Olive O3HD does NOT have digital output [EDIT - New ones do via USB]

Thanks for pointing that out – we'll check it out and ensure it's corrected if required. Apologies for any confusion.

The digital output is a recent addition/upgrade, and when Olive came in to see us with a review sample it did indeed have a digital output as stated, but it's via the USB socket rather than optical or coaxial. It may be that there are a couple of older models around in stores without the improvement, but the latest version does have it.

As we said in the review: "The original model lacked a digital output to upgrade its sound quality with an external DAC, but now that's been rectified and a digital out (via USB) is fitted as standard."

that's interesting as read review also then googled it and said didn't so crossed off my audition list might have to have another look

Bit odd that the Olive service team wasn't aware of this upgrade, isn't it?

Not the first time a service team has been 'misinformed', Andrew.

Indeed, but you'd think they'd try to keep up, wouldn't you?

I will check this information with Olive and get back to you, I find it very odd that they don't mention this on their own site.

Reply from Olive:

Hi again,
the O3HD does not have any digital output right now. USB output is in the works, but not yet supported. There is a mis print in the WhatHiFi review.
Take care and let me know if I can help you with anything else.
Best regards,
Olive Service Team

Alpha 10, we were categorically told that the USB digital output had been added. Our review sample (supplied 3 months ago) had a working digital output on USB, so it is not a 'misprint' in our review. If this upgrade has not been implemented on production models, then Olive has failed to inform us of this fact.

OK, we've now had an official response from Henley Designs, which distributes the Olive 03HD in the UK:

"The 3HD does have digital out and this function is downloaded in the latest update.  It’s USB1 and, not surprisingly, there are a few compatibility issues with some DACs on the market.  

Due to the diversity of the issues and the number of DACs that are on the market, Olive HQ has decided not to promote the fact that it has digital out via the USB port as they are unable to support the vast number of DACs where they have no control over the protocols used.  However, Henley is happy to support all our customers and will endeavour to assist wherever possible."

Henley Designs can be contacted on 01235 511166.

so does that mean if you bought one of the early 03hd that the latest firmware upgrade will allow this feature?

I'll put the question to Henley Designs.

And the official answer is yes, all 03HD units are upgradeable to USB digital out.

thank u for the information

How does the USB digital output connect? I know of only optical and coaxial digital cables.