Holo Spring 3 R2R DAC Review - Punching Up!

[@colindoyle9876]

Talking about overloaded dac and sibilance shows you really do know your stuff - Best reviews !!

[@Subsonic-cd2en]

This was the first video I've seen on your channel. When I first clicked and saw 37 MINUTES - I nearly clicked off - no way could someone talk coherently about a DAC for 37 minutes without rambling and repeating themselves over and over. Wrong. I watched the whole thing and it was extremely good information. Probably the best DAC review I've ever seen.

[@joshuabrain9751]

He’s such an awesome reviewer!

[@mohdpazli]

He has evil brother... Z lol

[@giovannitirado6229]

Agree! 37 min of detailed, organized, and very useful information.

[@lukeizze]

@@mohdpazli z is the Man! You know bro

[@majajconsulting1771]

@@joshuabrain9751 t

[@mr.dynamite2543]

Without question, the most thorough and informative review of this DAC on the web. I purchased my Spring 3 KTE because of this review. I use the USB input and couldn’t be happier. Thank you.

[@Dennis-vh8tz]

I appreciate how you combine objective measurements and subjective listening in a single review. This makes the strengths and weaknesses of the reviewed product clearer, and also, over several reviews, starts to give one a sense of how measured differences affect subjective impressions. The Kitsune edition is the only Spring 3 with the Titanios 2 USB module, lesser modules have a lesser USB module, and thus might benefit from a DDC with galvanic isolation.

[@ericharrelson32]

Another great review in the books. Informative and enjoyable to watch, lighting, video/sound quality, and your flow through the technical are on point. Your descriptive comparisons were really insightful, will be helpful for alot people interested in the HOLO products. Nice work Bro.

[@GoldenSound]

Thank you!

[@xxgamerxxchrischris2325]

@@GoldenSound what's DACS do you own and what do you like most about them what do you say you would recommend

[@xxgamerxxchrischris2325]

@@GoldenSound it looks nice but it it's definitely supposed to be good at that price range

[@ericharrelson32]

@@xxgamerxxchrischris2325 I have three DACs: PS Audio DirectStream DAC; Denefrips Terminator Plus w/ Gaia DDC; Anthem Audio STR Preamp. Each one sounds good to me, I use the PSA and Denefrips the most. I'm currently waiting for PS Audio to release their new DirectStream MKII DAC for an in-home trail, but I really want the HOLO May KTE as well. I'm also thinking about getting the Spring 3 KTE for my office workstation rig.

[@xxgamerxxchrischris2325]

@@ericharrelson32 that is freaking insane that is overkill

[@MichaelSamuelson99]

Most of what you review is way outside of my means but I so appreciate how you describe what to listen for in your samples. I have picked up much knowledge about the strengths and weaknesses of my own HIFI system. Also, I very much appreciate your music tastes. I have found many great tracks from your examples. Keep up the great work!

[@BlueCliff72]

I have been watching gear reviews for years now. Having watched this as the first review I've ever seen from your channel, it makes me immediately not want to watch gear reviews from any other channel. You're aptly descriptive, passionate about the hobby, you ACTUALLY pick more diverse and interesting tracks and have to contain your joy after hearing them, and are more relatable than 90% of gear reviewers I've watched. Subbed. Nice work.

[@Newrecordday]

Great work on this one man! So far, we are hearing many of the same things.

[@GoldenSound]

My HQPlayer settings are available here: drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CxAXpskSUiQgRCpPfswFKtaBzB5ac26W?usp=sharing

[@xq0404]

Thank you for the insightful review. I recently bought the Holo Spring 3 (Level 3). I'm a little surprised and also relieved that May's two-chassis external power design has not made a night and day difference to the sound quality.

[@coolassloser]

What other dacs have you tried and how big of a difference compared to the Spring 3? I am on the fence of getting one so am trying to see other users and their honest feedback? Thanks. Also would help to understand the rest of your gear as well.

[@KenMoreira]

I love my spring 3 kte, been waiting on your review :D

[@Maaruks]

I ordered Spring 3 DAC after watching this review !

[@DerFrange1]

There is no way I will buy any Hi-Fi equipment from this price bracket anytime soon, but I really love your videos!

[@spamcan9208]

Excuses, excuses, you only need one kidney lol. Seriously though, this costs more than everything "hifi" that I own combined.

[@JustinIkeda]

I want a review for the CYAN 2

[@tomu2858]

Great review, watching again as a happy owner of a spring 3 KTE, everything you say makes so much more sense.

[@richardrosetta2728]

I have just recently discovered and subscribed GoldenSound and find his reviews to be the best and most informative I have found. Thank you for the excellent work.

[@radkokosoTT]

Great review! I agree in everything about the sound character, but I would not be able to evaluate it so nicely myself.

[@eskamobob8662]

Lol. 90% of my golden support is for eloquently explaining sounds I stumble to put into words

[@delta9k]

Thank you ! I have not been able to describe properly what I've found most striking about my Spring 3 KTE in regards to the stage and spatial recreation. The best I've been able to was say was that it is expansive and intimate at once, while sounding smooth and natural (to me). Hopefully now I can do a better, when asked. I have been using my KTE Spring 3 in NOS, but I am interested it trying out OS via roon first since I'm a roon user, and then HQPlayer if I take a liking to OS mode.

[@kingjongun7295]

Goes Brrrrr with volume

[@PhilBoggild]

My May lvl 2 arrived this week, but I was very tempted by the Spring 3. The thing that swung it for me was that getting the May shipped from Wildism in Hong Kong was only a few hundred pounds more than getting a Spring 3 KTE from Magna. Shipping only took a week, and they were happy to declare a lower value to take the sting out of import taxes.

[@x32i77]

Could you tell any difference between other dacs ?

[@PhilBoggild]

@@x32i77 Yes. I've tried a fair few and they definitely have their own defining characteristics.

[@x32i77]

@@PhilBoggild I am happy to hear that because z reviews said in his review there is absolutely no difference to 500$ dacs and the Holo May Audio dac which surprised me alot

[@PhilBoggild]

@@x32i77 everyone's ears are different I suppose. Zeos says a lot of pretty polarising things, that's part of his popularity I guess.

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

What happen if there is a problem during shipping? If they declare a lower value they can’t get insured for a different amount so they get nothing back if the DAC is lost?

[@dieterho]

one of my favourite audio reviews of all time (and it made me get one ;-)

[@ken-h1b]

That's fine. After I watched your Gustard x26 pro up to 21:30, I decide to get the Spring 3. Thanks

[@nicolashulgich5281]

Can't agree more with your review. Well Done mate!

[@SkywhiteChannel]

Holo May Level III Kitsune edition owner here. I listen to NOS mainly. I just prefer it...

[@mcgjohn22]

great review and excellent insight into the DAC. Would sure be interesting to hear how the Spring 3 or May compare to the Denafrips Terminator II or Venus II. thank you.

[@frye1430]

This was an immensely helpful review, as I'm currently trying to decide on my next DAC and definitely going in the direction of R2R. It's just that there are so many good choices, it's making my decision that much more difficult. The one thing about this review, however, (and it's the same thing I notice with many of these reviews and, for that matter, with the audio shows I've attended) is that the choice of music doesn't demonstrate what I want to hear. I'm principally a classical guy (though I listen to lots of other genres too), and this electronic/highly processed studio stuff IMO doesn't show off the component's ability to render a truly natural acoustic event like, say, opera, symphonic, or choral music. Still, the presentation makes a compelling and solid case for the Holo Spring 3, and it's firmly on my list.

[@henryt9731]

So what did you get?😂

[@frye1430]

Ended up getting a Sonnet Morpheus. Very happy with it so far.

[@aceofspades6667]

I have the spring 1 KTE and love it. I desperately want the spring 3 KTE for usb implementation improvement and the pre amp module that is supposed to be fantastic. For $3k usd this is supposedly 90% of the performance of the May and 95% of the Serene.

[@user-prh3oz51hs]

I've bought this dac several days ago, but how can I change nos mode between other mode.?

[@jerzysendorek9756]

Hi GoldenSound - thank you for another excellent review! I've got my Spring 3 KTE a week ago and it is still warming up... from what I hear from it until now - I agree with all you have said. The best is yet to come with burn-in, especially since my amp is new too. 2Qs: 1. Did you compare USB input versus I2S, performance/SQ-wise? 2. Question was asked already below but I could not find the answer - is Spring 3 KTE implementation on USB so good that what's upfront (a streamer, USB cable, etc.) does not matter that much? If this is not the case - what streamers would you recommend particularly for this DAC?

[@Dimitris_Pappas]

Good questions. I'd like to know too.

[@CatnamedMittens]

Unfortunately, we won't get an answer but those were great questions.

[@Staybrown11]

How’s the spring KTE holding up after 6months? What streamer did you settle for? I got a blue sound NODE, HDMI arc and use the USB to the spring 3.

[@ruffandruff]

Outstanding review mate. I really hope you get to review the Musician Aquarius. Really curious how these two compare.

[@joshuabrain9751]

I have the Aquarius and with i2s it is very good imo. I’m hoping the Spring 3 is even better as that’s what I’m considering upgrading to

[@ruffandruff]

@@joshuabrain9751 Yes, I have seen Aquarius review about it being fast and smooth, musical yet with very good transients. Then I came across the Spring 3 review and have been curious ever since. Please do share your thoughts, if you decide to get it. I'd love to see your impressions comparing them. If you don't mind, please provide a way to contact you. Thanks mate.

[@jacoblandjensen6230]

Dear GoldenSound In the Holo Spring 3 review, did you ask, for our view on OS. I did purchase a Holo May DAC, also thanks to your review and I have NOT been disappointed, it is a SUPER GOOD DAC!!! On the Holo May DAC do I prefer NOS, way over its internal OS. 10 years ago did I build a DIY DAC with AD1955 chips and a advanced DSP up sampler. My DIY DAC did sound warmer and has a fuller midrange than a Bricasti M1 dac and a PS Audio DirectStream, else did all three sound similar. We tested them on a 150.000,- € setup, so they all did have a chance for showing them self from their best side. The Holo May DAC does sound more resolving and detailed in the midrange and more natural in general then my DIY DAC. Thank you for very good reviews :) Br Jacob Land

[@patrickdowns7114]

Excellent review. I have narrowed down my choice of next DAC to this one, OR the Denafrips Pontus II. I was hoping to find a review of the Pontus II by you. Have you used it, and do you have thoughts? Thanks.

[@cablebrain9691]

I watched a review in which they were compared, on the "A British Audiophile" channel. But I do wish they would be compared (in more depth) here, to get another perspective and better overall understanding of the sonic differences. You can view the brief comparison in this segment: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaXGp6aEZZqKbMU

[@nunoferraz5426]

@@cablebrain9691 in reality...cant see how a pontus or venus being an overall better Dac than the spring 3 kte. This is more in line with the terminator.... with a preamp.

[@cablebrain9691]

@@nunoferraz5426 So you've heard them I presume...........what are the sonic differences?

[@nunoferraz5426]

@@cablebrain9691 I haven't... basing it on internals and specifications, from true native dsd to galvanized input with pll. I have ordered the spring 3 kte /w preamp... will share thoughts then .

[@cablebrain9691]

@@nunoferraz5426 For what it's worth, A British Audiophile had the Denafrips Pontus II and the Holo Audio Spring 3 Level 2 (not the KTE) in his home at the same time. He found them different, but comparable. I'd like to hear more direct comparisons like this. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaXGp6aEZZqKbMU

[@coolassloser]

Awesome review and thanks for talking about the technical aspects and comparisons. How would you rate the preamp of this DAC? I see that you have the RME ADI 2 FS on your desktop. How would you compare the two? Also, for a speaker stereo setup, would you pair the Spring 3 with the Benchmark amp you have there as well? I’m looking to upgrade and am seriously considering the Spring 3 L2 with preamp. Any further thoughts on pairing this with other amps for headphone and speaker listening would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[@leonardpezzano5216]

Great review of another wonderful Holo Audio product. Earlier this year I purchased the May and the Serene. Love them as much as you. I had no idea what I was missing. BTY, I think I saw a Benchmark AHB2 in you setup. I am intrigued by its unusual design and wondering how it sounds compaired other soild state and tube amps. Are you planning on doing a rewiew on this amp. Love to hear your thoughts. Thanks again for you great videos.

[@anthonykay5100]

Thank for another great review. Since being reunited with my Michell GyroDec which showed up the short comings of my Ares 2. As an upgrade I was initially considering the Pontus and the Venus although I’m gravitating towards Holo Audio Spring 3. Magna HiFi offer a fuse upgraded to a Synergistic Research Pink Fuse at £175. Not a lot out there as far as reviews that I have much faith in. Is this just more Snake Oil? Thanks again A

[@devinmatteson]

Just bought a SMSL VMV D1se, for my secondary, 2 channel system. I have a Topping D70s in my primary, headphone system. Comparing the two together, in my headphone system, with a Singxer SA-1 for the amp and a pair of Harmonicdyne Zeus and Focal Clear MG cans. the D1se is more incisive than the D70s and slightly less so than something like a D90. But I feel that the timbre on the D70s is slightly more natural than the D1se; however, the notes tend to be thicker/heavier on the D70s, as well as being slightly smoothed over. If the D1se is one of your favorite dacs under $1k, I would love to see your thoughts on the D70s. I think that you might like it just as much, if not maybe more than the D1se, seeing that to me, it sounds a touch closer to an R2R dac, while retaining the benefits of a delta sigma style dac. I was very surprised by the D70s and it remains my favorite dac to date.

[@klaymoon1]

Great review! You are definitely my best audio reviewer from now! :) How does Spring internal preamp compare to Serene?

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

We should not forget that there is a gentle but still quite present roll-off when you are using NOS with 44.1 material, starting well before 20k, due to the way NOS works. So there is a huge difference in how you appreciate the difference between an album in 44.1 NOS and the same album oversampled, compared to an album that is originally produced in 96kHz and the same album oversampled.

[@FernandoPereira]

With my Spring 2 KTE, I upsample 44.1 and 48 material 2x with Roon's linear phase filter. It reduces a slight smearing, and roll-off.

[@BRLeoC]

Fantastic review, appreciate the clarity of your descriptions. When I bought the main DAC for my system I was between the Holo and Lampizator, both were obscure brands at the time but the Lampizator was nearer to me (edit: and they didn't have that tube rolling craziness yet). Would love to hear your comments on the Lampi if you ever have the chance to test one.

[@dopydude]

19:34 - 20:15 Totally resonates with me.. I have the modi multibit2 and denafrips ares II..Ares does resolution in a more airier manner..but the drums dont have that chesty thump on the ares2 that the multibit does so so well. They suit different genres differently - Ares2 + Sundara for classical, ambient, soundtracks, chillwave, jazz...Ares2 + Hd6xx - jazz, blues, vocals, acoustics, solo violins (anything tonal or timbre rich). But for rock, electro, deep house, EDM - mimby just sounds more 'fun'. And yes, there a few songs that can make you swell up within - 'Time' is one of them... Quick question - does limiting oversampling to a rate that tidal selects automatically in exclusive mode better than setting the OS in mac audio midi set up (Ares 2 shows upto 756Khz). Love to hear from you! Its nice to be nodding along with your reviews..straight, informed, honest, inclusive.. and the music..just Golden ;)

[@AlmightySarlac]

Big fan of your videos, but when you use the screwdriver to point out internal details, my sphincter instinctively tightens. Perhaps a rubber tipped pencil?

[@markg3789]

Nice review - thanks. My Spring 3 KTE arrives late next week and I will run it alongside a Delta Sigma DAC in my speaker setup. I have read a lot about burn in hours on the Holo DACs ranging from one or two hundred hours to some truly ridiculous time frames to sound their best. Can you comment on your experience?

[@joshuabrain9751]

How are you liking the Spring 3 Mark?

[@markg3789]

@@joshuabrain9751 Yeah loving it Joshua, it just sounds more natural & real than the DS DACs I have without any of the syrupy character that NOS DACs are historically renowned for. Sometimes I miss some of the sharp edges that DS can give you but the difference is only subtle on most tracks and it makes up for it in many other ways.

[@joshuabrain9751]

@@markg3789 Awesome mate. I’m close to pulling the trigger on one myself. Just still trying to work out if I should get the preamp module with it or use the preamp in my Integrated amp

[@GarySmith-mc8vf]

Hi Mark, How are you enjoying your Holo Spring? Do you prefer it to your Delta Sigma? Thanks Gary

[@aceofspades6667]

To answer your question I listen to NOS only via Spring 1 KTE. I feed it to Hegel H160 -> Maggie LRS for 2 channel and Burson Soloist 3XP-> Abyss 1266 phi tc for headphone setup.

[@maxjiang9663]

Great review!!I'm using a X26pro, is it worth to upgrade to the spring3?

[@MisterChibs]

Hey, any chance on getting an updated link for HQ Player settings? The one posted in the description won't work.

[@MrBurt1337]

Crazy! I was going to comment on the same, as I was looking for the settings as well today and received the same Google Drive error.

[@MisterChibs]

@@MrBurt1337I played around with settings all day. Crazy amount of options! Let me know if you find anything out 🍺

[@MrBurt1337]

@@MisterChibs I've been playing around with HQ Player settings as well for my Spring 3. I haven't had much time but have for now settled on sinc-M for Oversampling 1x and Nx, with Modulator ASDM7EC-super. Like what I'm hearing.

[@danielsamson9505]

My headphone set consists of a "Holo Sping 3.2+Cable Cardas Clear Cygnus XLR+Amp.Violectric HPA V550+HIFIMAN HE1000V2. This set handles the whistles well, and works very well. I'm using the USB cable provided by holo. All of these elements work in harmony together.👌👍

[@laieauxdaims]

Dear Goldensound, You might very much be the most trustworthy and valuable reviewer out there. Would you consider reviewing the Gustard R26. I am sure you would get a lot of attention for this. - Because your reviews are outstanding; - Because you could compare it to the Halo Spring and May; - Because you are one of the only ones understanding the importance of testing both PCM and DSD inputs. How do both R2R ladders compare for PCM, especially in NOS mode ? How do both DSD treatment compare, Holo May having a dedicated multi bit ladder whereas R26 has only a 1Bit DAC for DSD ? So, a lot of interesting stuff to compare here. And you seem by far the most competent reviewer for this. That would be so great. Thanks

[@Benvos]

For my 2 channel system I’ve been researching DACs, not to buy now but to put together a list of potential candidates. In that list include the Rockna Wavelight, Metrum Onyx, Sonnet Audio Morpheus. However when I listen to you speak about these DACs I literally get so excited I just want to buy it without even an audition. Your thorough explanation and excitement for them are infectious, if you’re not getting paid by Holo Audio you bloody should be!

[@KenMoreira]

I bought mine blind, on pre order. I am someone who doesn't have alot of extra money and saved for a while to get a system upgrade. And no regrets with my spring 3 kte purchase.

[@Benvos]

@@KenMoreira ah man that must be such a nice feeling, to save and get something without hearing it to find out you love it. DACs for me seem to be the most personal choice of all because of what they can do to overall sound so congrats on getting something you love!

[@FernandoPereira]

I've owned Onyx and Spring 1 KTE, I own Morpheus and Spring 2 KTE. I'm planning to get a Spring 3 KTE or May KTE for another system. Spring 2 KTE has the best balance of tonality, speed, instrument separation, and clarity of the ones I've heard. Morpheus is a bit denser tonally in the low-mids, almost romantic, but slightly smeared relative to Spring 2 KTE.

[@KenMoreira]

i like both nos and OS with hq player, been trying dsd lately. I think its some sort of a closer sound to nos timbre but you give up even more of the space

[@cablebrain9691]

Are their sonic differences between various streamers connected to this DAC, considering its USB isolation and "absolutely non-existent jitter?" Is there anything other than jitter that will affect the sound from the digital data flow into the DAC? If not, does this DAC make all upstream digital components equal, soundwise? Is there any need for expensive streamers or USB cables? Could I just use my $35 Chromecast Audio or a $399 iFi STREAM device to get the same sound quality as an Auralic, Aurender, or Lumin streamer for redbook playback? Also, is the preamp section defeatable using the preamp version of the DAC? Can it be completely switched out of the circuit?

[@joshuabrain9751]

Been curious about this too

[@stephencosta6814]

Very good questions

[@mikehuntington4440]

I'm curious too....might end up just trying for myself one day.

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

Any good DAC with good USB implementation will completely suppress the need of a fancy streamer like the Auralic, Aurender, Lumin and alike. Except of course if you like something in particular in the interface or LCD screen. If your DAC is only reading the data bits of the signal and completely discards the noise component, there is absolutely nothing a streamer can improve.

[@Maxime-ho9iv]

As for the preamp, well, if you get a preamp inside the DAC then you should go for a power amp. There is no real use to have an integrated amp when your DAC already has a preamp.

[@reginablach5368]

Thanks for this excellent review! Due to all the R2R review I bought a Ares II, to get my own impressions. It sounds good as my 20 year old CD player (Audionet). After I had a look at the waveform, I decided not to upgrade to the Terminator... Your May review I watched a couple of weeks ago. And I ordered it (Level 2) immediately. Know I 'm waiting impatiently for delivery to check it out ....

[@joshuabrain9751]

How does the May compare to the terminator?

[@reginablach5368]

@@joshuabrain9751 No idea. I did compare Ares 2 and the May. But may be you can find the answer here: Two CRAZY HIGH-END DACs I Would Buy While Crying For My Wallet!

[@RigVader]

@@reginablach5368 How do you find the Spring 3 compared to the Ares II? I find the Ares tends to be a little too “fat free”/lean in the lower mids and a bit too sharp in the presence region (at least in oversampling mode). Hence I end up using me old Rega DAC instead. Curious about the spring, but would hate to spend that kind of cash on a disappointment 😀

[@reginablach5368]

@@RigVader I don't own the Spring 3. I got a May L2 two month ago. After I connected the May to the amp, I never switched back to the ares II. The trumpets was so real on the May. Don't know if the mid are lean or the big, the sound at all was realistic regardless if I hear Metallica or Mahler ;-) The Ares at all was not bad, the Ares' NOS mode isn't NOS. That was the main reason not to test the Terminator. I'm happy with the May now :-)

[@RigVader]

@@reginablach5368 Thanks, my bad regarding the model! The lack of true NOS on the Denafrips dacs (they do linear interpolation as far as I understand) would definitely also be a point of contention for me.. at least if spending terminator level money. Not sure I’m ready for lifelike brass in my life or would like something a bit more sugar coated 😃 Guess I need to take a chill pill and get the rest of my system in order and then rely on re-sellers with a return police to try out some laddet dacs (just hate auditioning gear within a small time window) 👍

[@MiemoPenttinen]

When are we going to see a review of the VMV D1SE we keep on seeing on the desk? 🤓

[@DBTAudio]

I just read a Spring 3 KTE review in a online forum and the guy mentioned it had an overblown/exaggerated soundstage until he turned off the PLL and had a Mutec in the chain. With that setup, he advised the Spring 3 was sounding the best. Did you audition the Spring 3 with the PLL on and off? If so, did you hear a difference?

[@proustie]

Would be curious what you think of the Weiss DAC501 or 502. The most uncanny "you are in the studio" feeling I've gotten from a DAC. Eerily great resolution, and fun to listen with. Ultimately I preferred a certain R2R DAC that supposedly doesn't measure well, and I'm a happy guy...

[@BorisJurash]

Hey,. I'm looking for advice... if I'm only planning to oversample via HQPlayer in SDM, via my roon bridge to a DAC, wouldn't I be waisting money on a R2R PCM topology in a DAC. Therefore, the next question would be, is there a good DAC that works in a true NOS with a dedicated, pure DSD topology? And what that would be: FPGA/R2R? If the answer to the second part is No, for commercial reasons, then what is the second best thing? I hope it makes sense what I'm asking. I don't think anyone has touched upon this topic during their reviews

[@tassostsoutis601]

Great review, great kit! Will we ever see budget equipment reviewed here?

[@bagelhunk]

Awesome review! Curious to see a review for a Mola Mola Tambaqui, a MSB model, and DCS Lina if you ever decide. 👍

[@nick62876]

just wanted to know if you have ever reviewed the holo cyan amp/dac and if so how does it compare to other dacs in their range

[@alexherceg9496]

Hey GoldenSound! Always enjoy your videos and this one especially. I like that you augment measurements with listening. Here’s a question: is the Level 1 Spring 3 also good value? Do you have any idea of the gap between the “basic” level 1 and the KTE? I demo’d a Spring 3 Level 2 against a May and indeed it was very very close. I am curious how much the L1 and KTE ones differ from that. If anyone else has any comments let me know!

[@joshuabrain9751]

Which level May did you demo against the Spring 3 L2? I can’t really answer your question but I can say this if you plan on using USB the KTE is the way to go.

[@alexherceg9496]

@@joshuabrain9751 it was a May L2 I believe against a Spring 3 L2

[@mikelm222]

Great Review - thanks

[@minigaangsta]

I can not aford the KTE version. Full stop. How does the Level 1 version perform? What am I loosing?

[@GMG0479]

Any plan to review the Gustard R26 and compare it to the Spring3?

[@jamesgiebel]

The DAC is credited in this video with “presenting the strings with such separation, and character, and resolution”. How can this be? Is there anything in its datasheet that can account for this characteristic? The DAC, at best, produces the original analog source material as recorded (+/- 1/2 LSB at 16 bits?) with a minimum of added stuff like artifacts, distortion, noise, etc. What am I missing? Is there a secret DSP function in the box? Please help me understand. Thanks.

[@Diwakarvlg]

Very nice presentation. It shows your passion and appreciation towards Gear Presented. A small doubt when presenting Holo May you said that there is no much difference between may l2 and may kte. And here you also tell that the spring 3 kte and May differences are subtle. Little confusing. Also does the spring kte also have the Separate DSD implementation . True OS/NOS implementation? Thanks in advance

[@pepeanguita8376]

Excellent review, congrats and thank you !!. I have one question about your HQplayer setup: does the DAC accept native DSD from the computer in linux ?. Thank you

[@simon-nl4mq]

Great work as always. Curious will you be releasing the full measurement of the Spring3? I trust it will be of interest to many. Thanks.

[@robeperez8626]

Is there any sound quality difference from the L1 vs the L3 KTE?

[@MisterKardos]

Once I heard actual "true" NOS on the May, there was no using anything else for my ears. The added tactility and being-there-live that it allowed my music to convey, makes oversampled stuff sound decidedly false now; not bad. Just false.

[@ShaleAudio]

The problem with the being-there-live aspect of NOS is that it can trigger some social anxiety for people, especially after COVID has reduced the amount of outside interaction people have had. Other than that it sounds like a great feature!

[@MisterKardos]

@@ShaleAudio huh! I never thought about it that way, but it makes sense! Isn't perception of audio strange .. 😊

[@BrentLeVasseur]

Yeah NOS is the only way to go on the May. Do you upsampling in ROON and or use a D2D converter like the KTE SU2. I upsample everything to 768k in ROON and that beats the upsampling internally in the Holo May.

[@arrowzen7433]

@@BrentLeVasseur why upsample? - what does it beat exactly? - how is it better?…

[@BrentLeVasseur]

@@arrowzen7433 It’s subtle but upsampling from say 44.1 to 96khz makes it sound just a bit smoother. I don’t know if it is just placebo effect but I think I notice a slight difference. In Roon, I can have everything upsampled to 768k before sending it to my transport/DAC. My Mac Mini can do it easily, so why not? It doesn’t make it sound worse.

[@hushpuppykl]

Now, this IS a review. I salute you! TQ

[@milenkotulencic1600]

Little slow to start... @GoldenSound, in Your opinion, is the price difference between Level 2 and KTE worth the money in case of the Spring 3?

[@eazydraw4681]

Great review, you have a super engaging style so keep it up ... now a question and apologies if i missed somewhere in the video which version you are reviewing but upon clicking through to magna there are 3 versions of the Spring 3 ....could you kindly clarify which you reviewed here

[@cablebrain9691]

He used the Spring 3 DAC KTE Kitsune edition. That's the top model of the Spring 3. You can easily identify it by the fox logo on the top of the DAC.

[@lm74829]

How in your eyes / to your ears does exactly this Holo Spring 3 compare to the Ferrum Wandla ?

[@MMRSean]

Fantastic review! Only the KTE level has the galvanic isolation, correct? Or do all levels have it? I was a bit confused on that part.

[@mccririck01]

I think all levels have it, otherwise he would have said differently. I don't see why they wouldn't implement it on all levels.

[@MMRSean]

@@mccririck01 I'm not sure if the Titanis USB module = galvanic isolation or if they're separate/different things. I know only the KTE edition has the Titanis module, but I just don't know if the Titanis module is what contains the galvanic isolation or if that's not related.

[@MrDTF]

If you have the preamp option installed, is it possible to bypass it if you have a separate preamp later on? If you use Roon, e.g., via Raspberry Pi and USB, can you control the device volume control in Roon or do you need to use the remote? Is there any benefit in sound to use the separate preamp instead of the internal option? Regards

[@tomb375]

If I were to go for something like this Holo Audio - Spring 3 DAC - Spring V3 KTE +Preamp Module what streamer do you recommend?

[@poki3247]

Another great review golden!!

[@gordonfreeman4491]

THIS is my next majoy audio purchase.

[@thelastrhino2581]

Just get a nice headphone, you don't need this snake oil.

[@gordonfreeman4491]

@@thelastrhino2581 Well... my current Dac has vastly improved my music, but you don't think Dacs can do that?

[@thelastrhino2581]

@@gordonfreeman4491 In do, I have a Chord.

[@gordonfreeman4491]

@@thelastrhino2581 Well you need to sell it, as it have not changed anything for you. But other people may have different ears, so they appriciate a good Dac.

[@thelastrhino2581]

@@gordonfreeman4491 What? When did I say it hasn't? Why would I still own it and be using it? Are you alright, having an argument with yourself here?

[@efisadovnick4761]

Hello I really enjoy your reviews thank you very much. What do you think is better between the two models of Holo: SPRING 3 KTE OR May Level 2 Many thanks in advance

[@veetour]

Should I buy this with the preamp or not? It’ll connect to an integrated amp.

[@1d10t3c]

Anyone have experience and thoughts on how these vary between the lvl 1, lvl 2, lvl 3?

[@ellmusic769]

Hi, About purchasing this DA and service. How do I buy it in Thailand? And what happens when it needs service? - Thanks

[@lukephillips3751]

I like the ifi zen in the background. when will that be getting reviewed?

[@gerard3797]

Excellent review again :)! I ordered the level 2 with preamp just yesterday and am planning on using it for both HiFi and Cinema. Would not having oversampling mode be very noticeable for movie effects? Secondly, did you compare the preamp module against the Serene?

[@ken-h1b]

Will KTE SU-1 DDR improve the sound quality of Spring 3? I try to decide between Holo spring 3 and Gustard x26 pro. I have a Singer SU-2 DDC on hand now. Thanks

[@suryapratamak1690]

Hi Goldensound, i thoroughly enjoy all your reviews. I am looking for a great r2r dac. How does the spring 3 do with modern electronica, rap, hiphop, edm which make up 50% of what i listen, the remaining 50% is country, gospel and ost orchestra. I currently own the d90se and bifrost 2. I am bit worried if r2r i will lose slam and bite. Is that so with the holo spring?

[@baronofgreymatter14]

I dont understand Nos vs OS. The sample rate on the DAC never changed from 44.1 during your discussion. How are you affecting OS ? I have a Rose RS130 streamer thats lets me change sample rates and it is reflected on the DAC display. Is that what you mean? Also I have never ever found any DSD content. Can you us OS to do that or how does that work? I have some nice sounding gear but i have severe FOMO thinking Im leaving a ton on the table. My amp is a luxman integrated L507z. I know this is an old video. I have Roon as well. How do you use HDplayer with roon?

[@brooksphillips2234]

Is there a difference is sound quality between level 3 kte vs level 3 kte with preamp? I have heard that a pre amp can change things. Idk. I'm still fairly new and have never experienced this.

[@roberteshaw4590]

Very impressed. Your enunciation is superb. I just stumbled upon your site, so glad I did. I was starting to look at a new DAC, and was surprised, deja vu. From your review, not sure whether to spring ( pun Intended) for the Spring 3 KTE or go all in for the Holo May KTE version? My only concern is warranty and the need for repairs if necessary? Reliability ETC. Where to send etc. Any info would be much appreciated. Thank you again! Robert TN

[@trun1979]

I hear the hype around the HOLO DACs and I agree to some extent: I own a MAY Lev2 and I find it amazing with complex, intricate compositions like classical or movie scores (in NOS) but... with music like progressive metal I find that the sheer punch is just not there. My "modest" Burson Conductor 3xr sounds much better for such genres, but can't compete in terms of natural sound.

[@jeffreytsao]

Fantastic review, however Spring 3 KTE with Preamp costs $3,700, which is only $1,100 less than May L2, a second-hand May L2 in China only costs slightly higher than a brand new Spring 3 KTE with Preamp, so it all comes down to whether you want/have a separate preamp.

[@ThinkscapeVideo]

Where did you see offers for that second-hand May L2? I can't find it anywhere ...

[@carlosalvarez7445]

If you see this, please consider updating your view of the Ares DAC, the NOS issue was addressed and its performance improved. I'd love to hear what you think.

[@firegon2288]

Sorry for offtop - but You keep saying that the new USB implementation is phenomenal. I have a May and from my experience it sounds way better with USB -> DI20 -> AES/EBU than with just plugging it directly via USB. Am I doing something wrong? Maybe there are some settings I should check and switch?

[@lapocasini1246]

You should use i2s if you can. It's the best sounding option.

[@keeferdog5617]

What about the Denafrips Pontus ll @ $1,800 usd? It does NOS

[@GoldenSound]

Unfortunately the Denafrips (and Musician) DACs do not actually do NOS. Their 'NOS' mode is actually linear interpolation oversampling. I've done a writeup on the topic at the end of this article: goldensound.audio/2021/10/07/denafrips-terminator-plus-with-gaia-measurements/ I like the denafrips DACs a lot and highly recommend them, but they aren't actually NOS

[@keeferdog5617]

@@GoldenSound Thanks for the quick reply! Just found your channel and subed. I bought a Pontus ll, two weeks ago and now you have me rethinking my purchase- Thanks again- lol I have a nice 2 channel audio system and after running-in the dac for 10 days, I can’t really hear an audible difference when switching from OS to NOS. I’ve just been leaving it in the nos position. After watching your vids, you have me thinking of selling the Pontus for a Holo dac- great-lol Do you have a dedicated listening room or something other than desktop speakers for critical listening? I will try and learn about linear nos (Denafrips) and check out your link. Cheers from the States and btw my wife is a Scouser with zero interest in my audio journey. She thinks 480p and 4k look alike. She thinks her Bose CD player/tuner/BT thing sounds just as good as the Sonus soundbar n sub setup in the media room and no difference from the Bose to my high end 2 channel audio system- ugh

[@curlmythic]

Hi Golden, what are your thoughts on the hot outputs (5.3V)? And do your comments, more or less, apply to the Level 2 w/ preamp?

[@Nightjar726]

@goldensound can you please explain why DACs such as the Topping D90SE dont sound good at all but measure extremely well? I got one to audition because of the measurements but I didn’t like it at all. Timbre did not sound right and was really flat sounding. What is the reason for this? What is not being covered in the measurements ? Or what measurements are not being shown? Thanks

[@DrJum]

Filters and chips.

[@20puskinas1992]

You didnt like it, because as you said it is a "flat sounding". You just like coloration provided by other dacs.

[@Nightjar726]

@@20puskinas1992 please tell me what else I do and don’t like and why. 🤣

[@20puskinas1992]

@@Nightjar726 You just like coloration and probably have flaws in you system and thus need warmth in your system to compensate shortcomings of your system. Its not topping problem.

[@Nightjar726]

@@20puskinas1992 yeah sure man. Whatever you say. Lol.

[@mauriceelet6376]

What about the Azure? I have seen a lot about HoloAudio's more exspensive products, but cant find much about the Azure. I've read that it has a proplem with isolation from the transformer. The THX AAA 789 i would switch it with is connected to the RME ADI DAC 2 FS and HD 800S.

[@chidotv7009]

love your reviews, can’t wait for the VMV D1se review…

[@peterallison5021]

was looking at upgrading my PS SGCD, but I am failing to see any inputs that I can use to plug my Anthem MRX 520 into

[@robertyates9008]

My bro I have a delema what do I do go too the May or go for the MSB DISCREET Which is around $12000.00 Can. Or too the MSB Premere which is around $20,000.00. Are they worth the money and do you think I would get $5000.00 more better or around $13000.00 more better on the MSB PREMERE. the May in Canada. Is around $7500.00. I’m at a lost why MSB IS so damn expensive the MSB referance is around $45,000.00 shit that’s just for a DAC. Let me know your feelings bro. You are such a great teacher you are very COMPREHENSIVE. I love your videos. Thanks so much.

[@powermod6772]

Would love to see a comparison to the Gustard R26 r2r DAC.

[@paulcomeau6]

Side question to your interesting and informative DAC review. What is the visualization software you are using when playing tracks? Thanks in advance.