I updated the new firmware on 4/6 and felt it immediately improved the sq like what sat7 had stated. With the advice from Vinshine, I have been patiently and curiously to hear any burn in difference in sq. Up until 4/30, it was still sounding good as before. During this time, I had 10 days with streamer/P-II on all day and amp off. However, everything changed on 5/1. It sounded much much better. At this point, I believed I had put in at least 350 hours in the new firmware. Now, the presentation is warmer and fuller or richer sounding. Or, it is more mature.
BTW, I am comparing the updated P-II to the DAC that costs 3-4 times the price. It is incredible how fast the digital playback has improved.
I’ve been contemplating getting the latest firmware for Pontus II. Haven’t scrolled through this entire thread but wondering what is the consensus so far? I’ve heard some people disliked it so much that they went back to the original state (is it even possible?)
Where can I find instructions for downloading and installing the latest firmware for Mac OS (Ventura 13.3.x)? Also, what are the chances of bricking the DAC if you make a wrong move?
TBH, I’m quite pleased with the sound right now and wonder if I’ll regret upgrading to the latest FW. Part of me is saying why fix it if it ain’t broke. But I’m also curious about what improvements could be had.
It's not like getting a tattoo. Can be flashed back. If you bought any of their DENAFRIPS dacs new, from Vinshine, you would have received an email of the firmware offer. Even if you bought it used, they will provide you with the update instructions. Contact Alvin at Vinshineaudio.com. Very pleasant man. Yes, search & read, too.
I happen to enjoy the update but I've also added a new preamp, and an Iris DDC to the music mix.
"I would like to apologize for the delay in the release of the FPGA Firmware Update. Instead of releasing it as planned, we have decided to postpone it until early June.
The reason for this is that we are collaborating with DENAFRIPS to develop a firmware that offers the best of both worlds: bug fixes, new features, and the same high-quality sound that DENAFRIPS is famous for. I appreciate your patience and understanding during this time
We plan to roll out the firmware update for Terminator II/Plus DACs at a later date, tentatively:
Yup, as of today 15May a new edition, 1.4, of the firmware update is available for the Pontus models only. Hopefully the happy medium. I was just about to fully accept the sound of the 1.3.2 (first upgrade) after extended burn-in. Will give this one a try to regain some bass, mid base, and smoothness, keeping the new details.
I've been following this thread off and on for the last several weeks and had the impression that most people have been happy with the firmware updates. Now after reading Vinshine's latest announcement that does not appear to be the case and Vinshine has come out with still another update as they feel their prior updates did not work as intended. I guess I could ask Alvin directly, which I still may, but wanted to see what others who have done the prior updates continue to think. I own both an Ares II and Pontus II but purposely held off with updates because of this posibility and my feeling that if it ain't broken don't fix it and/or wait until there is enough positive consensus amongst Denafrips owners, which there no longer seems to be.
I had the first update on PII and fully burn in now. I don’t think I will try the newest FW. As of this morning, my PII sounded very good, actually "Fantastic".
IMHO, the Lumin U2 mini plays a major role in the sound. And last week, I did the U2 mini LPS Mod from Alvin. It did improve the performance of the U2 mini.
I've added the v1.4 to my newish Pontus 12th, replacing v1.0. It's far superior, noticeable after only a couple of hours of listening. Highly recommended,
@ lollipopguild. This is something that has also been confusing to me. Your Pontus 12th that you recently purchased already has an update? Did your Pontus come from the factory with v1.0 and then you updated to v1.4? Or was there some thing in between as well? Seems very strange that their recent models are already getting updates. Now a question for anyone who knows, if today you buy a 12th version DAC does it come from the factory with the latest update installed? Seems like it should but with all these updates flying around so soon after a new edition is launched one has to wonder. Sorry if these questions were already answered. Tks. for your help
I’ve applied the 1.4 firmware to my Pontus II 12th this morning, and I was thoroughly surprised by the giant step this update made. Gone is the hint of dryness to not most, but all music I listened to today. From the USB feed thru the Iris, to the Pontus, and the toslink, and coax connection. Lush, defined, airy, good separation, juicy stuff. DENAFRIPS have done more than corrected any missteps from the previous files. All is good. All sounds perfect. Just what I wanted from Alvin and his team. Kudos, and more Kudos!!
Great cocktail! The Lush is back with 1.4 Firmware on Pontus II. After 2 days burning/listening...2 big thumbs & ears UP! Jucy, balanced, bass foundation with the new details.
I avoided the first update and now see there is a new one to try for Pontus. Has anyone tried the first update then gone back to original, then tried the new most current update and preferred it to original Pontus sound? If so what are you hearing?
Sorry if this has been gone over I haven’t read entire post.
I loaded the 1st update….and wasted many, many hours (for burn-in…LOL! …there was none for me). I spent a lot of money on an R2R DAC to have a warmer more organic sound as opposed to all those analytical Chip DACs. In my world the 1st firmware update turned my Pontus II into a chip DAC that caused me listening fatigue.
THANK GOD…I was eventually able to go back to blissful v.1.0. (Witness: no burn-in …My DAC was immediately back to the original sound…this coming from someone who HAS experienced burn-in with new electronic components, speakers, etc.).
I will not be wasting any more of my time loading V1.4. 🤷🏻♂️
It seems to me that 1.3 and 1.4 FW are all improving the sound stage and transparency over the 1.0. However, if the system has tendency to harshness, the 1.4 is more suitable. And, if your system is on the warm side, then the 1.3 is preferable.
My system is on the warm side and 1.3 is just fine with me.
The 1.4 update actually managed to increase midrange clarity with absolutely zero increase in treble energy. In fact, I had previously switched from the very true Mogami Neglex QuadRCA cable connecting the Pontus II to my Kinki EX-M7 amp to one with a darker countenance to battle excess treble energy coming from the Spendor A7s. After the upgrade, however, I switched back due to the new nature of the sound. I also reduced the volume my REL Tx7 sub one notch.
My CD transport is a Marantz 14S1 that I also use to play SACDs. Prior to the update, the CD sound from the Marantz was very close to that of the Pontus II. Had to listen hard to hear the differences, and on some recordings there weren't any. That has changed. A switch to the Pontus II now reveals greater clarity, more 'in the room' presence, greater ease, and more heft. I am very, very impressed.
Has had the FPGA firmware updated over the last weekend, the change of sound is obvious after auditioning for days, a critical audition with familiar tracks , music instruments are well separated, precise with clarity.
I am able to listen for hours without fatigue, sweet and warm soundstage. Will continue observe its evolution.
I would like to thank Vinshine Audio to provide step-by-step instruction to make the firmware update without much hassle.
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 theFPGA 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.
Finally had time to update the Venus 2. Have not burned it in so just posting initial impressions. Bigger soundstage as others have reported. More 3 dimensional. Pretty much same as what others have reported from Pontus. Question is do I love it or not? Will need to spend more time with it and not willing to make a call untill I've burned it in a few weeks. Will report back when done.
In April I made an inquiry asking if the developers had ever considered changing the input USB 2.0 to USB 3.0 on the Terminator Plus DAC for those of us still using a computer/HQ Player combo and was sent this:
"I can’t trace your terminator order record with us. May I know when and where you purchased it?"
I didn’t see what my inquiry had to do with this question. Guess they wanted to make sure they weren’t wasting their time on someone who wasn’t even an owner of their product. I wasn’t asking for service or updates (the first I heard about the updates was in the response). But I informed them I was the 3rd owner (the unit was bought by the original owner 2/2021 from Vinshine Audio). Shortly after I received this reply:
The warranty of the product is transferable from the original owner to the second owner. We can’t do this indefinitely. Reason being we did not cater the additional resources it may need to support and service the third owner onwards
We seek your kind understanding on this matter..."
Many Thanks,
Vincent Ong
So to all thinking of buying used, make sure you’re the 2nd buyer and get the original owner to initiate the warranty transfer so the warranty transfer is validated. Otherwise, don’t expect to get any updates. If you’re owner #3 or greater and the unit needs servicing, be ready to pay even if you’re within the 3 year warranty window. And my original question was never answered.
@mewsickbuffhow is this relevant to FPGA update? Also, it’s actually pretty nice of Denafrips to extend the warranty to second owner. A lot of companies will not extend past original owner. Still not sure why this is on FPGA upgrade.
@dman1974Am I the only one who purchased a used DAC? I'm just telling my experience, which others in the same boat might find relevant. I'm unable to get the FPGA upgrade because I'm the "3rd" owner. Are you aware of a way to download the upgrade without proof of a valid warranty transfer?
@mewsickbuffyour post is somewhat confusing as you reference warranty. Are you saying Denafrips refused you access to the upgrade of FPGA because you are the 3rd owner? I think that’s what you are saying. Did you directly ask them for FPGA updates?
Sorry about the confusion. But yes, Denafrips denied me the upgrade. I didn't ask for it. They brought it up. I asked about possible future USB input upgrades. They asked for an order record saying they couldn't find one for me. When I told them I was the 3rd owner they directed me to their warranty policy, pointing out that it stops service and support at the 2nd owner.
@mewsickbuff, there seems to be a possibility of misunderstanding since our last email exchange in early April.
To ensure clear understanding, we would like to clarify that the FPGA firmware update is provided free of charge for all DENAFRIPS DAC owners.
FAQ: I bought the DAC used and/or from the grey market. Will I be entitled for the Firmware Update?
Ans: We understand some of you may have purchased the DAC used and/or from the grey market (sadly). Vinshine Audio is willing to extend our goodwill support to you. We are good people afterall. Please enter 'Used' or 'Grey' in the Order Number.
I can attest to what Alvin said. My Terminator Plus was bought used from previous owner(s), and I was able to upgrade to V3.7 firmware using software tools provided by Vinshine team. I filled out the upgrade request form indicating it was purchased as used and sent in the form along with a photo of fpga chip inside the DAC. I was never asked to provide the original purchase receipt.
I updated my Venus 2 with the new FPGA firmware ran it for about 70 hours. I listened to Qobuz on Sunday.
in my system the highs were way to pushed, and the Bottom end was pushed as well. I felt when listening to horn sections the air and space were sucked out of the original sound? I went back to the original V 1 and the sound was So much better. The depth was back and the horns sounded like horns again. I know Alvin said that a new vs is coming out next month, but I have to say I don’t know why I would want to change the Original sound Again? I also question the Burn in time for the new firmware? How come when going back to the original version you don’t have to re-burn it in?
Since the used Terminator mewsickbuff purchased doesn’t registered in Vinshine database, it was most likely through gray market. Not that I’d owned many gears, but in my 40 years of High-end audio pursue, I can count in one finger that offers free firmware upgrades to gray market and used equipment owners. Vinshine.
I could not agree with whipsaw more…(I DO believe in burn-in of capacitors, speakers…new gear in general)….well-used Pontus II, here…Only tried the 1st update. Definitely too bright for this Bobo Boy! I feel silly now for running the unit for 200 hrs. thinking there would be a change…THERE WASN'T. 😄…Here is my proof…re-installed the original firmware and POOF!!, MIRACULOUSLY the original sound was back….no "burn-in required! 🤷🏻♂️
I have been smiling ever since. 😄…I did not bother with the next iteration…why mess with perfection…but I do think it’s VERY COOL that the versions are on offer! 👍🏼
not to make this discussion about what is burn in... but i guess it would be true if after a firmware update making the treble forward and shrill, the burn in needs happen to one's ears and brain!!! 🤣
This is really more of a hardware update than a software update. The new code changes the configuration of the FPGA which can activate logic gates that have never been activated.
That said, I'm not sure how this would need burn-in since analog signals are not flowing through these transistors. I suppose it is possible that the gate switching timing could change subtly after burn-in which could theoretically change the sound.
I upgraded my Terminator + and was not crazy about the sound when I first checked it. I let it run for 72 hours with the amps off (so was not getting used to the sound), and did feel it sounded better when I listened to it again. But it had been a few days since listening to the previous version, so who knows.
If there really is a change over time, then I could see how no burn-in would be required by switching back since this will use the same logic gates that are well burned in since I assume the DAC was well run-in with the old code.
I sold my woofer towers just after I made the upgrade and am still waiting for the replacements. My main speakers only play down to about 170Hz so it's hard to make a final assessment of the new firmware until I have the new woofer towers. But I'm liking the sound at this point. I'm currently using the NOS mode which I always thought was a little dull sounding with the original firmware.
@bobo1000Just 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.
I should also point out that I had to disconnect the power to the DAC when I did the update, so when I first listened after the update, the DAC was not very warmed up.
I've found that my DAC takes a few hours to really sound it's best, and I generally leave it on 24/7. So this could have easily been the difference between my first listen and a few days later.
Anyone update to FW 1.4 and then revert back FW 1.0 on Pontus II. I did just that. The FW 1.4 sounded less natural as if DSP has been added to the sound like you get in AV receivers. Also I am getting micro-distortions on the sound randomly which is not repeatable.
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