I find it interesting that some here are reporting an improvement in sound stage dimensions after the upgrade. While I really like my Pontus II, the one area I would like to see improvement on is the sound stage. I am looking forward to this upgrade in a big way!
Showing 4 responses by bondmanp
Based on the reception the 1.4 version was getting, I updated my Pontus II over the long Memorial day weekend. It took me two tries, but at least I didn't brick the DAC. The most frustrating aspect of the process was the instructions. It would have been nice to have one, unified, step by step set of instructions for Windows instead of trying to figure out which parts of the setup guide applied and which didn't.
Anyway, so far, I can say that the 1.4 is certainly no worse in any way than the original firmware. I need to listen more, but I hear an improved ability to follow musical lines within a recording. A bit more fine detail is apparent. Bass is excellent, with superb definition and extension. The soundstage is a bit harder to get a handle on. As with the original firmware, it is very source dependant. If I get a better handle on the sound of 1.4, I will post it. But, kudos to Alvin for making a great product even better, free of charge. |
@bobo1000 Just FYI, I avoided the first update because of the reports of increased brightness. But opinions were very different regarding 1.4. I took a chance and I am very pleased with the upgrade. If there was any added brightness I would have rolled back to the original firmware. But, at least IME, the highs were as sweet and smooth as ever, maybe even moreso. |
@dandaroy I need to listen more (unrelated server issues have kept me from listening lately), but my initial impressions were different. I found the sound slightly better, and no worse in any respect. I guess YMMV, but, so far, I don't intend to revert to previous firmware on my Pontus II. |