What To Know
- The ARES II also has a number of features that the D90 does not, including a built-in headphone amplifier and a balanced XLR output.
The Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC and the Topping D90 are two of the most popular high-end DACs on the market today. Both offer excellent sound quality, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. In this blog post, we will compare the two DACs in detail to help you decide which one is right for you.
Sound Quality
The Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC is known for its natural and organic sound. It has a warm, full-bodied sound with plenty of detail and clarity. The bass is deep and powerful, the mids are rich and full, and the highs are extended and airy. The soundstage is wide and spacious, with excellent imaging and depth.
The Topping D90, on the other hand, has a more analytical and detailed sound. It has a slightly brighter sound than the ARES II, with a more forward midrange and a more pronounced treble. The bass is tight and controlled, the mids are clear and articulate, and the highs are extended and airy. The soundstage is wide and spacious, with excellent imaging and depth.
Features
The Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC has a number of features that the Topping D90 does not, including:
- A built-in headphone amplifier
- A balanced XLR output
- A USB input
- A coaxial input
- An optical input
The Topping D90, on the other hand, has a number of features that the ARES II does not, including:
- A built-in Bluetooth receiver
- A remote control
- A display
Build Quality
The Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC is built like a tank. It has a solid aluminum chassis and a high-quality internal components. The Topping D90, on the other hand, is built with less expensive materials and has a more plasticky feel.
Price
The Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC is more expensive than the Topping D90. The ARES II retails for $2,499, while the D90 retails for $1,499.
Which DAC is Right for You?
The Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC and the Topping D90 are both excellent DACs. The ARES II has a more natural and organic sound, while the D90 has a more analytical and detailed sound. The ARES II also has a number of features that the D90 does not, including a built-in headphone amplifier and a balanced XLR output. However, the D90 is less expensive than the ARES II.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which DAC is right for you is to listen to them both and decide which one you prefer.
Wrap-Up
The Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC and the Topping D90 are two of the best DACs on the market today. Both offer excellent sound quality, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The ARES II has a more natural and organic sound, while the D90 has a more analytical and detailed sound. The ARES II also has a number of features that the D90 does not, including a built-in headphone amplifier and a balanced XLR output. However, the D90 is less expensive than the ARES II.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which DAC is better, the Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC or the Topping D90?
A: Both DACs offer excellent sound quality, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The ARES II has a more natural and organic sound, while the D90 has a more analytical and detailed sound. The ARES II also has a number of features that the D90 does not, including a built-in headphone amplifier and a balanced XLR output. However, the D90 is less expensive than the ARES II.
Q: What are the main differences between the Denafrips ARES II R2R DAC and the Topping D90?
A: The main differences between the two DACs are:
- Sound quality: The ARES II has a more natural and organic sound, while the D90 has a more analytical and detailed sound.
- Features: The ARES II has a number of features that the D90 does not, including a built-in headphone amplifier and a balanced XLR output.
- Build quality: The ARES II is built with higher-quality materials than the D90.
- Price: The ARES II is more expensive than the D90.
Q: Which DAC is right for me?
A: The best way to decide which DAC is right for you is to listen to them both and decide which one you prefer.