Denafrips FPGA Firmware Update

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.

I just updated my used Denafrips Terminator DAC with the latest FW versions 3.6.

FPGA Firmware Update Tool : DENAFRIPS TERMINATOR 

FPGA Model: EP4CE22E

The FPGA firmware update rewired the logic gates in the FPGA chip. Yes, this still need to run in time for the FPGA to burn in for optimum sound reproduction.

After run-in, I could hear the sound open up, it is just like the ‘music path’ being opened up wider with easy flow of music. The sounds come with better soundstage, better details, better bass etc.

Really appreciate it for this FPGA firmware update project by Vinshine Audio. My old DAC overall sound quality improved. I would highly recommend for all users of Denafrips DAC to follow the step-by-step procedure with no cost to update the FPGA firmware.

All, I made a very positive post about the FPGA upgrade the other day.  I deleted that post, because I think there is more listening to be done.  Initial impression - this is a significant change in the sound.  The early impressions are positive.  I upgraded the Terminator Plus.  You get more of everything.  More clarity, more distinct sound staging, less perceived noise floor.  The original FPGA sounds veiled in comparison.  One perception is that good and great recordings sound excellent, more detailed, more revealing.  Conversely, lower quality recordings can sound lower quality.  I would love to hear from a professional reviewer about their experience.  Because this new FPGA may be more true in its delivery, the quality of your streamer and the quality of your room (and treatments) may play a role in the enjoyment of this change.  Vinshine says that the chip has been re-routed and therefore will burn in over time.  It will be interesting to see what changes happen over the next 100-200 hours.

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.