HOLOAUDIO SPRING 3 KTE | A Holy Trinity Of a DAC

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ก.ค. 2024
  • Wellcome to the flagship end of the Spectrum of a sublime DAC
    Let’s take a dive Together with this Ultra high performing DAC
    Holo Spring 3:
    USA: www.kitsunehifi.com/product/s...
    EU: magnahifi.com/?s=spring+3&pos...
    Asia / Elsewhere: / wildismaudiohk
    Early reviews and the link to the audio lounge private telegram chat can be found here:
    / convincemeaudio
    Chapters:
    0:00 Intro
    00:45 Overview
    02:10 Hardware
    10:56 Software
    16:00 Sound overview
    18:45 Imaging
    21:14 Stage
    22:20 Timbre tonal-balance micro detail
    23:03 Bass
    24:15 Mid-range
    25:55 Treble
    27:10 Overall picture
    27:38 Comparisons
    31:00 Performance
    33:09 Target audience
    36:09 outro
    Spring 3 KTE + Pre
    Welcome to the review.
    Mimic Cables
    www.mimic-cables.com/collecti...
    Custom Viking weave cables can be found here:
    vikingweavecables@gmail.com
    Check out Zeospantera here:
    streamerlinks.com/index.php?p...
    _______________________________________________________
    The CMA Podcast:
    You can access this podcast on Apple Music, Spotify and here!
    open.spotify.com/show/2uAjuiw...
    S O C I A L S :
    Twitter @ConvinceMeAudio
    Instagram / cmqscrmnvn2
    Discord: / discord
    Business enquiries
    ConvinceMeAudio@gmail.com
    Edited by
    bitwolf.film
    M U S I C
    Music by Andre Louis
    www.andrelouis.com/shorts/
  • บันเทิง

ความคิดเห็น • 180

  • @tomu2858
    @tomu2858 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    my spring 3 kte arrived yesterday, I've only had about 3 hours sleep. can't stop listening. I'm in love. Thanks again for your review!! Holo red should be here in a couple of weeks... very excited!

  • @ruffandruff
    @ruffandruff 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Soo much passion. Incredible review mate. Thanks a lot for your time and effort.

  • @zhuyaj
    @zhuyaj 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    your reviews are amazing, man. Keep it up!

  • @HevyGee
    @HevyGee 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I think I'm about to be living on oatmeal for the next two months. Thank you for this excellent review!

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Nothing in life that is worth anything, comes very easily.
      I think the sacrifice might be worth it LOL.
      This DAC will last you the next five years I absolutely loved it.
      And welcome to the fam 🐅

  • @robk5745
    @robk5745 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Well done my man! Beautiful dac

  • @robertm8518
    @robertm8518 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A Nice review, thank you!

  • @robinator3202
    @robinator3202 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent review!

  • @marcus1970
    @marcus1970 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    My first time watching this channel... and I really enjoyed the presentation....
    I'd give this review 5 tigers

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Welcome to the fam

    • @marcus1970
      @marcus1970 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@ConvinceMeAudio cheers man.... I'm binge watching the lot now 👌🏻

  • @brothatwasepic
    @brothatwasepic 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Great review. I am so stuck deciding between the Bliss May or Spring! ❤❤

  • @Maaruks
    @Maaruks 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I ordered Spring 3 DAC after watching this review !

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      When it arrives, and you play with it give us your opinion
      it’s fantastic 🐅

  • @carminedesanto6746
    @carminedesanto6746 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I saw the New Record Day review and was impressed by the ONE digital source used.
    Red book 💿 16/44.1 ..because if you want to show how much of an improvement modern chip and programming can improve the sound…. RUN an “original “ digital format disk.
    That is my criteria for my DAC .
    Does it work with the hundreds of cd in ny collection and also for , let’s say Amazon HD Music ….that’s my criteria.
    Great review 🍻

  • @takeiteasy6154
    @takeiteasy6154 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Everyone talks about how good a Dac is, but don't forget how the audio was converted to digital, most top end dacs do a good job back to analogue, but ultimately will be how the audio was encoded.

  • @hansgustafianto5136
    @hansgustafianto5136 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Just gotten this DAC also! Currently pairing it with V280. Very impressive DAC!

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Fricking awesome 🐅🐅🐅

    • @tomu2858
      @tomu2858 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I’ve had mine 2 days, my face is aching. Can’t stop smiling.

  • @nunoferraz5426
    @nunoferraz5426 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    ...very interesting reviewer, I like his style. True passion coming though. Based on this... ordered the spring 3 , kte + preamp. 👏🏻

    • @Benvos
      @Benvos 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Awesome, I always check the comments for these direct to consumer components to see if anyone NOT reviewing it has left their impressions. Would be good to hear yours once you’ve had time with it.

    • @nunoferraz5426
      @nunoferraz5426 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Benvos will be happy to revert on. Have a similar setup ie. Susvara, D90 with the Burson Sololist xp. I am hoping the KTE will be a marked Improvement on the D90.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      It will utterly annihilate it completely different experience

    • @brooksphillips2234
      @brooksphillips2234 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@nunoferraz5426 I have Burson Soloist also and I think I have decided I want the spring 3 to pair it with.

    • @louskimming4371
      @louskimming4371 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This review was the final confirmation, I ordered the Spring 3 KTE myself, it's still breaking in, so I am waiting to see how good it can sound. It's impressive after an hour, but I believe that it needs a long breaking to show its full potential.

  • @elhijueputa8423
    @elhijueputa8423 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I have the Audeze LCD 5 and Burson Soloist 3X GT Amp incoming.. I'll be using these with the D90se for now. I am strongly considering getting the Spring 3 KTE. Based on this review and also Golden Sound's review, looks like this will be a significant upgrade to the D90se. I think this would be a pretty damn good "Trinity" as you call it and hope this will become my end game... for now ;) .. my wallet hates me

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The D90SE review is actually coming very soon, but the difference between it and spring three is on another level
      Nice set up, drop by again with impressions very curious have not had the opportunity to demo or review the LCD5 yet

  • @gordonfreeman4491
    @gordonfreeman4491 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video. Sub made.

  • @xtctaz
    @xtctaz 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Very passionate review! Nice one mate. I am waiting for my spring 3 kte … pumped

  • @keithbertschin1213
    @keithbertschin1213 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    You’re a natural, thank you. I have the May on order would love to hear a review

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Hey bud, thank you so much welcome to the fam 🐅
      May kte has already been filmed
      it’s awaiting editing

    • @keithbertschin1213
      @keithbertschin1213 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio awesome that’s great to hear can’t wait

  • @gertjanvanderkooij9242
    @gertjanvanderkooij9242 ปีที่แล้ว

    i own the holo 3 kte,it is an awesome dac

  • @Chamiman
    @Chamiman 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent review/presentation. Thank you.

  • @louskimming4371
    @louskimming4371 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Believe! The Yggdrasil takes running it 24 x 7 for at least 10 days when new before it opens up. I believe that folks say to run it at least 24 hours after it has powered down, but I just leave mine on all the time via a battery powered uninterruptable power supply. I don't usually question why in audio anymore. I just try it, if it really works I use it, but I do have to be motivated sufficiently to believe that it may make a difference.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I have heard this too many times and the first experience I had with it was awful, so that could be the case, but until I bring it in for review, and see, I can’t really tell.
      I can tell you now though the holloaudio DAC definitely does need 24 hours otherwise it sounds like aSS in the morning when you just switch it on, so I just leave it on LOL mine has been on for like five actually nine months

  • @keithbertschin1213
    @keithbertschin1213 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks!

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      🐅❤️ heartfelt, thank you for the support

    • @keithbertschin1213
      @keithbertschin1213 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio just came across your channel today, you’ve got very pertinent reviews. Actually selling my empyreans & TT2 for the May but keeping hold of M Scaler as I’ve heard it’s still great for third party dacs. Just not the headphone guy any more

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@keithbertschin1213 😎 thanks bud, welcome to the fam 🐅
      Definitely works well, yes

  • @minuteskill
    @minuteskill 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thumbs up and comments to help boost reviews like this.

  • @ashesdown1086
    @ashesdown1086 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great review! Love your style and thanks for the detailed info here. I currently have a biftost 2 DAC going out to a GS-X mini. Would the spring 3 KTE be a good upgrade? I've been going back and forth between that or upgrading to a yggdrasil.
    Curious to hear if you've tried the spring 3 through a GS-X mini or something like an Oor stack as well?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I think AutoCorrect might’ve messed up if you meant byFrost then yes significantly specially on a GSX mini
      I don’t think you will need to upgrade after this for a very long time

    • @vladimirharant3128
      @vladimirharant3128 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Now auditioning Spring 3 L2 with GS-X Mini and sounds bombastic. But you also need very special feet under the both of them, I use Midi for GS-X and Maxi under Spring3 from Authentic Audio Image and they truly transformed my experience with this combo. Need to try it yourself to believe, as I did. Now cannot (nor want to) go back :)

  • @presidentpotato222
    @presidentpotato222 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I Just bought a Holo May Kitsune .. this morning .. currently have a Lumin D2 sends a signal to Hugo2 .. Modright KWH225i Integrated Hybrid Amp, Boenicke W8se+ Speakers …An Aurilac Aries G2.1 is on its way also .. can ‘t wait to get it all in an running

    • @wisetank135
      @wisetank135 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      i using d2 also , just ordered a spring 3 kte. what cable do you use between lumin and may?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sweet 🐅

    • @Benvos
      @Benvos 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I bought the Auralic Aries G2.1 6 weeks ago, I’ve been loving it but it goes into the dac of the Hegel H390. A dac is next on the list and the Holo May was on my shortlist but the direct to consumer products always worry me! Be great to hear your experience with the G2.1 and the Holo May. From my short experience, Lightning DS is great, native Tidal and Qobuz so everything you do in the app saves in each app as well, it’s a great piece of kit and software.

    • @labalo5
      @labalo5 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I’m curious. I’m using a Lumin X1 and I’m curious to getting the may kte and a separate streamer.

    • @TheRacingSlick
      @TheRacingSlick 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Can you comment on D2 vs May?

  • @ivansfchan
    @ivansfchan 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the review. It was very informative. I'm particularly interested in your thoughts when comparing with the Chord Qutest? Also which PSU did you use for the Qutest? Thank you

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      So, I recently got to play with the cutest again with the utopia elite HEDDphone and Mysphear ear speakers.
      The spring three is in a league of its own, it’s not even in the same ballpark, the upgrade from the cutest would be exponential.
      Staging imaging layering impact of base region actual power delivery from the output stage,
      Texture the cutest sounds overall soft and less dynamic
      I love the cutest, it’s an excellent DAC, but it’s not in the same league
      Whole different ball game mate

    • @ivansfchan
      @ivansfchan 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Thanks a lot. In your experience, what are some of the most analog sounding DACs you've heard?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hugo to, which basically is the cutest, in that price point
      But to be honest Delta Sigma has never really sounded analogue to me, they’ve all sounded pretty excellent or fantastic but not quite there, it’s only been since the ladder DAC reviews that I’ve truly felt like the conversion is beginning to sound like analogue

    • @ivansfchan
      @ivansfchan 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio appreciate the feedback!

  • @nick62876
    @nick62876 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi koji love your review and appreciation to what you have achieved on your chanel your desk is getting bigger by the day , I love audio but get so confused sometimes on how things work for example I have the felix euphoria 20th and a holo cyan Dac but want to add a pre maybe the serene sometime soon I know the pre conects to the felix but we're does the dac get plugged into the felix or the pre forgive me I'm a bit dislectic when it comes to hooking things up lol thanks for all your help koji your great .😊

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi
      Thank you for the kind words it’s very much appreciated, welcome to the fam 🐅
      In your current setup, you do not need a pre-,
      The chain starts like this :
      Pc-streamer-Mac which ever sauce you have.
      This will connect to your DAC, then your DAC, connect to your headphone amplifier - euphoria, et cetera
      You need to integrate a pre-like this for a separate chain
      Your source your DAC, your pre-, finally, your power amplifier
      Currently, this is not your chain, you do not need to buy a pre-

    • @nick62876
      @nick62876 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @ConvinceMeAudio
      Thank you for your help koji I appreciate it very much so I do not need a preamp I that's good save me some money il invest in a streamer instead I just heard the running a pre with a tube amp leads to better results ? So the amp on the Euphoria is just fine then ?
      Thanks again koji I will join your patriot feel bad getting free advise lol great work koji you have been a great help .

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@nick62876 it’s my pleasure, welcome to join the public chat which is free as well,
      No, you don’t really need it with that specific amplifier
      I might have recommended it with some of the Cayin unit,
      Look at the red from holo audio it’s a fantastic streamer and DDC

    • @nick62876
      @nick62876 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @ConvinceMeAudio
      Thank you the holo red is on my list as soon as funds allow lol glad to be part of the fam
      Most people I know friends and family do not know what I'm going on about half the time they think I'm crazy lol .
      Thanks again koji

  • @peterwood2633
    @peterwood2633 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Subbed great review. How does it do with metal ? sounds like it would keep up? Cheers

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Genuinely being honest with you, there is not a genre where I found any weak spots
      It is fast, powerful attack, superb presentation and separation, excellent tonal balance and wonderful texture
      It is kind of captivating to be fair

    • @peterwood2633
      @peterwood2633 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Thanks i think I'd get lvl 2

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@peterwood2633 I recommend getting the L3, for the USB board, it’s like the one in the May and I think if I’m not mistaken is the only one with PLL
      This is very important

  • @xstensl8823
    @xstensl8823 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    i have a NAD D1050, sounds great, would this be a huger upgrade?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Unfortunately I have not had hands on with that. But looking at the specifications and some over views, this Hollo is in a different league mate in a different class
      But you will also need to provide your own amplifier this is just a DAC
      The second thing I will say is if you’re happy, no need to upgrade only upgrade if you feel the money is there and you want a better performance,
      But the answer to your question, take it with a pinch of salt, educated guess, yes

  • @cablebrain9691
    @cablebrain9691 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Considering the clocking and noise isolation/mitigation of the Spring 3 KTE, do you believe that there is sonically any advantage to buying an expensive streamer? Or will one achieve the same sound quality from a Chromecast Audio or Bluesound Node as they would from an Auralic. Aurender, or Lumin streamer?
    I understand that there may be features that differentiate them, but I'm just referring to the audio quality. Does this DAC make the previous sonic advantages of these upscale streamers obsolete?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Honestly, the PLL is phenomenally good I don’t think it’s necessary

    • @mikehuntington4440
      @mikehuntington4440 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I've thought of this question too. I currently have an Auralic Altair G1 DAC/streamer, and it certainly sounds great. This DAC will probably be my next purchase. From what I've read, different DAC-less streamers do make a difference....and I have a feeling it won't just come down to one thing. I'm sure the Springs PLL will help but, it won't fix everything. But....it would be a good way to gradually upgrade, get a better streamer later.

  • @gordonfreeman4491
    @gordonfreeman4491 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I have the Cayin CS55-A tube amp and I really love it. Will it be enough to take advantage of the Spring 3 KTE?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I don’t see it being a problem if you have balanced input or even RCA input
      This looks like a pretty decent amplifier, I will dive in to its specifications in a few hours

    • @gordonfreeman4491
      @gordonfreeman4491 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Wow... thx!

  • @kutokuro538
    @kutokuro538 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Does it pair well with lower impedance headphones with its pre? Looking for a DAC with pre for my active speakers and headphones like utopia and stellia, kinda worried that it might be too powerful

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It’s perfectly fine,
      Specially SUS, sounds exceptional on speakers

  • @przemyslawfras5622
    @przemyslawfras5622 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    hello. awesome review . you are always doing awesome job . But i got a dilemma ..... i currently use Ps audio DSD and iam not happy at all . this thing produce a lot of noise. (my analogue part of the system is extremely quiet quiet parasoud jc5 with P6 preamplifier . My question to you is simple : based on specs the output of DSD part from the spring 3 DAC without optional pre-amplifier is very quiet DAC Voltage Output 1.45Vrms (RCA), 2.9Vrms (XLR) - its not much in my opinion.... did i should get the one with pre amp build in or not ? whats your experience ? from other have i dont like the idea of using one preamp over another one .

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      With pre you get 13 V additional headroom from memory, I think it’s been awhile since I had this unit here, at this point, I don’t think you will have any problems

  • @Hichamvanborm
    @Hichamvanborm 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I am interested to see how you think this and the May compare. You would probably need a pre-amp to compare both, but still.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      My May kte is just with my friend Mimic at the moment, should be here pretty shortly and we will use the serene

  • @filovirus1
    @filovirus1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    curious to see if you could compare this to Chord TT or Dave even.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I should get hands on with the Dave and the TT to next Thursday or Friday

    • @ivandubov2537
      @ivandubov2537 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      And Hugo 2 as well :)

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I owned that specific amp DAC, but a very long time ago but they will have it there I’m sure

    • @N02tradamus
      @N02tradamus 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Nice, im very interested.

  • @petercraig389
    @petercraig389 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    No difference between I2S and USB inputs. What I2S source were you using for this comparison?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      PLL on, pie4/pie2AES
      Roon - qobuz local Library consisting of dsd flac

  • @mb-electricalservices
    @mb-electricalservices 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I use a pair of Genelec 8341's so, in that case, would this DAC be irrelevant as I am ultimately hearing the DAC in within the speakers themselves. Is that right?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Irrelevant of course not, the spring free will just transport the source to the speakers, in the most organic natural way possible
      I have Genelec Studio monitors here too, they are a work tool,, they are extremely resolving and very reference, so with this spring I think it would make a magical combo

    • @mb-electricalservices
      @mb-electricalservices 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Thank you, definitely a DAC to consider then!
      Bit of a step up from the minidsp SHD that I'm currently using! :)

    • @sch8mid
      @sch8mid 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Try 2 Neumann 310 / 2 KH 750 (Mono Array) / With 3 KTE ./preamp . Convincing.

  • @jws3004
    @jws3004 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Recently acquired the SPRING 3 KTE. I love it! The build quality is stunning! If cost was not an issue I would have purchased the MAY DAC.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Congratulations it’s fucking awesome
      I will bring them in for review soon and we will see if How much of a difference there is going to their flagship

  • @DJdavefromlondon
    @DJdavefromlondon ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Can you list all the amps you mentioned, in the description along with model numbers

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      Of course, but I need to look through the video again, also remember this was very early last year or the year before, they’re much better amplifiers on the market
      HoloAudio bliss
      Zahl hm1
      Purifi
      Benchmark ahb2
      Ferrum OOR HYPSOS

    • @DJdavefromlondon
      @DJdavefromlondon ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio I'm seeking the best soundstage / image amp to pair with the Holo Spring 3 DAC. Budget for amp $3k max

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@DJdavefromlondon holo Bliss
      Review is nearly completed, buy it leave the hobby and don’t look back LOL

  • @HailKingCeezer
    @HailKingCeezer 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Will upsampling PCM to DSD via software mean i won't be using the r2r part of the dac at all?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes

    • @HailKingCeezer
      @HailKingCeezer 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ConvinceMeAudio in that case should I stick with sigma delta dacs for dsd upsampling? I have had the Ares II and was addicted to the analog sound and only felt it lacked a tighter low end so I love r2r dacs from my limited experience but I listen to less music these days and more "sounds" and background ambience. Pleasant Ambient retrieval is what I enjoy most and dsd upsampling with my Accuphase's DAC option board, I get all of that.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@HailKingCeezer here is the thing, the in-house chip that deals with DSD sounds pretty fucking good inside the spring three, so you literally can have three in one at holy Trinity in this DAC
      DSD, NOS, up sampling,

    • @HailKingCeezer
      @HailKingCeezer 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Yeah that is very convincing. I can always just set certain PCM to upsample to dsd since my library is majority redbook-i can let that get the NOS analog feel and the rest upsample to the highest dsd. Great review and thanks. I got to sell off 3 amps i'm no longer using and then Spring 3 KTE is in the lead to be my new DAC, followed by Pontus II, 3rd place new Accuphase Dac-60 option board, 4th buy Ares II again. Dividing Funds between DAC and Power amp is tough, but i think the DAC will win.

  • @Maver1ck911
    @Maver1ck911 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What utility would one actually gain from the pre amp module? If you're going to a proper headphone amp, integrated or power amp what's the point?
    Granted class A for 500 bucks is sexy but... what for? I suppose if you were ONLY using it in a fixed power amp situation you would gain utility. I run my RME at a fixed line out -20 dB with normalized loudness for a 20dB reference level which allows mid gain head room at the 12'o clock position, but is not necessary with high gain untapped.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      So here’s the deal, The pre-inside this DAC is very good that’s fine, the pre-is useful if you have active monitors, One The second one would be is going to a power amp
      it’s the way to control the volume on the power amp because there normally would not be a volume control
      But you do not need a pre-for a headphone amplifier that has its own pot unless the pot is extremely bad and you want to bypass it

    • @Maver1ck911
      @Maver1ck911 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio excellent! Thanks for the response.
      PS: gave me a heart attack when you were palming the unit 🤣

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Maver1ck911 😄

  • @Nightjar726
    @Nightjar726 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Compared to a delta sigma DAC chip DAC. Is the Holo Spring a bit slow? Too laid back? Doesn’t have enough slam when needed?
    Much appreciated !

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      Slow, no, little laid-back, yes, slightly rounded it has punch, but in a different way
      For the characteristics you’re looking for you looking at chord
      They are a bit more incisive edge of attack and punchy for electronic music for regular music, spring three more organic more realistic

    • @Nightjar726
      @Nightjar726 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio I’ve tried the chord DACs and the mojo2 lately. It’s good. Timbre is a touch off and the weight of the instruments isn’t the best. Meat on the bone so to speak.
      I’m trying to find a DAC to beat my Marantz HD DAC1 and I haven’t yet. Been through a lot. And I’m 53. I’m not a little kid who has some silly crush on my gear. I could care less. I just want to find something a bit more modern than my DAC to sound better and I haven’t yet.
      Been through the benchmark DAC3. Which was the best ESS DAC I’ve currently tried , to the Venus II from Denafrips which had an overdone huge soundstage and was too pipe and slippers. Very little dynamics and attack and punch.
      My search continues.
      Great channel btw.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Nightjar726 I am very glad to hear that, because the equipment means nothing. It’s just a tool at the end of the day.
      I highly recommend testing out the Dave and M Scaler or TT2 and M scaler
      If you have, and to those, but for organic nature realism, it’s very difficult to beat May at that price point
      To be honest, it just depends how much you wanna spend

    • @Nightjar726
      @Nightjar726 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ConvinceMeAudio I actually use HQplayer which is more powerful than the Mscaler and does the same thing but offers a ton of options on filters , modulators and DSD as well as PCM.
      They do make a difference and why I bought it.
      Unfortunately the Dave is out of my budget.
      You should try and get your hands on a used Marantz HD DAC1. I’m sure you will be quite surprised.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Nightjar726 I use HQ player on a regular basis on the main reference system here too. It’s awesome for the price point, but M scaler sounds far more organic and realistic

  • @inn3B
    @inn3B 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    How do you usually feed such a DAC with data? Would that work with a simple smartphone via USB? I would like to have a device that I can operate like an iPhone. What should I bear in mind?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Oh no, I mean you can, but I wouldn’t recommend it, mostly a good source, such as a DDC, or a streamer

  • @Fenom60
    @Fenom60 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I currently have a Fiio K9 pro Dac/AMP connected to a ifi pro iCan signature, with Hifiman Arya Stealth, HD800s, Stellia, Th610. The Holo Spring 3 KTE is 2700USD here in Hong Kong. My ears isn't really thattt good at telling the difference between DACS, do you recommend me getting this Holo Spring 3 KTE or is it overkill? The other reviewer really dislike the Spring 3 and much prefered the May KTE and Chord hugo TT2 but they are like double the price, which I think is really overkill.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s actually a good value price we pay $3600 here for this.
      I think even get in the spring 2 l3 or L2 thought about probably where you are $1400-$1600, might be a good way to go, and you will still get a fantastic upgrade

    • @Fenom60
      @Fenom60 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ​@@ConvinceMeAudio It is much cheaper here even for the May KTE about 5150USD here. It just that I tried a few different DACs with the latest DAC chips, to me, I just cannot tell that much of a difference between them. Not sure if I upgrade to the Spring 3 KTE will give me that WOW factor for 4x the price of the K9 pro which I think sounds really good with its AK4499 implementation and tuning.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Fenom60 is it at all possible to go somewhere to audition it before putting down the money? That is what I would actually advise

    • @Fenom60
      @Fenom60 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio theres only one dealer for Holo in the whole city, probably there is demo but I only contacted through whatsap about availability and price. I can see the Holo Spring 3 is very popular on their China Taobao main store with many customers with great feedbacks but most of them use it with a speaker setup not with headphones.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Fenom60 it is absolutely superb, it can be your final DAC

  • @robertm8518
    @robertm8518 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I heard these DACs have a long burn-in period. Have you experienced a constant change in sound over time?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      No mate but it does take 24 hours to truly sound it’s best it needs to warm up.
      After this period it’s stabilises and it’s completely fine

  • @annarobertson2869
    @annarobertson2869 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi ,what is the difference between spring and may?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      May review should be coming shortly,
      Separate power supply, so it’s two units on top of each other slightly different in the tonality bigger stage performs better obviously but not by a large amount I would say the difference is like 20% absolute tops

  • @Leo-yn5fx
    @Leo-yn5fx 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    the serene plus this makes a lot of sense to me than just buying the May.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      You do not need the sereen the pre-already is absolutely exceptional in the spring three and it’s only a $500 upgrade
      Save yourself $2000

    • @peterwood2633
      @peterwood2633 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      What is benefit of pre if I have an Integrated amp? Cheers

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@peterwood2633 The active pre-inside of the spring, is beneficial for somebody who wants to control the volume at the end of the chain,
      This could be the following, active studio monitors, speaker amplifiers, or bypassing a very bad P.O.T.
      But if you have a decent headphone amplifier such as a GSX mini with a integrated stepped attenuator you don’t need to buy the pre-, the pre-inside the spring will most likely outperform it for transparency and performance, but it’s not necessary
      You only go for the pre-option if you need some way of controlling the music at the end of the chain

    • @peterwood2633
      @peterwood2633 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ConvinceMeAudio I have the Yamaha A-S1100 ?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@peterwood2633 honestly mate I’m not too familiar with that one I will have to look it up and see

  • @MrBoomtheroom
    @MrBoomtheroom ปีที่แล้ว +2

    did you end up comparing this to the may?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      May kte is my daily driver

    • @MrBoomtheroom
      @MrBoomtheroom ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio I mean a video Comparison

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  ปีที่แล้ว

      @@MrBoomtheroom it’s definitely coming, a little bit swamped I want to do the video properly Dave will be in the mix and most likely rockna to

  • @robertm8518
    @robertm8518 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    A DAC affects the sound of a system just as a cartridge on a tone arm does!

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      It is a very important part of the chain

  • @maximeleblanc7828
    @maximeleblanc7828 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Noob question here: I Get The dac and then the amplifier and…can I plug my computer with TIDAL Premium on this?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Welcome to the channel, yes exactly
      It will work perfectly but it does not decode MQA
      and you want to stay away from mqa anyway
      In my opinion it sounds like ASS

    • @maximeleblanc7828
      @maximeleblanc7828 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ConvinceMeAudio so if Im not to use Tidal’s MQA what should I use to stream The best music quality possible?

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@maximeleblanc7828 it comes down to what type of music you listen to, Qobuz definitely sounds the best of all the streaming services in my testing, but the catalogue is very genre specific, jazz, classical, et cetera they’re getting better though
      This is what I use at the desk, or my own library.
      For on the go, Apple Music, because I am heavily invested in Apple, and it sounds fricking good for on the go
      Waiting for Spotify to release the lossless streaming service
      Their native player sounds the best of all the others on a desktop system Qobuz that is, also if you are using third-party players like Roon or Audirvāna you are limited to tidal or Qobuz anyways, and I will choose the latter

  • @FJBx100
    @FJBx100 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Kinda sounds like you like it...

  • @dontcare563
    @dontcare563 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    What's with the sunglasses :)

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Lights hurt my eyes mate, pretty much blind 😄

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      And yes, you are getting your reviews from somebody who uses his ears as his eyes, 😜
      Permanent blind testing over here LOL

  • @mat.b.
    @mat.b. 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    6:33 pretty sure Golden or anyone else has ever shown objective differences on a dac being "warm"

  • @briancampbell7712
    @briancampbell7712 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    how much better is this vs Gustard R26 or A26...all of them are R2R DAC's❓I heard Halo May is comparing in sound to an MSB Reference that is over 10,000 more 😮no way❓

    • @lapocasini1246
      @lapocasini1246 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Heres a comparison with r26 i copied and pasted from a forum thread
      I have a little more compares bitwin spring3 kte and r26.
      R26 is more extendet in highs - similar too delta sigma. As holo is more midrange centric with more mellow overall signature. With electronic/metal/rock music i prefer definetelly r26. R26 is faster and better slamming. Just as Sandu said great technical sounding. Where is spring3 kte is too mellow for that kind of music IMO. But with jazz, acoustics i prefer holo as it have more textures...if i got too choode one dac for all genre of music i choose r26...peace
      They are very similar. But i think holo spring 3 KTE is better. More textures in midrange, better positioning in soundstage, more full sound, more emotions in voclas, more "wet" sound.
      R26 is more technically sound signature(but not technically overall - still analog signature close to vinyl), little faster but thiner - specially in bass region. But they are pretty close in overall terms. Maybe r26 is little better in hard rock/metal music. So Holo is more connection to the music(emotions) but r26 is very good at that department too(much better then delta sigma in the same price category). I like them both !!! But i need to pick it up then Holo (more engaging)- it has much better parts and caps/wiring/trafo inside i think here is the reason of better sound

  • @heyguyslolGAMING
    @heyguyslolGAMING 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I really need to quit watching videos like this.

  • @pennfootball71
    @pennfootball71 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Yiggy does take a week to stabilize they use some medical grade wacky parts

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I think I might have to revisit this DAC, if it comes across the desk
      My last play with it was back in 2017

    • @louskimming4371
      @louskimming4371 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Nearly 2 weeks for the Analog 2. It may be listenable at a week, I don't remember, but I wasn't really impressed until it was on for about 12 days. I leave it on 24 x 7 now too. YMMV I am planning on replacing it with the Holo Audio Spring 3.

  • @rogerhuston8287
    @rogerhuston8287 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I really want this amp. I think I need to sell a camera lens to be able to get this thing.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Unfortunately mate, this is the DAC only with active pre-, you will need to supply an amplifier with this for your system at your desk,
      Unless you’re running active monitors
      But it’s fricking sublime

    • @rogerhuston8287
      @rogerhuston8287 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ConvinceMeAudio Sorry, I really want this DAC. That is what I meant. I have to find things to sell to get it.

    • @ConvinceMeAudio
      @ConvinceMeAudio  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@rogerhuston8287 no need to apologise mate I just wanted you to be aware
      It depends what your current system is, and what headphones you have, in regards to how much of a large role it will play in your chain