Loaner: Holo Spring 3 KTE DAC

Is there any reason not to just use the fixed volume firmware, which will work for all OSes? The Kitsune Web page states "This firmware (fixed volume version) is STANDARD as of 11/29/2021 (optional variable volume firmware included but not recommended for most setups but may be ok for windows and mac)"

 

Just going by what Tim said. He said variable volume is right for Mac and windows. But @loadexfa is talking to Tim and will have it all sorted so no one has to worry about it.

 

I'm in please, New Mexico

edit: Windows

 

Which OS?

 

oops, Windows

 

Would like to sign up, Maryland.

What OS should I list if I plan to use iFi ZEN Stream running Volumio or Allo USBridge Signature running moOde, Linux?

 

I'll express interest if this ever makes its way in Canada... but there's horrible logistics in dealing with customs so that might be a no go unless the last person on the US leg lives close to the border and is able to bring it over.

 

Yup, this is the Linux option.

 

I haven't read thru everything to understand why the OS is germane, but I will be using with Ropiee/Roon (both Pi2AES & USBridge Sig); Mconnect/HQplayer; and USB/windows 10

-----edit-------
I've now had a chance to read everything... Maybe I'm missing something, but it seem strange that we need to change firmware based on OS...Spring2 doesn't seem to have this limitation. Planned connections:

Pi2AES via i2S to Spring3 (matches my Spring2 usage) - HQplayer embedded (linux)
Pi2AES via AES to Spring3 (matches my SFD-1mkii usage) - Moode (linux)
USBridge Sig via USB to Spring 3 (matches my walnut usage) - Ropiee (linux)
desktop system via USB to Spring3 (because I want to see if I hear a diffence vs USBridge Sig) - Windows 10​

 

Yes, please. In WA and happy to be far down the list. Using Windows.

 

So, I have used the Ifi Zen stream and the USB and never thought of using a different firmware with my Spring 3. I don't control volume from the source , just after the dac, using the hp amp or the additional analog volume control on the Holo. I take it this model does not have the volume control add on? At this level, is anyone going to use volume control from windows , mac or whatever linux distro? Throwing away bits seems like a bad idea for music at this price but everyone's needs are their own. Didn't know there was a setting for variable vs fixed volume control or even different firmwares for this. Guess I'll have to head over to kitsune for info. Hope you all enjoy the dac at it's finest, I do.

 

I'm honestly just following Tim's instructions. This is how he wanted it setup. I would think fixed volume would be best but he knows a lot, and cares a lot about everyone getting the best sound so it must be more complicated than this. I would follow his advice for the firmware versions. This was the first thing he said to me when we spoke.

 

I’d like in on this.
Iowa
I’ll be using AES from PI2AES.

 

Me too.
denver
AES, USB and I2S macOS

 

Very much interested.
OH
Pi2AES via AES/I2S, USB via Mac

 

I read this several times and I am still confused. Does this loaner DAC have the discrete preamp module or not?

The discussion of firmware with volume enabled or disabled makes me believe it does not have a preamp module. I would not believe a device would need to be disabled by the system firmware if it actually exists in the system, regardless of the host OS. I missed this detail in my prior research of this DAC, so I am really glad it has come to light here.

I was kind of hoping this loaner would have the preamp so I could see impressions/measurements of that version. I ended up not getting the preamp because I wanted the more simple device. But I often wonder what color the grass is on the other side of the fence.

 

If you can squeeze me in, Windows 10.

Thanks!

 

Can you put me down tentatively for this loaner?

I would be using USB with Windows 10 and coax from Eitr.

Arizona

 

I have no idea, I'm just organizing the loaner. I'll ask Tim.

 

I think my OS needs to be changed to Linux? I will be exclusively using my Zen Stream or CD Transport.