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
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Showing 10 responses by jriggy

@audionutjeff, might want to look into a possible new version of Dave coming along in the near future. I seem to remember a comment that Chord might be working on a new Dave. 
@73max, how many hours on both? With such a close sound and the Plus not handling delicacy as well as the standard, sounds like just a break-in thing. When I had a Termi, delicacy and final details is what took the time... Not saying your observations are not true, just aways a chance with something ‘new’. Especially since they’re so close. 
As far as I know Lampizator no longer utilizes R-2R. They have their own ‘engine 53’ delta sigma now. Besides that, all Lampi units are tube based and the May is not. You may know these two facts but thought I’d add them just incase. 
What I’m curious about is how the May and the Mojo Audio EVO compare to each other —both ss and both R-2R... 
I thought someone mentioned that the 10day trial period is no longer and that Holo said it is not doable in the current times/world situation or something like that. 
Another break-in tip for those slower to ‘get there’ materials, like teflon... This may seem unconventional or even weird to some, but I got this from a designer years ago... During the break-in process, every two or three day power the unit down for 5 hours +/-. Evidently letting the caps discharge for a time like this can actually speed up the process some and even out the rollercoaster some. 
@hchilcoat , I was going to say similar as cal; that it’d be a lateral move, with preferential differences. 
Lampizator has that ‘lit from within’ character that you won’t get with Termi or the May, being ss. Also Lampizator has a vivid and alive house sound. The May might be smoother and ...mellower(?) according to descriptions.

I haven’t heard the May yet but I own a Lampizator Atlantic. Also bought the Termi, sold it, then rebought with new DSP board, sold it again. I still have the Atlantic and now also have a Bricasti M3. The Lampi’s speed and vivid presence is great for my system. I may buy the May but also do not want to live without a Lampi for either in system w/ preamp, or even more for DAC straight to amp listening. 
Also, I feel a designer deciding to use silver internally in certain locations is little different than using silver ICs throughout a system. 
@vinylshadow I’d go for it! If you want it and you have the funds, go for it. You may decide to level up with a different server/streamer one day and you’d already have the great DAC to answer the call… If the May is stretching the budget and/or your sure the Node and this DAC purchase will be it for your digital rig, then get what yer comfortable with and enjoy… If you ever think ‘what if’, then just buy the May or whatever other top of budget unit your thinking :) 

Ana(dia)log has also added an in-room/atmospheric sonic comparison vid. So make sure to check out that one too.