Step 1: Connect the Hardware
Power off both Rivo+ and the Denafrips DAC
Connect the I2S (HDMI) output of Rivo+ to the I2S input of the Denafrips DAC
Power on the DAC first, then the Rivo+
Step 2: Set the Correct I2S Configuration on the Denafrips DAC
By default, Denafrips DACs may not use the correct I2S pin layout for Rivo+, which can cause:
Very distorted or screeching sound
Audio that sounds “broken”
Incorrect left/right channel playback
To fix this, you must change the DAC I2S mode.
Required setting:
I2S Mode: 5
LED sequence: 1 - 0 - 1
This aligns the DATA, BCK, and LRCK signals correctly with Rivo+.
Step 3: How to Change the I2S Mode
Follow the official Denafrips instructions here:
https://www.denafrips.com/config-pontus
After setting Mode 5:
Restart the Denafrips DAC
Restart the Rivo+
Step 4: Select Output in Volumio
Open Volumio UI
Go to Settings → Playback Options
Select I2S / HDMI output
Start playback
Important Notes
This applies only when using I2S
USB and S/PDIF connections do not require this configuration
This is not a fault of Rivo+ or the DAC
Once set, no further changes are needed
Summary
If a Denafrips DAC sounds distorted when connected to Rivo+ via I2S:
Set the DAC to I2S Mode 5
Confirm LED sequence = 1 - 0 - 1
Restart both devices
This ensures full compatibility and correct sound reproduction.