What does your DAC sound like

I recently landed an Audio-GD R7HE Mk3 for comparison to my Esoteric K-01X.  The R2R GD slightly edges out the K01X with USB input from a Sonore Sig Rendu Deluxe, with further gains over I2S input from Pareto Audio’s new single mode FO EN to I2S node.  Couldn’t be more pleased with the change, though admittedly outside the $5K ceiling post-tariiffs.

My experience is for not much money the  Denafrips Pontus ll is a very good sounding dac. In fact I purchased the top terminator model and preferred the sound of the Pontus. However the Holo May Kte is what stopped my search. If you don’t care about DSD the Schitt YGGY is also a good try. 

1. @dwest1023 So you prefer the Holo May over the Terminator Plus.  Do you use any filters or run it in NOS?  What type of streamer do you use?

I am currently listening to a Yamamoto YDA-1 and it sounds very vivid, immediate, and musical. They do pop up used from time to time but not often.

+1 R2R topology +1 Denafrips products. I have several deltasigma DACs in lower systems that measure “world class” but pretty much sound the same, except for the most expensive best measuring model, all crisp, clean, clear, transparent, neutral, linear, etc.  The top of the line has all of that with just a little extra across the board.

They all sound great, but…in my “main rig” I run a Pontus II fed by an IRIS DDC, and big 300b/845 tube amp into Klipschorns.  Simply sublime, until I turn it up, then WOW! I also believe source plays just as important, if not more important role.  Bucket list would be Grimm MU-1 into a Terminator Plus with top of the line clock.

Everything matters, some things more than others, source, DAC, amp, preamp, speakers, room, etc. all with good synergy is the destination.  Enjoy the journey, once you think you’ve arrived, there’s always somewhere else to go.