---
title: "How to connect a Denafrips DAC to Volumio Rivo+ via I2S"
description: ""
url: https://help.volumio.com/en/articles/55-how-to-connect-a-denafrips-dac-to-volumio-rivo-via-i2s
collection: "FAQ"
updated: 2026-10-20
language: en
---

# How to connect a Denafrips DAC to Volumio Rivo+ via I2S



### Step 1: Connect the Hardware

1.  Power off both Rivo+ and the Denafrips DAC
    
2.  Connect the I2S (HDMI) output of Rivo+ to the I2S input of the Denafrips DAC
    
3.  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](https://www.denafrips.com/config-pontus)

After setting Mode 5:

-   Restart the Denafrips DAC
    
-   Restart the Rivo+
    

* * *

### Step 4: Select Output in Volumio

1.  Open Volumio UI
    
2.  Go to Settings → Playback Options
    
3.  Select I2S / HDMI output
    
4.  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.