it off."  Huh!?  I don't want to touch it and asked to please send me a replacement DSP.  No go.  They ignored my request and just sent me the download instructions w/order #.

What should I think?  Am I making to much a deal about it?

Lawrence From MI

Iracosse:  I would take a small swab and a bit of alcohol (or possible household cleaner) and see if you can get the whitish smudge off the chip. Don't use so much that it drips or runs off the chip! If this does not work, post a GOOD closeup photo to this thread, so we can get a better idea of what it is like.

Irlacosse,

The whitish mark on the chip shouldn't hurt anything. I have it on the chip in my Pontus ll also. My Dac is 2 years old and going strong.

Replacement of the module with chip on it is expensive. The US. cost of that module is approximately $350 US. That is why they are probably ignoring your request for a free one. I too am going to hold off on the update. My Pontus ll isn't problematic. I like the sound as is, and believe if it isn't broke, don't fix it.

 

I bought a new DSP board so that I could go back easily. Luckily I’m very happy with the new openness and increased musicality. I find myself ‘tapping’ to the music . It’s quite a satisfying experience that touches upon the beauty of analog. The cost was reasonable in relative terms. Only $ 418 CAD and a short 1 1/2 week wait.