2. digital
  3. 159610-3674

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
arnie217
6 posts
 
I appreciate everyone's contributions to this post.  Based on that, technical measurements at Stereophile and ASR, and other great reviews, I ordered a KTE May yesterday.  The May will replace a Berkeley Alpha Series 2 with USB converter. 
I recently sold my analog set up (SME 30/2 w Series V; Soundsmith Hyperion; BAT P10SE Superpak) to focus on digital (Qobuz + Roon).  The Berkeley is good, but I hope the May takes it to another level! 
I will update when I get the May and have a chance to break it in for >500 hours. 
achipo
58 posts
 
Wow you are replacing a $25k DAC with a $5k DAC.  I definitely want to read the comparison!  The May is on my list as well, but I have a modded Gustard U20, so definitely expect an improvement.
bbarden45
13 posts
 
@jtrimm During the 3300 hours have you powered off to let it cool for 5 hours plus or minus?

I've just past 500h and thinking it might be a good idea to let the May cool completely.
achipo
58 posts
 
Which digital inputs did you prefer?  Which digital cables did you use?
headphonedreams
527 posts
 
Wow you are replacing a $25k DAC with a $5k DAC.  I definitely want to read the comparison!  The May is on my list as well, but I have a modded Gustard U20, so definitely expect an improvement.
@achipo I would also like to read the comparison.

$5k is still too much for me, if someone can make an equally good dac and shave off another 80% of the price then we're talking. 
I can dream, can't I?
More to discover