I am another owner of Ares II that was skeptical about the FPGA firmware update.
I really like the sound of Ares II, I know there are a few areas that can be improved (soundstage, dynamic range, bass),
but I was afraid that the update might change what I like about my Ares II, so I waited and waited.
Finally, begin of June, I decided to update, I first downloaded the original firmware, just in case I don't like the new firmware and can restore it back.
So thanks to Vinshine for providing both versions.
I followed the instruction and updated successfully.
I left the DAC on and played music in the background for a week, to get some burn-in time before some serious listening.
Before the update, I listened to a few CD's that I know well from Miles Davis, Bill Evans... made notes of sound quality.
After almost 2 weeks, I pulled out the same CD's and my notebook and started listenning with the new updated firmware.
I can hear the differences, more details, a little brighter in mid-range, bass seems tighter, but most of all, the soundstage is much wider than before the update.
With the wider soundstage and dynamic range improved, I really enjoy Ares II, just hope the brighter mid-range is reduced the more burn-in it gets.
Overall, I think it is really worth to update.
Thanks to Vinshine for the firmware and the support.