[koso]

I'm at around 120 hours, and I've recently noticed the first super palpable improvement, which matches Koso's helpful chart. Good, in Koso's likely more seasoned DAC world, is fabulous to me, so I'm already freaked at what R2R can organically do compared to Delta Sigma. I'm only a 1/5 up the climb...crazy

I know it might have been the most absurd thing for someone, but I meant it with that chart. I have experience with the "burn in" process at a minimum of 5 different dacs, including the R2R design, but it takes especially long time for Spring 3 KTE. No idea why. Anyway, if you already like the sound, just enjoy listening, it will only get better and I guess you will notice it. (…and yes, I was referring to already very good DACs as a reference in that chart).

 

[dirtrat]

http://www.rothwellaudioproducts.co.uk/html/attenuators.html

Thanks for the link but I'm in the US. At least I can do a search now that I know they exist. Maybe other companies sell this. This could be tricky though since when listening to DSD the DAC output is much lower compared to PCM. Also it looks like most of these are a minimum of 10dB attenuation which would be excessive.

 

[SLC1966]

Thanks for the link but I'm in the US. At least I can do a search now that I know they exist. Maybe other companies sell this. This could be tricky though since when listening to DSD the DAC output is much lower compared to PCM. Also it looks like most of these are a minimum of 10dB attenuation which would be excessive.

http://www.britaudio.com/accessories.html

They are out of NC

 

[bilboda]

Spring 3 KTE finally arrived! Out of box, I am a bit surprised at the lack of dynamics and precision on transients. I've read that Holo Audio is on the softer side, but could I expect dynamics and engagement to increase with burn-in? (Don't worry, I am running my unit as we speak lol).

My previous reference point was the iDSD Pro Signature DAC (burr brown DAC) preamped into Ferrum OOR Hypsos/preamped into the Enleum 23R. From Spring 3, it comes across as soft-sounding on both LCD5 and Susvara, even with upsampling via HQPlayer.

Don't get me wrong, I understand there are trade-offs-but am hoping I don't have to sacrifice too much punch for the more naturalness and timbre that R2Rs are known for. Curious how it has played out for others.

Been quite a while. Has it broken in more yet? @ preamps, maybe set the ferrum to unity gain when using the enleum?

 

[tawmizzzz]

Been quite a while. Has it broken in more yet? @ preamps, maybe set the ferrum to unity gain when using the enleum?

Yes much better! Any concerns about dynamics or punch are pretty much gone. I think the missing piece was my power situation as I switched to a Niagara1200 which helped my combo (Ferrum/Spring) feel much more “there”—pitch black background, reverb on micro dynamics, and just excellent balance and texture. Staging is organized with excellent imaging. Minimal coloration to my ears.

 

[devilboy]

Spring 3 KTE.

Only have 48 hours or so on it but... WOW.

 

[chesebert]

Spring 3 KTE.

Only have 48 hours or so on it but... WOW.

yawn...honeymoon period comments. Come back after 18 months and let's see if you still feel the same way (if you still have the dac at all).

 

[devilboy]

yawn...honeymoon period comments. Come back after 18 months and let's see if you still feel the same way (if you still have the dac at all).

Jesus, chesebert. Chill.
I must admit though, I literally laughed out loud.

 

[soulrider4ever]

Jesus, chesebert. Chill.
I must admit though, I literally laughed out loud.

LOL right? The cynicism is strong with this one.

Does it count that I went from a Spring 1 to a Spring 3 and am saving for the May?

Technically I don’t have the same DAC as 18 months ago because of this but if I’m staying with the same manufacturer… I think that speaks volumes vs. bandwagon FOTM.

 

[tawmizzzz]

Lol the headphone trolls are so much worse than the IEM ones.

Keep us posted how the Spring continues to burn in for you!

 

[devilboy]

LOL right? The cynicism is strong with this one.

Does it count that I went from a Spring 1 to a Spring 3 and am saving for the May?

Technically I don’t have the same DAC as 18 months ago because of this but if I’m staying with the same manufacturer… I think that speaks volumes vs. bandwagon FOTM.

Well said, well said.

 

[sparkylarky]

LOL right? The cynicism is strong with this one.

Does it count that I went from a Spring 1 to a Spring 3 and am saving for the May?

Technically I don’t have the same DAC as 18 months ago because of this but if I’m staying with the same manufacturer… I think that speaks volumes vs. bandwagon FOTM.

I really think the Spring 3 KTE will stay with me for a very long time, a bit like endgame-ish
(but then of course 18 months is a long time and the Spring 5 Summer KTE+++ might be out

 

[devilboy]

I really think the Spring 3 KTE will stay with me for a very long time, a bit like endgame-ish
(but then of course 18 months is a long time and the Spring 5 Summer KTE+++ might be out

Lol!

 

[devilboy]

This morning sounded absolutely sublime. What a piece.

 

[BassicScience]

********** DAC HAS BEEN SOLD **********

Just a heads up that I've listed my Spring 3 KTE for sale. Unit is 2 weeks old, mint condition, no preamp option.

Spring 3 KTE Listing