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Selling my Ares 12-1, bought it couple of years ago when I was travelling at Hong Kong. Has recently updated the firmware to Enyo 15th I believe it is the same as Ares 12-1.I have changed the fuse (see second picture), and also added Oyaide NRF-005T Noise Reduction Fabric inside (see thirdand fou...
The Ares 12th-1 is a notable entry into discrete R2R DACs, and A$1,050 is a strong buy. It sits below the A$1,366 median and above the A$974 25th percentile from 74 comparable listings, putting it firmly in the lower quarter of the used market rather than merely “fair” value.
Its appeal is the substantial, true-balanced R2R design, natural tone, solid build, and useful flexibility through USB, coaxial, optical, I²S, RCA, and XLR connections. The selectable NOS/oversampling character also lets you tailor presentation to the system. The main check is simply completeness: confirm the exact 12th-1 version, remote, original packaging, and fault-free digital inputs. If those basics are covered, this is an excellent opportunity for someone wanting engaging, well-resolved digital without paying near-median money.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Denafrips emerged in 2012 from Guangzhou, China, founded by Mr. Zhao, an electronics engineer with a Bachelor’s degree and over 15 years at a major OEM manufacturer. Raised amid a family of trained engineers, Zhao launched the brand as a modest five-person venture in the Panyu district, where it has since expanded into a 15,000-square-foot facility employing 40 to 90 staff. All research, development, assembly, quality control, and most manufacturing occur in-house, embodying a commitment to self-reliance in a hub of high-end audio production.
The brand specializes in proprietary discrete R-2R digital-to-analog converters (DACs), its cornerstone products, alongside CD transports, digital-to-digital converters, preamplifiers, power amplifiers, and headphone amplifiers. This lineup, grown from four initial DACs to over a dozen, prioritizes analog-like warmth and natural timbre over sterile measurements, with the name Denafrips acronymizing values like Dynamic, Exquisite, Natural, Attractive, Fidelity, Refined, Intoxicating, Pure, and Sophisticated.
Denafrips holds a strong position in the high-end audiophile market, celebrated for innovative engineering, meticulous craftsmanship, and exceptional value that challenges pricier Western rivals. Positive reviews and owner feedback worldwide affirm its sonic prowess, backed by a three-year warranty and direct-to-consumer sales, cementing its status as a Chinese pioneer delivering refined digital purity without inflated premiums.
See all Denafrips listings on RADAR.
