DENAFRIPS DAC ---- Owner Impressions, Feedback, General Discussion, Questions and more....

@abd1 I just came across your OP thread that provides much more detail. Feel free to PM me to continue the discussion off thread. I've used the strikethrough function, for my earlier post.

I cannot help you with your question since I did not compare the two models.

My feedback, therefore, is general.

I’ve learned it is far better to stretch one’s budget and get what will serve you over the longer term.

If I was in your position, I’d choose the original Terminator with the latest board OR wait for a used Terminator II listing.

All the best in your choice, whatever that ends up being.

Hey @alvin1118 ! 

Thanks for providing such clear instructions. My Pontus II firmware update via Mac was easy-peasy!

Finally, it's possible to update the firmware via a macOS. One of the most wanted features!

USB MCU v3.12 is the latest and greatest firmware. If you use USB input, I highly recommend to update the firmware. 

https://www.denafrips.com/usb-mcu-firmware-update-mac

Cheers,

Spencer

Thanks @sbank ! Enjoy the new sound :)

I just bought a used Terminator 2 from another longtime audiogoner.  Once I set it up (scheduled delivery 12/28) I will compare it to my all-time favorite DAC, Luxman DA-06, that has stood the test of time and sound quality against many a DACs at various price points. I really have high hopes for the Terminator. Will share my impressions in a week or two.

I just spent the past few days listening to a Terminator v1 DAC w/upgraded DSP and WIMA caps. I also have an SW1X Level 3 Special NOS tube DAC. I stream from an Auralic Aries G1. I send the signal via AES/EBU to the terminator and coax to the SW1X. I level match the volume on the relative inputs on my Audio-GD HE1 XLR preamp. Then I can a/b toggle between dacs on the same tracks in real time. 
 

I am very impressed with the Terminator dac. It is so close to the SW1X that sometimes I couldn’t tell a difference. I think overall the SW1X is slightly more fleshed out in the micro dynamics. Voices are just a hair more real sounding. Bass just a breath more texture. But it is so close. The Terminator hits slightly harder and goes deeper in the bass. The Terminator also gets the tiniest advantage in soundstage. Imaging is basically a draw. If I had to keep one dac it would likely be the terminator. The reason for this is it has more inputs, nos and os modes and two filters, just more flexibility. The other reason is the SW1X now sells for about $9000 USD. I got the Terminator for $2800. Amazing value. I could sell the SW1X likely for double what I paid for the Terminator. Love the SW1X so we’ll see what the future brings. 
 

Other DACs I’ve had recently include the Berkeley Alpha Series 1 MQA, Lampizator Atlantic SE+, PS Audio Directstream and Directstream Jr., Exogal Comet (very underrated), and some built in Sabre dacs from some integrated amps I’ve had. The SW1X is the pinnacle for me, but the Terminator is nipping on its heels.