madfonzy

I had the Ares2 too and it was a nice introduction to R2R DACS. Moved up the ladder but over to a Holo Audio KTE and its an amazing piece of engineering and sound.

You could look at using a wireless network bridge to get a LAN cable to your streamer. That would involve getting another router and configuring as a bridge though. So you will end up with a faster and more stable LAN connection. Also gets you more options with wired streamers.

Spring 3 prototype measurements available on ASR. Looks very impressive https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/measurements-preview-of-holo-audio-spring-3-dac-wpreamp-prototype.22083/

Last post they are referring to the Spring 3. Copied the text below for you. The Serene is a separate item. "From Tim ? Current Spring 3 Details; Price: Level 1 $1998 Level 2 $2298 KTE $2798 All Models have optional Pre-Amp module for an additional $500. This is a fully balanced, discrete design. The module can be easily installed at a later date if you change your mind. Trickle down technology from the May DAC. Exclusive to the Spring 3 KTE model; The enhanced USB module found in the MAY DAC, which includes Titanus 2.0 FPGA circuit.

Here you are go to the last post on Monday. https://audiophilestyle.com/forums/topic/28637-holo-audio-spring-dac-r2r-dsd512/page/46/#comments

Check the Holo Spring thread on Audiophilestyle. It mentions the Spring 3 is due out soon and has the option of adding a preamp module. So this will probably suit you perfectly.

Comparing the May to the Spring 3 with trickle down tech from the May. The main thing that will be missing is the two chassis design of the May and dual mono DAC design in the May. I have not heard the Spring but these extras in the May will add up to that little bit more detail and listening pleasure.

I’ve got the Holo May KTE. I’ve been following another thread on Audiophilestyle and apparently the Spring 3 is coming out soon and the KTE version will have same USB implementation as the May. Which is something special and on the May USB is all you really need. So if you are interested in the Spring suggest you wait a month or two to get the latest.

Looking at the specs in the manual the wifi is only 2.4ghz which is the older slower standard. Your modem is likely on the 5ghz standard and that is why it is not picking it up. solution is enable the 2.4ghz network on the modem and then try on the stellar again.

Same here I had the same car and that was my intro into McIntosh. The system did sound good but eventually the CD changer died so I replaced everything with an aftermarket system. When I remove the head unit there was sticker on the back "Made by Clarion". The aftermarket system sounded better though but it cost quite a bit al new speakers, head unit, DSP processor, amps and sub. Fast forward to today and I got myself a C2700 and MC462. Source I am using is a Holo May KTE and to me it sounds great. Crystal clear, huge soundstage and imaging. Compared to the C2700 internal DAC

I can vouch for Muzza as a top seller and his gear is well looked after. I bought an Ares2 off him last year no issues. This Venus though is like brand new so price is reasonable.

Let your ears decide which is better. On my Yamaha Pre if I didn’t use pure direct on some songs I would get distortion. Always on the high treble region. This was with an external DAC running XLR to the pre.

Yeah try with the same 3.5mm to RCA cable. Looking at the manual set it to low or 2V.

On you Denon AV select pure direct mode and try again. This bypasses all the DSP circuits in the receiver which can add distortion to your analogue input. I had to do this on my Yamaha Pre until I got myself a dedicated 2 channel system.

What video playback app are you using on the shield. Suggest loading Kodi and try with that if they can see you files.