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Denafrips FPGA Firmware Update

In case there are any Denafrips DAC owners out there that are not aware of the FPGA Firmware Update, here's the link:

I did the update on my Ares II earlier today and am currently enjoying the results.  It is definitely an improvement without question.

mceljo
arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,599 posts
 

I’ve been contemplating getting the latest firmware for Pontus II. Haven’t scrolled through this entire thread but wondering what is the consensus so far? I’ve heard some people disliked it so much that they went back to the original state (is it even possible?)

Where can I find instructions for downloading and installing the latest firmware for Mac OS (Ventura 13.3.x)? Also, what are the chances of bricking the DAC if you make a wrong move?

TBH, I’m quite pleased with the sound right now and wonder if I’ll regret upgrading to the latest FW. Part of me is saying why fix it if it ain’t broke. But I’m also curious about what improvements could be had.

franktc55's avatar
franktc55
21 posts
 

 

It's not like getting a tattoo. Can be flashed back. If you bought any of their DENAFRIPS dacs new, from Vinshine, you would have received an email of the firmware offer. Even if you bought it used, they will provide you with the update instructions. Contact Alvin at Vinshineaudio.com. Very pleasant man. Yes, search & read, too.

I happen to enjoy the update but I've also added a new preamp, and an Iris DDC to the music mix.

liangx5's avatar
liangx5
30 posts
 
From Vinshine this morning...
 
"I would like to apologize for the delay in the release of the FPGA Firmware Update. Instead of releasing it as planned, we have decided to postpone it until early June.

The reason for this is that we are collaborating with DENAFRIPS to develop a firmware that offers the best of both worlds: bug fixes, new features, and the same high-quality sound that DENAFRIPS is famous for. I appreciate your patience and understanding during this time

We plan to roll out the firmware update for Terminator II/Plus DACs at a later date, tentatively:

Terminator II / Plus (1st June 2023)
 
Please find the full news in the link below:
 
https://www.vinshineaudio.com/post/new-fpga-firmware-denafrips-pontus-dac

Thank you for your kind patience and consideration.
 
Many thanks.

 

Project x FPGA Firmware Update"

old_ears
41 posts
 

   Yup, as of today 15May a new edition, 1.4, of the firmware update is available for the Pontus models only.  Hopefully the happy medium.  I was just about to fully accept the sound of the 1.3.2 (first upgrade) after extended burn-in.  Will give this one a try to regain some bass, mid base, and smoothness, keeping the new details.

marco1's avatar
marco1
496 posts
 

I've been following this thread off and on for the last several weeks and had the impression that most people have been happy with the firmware updates.  Now after reading Vinshine's latest announcement that does not appear to be the case and Vinshine has come out with still another update as they feel their prior updates did not work as intended.  I guess I could ask Alvin directly, which I still may, but wanted to see what others who have done the prior updates continue to think.  I own both an Ares II and Pontus II but purposely held off with updates because of this posibility and my feeling that if it ain't broken don't fix it and/or wait until there is enough positive consensus amongst Denafrips owners, which there no longer seems to be. 

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