Author of the review here, let me know if you have any questions as I'm one of the few people that have one of these awesome DAC/Amps.
Regarding the oppo HA-1 the Keces is smoother and more refined but also more punchy and dynamic, the oppo is quite revealing but borderline bright when using the internal DAC.
OstewartHi Ostewart,
Thank you for coming here!
I have a Oppo HA-1 right now, paring with my HE-1000 v2. It sounds a little bit laid back, so I‘m considering focus on improve this part. Can S-3 solve this problem?
Thanks!
manicmovierI think it's more your headphones of choice are laid back, as the HA-1 is pretty neutral to my ears.
The Keces is a bit more punchy and dynamic as the HA-1 can sound a little dry.
Both excellent but if your looking for a more upfront sound you'll likely benefit more from different headphones.
manicmovierHey, dude!
I realize this was from 2 months ago, but I was wondering if you ended up buying something to replace that Oppo HA-1. If so, would you be interested in selling it?
manicmovierYou’re asking the wrong guy. I have far from audiophile ears and haven’t demoed any products. I just like awesome sound, and I recently picked up some Oppo PM-1’s. I wanted the HA-1 to match them. Plus, the unit would look sick on my desk lol. I’m not even sure I could tell the difference between the HA-1 and a newer upgraded unit. Can’t find one anywhere, though!
From research the Questyle CMA600i, Audio GD 28, Gustard’s lineup, Yulong D9, this unit, and the Chord Hugo (up in price bracket) All seem to be more recent competitors.
manicmovierThe S3 is an upgrade over the HA-1 in my opinion. The internal DAC of the HA-1 is a little bright to my ears, the S3 is more balanced and a little smoother. The HA-1 has a nice screen, and bluetooth, other than that I would take the S3 over it any day :D
Regarding the oppo HA-1 the Keces is smoother and more refined but also more punchy and dynamic, the oppo is quite revealing but borderline bright when using the internal DAC.