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Holo Audio May DAC

Just read a very nice review of this in Stereophile this month and after doing some research it looks like this one could be a very nice option for me.  
https://kitsunehifi.com/product/holo-audio-may-dac/
  
It's made in China I think (or could be Taiwan?, and yes, I am very well aware that these are two very different countries. ;)), and employs a direct to consumer model to keep the price as low as possible.  This does not worry me after purchasing a Jay's Audio transport from Vinshine Audio and having zero issues.  

Just curious if anyone here has heard one or purchased?  I'm very intrigued.  I know the Denafrips Terminator is another highly regarded DAC with a similar ordering model, but costs a couple grand more than this one.  Considering that one as well.

Thanks
128x128snackeyp
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
@snackeyp 

quick q

does the may have the ability to adjust the volume of its analog out with its remote, so if you wanted you could run it directly into a power amp as a sole source?

or is it a 'straight' dac with fixed analog outs only?
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snackeyp OP
455 posts
 
@snopro I'm not good at describing sound, but in this case it is not at all thin sounding.  I meant to say that the music just flows effortlessly and refreshingly.  As far as natural tonality, it has it in spades.  I've written this before but this DAC is the closest thing to analog that I have heard, so much so that I often forget that I'm not listening to my analog rig.  

@jjss49 This DAC does not function as a preamp, meaning there is no volume control feature.
snopro
390 posts
 
Thx for the clarity!👍
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brcanin
1 posts
 
@ jtrimm
Hello, how would you now describe the sonic difference between Directstram and May DAC? I own PSA DSD DAC and am considering getting KTE version but I'm somewhat hesitant just based on the fact that Directstream DAC is just an amazing unit and has been a great "companion" over the last 3 years or so.. I have it connected to my Musica Pristina Streamer via I2S and can tell you that it ,hands down, beats USB connection. It raised Directstream's performance to a whole different level, The only reason I'm considering upgrading it is its limitation to DSD128 while KTE can go much higher. I also like R2R concept and dual mono design.  Most of my files are in DSD or converted to DSD via Roon.
Any additional insights? I can probably get $3k for DSD here on AG. Is it worth to invest $2k to get Holo May DAC?
Thank you for your help.
BP
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cal3713
1,421 posts
 
Hard to say about the investment value, but I personally found the May much more compelling than the PS Audio DSD.  The only thing I preferred with the PSA was being able to use the Bridge II input, but that concern doesn't apply to you.
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