I would be very curious if someone with a Holo Red could test it in DDC mode… maybe fed via USB from a ROCK… to send I2S over HDMI to a PSA DS DAC (esp. if a MK2)… versus using an SMSL PO100 Pro DDC. If you are located near Germany, I could post you an SMSL unit for test. It is only 65 clams to buy anyway.
My base plan for now still is to wait for the AirLens. But, since USB to the MK2 sounds really good, I am mainly using that for now. A Red would bring Tidal Connect though, for which I am using a WiiM Mini and Toslink at present with the MK2. And a Red could be used either in DDC mode or over the network… à la AirLens but cheaper and supporting more platforms (e.g., NAA).
Another concept would be to get an Innuos Pulse. Then I probably would decide to USB and not to I2S over HDMI to the MK2 and not to go over the network à la AirLens.
Interesting. With the RED via coax I heard a drop in the noise floor which added some detail but didn’t change the feel/sound of the MK1. I’m running my MK1 via xlr to a Pass XP-20, X150.8 amp into 805s, and a REL carbon special sub.
What’s the rest of your system?
My red should be shipped within 2 weeks. Not sure I want this unit. I will be temped to crack open the box unless someone wants to jump the list and get one sooner than 6 weeks NIB.
You want it. You are two weeks away from being able to hear it and compare it for yourself. If you sell it used three or four weeks from now, the difference in resale is going to be marginal.
Yes, that is preemphasis .
Pin 18 I think on the HDMI I2S connector.
I ran into this with the Titans Audio Lab Helen.
I ordered some HDMI breakout headers and made an adapter.
On the Helen pin 18 has 5VDC , this tripped the pre-emph on if I recall correctly.
Oddly, the Red manual shows that pin as “NC” . (no connection?)
I do not believe that the DS should go into pre-emph with PCM or DSD material.
I ordered the Bliss KTE. I’m currently using the headphone amp in the BHK pre but about a month ago I heard the Hypsos + OOR and it was just in a whole other league compared in comparison. Looking forward though to hearing the Bliss. I’ve read nothing but great reviews of both it and the Red.
I am a big fan of headphones and use mine regularly. The Bliss KTE looks like a great amp. All of the KTE gear is very well built. If the build is anything like the Holo May or the KTE SU-2, you are in for a treat.
What headphones/IEM are you using?
I am looking forward to your impressions. Congratulations!
Unfortunately they said it would be about 5 - 6 weeks before delivery but I’ll post my impressions when I get it. I also have a May KTE DAC which replaced my DSD in my 2-channel system, so I agree with you on the quality of their products. I’m actually surprised for the quality you get for the money. I have and Audezee LCD-5.
What are you running and what are you powering it with?
You are two weeks away from being able to hear it and compare it for yourself. If you sell it used three or four weeks from now, the difference in resale is going to be marginal.