Different R2R DACs


Several months ago, I bought a used Hono Spring Level 2 DAC to see how R2R would compare against my Mytek Brooklyn DAC+. I like the Brooklyn+ a lot, but, given the other components in my system, I'm thinking about building in a bit more warmth (without losing significant detail). I'm not looking for sweetness or holography. Unfortunately, I was thoroughly unimpressed by the way the Holo Spring Level 2 smeared the music. I returned it within two weeks. Perhaps the unit I bought was defective (though I bought it from a highly reputable seller of used equipment), but it started me wondering how much of the hype surrounding the newer generation of R2R DACs was just that, hype. However, I keep seeing so many glowing reviews of reasonably priced R2R DACS from Denafrips, Aqua, Lampizator and others. So I'm wondering whether I should give them another try. Unfortunately, where I live the only real (suboptimal) option is to audition by purchasing one DAC at a time. Before I start down that road again, I thought I would ask the collective brain of Audiogon about how much of a difference I might expect, as against the Holo Spring level 2, from a new Denafrips Pontus II or used Terminator II, a used Aqua La Voce or Lampizator, or some other R2R DAC under $5K. I don't require require resolutions greater than 24/192 (beyond which I discern no difference). I do like the option of MQA decoding, but it's not a deal breaker. 

The rest of my system (source components aside), at present, include a Parasound JC2 BP preamp, a pair of VTV Purifi mono amps, and Harbeth C7ES-3 speakers.

audio-satisficer

@worldwidewholesales  have you had the chance to compare the Rockna wavelight preamp function to a good quality dedicated preamp?

How does it stack up? Please let me know

Thanks

I've got a Holo May KTE DAC - didn't quite wet myself, but did replace it in my system where a DAVE + M Scaler used to be. That May into my Auris Nirvana tube amp IS nirvana! But not if you like more analytical sound....

I'm quite happy with Musician Pegasus. I prefer this over a more costly upgraded mhdt orchid in my primary system. Strengths are neutrality while still retaining some warmth and much brtter bass. On the flip side there is less of that holographic space around each instrument. Both are great DACs. 

Just seen this thread. I am condidreing the MOJO Audio DAC but also SW1X,  Merason and Rockna Wavelight. Not  heard any of these but extensve reading has lead me there. 

What is important though is to ignore the R2R/Delta-Sigma superiority war. It's all about the sound, right?  Also don't be mislead by units that claim to do it all. By that I mean MQA, DSD, remote volume control, a dozen different filters etc. I suggest looking for a DAC that prioritize the importance of a super power supply and short signal paths with attention paid to noise ingress. DACs that do everything are not able to meet these IMO most important conditions.

I had the Sonnet Morpheus. I ended up selling it. A friend came to the same conclusion with his. Plenty of better sounding DACs for the same or less.