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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
snopro
392 posts
 
In_shore can you tell me between the Audiobyte Vox stack and Holo KTE May which one you liked better. Can you describe the differences in tonality, soundstage, imaging, etc.

Like you I also had the PS Audio Directstream and Terminator Dac. I have an Audio Mirror T3 SE Dac that I like better but, I’m interested in either the Vox or May Dac.
in_shore's avatar
in_shore
596 posts
 
Snopro to sum it up best i can , if you watched the YouTube video of New Record Day review of the KTE  that moment he paused over mentioning returning the Denafrips Terminator while listing to the May KTE dac in his system is very much similar reactions I had though my comparisons is with the AudioByte Vox dac .

As good as the Hydra Vox is for $800.00 more the Holo May KTE dac is overwhelmingly the bigger bang for the buck, sure 5k is a lot of money however I’ve never been so satisfied and content for a long , long while .
Finally it’s what’s up stream of the dac that really counts in my opinion. If you don’t think you can improve those 1s and 0s feeding your dac you should most definitely look into it .
mgrif104
353 posts
 
Like many here, I’m intrigued by the KTE version of the May.  I’m generally happy with my current unit, but am considering an upgrade. 

Have any here compared the May KTE against something like the Mola Mola Tambaqui?  Completely different price points, but based on the views expressed here, I wonder if it’s a comparison I can make.  I’ll be auditioning the Tambaqui.  Just wish I could do the same w/ the KTE.
nquery
103 posts
 
Has anyone had problems getting a response from Tim/Kitsune? I have emailed him twice with questions/lead time and have not received a reply. I actually live near him in Seattle and directly picked up some small products from him a few years ago - he was very helpful/responsive back then.
jcarcopo's avatar
jcarcopo
504 posts
 
@nquery Yes, he’s very backed up I’m afraid. They are inundated with orders. This includes my query which is several days old and 2 reviewers seeking to review the May Dac KTE. Usually he’s about 2 days behind, but I fear he’s even more behind atm.

Lead time on regular May or Serene is at least 5 weeks as an estimate. Add another 2 weeks for KTE versions. Shipping time is 5-12 days later  This is what I agreed to when I ordered 2 weeks ago and may have changed. Also, there's no cancelations after 48 hours of placing your order.

Jon



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