Nope I actually built an ab machine and tested with a couple dacs, Topping D90, Schiit Yggdrasil, and the Holo Audio. I couldn’t tell the difference between the Schiit and Topping but I could easily pick out the Holo Audio and liked the sound (less analytical, warmer) so I sold the other two. Amp I used is Headlamp gsx mini, Hifiman Arya and ZMF Verite closed for headphones.
I bought a ladder dac and will never go back, more detail, more power, smoother sound. I went with the Holo Audio Spring 2 level 2.
Sounds like your wallet convinced you there’s an audible difference
Nope I actually built an ab machine and tested with a couple dacs, Topping D90, Schiit Yggdrasil, and the Holo Audio. I couldn’t tell the difference between the Schiit and Topping but I could easily pick out the Holo Audio and liked the sound (less analytical, warmer) so I sold the other two. Amp I used is Headlamp gsx mini, Hifiman Arya and ZMF Verite closed for headphones.