Denafrips Pontus vs LKS vs Gustard

Thanks Melm! In the meantime I ended up ordering a Holo Spring Level 1 this past week, so we'll see how that goes. I would like to have taken it up a notch to the Level 2 or 3 but they were so back ordered I just went for what was available. Also ordered an Intona USB device as well as the Singxer SU-1, so for now I'll just have to struggle along with these devices and see how that goes.

I had not previously been aware of the Spring DAC's but they seemed to belong in this group of high value leaders.

Please let us know how you like the DAC.

You're quite right about high value in the output of these small Asian companies.  Holo Spring is unusual in having an American rep/dealer.  It must inspire some confidence in a buyer.

@routlaw  I second melm as i'd really like to hear your opinion especially because it is the LVL1 version.

You bet I will do this. Yes it was good to have a rep located in the US, but I have to say that Alvin of Denafrips was always very responsive and informative as much as one could hope with an ever so slight language barrier. My guess is all of these DACS are great but the reason I chose for now the Holo Spring was due to some of the more advanced and interesting technologies the designer employed to overcome some of the drawbacks of R2R Ladder DACS. 

From what I know it will still be a week or two before mine is shipped out, apparently they are all made to order.

Interesting that you would mention your support directly from the Asian maker.  I have also been impressed with the email support form LKS's Jinbo who has excellent English skills.  He walked me through the USB set-up with JRiver.  Even more impressive, when some were concerned about updating firmware to the Amanero USB to I2S board he produced a 9 page illustrated guide.  No detail left out.  

I write this, I guess, in case anyone is really concerned about support from these very small Asian manufacturers who provide amazing value.  In addition, each of the brands has a small but lively and helpful following on a forum or two as I'm sure you will be discovering.