PSAudio Directstream DAC M-1 (refurb) vs Denafrips Venus II. Quick decision needed!


I received a used Denafrips Venus II from TMR yesterday and now PSAudiio is offering refurb Directstream DAC MK-1's for $1800!  What do I do? I paid $2400 for the Denafrips and I just want whichever is superior.....people are saying the MK-1 is  a steal, so it won't be available long. Thanks for any input!!

128x128howardlee

I would listen to the Denafrips and take note of the sound. Is it to your liking? Does it make you smile when listening? There will always be another component lurking around the corner. And realistically…not all will be an improvement. The bigger question will be; What will it take to satisfy me and am I just enjoying the process of buying and selling equipment?

The Venus II12th is a very high end DAC, it’s qualities are well layered soundstage with great  width and depth, high level of detail yet delicate. It’s a ladder DAC so smoother sounding than delta sigma. You have a very fine DAC and I suggest you just enjoy it. Let it run a while even though it is used. They take a while to settle in. I sincerely doubt the PS Audio would be any better, it may be different but not better.

Huh, you could get a new Pontus 15th which is essentially a Venus for around $2,000.  Denafrips is now direct and gives you a one level up Dac for for the price of the lower level Dac.

@howardlee PS Audio DSD MkI is always available on a used market where you can pick it up for around $1200-$1400. I wouldn’t sweat it. If Venus sounds good to you, keep it and enjoy it.