Please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 😄👍 For stunning revolutionary 3-way speakers visit - www.qualioaudio.com Best Fullrange Drivers - check out Cube Audio cubeaudio.eu Need to get the Fosi ZA3 Amp - fosiaudioshop.com/virtualhifi (affiliate link, no additional cost to you and I get a small commission that will help grow the channel)
Weiss 204 dac has that little something that brings the music to a next level .Just more natural and enjoyable -at least to my ears .My computer is hooked up to Hegel dac . good day !
Both sound wonderful. The Weiss has slightly more tonal richness and density in its sound presentation. This is heard on the weight of the piano keys when they're struck. The Holo is more transparent, but a bit leaner sounding as a trade off. Both are excellent values, but I prefer a more tonal rich sound, especially in the mid range.
Congrats and welcome to the Holo Audio Club! I love my SPRING 3 and i will only ever consider upgrading it with the MAY. Let me tell you, Holo DAC's need a lot of burn in to really open up to their full capabilities. I'm talking 300 - 500 hours. Of course, it doesn't sound bad by any means while getting there. But you will appreciate it's strength's even more when it is full broken in. Another thing: I have mine for almost 2.5 years and basically never turned it off since. That would be my recommendation for you. Because even if you turn it off over night or for a weekend, it needs many hours to come back to it's true self. I also read that certain components inside don't like many on and off cycles. Btw: I would love to hear you opinions and observations, if you are able to compare the SPRING and the MAY directly. Yes, i know, there has been a few of those comparisons but, i would love to hear your opinions on that. Enjoy your music in a new and improved way! Cheers
I've had the Spring 3 dac for about two and a half years, too, and I picked up the MAY L3 two months ago. If you're talking about the price, the upgrade isn't that huge. But if you're looking for that last little bit of improvement, it's a cost you can't avoid. If there aren't any bottlenecks in your other equipment, I'd recommend going for the upgrade. If there are other areas where you could significantly improve performance, focus on those first.
I believe I've noticed the differences in the bass, which is not surprising given that one is R2R and the other is DS. Not a huge difference but it was there. It's also difficult to tell how it would be to live with these dacs long term with quick switches between them, things come out in long-term ownership that you can't necessarily pick up with initial impressions, like how natural the vocals sound, does the detail become fatiguing after a while, is the time domain correct, etc. I find that with R2R NOS dacs my brain is able to relax and just listen to the music wher as DS dacs just throw detail at you and hit hard on the bass, the Wiess while DS likely doesn't have the same downsides of DS dacs with its proprietary filter. My issue with the Wiess is what you get for the money - the build quality in comparison to the Spring isn't even close, it's a basic metal box with a wall wart power supply (that you will end up replacing with a LPS), and ESS chip with a proprietary filter. If it wasn't made in Switzerland it would cost $300, you're just paying for the proprietary filter.
I find Weiss faster and more precise, and piano is less incisive than with Holo. I prefer Weiss, but like colors, I understand that Holo may like better to other guys. Very nice video!
Wow. This is really the right comparison that I want to see. I just bought Weiss 205 last month and this dac is amazing, beats my Schiit Gunnir Multitibit a lot.
Through my ears i heard more bass with the Holo, the music is more dynamic and details. The Holo renders in a better way and i do like that sound signature. Thank you for the review, keep up.
Usually I can hear difference in your comparisons of product ,there is such a subtle difference you have to be in the room to notice difference. I am enjoying my Weiss 204 and will be getting a plixir power for it which will improve vocal clarity and make the background darker(quieter) which will enhance all the characteristics which make this dac great. Thanks for reviews
Great review! R2R DAC tends to be more analog and natural but I was still surprised that it beats the Weiss 204, which is basically a 502 without DSP. As for the Aiyima, I'm using their A-08pro and am soooo satisfied with the sound. But cannot say the same as their A07 Max, which the A08pro wins hands down! I'm glad that someone is treating the Aiyimas a seriosu contender like myself!
@@9XThunder I also want to tryout ZA3 . But what I like about Aiyima is that they actually spend a lot of time listening to all sorts of music to test their units. I had tried the T9 and A08pro which both are musical which is rare.
@@ericlo6370 yes you must try it yourself, nobody has the same ears, i also had the t9 pro, for my ears none of the aiyimas can match the fosi za3, you are the man from doctorjohn ? I read it always, its a fun blog !
Weiss all day. Much more natural and airy. Actually it is totally different what you said in video. Weiss sounds much more real, more analog, more pleasant.
Yeah 😛 I was waiting for this comparison. Holo R2R vs. the Weiss DS, which is rather a 10k DAC if you purchase the standard version than this more reduced thus more affordable parcel size version. With this in mind the comparison is even more intriguing. Now I am looking forward to watching your May review. 🔥🐹🔥
Thanks! I liked the Holo over the Weiss! Weiss sounded more one dimensional. However, I prefer non-oversampling (old chips) R2R’s over Delta Sigmas. Currently, I use a Lab12 Reference 1 with NOS Siemens tubes. I upgraded my Belden 1694A (Blue Jeans) digital cables to a Moon Audio’s Silver Dragons (pure silver) digital cable for both my DAC and CD player. Made a huge difference in clarity and precision for both sources. My previous DAC (RME ADI-2) was just too “digital” sounding (for me) after a while. All that said, my system is all tubes (pre/power/phono etc) with Magnepans and I prefer original old (recorded to tape) vinyl pressings - so thats the type/style of listener I am:) The mention of Holo May sounds very intriguing! Maybe do some recordings vs the Spring and a couple of others? Great vid! Thank you for the reference (to hear it in comparison)!
Along with many other videos like this, respectfully all this test did for me is make me realize yet again that the differences between DAC's are incredibly subtle and minimal. The law of diminishing returns has never been more accurate in any other aspect than that of comparing DAC's. This is not an attack on those where the differences mean everything. I get the hobby, I understand. My point is simply in my own opinion I don't hear "better", I just hear different and honestly either one (along with endless others at MUCH lower price points) would be very enjoyable to listen to. Cheers.
The Weiss sounded more true, the Holo had an overlap of L & R which brought the stage closer. For a gudgement can you try the Rod Rain Audio Bt940 using 10 OpAmps for a comparison of MidFi to TopFi.
The Weiss is more transparent toward the upper end while the Holo is warmer in the mid band. Probably why many prefer the Weiss. However listen to the double bass in Rocket man, the transients are more well defined and have a more realistic timbre while the Weiss sounds a bit smeared. That puts the Holo ahead for me. But sound like many things is subjective so its a matter of taste. Nice speakers
I have the May KTE I found that using the USB was best (as it uses the DACs clock) also connecting the DAC to a music server with HQ Player took it to the next level. BTW nice sounding system!!!
Hello If budget was not a problem, which DAC would you choose? At the time you were very enthusiastic about the 204 and later bought the MAY as well. I am debating between the two and there is quite a price difference. Thanks in advance
Hi! I spend time to see your nice reviews but we have to admit a thing. Try to evaluate hifi stuff through another hifi stuff is close to impossible. Yes, we can stimate a difference between a-b samples and get some hypothetical conclusions but we still far from what was your in room reality. This video, releted to comments, shows that. What you felt through your systen experiencing that r2r dac can't reach us with our delta sigma dacs in smart phones, just like most of other audio nuances are in your room and there they stay. Besides this, I often enjoy your comparisons. Thank you
The Weiss has better voice playback. Slightly clearer and more present. IMO, if you want to exceed the Weiss 204, you should try the Holo May DAC. The analog interconnects are a factor also. Unfortunately, an interconnect cable that sounds best on one DAC may not be the best for the other DAC.
you also have the Spring 3 KTE (level 3). I heard the May level 2 against the Spring 3 KTE (at Magna Hifi, European dealer) and yes the May is better, but a lot more expensive. The Spring 3 KTE (level 3) is 80-90% of the May. And I tested the Spring 3 KTE with the new SR MASTER fuse in the KTE dac.... and that improves it even more (now have the SR Purple fuse in it). The SR Master has the stage a little bit more recessed compared to the SR Purple, but the soundstage is bit wider, and everything sounds more natural and alive. The last little digital glare in some songs are gone with the SR Master fuse. Next purchase will be the Network Acoustics Eno 2. (My system: Wharfedale Elysian 2 speakers (with Stack Audio Auva 100 absorbers), Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 600 amplifier (with Stack Audio EQ), Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE DAC (with Stack Audio EQ), REL S/510 subwoofer, Triade Flow reference 808 speaker and XLR cables, Puritan Audio Labs PSM156 Net filter, Cisco Meraki MS220-8P switch full upgrade + power supply, Furutech PowerFlux power cable, Magna Hifi Mano Ultra MK3 streamer (with Stack Audio EQ), Pink Faun LAN isolator)
Both are excellent DACs. In the music only piece (2nd one?) they sounds almost identical. With the song (Besame Mucho) I could pick up a tiny bit of forwardness with the vocals in the Holo Audio ? (I could be wrong). That difference seemed to change the balance ever so slightly. Either way, these are both excellent sounding devices and this level of nit-picking is probably not a good thing. I settled on a Musical Fidelity DAC some years ago that has a design from 10 years ago. The level of detail is still astounding ( my system is matched to it ) but the main reason I like it is the musicality and full-bodied scale. Back to this comparison - this should not be a comparison because in real life listening you should settle quickly on one. It just gives you time to enjoy the music more knowing you are not always sampling.
Thank you, I always wonder with digital there seems all-to-well trade-offs: sibilance, digital glare ,listening fatigue, lack of bass/lower clarity, and cramped presentation with full complex music signal. - most seem to be immune to it.
I have a holo may level 2, it sounds amazing…I have built the lampucera v2 that uses a PSRR and a rather old and mondane burr brown DAC. They differ a bit in sound but long story short but the lampucera is just as good. More engaging presentation.
Sounds like the Spring is smoothing over things. For example, in the first song, you hear the plucks of the guitar during the solo. They are so much more etched with the Weiss. That goes away with the Spring. Which is correct I don't know. Would have to hear the original recording i guess?
I admit, I would go the extra mile for the May although the comparison was not exactly fair, because the Spring is differently wired as Lvl 2 in comparison to the May KTE. The Spring KTE would have been perfect. But I am looking also to the Denafrips lineup because it shall become a R2R. Would love to see the Venus vs. the Spring or the Terminator vs. the May next. It seems you have entered the ladder DAC wormhole yet 😉
I'm just listening on my not very good laptop speakers and honestly? They sound very different to me. I much prefer the Spring - the Weiss has far too much "air" in an unnatural way. It also sounds like it could get a bit shrill/fatiguing. I *really* like the Spring, though, which is encouraging as I am close to pulling the trigger on a cyan 2
Hello could someone please give me some technical advice 🙏 i purchased a Matrix Audio Element-i Series one i have never plugged it in brand new my question could i purchase this new Dac this gentleman is recommending with my matrix rather then purchase the Eversolo DMP A8. Any help would be greatly appreciated 🙏
Another great vid thanks. For me the Spring's vocals were more natural, fuller and more palpable than the leaner if perhaps more resolving Weiss. The cleaner preso of the Weiss had the edge (pun intended) with transient attack of strings, high hats and bass notes, while the Spring had a longer decay. Overall the Spring had a fuller and more expansive sound vs the clean precision and attack of the Weiss. Which do I prefer? The May KTE 😎 PS - your choice of amps and their synergy with these Dacs may be a factor here.
I recommend listening to the Sabaj A20a with a DAC. The price range is higher and it is not competitive with the Fosi in the video, but I auditioned here using an SMSL DO400 entering Sabaj through RCA. Very organic and high resolution. Then I will test with the Topping E70 Valvet as DAC. I would like to try the Sabaj A8, but I don't think so.
Thanks for sharing. Yes the Sabaj A20a is on my list to test. I have a Sabaj A8 based on the Icepower module and even though it's good, it doeas not stand a chance with Aiyma or Fosi amps.
@@VirtualHiFi I have a pair of JAMO C-93 II and I have the V3 with Sparkos. Compared to the V3, for me, the A20a is better. The A20a being better is not a demerit to the V3. It is a more expensive product. I imagine the A8 is better, but from your report, no. I don't know what to say about the ZA3, but from the video you published, it seemed to me to be superior to the V3, but of course, it is a more expensive product.
I think you need to upgrade the power supply for the Weiss. The step up holo may will bring you the holographic and bigger soundstage compare to the spring.
👌👏👏👏, Very interesting review and comparo , could you share what kind of power supply did you use with The Weiss dac 204 to outperform those two incredible DACs, Is the Weiss is cleaner than the Baltic 4 Cheers BRO!
Thanks for sharing. I had a Weiss with SOtM sPS-500 power supply set to 9V when I initially tested it and It was way better than the standard one. I Built my own regulated linear PSU with all Mundorf CAPs and it was sounding very similar to SOtM. Anyway the Weiss 204 gives plenty of punch, holography, immersion, dynamics while still sounding very neutral and great ;)
Holo Spring 3 DAC sound bothers me a bit because the upper midrange to treble seems less smooth and liquid compared to Weiss. Weiss also seems to have more technically extended very top range, the "air, reverb" range. I do like the Holo for its more forward, lively, richer presentation, but it is less neutral and I worry that its ingrained signature will become grating over time, especially with recordings that are less smooth and harder sounding.
From what I hear, Holo has a better rhythmic rendition, it feels more right, more on the spot with rhythm, but, of course, I might be wrong or very wrong.
Holo L2 has a midrange boost that, here for me, sounds not balance. And this midrange bump makes do you think that it has more dynamics but it's only a bass lack. I do prefer the Weiss for sure!
Try a RME Adi2 FS as well. Play around with it's beautifully integrated 5 band parametric EQ, it's various filter options, etc. I have been using this DAC with various amps (ma352, Kinki ex m1+, Parasound A21, Hegel H80, etc) and speakers (jbl4249, ProAc 10se, Avalon Studio Monitors, jbl4311, etc) over the last few years, and its so versatile that I've stopped thinking of the DAC as a component I need to change/upgrade.
Yes, RME was once one of the best DACs and recording studio interfaces. However, just check the comparisons on audiosciencereview to see that it's far from being among the best. Surprisingly, the Chinese brand Topping is at the top now. However, nowadays with the new converter chips and using good capacitors and a well-regulated power source, it's easy to reach an extreme level like Topping does with an extremely low THD and jitter levels. However, the human ear is unable to hear distortion below a certain threshold, so yes, RME is sufficient.
I found the holo spring kind of soft and not dynamic. You should absolutely try the Rockna wavelight . You are going to be stunned, more dynamics, more modes to choose that are actually usable and analogness is absolutely there with details. Review this and compare.
First track: They both sound very good. Weiss has more dynamics and the Holo has a more analog, realistic sound, especially in the voice. It will depend on the rest of the system. I would buy the Holo R2R to me. Second track: without voices, Holo is better. More realistic, natural.
Holo Audio sounds ever so slightly softer, more musical, more analog. Weiss DAC sounds more like in the studio, maybe more true to the source. Both sound very good.
That's why I was surprised by your conclusion. But who knows how it translates to youtube/headphones. Will try with a different headphone again. I kind of prefer the Holo, but not for the reasons you heard.
@@quma001 What DAC do you have now? I'm using the Topping E-70 Velvet. I'm pretty happy with it. I just started learning about Holo Audio, very intrigued.
Why the Weiss 204 sounds more analog, as the Bass is thicker and The Holo Audio's sounds more rolled off and mild. I thought the R2R suppose to sound more analog and more like Vinyl?!
Hi Great test ,,,,!! As for the Holo Audio May KTE , it is one of the best dac's out there at any price.....!~!!!! BUT... There is a dac that YOU should have in mind before you buy Holo May......! Αnd that dac is ........Rockna Audio WAVELIGHT PRE/DAC..!!!
On more complex orchestral (symphonic) music, it will be noticeable that the Weiss has a colored sound and will be less accurate in transients. In addition, the Weiss is more forgiving of not-so-good recordings. The Holo is a more precise instrument and therefore less forgiving.
Holo made for upsampling it's pure nos, no OS. Also what voltage out is the weiss at? And are we doing dsd or pcm? All considerations that make huge differences
I'd say Holo for sure. What comes to mind is larger and deeper soundstage. It's most noticeable when going from Holo to Weiss. Seems a shrinking of soundstage/detail.
unfortunately i don't have a Headphone. it's just my PC is hooked up to a small amp and bookshelf speakers. my poor take on this is that the difference is subtle. but to my ears i like the Weiss better in the 1st song. the Vocal melts in with the instruments Vs Holo the vocal dominates the song .i like the Holo better in the 2nd piece. the music is more forward especially the bass . having said that. i'm wondering IF the Holo will be tiring to the ears to after a while ???. great demo thank you.
Thanks for sharing your comment. Yes the Holo adds plenty of midrange but also it seems like everything is happening with more impact in a way witht the Holo while maintaining a sense of calmness in the music. It's quite hard to describe, but I still like the Weiss very much. I am looking for some more lower midrange and hence the Holo is better in my system ;)
I agree as well, but he has said on prior videos that he made his own linear power supply for the Weiss. I’m about to upgrade my power supply for mine in the next couple weeks.
@@jasonhilliker2266 th-cam.com/video/34CAgh33D5U/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared I have seen a lot of forms on line that said there was a big improvement. singaporehifi.blogspot.com/2023/05/weiss-dac204-dac.html
Yes I did my wn PSU and its a definite improvement. I heard SOtM one when I first got my Weiss out of the box, but they have Ferrum PSU in Koris here so I'll record the video with that as well ;)
My thoughts too, I listened while reading comments and couldn't tell when it changed. If it makes any difference it was on Hd 6XX and a Schiit Audio Modius, Pietus Maximus stack.
Hi from Sweden. I have followed you since the beginning and finding your work very enjoyable. I feel you are just like me testing your self many brands to find the best for your system. If there are any chances to buy the Weiss Dac from you I would be happy to do so! 🙂 I also have a dealer in Sweden that now sell qualio speakers and will visit them in the summer and maybe buy them my self if they sound as good in your studio. If you want to sell the Weiss I’m very interested! Thanks and keep up the work!
weiss has more open mids ( on my headphones ), holo has a bit more base. im not sure for the highs. anyway its very close to each other, maybe a bit more definition in sound goes to the weiss. anyway far from night and day difference, if you ask me its really not important which one between these two. BTW i got 501 mk2 4ch so im familiar to weiss sound and love it but i tried many dacs ( much cheaper ones as well) and all i can say from my experience invest in computer/streamer so those differences really become much less important. In the end whatever you listen to at one point comes to the part when you need a change. So enjoy and change dacs when bored but my advice is get (build) a computer server/streamer and those differences will be small or big but never bad :) enjoy and thanks for this comparisons.
Thanks for sharing your feedback. Yes I still like the Weiss very much and its a great DAC. I totally agree when it comes to streameing. Few months ago I was using my MACbook and now I have my Auralic G2.2. streamer and the difference is very big and I totally love the Auralic :)
OH NO your going down the dac hole 🤣 maybe you should give Ferrum Wandla a try. its in same price range better yet since your handy and you love to tweak you could build a IAN Canada dac/streamer. thanks for sharing
I could tell as soon as the video changed to the Holo. It breathes life into the vocals. The Weiss is computery. I know Chantals voice very well. Holo wins I got shivers..
Musician Draco for the rest of the poor folks that can't afford 1k plus r2r. What r2r gives is the missing reverb in the mid range, voice and bass of acoustic instruments. Delta sigma for speed techno rock rap, hits fast and hard with tiny decay reverb.
The Holo sounds very much like my Soekris 2541, I’m shure I would be fine with it. The Weiss sounds too much like a normal cd player.. So for me it’s that R2R sound I really do like.
@@donnowak4304I'm wrong? Then must be half of other comments are wrong also? :) I also think much more comments are the same like mine ;) Take a look...
What I can say.. Closed my eyes and was not able to hear a moment DACs are swapped. There are no difference in this particular vid. With eyes opened there is a slight difference in corner sharpness (Weiss has an advantage there). This is expected for Δ/Σ SP But do they really use an ancient ES9018 DAC IC and not very expensive and sounding so-so OPA1612?... That's something ... weird. Either Spring is not a top notch DAC, or 9018 is not the worse =)
I totally agree that the Weiss is extremely good for the price. And the chip is important but so is its application. Its the same with Aiyima and Fosi, the same chip and different sound. So yes I was also surprised when I checked whats inside Weiss since its nothing special component wise but the sound is ... special ;)
Please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 😄👍
For stunning revolutionary 3-way speakers visit - www.qualioaudio.com
Best Fullrange Drivers - check out Cube Audio cubeaudio.eu
Need to get the Fosi ZA3 Amp - fosiaudioshop.com/virtualhifi (affiliate link, no additional cost to you and I get a small commission that will help grow the channel)
Weiss 204 dac has that little something that brings the music to a next level .Just more natural and enjoyable -at least to my ears .My computer is hooked up to Hegel dac . good day !
Very, subtle differences between the two DACs and hard to distinguish via my headphones. Great review and looking forward to your May comparison!
You need better headphones... 😏
Both sound wonderful. The Weiss has slightly more tonal richness and density in its sound presentation. This is heard on the weight of the piano keys when they're struck. The Holo is more transparent, but a bit leaner sounding as a trade off. Both are excellent values, but I prefer a more tonal rich sound, especially in the mid range.
I like Weiss way better
I agree 100%
Thanks for your vote.
Congrats and welcome to the Holo Audio Club!
I love my SPRING 3 and i will only ever consider upgrading it with the MAY.
Let me tell you, Holo DAC's need a lot of burn in to really open up to their full capabilities. I'm talking 300 - 500 hours.
Of course, it doesn't sound bad by any means while getting there. But you will appreciate it's strength's even more when it is full broken in.
Another thing: I have mine for almost 2.5 years and basically never turned it off since. That would be my recommendation for you.
Because even if you turn it off over night or for a weekend, it needs many hours to come back to it's true self. I also read that certain components inside don't like many on and off cycles.
Btw: I would love to hear you opinions and observations, if you are able to compare the SPRING and the MAY directly.
Yes, i know, there has been a few of those comparisons but, i would love to hear your opinions on that.
Enjoy your music in a new and improved way! Cheers
I upgraded my dac in April.
I've had the Spring 3 dac for about two and a half years, too, and I picked up the MAY L3 two months ago. If you're talking about the price, the upgrade isn't that huge. But if you're looking for that last little bit of improvement, it's a cost you can't avoid. If there aren't any bottlenecks in your other equipment, I'd recommend going for the upgrade. If there are other areas where you could significantly improve performance, focus on those first.
Don't upgrade, upsample to DSD! Try Audirvana or HQPlayer 5.
You have the tool. Use it!
Yeh,you keep telling yourself that,if it makes you feel better🤣
I believe I've noticed the differences in the bass, which is not surprising given that one is R2R and the other is DS. Not a huge difference but it was there. It's also difficult to tell how it would be to live with these dacs long term with quick switches between them, things come out in long-term ownership that you can't necessarily pick up with initial impressions, like how natural the vocals sound, does the detail become fatiguing after a while, is the time domain correct, etc. I find that with R2R NOS dacs my brain is able to relax and just listen to the music wher as DS dacs just throw detail at you and hit hard on the bass, the Wiess while DS likely doesn't have the same downsides of DS dacs with its proprietary filter. My issue with the Wiess is what you get for the money - the build quality in comparison to the Spring isn't even close, it's a basic metal box with a wall wart power supply (that you will end up replacing with a LPS), and ESS chip with a proprietary filter. If it wasn't made in Switzerland it would cost $300, you're just paying for the proprietary filter.
I find Weiss faster and more precise, and piano is less incisive than with Holo. I prefer Weiss, but like colors, I understand that Holo may like better to other guys. Very nice video!
Great video both DAC's sounded great not much between them looking forward to the Holo May DAC comparison
Thanks for sharing. Coming out today ;)
Wow. This is really the right comparison that I want to see. I just bought Weiss 205 last month and this dac is amazing, beats my Schiit Gunnir Multitibit a lot.
Great to hear that you enjoy your DAC. Weiss can sound really great 😃
Through my ears i heard more bass with the Holo, the music is more dynamic and details. The Holo renders in a better way and i do like that sound signature. Thank you for the review, keep up.
Usually I can hear difference in your comparisons of product ,there is such a subtle difference you have to be in the room to notice difference. I am enjoying my Weiss 204 and will be getting a plixir power for it which will improve vocal clarity and make the background darker(quieter) which will enhance all the characteristics which make this dac great. Thanks for reviews
Great review! R2R DAC tends to be more analog and natural but I was still surprised that it beats the Weiss 204, which is basically a 502 without DSP. As for the Aiyima, I'm using their A-08pro and am soooo satisfied with the sound. But cannot say the same as their A07 Max, which the A08pro wins hands down! I'm glad that someone is treating the Aiyimas a seriosu contender like myself!
Fosi za3 is way better than the aiyima 08pro and the 07max, i had both !
@@9XThunder I also want to tryout ZA3 . But what I like about Aiyima is that they actually spend a lot of time listening to all sorts of music to test their units. I had tried the T9 and A08pro which both are musical which is rare.
@@ericlo6370 yes you must try it yourself, nobody has the same ears, i also had the t9 pro, for my ears none of the aiyimas can match the fosi za3, you are the man from doctorjohn ? I read it always, its a fun blog !
Weiss all day. Much more natural and airy. Actually it is totally different what you said in video. Weiss sounds much more real, more analog, more pleasant.
Pleasant, is a terrible descriptor for this discussion. lol
It's amazing how good perfect sound looks like.
I would love to hear a Tube Preamp (and your opinions) in your system! ;)
Yeah 😛 I was waiting for this comparison. Holo R2R vs. the Weiss DS, which is rather a 10k DAC if you purchase the standard version than this more reduced thus more affordable parcel size version. With this in mind the comparison is even more intriguing.
Now I am looking forward to watching your May review.
🔥🐹🔥
Thanks! I liked the Holo over the Weiss! Weiss sounded more one dimensional. However, I prefer non-oversampling (old chips) R2R’s over Delta Sigmas. Currently, I use a Lab12 Reference 1 with NOS Siemens tubes. I upgraded my Belden 1694A (Blue Jeans) digital cables to a Moon Audio’s Silver Dragons (pure silver) digital cable for both my DAC and
CD player. Made a huge difference in clarity and precision for both sources.
My previous DAC (RME ADI-2) was just too “digital” sounding (for me) after a while. All that said, my system is all tubes (pre/power/phono etc) with Magnepans and I prefer original old (recorded to tape) vinyl pressings - so thats the type/style of listener I am:) The mention of Holo May sounds very intriguing! Maybe do some recordings vs the Spring and a couple of others? Great vid! Thank you for the reference (to hear it in comparison)!
Lot of love for the Gustard R26 and the Laddar Schuman
I had the holo may and prefer the Weiss. I also have the Qualio speakers
Hello Neil. Thanks for sharing I apreciate your feedback and more new tests are coming ;)
I had a system like that in the beginning. You will get there.
Along with many other videos like this, respectfully all this test did for me is make me realize yet again that the differences between DAC's are incredibly subtle and minimal. The law of diminishing returns has never been more accurate in any other aspect than that of comparing DAC's. This is not an attack on those where the differences mean everything. I get the hobby, I understand. My point is simply in my own opinion I don't hear "better", I just hear different and honestly either one (along with endless others at MUCH lower price points) would be very enjoyable to listen to. Cheers.
The Weiss sounded more true, the Holo had an overlap of L & R which brought the stage closer. For a gudgement can you try the Rod Rain Audio Bt940 using 10 OpAmps for a comparison of MidFi to TopFi.
The Weiss is more transparent toward the upper end while the Holo is warmer in the mid band. Probably why many prefer the Weiss. However listen to the double bass in Rocket man, the transients are more well defined and have a more realistic timbre while the Weiss sounds a bit smeared. That puts the Holo ahead for me. But sound like many things is subjective so its a matter of taste. Nice speakers
Thank you for your comment and opinion. Very interesting indeed ;)
I have the May KTE I found that using the USB was best (as it uses the DACs clock) also connecting the DAC to a music server with HQ Player took it to the next level. BTW nice sounding system!!!
Thanks for sharing ;)
Choose a high-quality digital source, select the IIS interface, and turn off the PLL. You'll find that the MAY can be even better.
I prefer live-concert concept of sound. Believe that Weiss together with a couple of Genelec and connected through tube pre-amp will provide it easy.
Hello
If budget was not a problem, which DAC would you choose? At the time you were very enthusiastic about the 204 and later bought the MAY as well. I am debating between the two and there is quite a price difference.
Thanks in advance
Holo Audio is wider and bass dynamics and details revealed
Hi! I spend time to see your nice reviews but we have to admit a thing. Try to evaluate hifi stuff through another hifi stuff is close to impossible. Yes, we can stimate a difference between a-b samples and get some hypothetical conclusions but we still far from what was your in room reality. This video, releted to comments, shows that. What you felt through your systen experiencing that r2r dac can't reach us with our delta sigma dacs in smart phones, just like most of other audio nuances are in your room and there they stay. Besides this, I often enjoy your comparisons. Thank you
The Weiss has better voice playback. Slightly clearer and more present. IMO, if you want to exceed the Weiss 204, you should try the Holo May DAC. The analog interconnects are a factor also. Unfortunately, an interconnect cable that sounds best on one DAC may not be the best for the other DAC.
How about Teac/Esoteric D700 ?
you also have the Spring 3 KTE (level 3). I heard the May level 2 against the Spring 3 KTE (at Magna Hifi, European dealer) and yes the May is better, but a lot more expensive. The Spring 3 KTE (level 3) is 80-90% of the May. And I tested the Spring 3 KTE with the new SR MASTER fuse in the KTE dac.... and that improves it even more (now have the SR Purple fuse in it). The SR Master has the stage a little bit more recessed compared to the SR Purple, but the soundstage is bit wider, and everything sounds more natural and alive. The last little digital glare in some songs are gone with the SR Master fuse. Next purchase will be the Network Acoustics Eno 2.
(My system: Wharfedale Elysian 2 speakers (with Stack Audio Auva 100 absorbers), Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 600 amplifier (with Stack Audio EQ), Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE DAC (with Stack Audio EQ), REL S/510 subwoofer, Triade Flow reference 808 speaker and XLR cables, Puritan Audio Labs PSM156 Net filter, Cisco Meraki MS220-8P switch full upgrade + power supply, Furutech PowerFlux power cable, Magna Hifi Mano Ultra MK3 streamer (with Stack Audio EQ), Pink Faun LAN isolator)
Both are excellent DACs. In the music only piece (2nd one?) they sounds almost identical. With the song (Besame Mucho) I could pick up a tiny bit of forwardness with the vocals in the Holo Audio ? (I could be wrong). That difference seemed to change the balance ever so slightly. Either way, these are both excellent sounding devices and this level of nit-picking is probably not a good thing. I settled on a Musical Fidelity DAC some years ago that has a design from 10 years ago. The level of detail is still astounding ( my system is matched to it ) but the main reason I like it is the musicality and full-bodied scale. Back to this comparison - this should not be a comparison because in real life listening you should settle quickly on one. It just gives you time to enjoy the music more knowing you are not always sampling.
Thank you, I always wonder with digital there seems all-to-well trade-offs: sibilance, digital glare ,listening fatigue, lack of bass/lower clarity, and cramped presentation with full complex music signal.
- most seem to be immune to it.
Thank you for sharing your opinion :)
I have a holo may level 2, it sounds amazing…I have built the lampucera v2 that uses a PSRR and a rather old and mondane burr brown DAC. They differ a bit in sound but long story short but the lampucera is just as good. More engaging presentation.
Thanks for sharing. I also had the Lampucera many years ago and it was great so I totally get you ;)
Sounds like the Spring is smoothing over things. For example, in the first song, you hear the plucks of the guitar during the solo. They are so much more etched with the Weiss. That goes away with the Spring. Which is correct I don't know. Would have to hear the original recording i guess?
Nice to know that I can hear this difference on my $200 SMSL d6s DAC. lol. True though.
I heard a wider and more relaxed stage with the holo dac and a bit more center focused with the weiss dac...
Thanks for sharing. Yes it came out like that and when I hear the video is really seems that way. Interesting :)
I admit, I would go the extra mile for the May although the comparison was not exactly fair, because the Spring is differently wired as Lvl 2 in comparison to the May KTE. The Spring KTE would have been perfect.
But I am looking also to the Denafrips lineup because it shall become a R2R. Would love to see the Venus vs. the Spring or the Terminator vs. the May next. It seems you have entered the ladder DAC wormhole yet 😉
I not convinced that Holo sounded that much better. I would stay with Weiss probably. Listened with Fosi ZA3
I'm just listening on my not very good laptop speakers and honestly? They sound very different to me. I much prefer the Spring - the Weiss has far too much "air" in an unnatural way. It also sounds like it could get a bit shrill/fatiguing. I *really* like the Spring, though, which is encouraging as I am close to pulling the trigger on a cyan 2
Hello could someone please give me some technical advice 🙏 i purchased a Matrix Audio Element-i Series one i have never plugged it in brand new my question could i purchase this new Dac this gentleman is recommending with my matrix rather then purchase the Eversolo DMP A8. Any help would be greatly appreciated 🙏
Another great vid thanks. For me the Spring's vocals were more natural, fuller and more palpable than the leaner if perhaps more resolving Weiss. The cleaner preso of the Weiss had the edge (pun intended) with transient attack of strings, high hats and bass notes, while the Spring had a longer decay. Overall the Spring had a fuller and more expansive sound vs the clean precision and attack of the Weiss. Which do I prefer? The May KTE 😎
PS - your choice of amps and their synergy with these Dacs may be a factor here.
My thoughts too.
Put that Holo on a DSD path: Audirvana 128 or 256 or better yet, HQPlayer 5.
Game over.
I recommend listening to the Sabaj A20a with a DAC. The price range is higher and it is not competitive with the Fosi in the video, but I auditioned here using an SMSL DO400 entering Sabaj through RCA. Very organic and high resolution. Then I will test with the Topping E70 Valvet as DAC. I would like to try the Sabaj A8, but I don't think so.
Thanks for sharing. Yes the Sabaj A20a is on my list to test. I have a Sabaj A8 based on the Icepower module and even though it's good, it doeas not stand a chance with Aiyma or Fosi amps.
@@VirtualHiFi I have a pair of JAMO C-93 II and I have the V3 with Sparkos. Compared to the V3, for me, the A20a is better. The A20a being better is not a demerit to the V3. It is a more expensive product. I imagine the A8 is better, but from your report, no. I don't know what to say about the ZA3, but from the video you published, it seemed to me to be superior to the V3, but of course, it is a more expensive product.
I think you need to upgrade the power supply for the Weiss. The step up holo may will bring you the holographic and bigger soundstage compare to the spring.
👌👏👏👏, Very interesting review and comparo , could you share what kind of power supply did you use with The Weiss dac 204 to outperform those two incredible DACs, Is the Weiss is cleaner than the Baltic 4
Cheers BRO!
Thanks for sharing. I had a Weiss with SOtM sPS-500 power supply set to 9V when I initially tested it and It was way better than the standard one. I Built my own regulated linear PSU with all Mundorf CAPs and it was sounding very similar to SOtM. Anyway the Weiss 204 gives plenty of punch, holography, immersion, dynamics while still sounding very neutral and great ;)
Holo Spring 3 DAC sound bothers me a bit because the upper midrange to treble seems less smooth and liquid compared to Weiss. Weiss also seems to have more technically extended very top range, the "air, reverb" range. I do like the Holo for its more forward, lively, richer presentation, but it is less neutral and I worry that its ingrained signature will become grating over time, especially with recordings that are less smooth and harder sounding.
Thanks for sharing. Indeed there is a trade off here and there is some more development already ;)
From what I hear, Holo has a better rhythmic rendition, it feels more right, more on the spot with rhythm, but, of course, I might be wrong or very wrong.
Both are good, but i liked Wiess 204 more at least to my ears. It is more natural and less echo.
Thanks for sharing :)
Holo L2 has a midrange boost that, here for me, sounds not balance. And this midrange bump makes do you think that it has more dynamics but it's only a bass lack. I do prefer the Weiss for sure!
I noticed the midrange bump as well with the holo and came across as less balanced.
Yes, Holo even sounds harsh in some moments in the mids. Weiss sounds much more natural and real.
In your head you noticed a bump.
Try a RME Adi2 FS as well. Play around with it's beautifully integrated 5 band parametric EQ, it's various filter options, etc. I have been using this DAC with various amps (ma352, Kinki ex m1+, Parasound A21, Hegel H80, etc) and speakers (jbl4249, ProAc 10se, Avalon Studio Monitors, jbl4311, etc) over the last few years, and its so versatile that I've stopped thinking of the DAC as a component I need to change/upgrade.
Yes, RME was once one of the best DACs and recording studio interfaces. However, just check the comparisons on audiosciencereview to see that it's far from being among the best. Surprisingly, the Chinese brand Topping is at the top now. However, nowadays with the new converter chips and using good capacitors and a well-regulated power source, it's easy to reach an extreme level like Topping does with an extremely low THD and jitter levels. However, the human ear is unable to hear distortion below a certain threshold, so yes, RME is sufficient.
Great choice for comparison! Thank you!
I found the holo spring kind of soft and not dynamic. You should absolutely try the Rockna wavelight . You are going to be stunned, more dynamics, more modes to choose that are actually usable and analogness is absolutely there with details. Review this and compare.
First track: They both sound very good. Weiss has more dynamics and the Holo has a more analog, realistic sound, especially in the voice. It will depend on the rest of the system. I would buy the Holo R2R to me.
Second track: without voices, Holo is better. More realistic, natural.
Thanks for sharing :)
It’s very close but there’s a slight glare with the Holo. It’s very slight though.
I also prefer the Weiss on stringed instruments, based on what I hear listening on this video.
Which loudspeaker are ?
Holo Audio sounds ever so slightly softer, more musical, more analog. Weiss DAC sounds more like in the studio, maybe more true to the source.
Both sound very good.
Holo softer? Really? I would not describe in that way. Just curious to people's perceptions. Not trying to be a dick.
That's why I was surprised by your conclusion. But who knows how it translates to youtube/headphones. Will try with a different headphone again.
I kind of prefer the Holo, but not for the reasons you heard.
@@quma001 What DAC do you have now? I'm using the Topping E-70 Velvet. I'm pretty happy with it. I just started learning about Holo Audio, very intrigued.
I'm currently using a Denafrips Ares II, and before a iFi ZEN Signature V2.
So, more on a budget :)
Why the Weiss 204 sounds more analog, as the Bass is thicker and The Holo Audio's sounds more rolled off and mild.
I thought the R2R suppose to sound more analog and more like Vinyl?!
What’s the difference with level 1, 2 and 3?
Hi
Great test ,,,,!!
As for the Holo Audio May KTE , it is one of the best dac's out there at any price.....!~!!!!
BUT...
There is a dac that YOU should have in mind before you buy Holo May......!
Αnd that dac is ........Rockna Audio WAVELIGHT PRE/DAC..!!!
Did you considered Ferrum Wandla DAC for test and comparison to the e.g. Holo Audio May?
The Holo Audio Cyan 2 is supposed to be a giant killer. This is a stripped down version focused on sound quality.
I'll be more than happy to try it soon. Maybe Audiophonics will have it in their offer so I can ask them to send for the tests.
Love the Holo, only output too high for my system for which I have the preamp retro-fixed.
Yes the output is High that is for sure. But with High level comes high dynamics ;)
On more complex orchestral (symphonic) music, it will be noticeable that the Weiss has a colored sound and will be less accurate in transients. In addition, the Weiss is more forgiving of not-so-good recordings. The Holo is a more precise instrument and therefore less forgiving.
Holo made for upsampling it's pure nos, no OS. Also what voltage out is the weiss at? And are we doing dsd or pcm? All considerations that make huge differences
I like weiss better the soundd are smoth and balance, The Holo are brighter on certain part of the music which make the music bit wired.
Thanks for sharing. Indeed the Weiss is amazing. ;)
I'd say Holo for sure. What comes to mind is larger and deeper soundstage. It's most noticeable when going from Holo to Weiss. Seems a shrinking of soundstage/detail.
thanks for sharing your feedback. Much appreciate your comments ;)
unfortunately i don't have a Headphone. it's just my PC is hooked up to a small amp and bookshelf speakers.
my poor take on this is that the difference is subtle. but to my ears i like the Weiss better in the 1st song. the Vocal melts in with the instruments Vs Holo the vocal dominates the song .i like the Holo better in the 2nd piece. the music is more forward especially the bass . having said that. i'm wondering IF the Holo will be tiring to the ears to after a while ???. great demo thank you.
Thanks for sharing your comment. Yes the Holo adds plenty of midrange but also it seems like everything is happening with more impact in a way witht the Holo while maintaining a sense of calmness in the music. It's quite hard to describe, but I still like the Weiss very much. I am looking for some more lower midrange and hence the Holo is better in my system ;)
Upgrading the power supple on the Weiss DAC might level the playing field. Other reviewers report improved performance.
I agree as well, but he has said on prior videos that he made his own linear power supply for the Weiss. I’m about to upgrade my power supply for mine in the next couple weeks.
@@ericelmore887 I'm thinking about it myself, what power supply are you going to use?
@@jasonhilliker2266 th-cam.com/video/34CAgh33D5U/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared
I have seen a lot of forms on line that said there was a big improvement.
singaporehifi.blogspot.com/2023/05/weiss-dac204-dac.html
Yes I did my wn PSU and its a definite improvement. I heard SOtM one when I first got my Weiss out of the box, but they have Ferrum PSU in Koris here so I'll record the video with that as well ;)
Honestly, I dont think anyone would hear a difference with eyes closed. If there is any, TH-cam compression smoothes it out.
My thoughts too, I listened while reading comments and couldn't tell when it changed. If it makes any difference it was on Hd 6XX and a Schiit Audio Modius, Pietus Maximus stack.
Holo has bigger sound with more forward midrange. I like both though, I guess they would trade blows using different music genres.
What recording microphones are you using please? Thanks
The mics are Schoeps cmc6 Mk4 ;)
The Holo seems a bit more nuanced and louder in the mids. Reduce the volume on the Holo to be sure. 6:26 8:55 11:49
I think the Weiss sounded nicer. Holo had a big more punch but Weiss was clearer in the vocals.
The Weiss DAC204 wins this comparison hands down!
Thanks for your vote
Holo is rounder, more : organic, pleasant, relax, natural. Without doubt vote for Holo.
Thanks for sharing ;)
Szkoda ze w porównaniu nie znajdzie się Gustard R26 (grany po wejściu LAN). Podobna półka do Springq, a ciekawe jak daleko mu do May.
Hi from Sweden. I have followed you since the beginning and finding your work very enjoyable. I feel you are just like me testing your self many brands to find the best for your system.
If there are any chances to buy the Weiss Dac from you I would be happy to do so! 🙂
I also have a dealer in Sweden that now sell qualio speakers and will visit them in the summer and maybe buy them my self if they sound as good in your studio.
If you want to sell the Weiss I’m very interested! Thanks and keep up the work!
Thanks for sharing! And Yes I am going to sell the Weiss 204 So please send me an email to info@virtualhifi.com so we can talk all the details ;)
Personal preferences but I like the Weiss DAC 204 more than the Holo Audio Spring.
Same here.
weiss has more open mids ( on my headphones ), holo has a bit more base. im not sure for the highs. anyway its very close to each other, maybe a bit more definition in sound goes to the weiss. anyway far from night and day difference, if you ask me its really not important which one between these two. BTW i got 501 mk2 4ch so im familiar to weiss sound and love it but i tried many dacs ( much cheaper ones as well) and all i can say from my experience invest in computer/streamer so those differences really become much less important. In the end whatever you listen to at one point comes to the part when you need a change. So enjoy and change dacs when bored but my advice is get (build) a computer server/streamer and those differences will be small or big but never bad :) enjoy and thanks for this comparisons.
Thanks for sharing your feedback. Yes I still like the Weiss very much and its a great DAC. I totally agree when it comes to streameing. Few months ago I was using my MACbook and now I have my Auralic G2.2. streamer and the difference is very big and I totally love the Auralic :)
Ever tried Mola Mola Tambaqui ?
Nope but I know I need to ;)
Interesting. I just got the MA3 to replace my Spring 3. MA3 is more detailed, more natural, but lacks the punch.
I see the Holo in front. Want to buy a Holo Audio Cyan 2. Did you tested it?
Sorry did not have a chance yet only Spring and May
OH NO your going down the dac hole 🤣 maybe you should give Ferrum Wandla a try. its in same price range
better yet since your handy and you love to tweak you could build a IAN Canada dac/streamer.
thanks for sharing
I'll definitely Try the Ferrum soon
I could tell as soon as the video changed to the Holo. It breathes life into the vocals. The Weiss is computery. I know Chantals voice very well. Holo wins I got shivers..
Musician Draco for the rest of the poor folks that can't afford 1k plus r2r. What r2r gives is the missing reverb in the mid range, voice and bass of acoustic instruments. Delta sigma for speed techno rock rap, hits fast and hard with tiny decay reverb.
The Holo sounds very much like my Soekris 2541, I’m shure I would be fine with it. The Weiss sounds too much like a normal cd player.. So for me it’s that R2R sound I really do like.
Thanks for sharing ;)
Weiss has more details while Holo is smoother. They sound very different.
Thanks for sharing ;)
The wies has better resolution
Yes that might be true ;)
Compared May for quite some time with Spring. May is considerably better than Spring its not even close.
it's funny that the way you described Holo was for me how Weis sounded, did you put names on samples reverse?
Hahah, exactly what I think :) I agree 100%
@@vekanoid Dont do this ":)" we are trying to have serious discourse. And by the way you are wrong. lol
@@donnowak4304I'm wrong? Then must be half of other comments are wrong also? :) I also think much more comments are the same like mine ;) Take a look...
@@vekanoid I'm not a fan of confirmation bias.
Great video! What do you think of the Denafrips sound? Did you have the chance to review a Venus or Terminator dac? Thanks
Weiss Dac 204 has more air around the piano notes.
weiss sounds more round, i think holo has lower sampling frequency or resampling works with aliases.
I am using the NOS mode it's definitely the best. And DSD up sampling is a joke. no dynamics at all ;)
What I can say.. Closed my eyes and was not able to hear a moment DACs are swapped. There are no difference in this particular vid. With eyes opened there is a slight difference in corner sharpness (Weiss has an advantage there). This is expected for Δ/Σ
SP But do they really use an ancient ES9018 DAC IC and not very expensive and sounding so-so OPA1612?... That's something ... weird. Either Spring is not a top notch DAC, or 9018 is not the worse =)
I totally agree that the Weiss is extremely good for the price. And the chip is important but so is its application. Its the same with Aiyima and Fosi, the same chip and different sound. So yes I was also surprised when I checked whats inside Weiss since its nothing special component wise but the sound is ... special ;)
The Weiss sounds in comparison as a el cheapo Chinese DAC
Thanks for your opinion :)
Weiss have better timing, sounds more natural and relaxing. Timing is the biggest issue for me.
Holo sounds so more open
Tharbamar praises the Musician Pegasus II R2R DAC (~$1100). Maybe you can buy a good R2R DAC cheaper.
I’ve read of people having problems with that. Not reliable.
Tharbamar is a commercial reviewer !! He dont know nothing about audio !!!
Try MPD-8, that's my endgame.
Holo ...for a smidge only
Thanks for sharing ;)