2. digital
  3. 159610-3674

Holo Audio May DAC

Just read a very nice review of this in Stereophile this month and after doing some research it looks like this one could be a very nice option for me.  
https://kitsunehifi.com/product/holo-audio-may-dac/
  
It's made in China I think (or could be Taiwan?, and yes, I am very well aware that these are two very different countries. ;)), and employs a direct to consumer model to keep the price as low as possible.  This does not worry me after purchasing a Jay's Audio transport from Vinshine Audio and having zero issues.  

Just curious if anyone here has heard one or purchased?  I'm very intrigued.  I know the Denafrips Terminator is another highly regarded DAC with a similar ordering model, but costs a couple grand more than this one.  Considering that one as well.

Thanks
128x128snackeyp
bbarden45
13 posts
 
@jtrimm During the 3300 hours have you powered off to let it cool for 5 hours plus or minus?

I've just past 500h and thinking it might be a good idea to let the May cool completely.
achipo
58 posts
 
Which digital inputs did you prefer?  Which digital cables did you use?
headphonedreams
522 posts
 
Wow you are replacing a $25k DAC with a $5k DAC.  I definitely want to read the comparison!  The May is on my list as well, but I have a modded Gustard U20, so definitely expect an improvement.
@achipo I would also like to read the comparison.

$5k is still too much for me, if someone can make an equally good dac and shave off another 80% of the price then we're talking. 
I can dream, can't I?
snackeyp's avatar
snackeyp OP
455 posts
 
$5k is still too much for me, if someone can make an equally good dac and shave off another 80% of the price then we're talking.
I can dream, can't I
Yes, you can dream.  That's what this hobby is all bout, isn't it? 

There are several DACs at the $1K price point that will provide 95% of the SQ that the May DAC offers.  Denafrips Ares II is a very good choice for about a grand.  The Schitt Gungnir is another.  I'm sure there are others.  

My quest began with DACs in this ($1K) price range.  After owning some of them I was prepared to spend $10-20K on my next DAC when I discovered the May DAC.  After purchasing the MAY and owning it for nearly a year I am still satisfied and have no interest in upgrading.  Thinking how I might very well have ended up spending $10K or more additional to buy one of the Super DACs makes me feel very good about my purchase.  I'm not saying I will never upgrade, but this DAC is very special and I plan to hold onto it for the next several years.  
gryphongryph
350 posts
 
Wonder if the Sonnet Morpheus dac would compete with the May dac.
Looks very interesting and can be use as a pre as well.
https://www.sonnet-audio.com/Morpheus.html
More to discover