I've been using the original Schiit Modi (not the "+" version you have) to convert my TV's optical audio to analog for my big stereo rig. It is always powerd on, it always works flawlessly, and I only use it for this specific purpose. A real winner.
I bought the Aries II back when you first reviewed it, and recently updated it to the 12th anniversary firmware. It's an awesome DAC. The sound stage is indeed extremely wide and immersive. I am very happy with that purchase. Denafrips has sent another firmware update that I haven't had the opportunity to install. Love their customer service!
I just received my Geshelli J2 DAC (AK4493) - less than three weeks to my door from the time of order. It opened up my Elac Debut 6.2 speakers. It's like I went from listening to mono to stereo. Detail is amazing. My progression of DACs was Hifiberry DAC+ to the Schiit Modi+ (v2) then the Geshelli. Love, love, love the Geshelli DAC! For the living room with my Vandersteen 2 speakers I am considering the Denafrips Ares 2.
I'm still very happy with my schitt modi +. Great DAC, it's just more expensive to get in the UK, but it's still worth buying. I bought this on your recommendation, Randy. I'm not disappointed. Great video, as always. All the best.
Can attest to Geshelli's customer service. Bought a J2 used from Ebay, and one of the channels went out. Called Geshelli thinking maybe they'd repair it for a fee, if at all, with no warranty. Turns out their free repair policy covers all items-pre-owned or new-even if purchased from a third party. They replaced the board at no extra charge; only had to pay roundtrip shipping. Thanks for the rec 🙏🏾
I’ve relied on your advice to purchase an SVS 3000 micro and Wiim Mini. Just received my J2S AKM with Sparkos opamps. Huge difference from the onboard DAC in my Onkyo A9050. Thanks Randy! You’re batting 1000!
@@cheapaudioman Is there something at SMSL price range that has an HDMI arc input. I just got a new TV that can do it all and would like the HDMI arc to be what carries all my audio to my DAC. Would need RCA output as well. Or should I just be content with the s/pdif input? Seems like arc has some advantages.
I’ve had both the Schitt and the Topping discussed here, and just recently bought the Chord Mojo 2. I know it is designed to be a headphone dac (maybe why not mentioned here?), but I have it connected to my stereo with a high quality 3.5 to rca and well, for me it is better than both of the ones mentioned, by a bit. It has the dimensionality that Randy mentioned about the Denafrips, and with great punch and detail. I got it used for $550, but even new it is well under 1K, with volume control, EQ, etc. Should be considered.
Facts. This is what I came to say. It’s better than all of these. I can’t speak on the denafrips, otherwise, all things considered, used correctly with good cables, Mojo 2 is a revelation.
I bought an audioquest black dragonfly for $99 a few years ago. The sound from that compared to the shitty dac in your computer is a huge step up. Im not sure how much they cost now, but i think they are good.
I own both the Topping E50 and the Denafrips Ares II and I love them both, it's great having two different but excellent options. Then if they're not going into my main system, they're going into either Topping L50 or Geshelli Archel 3 Pro headphone amps. Spoiled for choice. The great thing about high quality inexpensive options is that you can often get two or three (or ten) for the price of an expensive option.
I watched several reviews of the Ares12th, yours being one of them. I had recently tried the dak magic, and I sent it back. I received the denefrips ares12th, and the sound have been so much more amazing.
I must admit, out of all the equipment I have, the DAC is the unit that I really don't hear much sonic difference. It is very frustrating to me as so many better qualified and experienced people swear by many different units. This fuels my FOMO paranoia and has me chasing the proverbial hidden dragon. Once I have reset my audio funds account, I will be back into the fray and searching. So, thank you for this timely review and suggestions. Your time, effort, and straightforward honesty are very much appreciated and refreshing.
My 60 year old ears may or may not hear a difference. I still mainly use the first dac I purchased (Sanskrit 2). I bought a couple others but didn't hear an improvement.
@@carlsitler9071 Absolutely. I'm with you on this. I really can't hear the difference between DACs either, but it is 'fun', and expensive, searching for the grail. 😂
I agree. The industry has used this simple way to clean up a digital signal into a ‘crucial’ piece to our systems. Different ways to dress up an input/output/chipset that they’ve packaged and overcharge us…
I concur fully with the Geshelli J2S being a reference DAC - it is my reference. I use the big Sparkos SS2590 dual mono module on the RCA socket (1 riser required); and I use a 12V 50W linear power supply. I have compared this to the Ares II (OG) with the 12th Anniversary firmware update - and my J2S is significantly better, in all aspects. Even with the Sparkos and LPS, the J2S costs half as much.
@@spamcan9208 Bottom to top - back to front - all of it! The clarity and separation and layering are all quite excellent. Dynamics in the bass and midrange - airiness and space; and on good recordings, it isn't "dead" space. It feels like you can hear the space in between musicians/instruments. Details and subtleties all the way back into the mix - are all there.
@@toddmoser19 I am using a Sigma 11 dual voltage unit - 5V 50W for my Node 2i, and 12V 50W for the J2S. I just got the parts today to make a Noise Nuke, which is a DC noise filter and capacitive buffer. It is supposed to significantly quiet switch mode PS, and can also make linear PS quieter, as well.
Neil, do you have the 4493-S or 4499/4491 current-based chips? Your thoughts on the high output 2590 Op Amps and LPS pushing more heat through the board infrastructure and pre-mature failure of the DAC? New Dayzee is factory optioned with 2590 (x8) and I am curious if upgraded to handle more juice. Geno says newer power supply but no specs on any of this just yet. Dayzee is sexy @ $1500 base +++, but is too high for me and J2S fits my comfort zone better under $800 with goodies plus LPS cost.
Out of this price range yet my RME ADI-2 PRO FS R BE is absolutely awesome and is my preamplifier as well so that helps.on the costs to me plus it has so many options inside. Just awesome cannot praise it enough!
Just bought a Geshelli J2 DAC with AKM4499EK chip and Sparkos Opanps and an Archel 3 Pro to drive it, after loads of advice from the patrons. Geshelli support is amazing and they are really helpful can’t recommend them enough. Just need to wait a while for it to arrive
Absolutely amazing love them I really notice a difference over the FIIO K9 Pro I was using before. I have focal clear MG’s which seem to really like this AMP and I had a pair of Sennheiser HD 6XX’s which I thought were awful but now they sound a hell of a lot better as well which inwas told may be down to the Archel driving them better. I have other headphones but I will be honest I haven’t got to them yet been using the HD6XX’s quite a lot trying them out and seeing if it was just me imagining a change but I don’t think in the past I could have used these for more than a day never mind 2 weeks in the past. I am going to try my Hifiman Edition XS next for a few weeks and see how they sound and if I notice the same kind of diffrence with them.
I commented on your review for the SMSL SU-1, that I just ordered it the day before you posted the review. You asked what I think about it so here it is. I replaced my SMSL M100 with it because the micro USB connection is failing, so this is only compared to that DAC. I have it as a secondary set up connected to my laptop and going to a Monolith Liquid Spark headphone amp. It's not night a day different, but there is subtle but noticable difference. Mainly ( for me ) it has improved soundstage and imaging. ( went from an ok 3 to 5 blob locations ( depending on headphones ) to a almost perfect smooth transition from left to right and back again ) Bass impact is a little better and overall it is a cleaner sound all together. Nice little unit.
I have been interested in Hifi hobby since 2010. I don't know the technical part of the job. I take a basic system and proceed by adding to it. Cable dac. The real skipping point in music was that I was connecting the laptop directly to the DAC. I bought Sotm 200 neo on the recommendation of a friend. I hear more mature music in my room. I don't claim it's the best. Media player and dac. That's real progress. Hifi hobby itch never ends.😂
I need second J2 for my headphone stack. The one I have in my main system really made a difference. I'm All In on Geshelli!!! Great Recommendations Randy! 👍👍👍
I know the endless din of DAC discussions may make this a somewhat redundant request, but would love to get your impressions of the Geshelli with some different discrete opamp swaps. Have always been interested in getting a more value oriented dac and raising the bar via output stage with a simple tweak. Especially if it could then compete with dacs two or even three times the cost 🙏🏼
Geshelli J2 socketed with Sparkos labs op amps = Chefs kiss. Ended up stealing them from a A07 I wasn't using anymore. Definitely noticed a difference after the op amp swap.
I’ve got the Geshelli J2 and the only other dac I have is the ifi zen dac v2, the ifi is cool cuz it’s also a headphone amp with that sweet bass boost button, but the j2 wins all day, thanks Randy!!!
Since I started to follow your channel, I already bought the Topping e50, the Modi 3, The Modi Multibit and a Geshelli Labs. You are ruining my bank account : ) I love them all, and agree with every comment about them. I would place the Modi 3 a hair behind the others, and the Geshelli a hair in front of the group. But I should suggest you to try out the Drop Grace Design SDAC. I Don't know it they are still available, but it fits very well in this category, just beside the Geshelli. I would love to hear your comments about it.
I like the SMSL M300SE over the Su-1 for the remote control and slightly better sound. But you seriously cannot beat the SU-1 for value if you just want to stream especially on a vintage receiver or integrated amp.
Hi, Cheap audio man. Thanks for the wonderful videos. They have been very helpful to me as I am trying to build my budget system. Can you compare Chord mojo 2 vs Geshelli J2?. I am thinking of getting a used Chord mojo because it's portable, but sound is my priority.
Ok I bought a dac at your urging, hooked it to my phone. Now what? The music still comes straight from the phone like the dad isn't there. What a financial fiasco. Thsnks.
Synergy applies to dacs as any other audio product . I think only the very neutralist amps dac speakers etc can give you the omg moment, but that's not cheap . However you can get there with good matching . I have a ton of gear trying to get there 😅 in the end everyone to their own .
In 2022 ASR did a review of the Geshelli Labs J2 and it didn't measure that well. The Topping E50 for example did measure much better. However I wonder if we can hear the difference between them.
What if they don't last; and have limited support. I find your videos very entertaining, you're funny. I purchased the SMSL Su9n march 2022 and I thought it sounded very good, I liked everything about it except the occasional static which was a known issue and remedied by leaving the unit on 24/7 problem solved sounded great to me. The unit died 8 months after purchase still under warranty. Shipping to and from China? Support? I didn't bother. Prior to the Su9n I had a Modi Multibit which lasted approximately 5 years reasonable I think. Now I need a new dac and its a tough decision. My point is reviewers talk about how great a product is or isn't but rarely about reliability or longevity. I'm not sure a product should be touted as best for the price when they essentially have no warranty or in some cases ( Eversolo) no track record that I know of. 1st comment ever; sorry!
I tried to mention it a couple of times to purchase from amazon or apps for the Chinese products. Apos actually handles the warranty aspect of it as well too. you can't beat schiit and Geshelli labs for support. they will bend over backwards to help you.
Can I ask how is the noise floor on the Denafrips Ares 12? The product specs says THD+N is 0.004% I'm not sure if this is the spec to look for, when it comes to noise floor, but SMSL SU9 Ultra gets praised for having a black background, and its THD+N is 0.0006%
Interesting.. Q. Why would an audio DAC have a sound characteristic ? 0s and 1s to PCM ? And many folks will add equalization downstream anyway.... Love your presentation.. Oops, forgot my coffee..
I’m pleased you time stamped your video to the month, as they’ll be a bunch of new DACs to review/change your mind about next month. The DAC review thing is fuelling this ridiculous obsession with generic chip sets in new chassis’…. You’ve sold out son, clearly !!
I know it's hard to keep up, seeing how fast smsl and topping launch dacs, but i think some of their newer units could have a place in your ranking. I think mojo 2 from chord could also have a place. Been eyeing that one. Seems great value looking at its features and overall quality.
Have you tried Octo Dac 8 Stereo? I can only find a few reviews but all exceptional. Stereophile rated it Class A and comparable to $15k MBL. My curiosity is peeked.
I have a Yamaha A/V receiver with integrated Tidal app and am enjoying streaming music to this receiver. It's output is "only" CD quality FLAC 16 bit / 44.1, although the receiver is capable of outputting 24 bit / 192. I have the Tidal subscription that now includes high res audio. Does it make sense for me to get a DAC, play Tidal from my laptop or phone to get all of the 24 bit / 192 resolution. What is the chance I will notice a difference from my current setup? Interested in your thoughts and those of your viewers.
Unfortunately the lauded J2 DAC has been a maJ2or disappointment compared to the built in DACs in all my devices, including my Yamaha 801, Audiolab 6000, and Emotiva PT1. I believed you enough to order one and wait 4 months for its arrival! To add salt to the wound, it sounds worse(less punchy, less clarity) than my 30 yr old Sony 5Disc CD Player with its “1 Bit DA Convertor”. Randy you have steered me well with the Critons and I agree with your opinions on many of your prior reviews (Lintons, Elac B6, Aiyma A07etc…) but my experience with the J2 has been massively to the contrary.
Weird, maybe there’s a problem with yours? They do have superb customer service, see if they have any ideas? I’m bias but it’s hard to believe that you’re not amazed by it, (like myself and soooo many others) good luck, hopefully you can figure it out
@@Brian_Romska I was glad to support a US based company. And it looks fantastic! Believe me, I wanted it to be noticeably better in some way audio-wise. It was intended for the toslink output on my original Sony CD player from 3 decades ago, which I thought would be the best way to really contrast its modern benefits against. But it’s just mediocre, less detail and bass in about every subjective listening I have given it. This has been my only purchase since re-entering the hobby in 2016 that I would qualify as snake-oil or being audiophooled. I enjoy Randy and will continue to support his channel, but this was a significant letdown.
@@stevezeidman7224 yeah maybe it’s me, but I have been on the ‘same page’ with Randy and other reviewers on many audio preferences, so it’s a bit unnerving.
I read your last update. Is there another source you can try for it? Can you say what about it you found disappointing? Sorry, I just reread your first entry. You may want to call them. They have great customer service and will talk to you.
Randy, I'm looking at a couple DACs to purchase. What do you recommended based off of what I want between these 2 DACs?: I would like great Dynamics with lots of punch with a great sound stage. It needs to be engaging and fun, not sterile. Based off this would you go J2 base model with AKM 4493 or Schiit Modi multibit 2? Thanks sir!
Looking for some of those good deals coming up during prime days. 7.2.2 reciever somewhere around the $500 to $700 mark. Something that you push a button and it adjusts everything for you. If you see anything or recommend anything. I mainly want to have a movie theater setup. Thank you
I recently got a bluesound node. have musical fidelity 3si amp and paradigm signature S1 speakers. with NAD cd player the set-up is amazing. with node and Tidal it is very disappointing, thin sound. I am wondering if an external DAC would take care of it. But also don't feel that the node should be this disappointing. thoughts?
This is also my fear, I have an SMSL-SU 6 and I get pretty deep soundstage already, also like the filters on it. Wonder how big an improvement it really would be.
Both of you have good hardware. That's as good as DACs get. Anything above that is either people convincing themselves that it "sounds better" or something else (outside of the conversion) flavoring the sound. Which is obviously not good
@UTR1 that's what I was thinking, I was able to compare my DAC to the onboard one of the Aiyima T9 Pro and mine was slightly better with regards to wider and deeper soundstage. But it required very critical listening, that one was good enough already and that unit (its an amp and DAC) is the same price as my DAC basically. Thanks for your response!
@@danielh12345My humble advise to you it, keep what you have and be happy with it as you are already happy with your HiFi. Actually we are more Audiophools than Audiophiles. Every 2 months a new DAC will come out claiming this and that...pure B.S. Focus on your room treatment more than anything else on the system. Period.
For DAC's, I have Presonus Quantum 2, Focusrite Clarett USBpre, RME Fireface 800, Motu M2, ifi Zen Dac v2, Fiio K7, & Topping E50. - The E50 is the smoothest and highest quality of these, and most of my units are audio interfaces universally praised (at one time or another) as best in class. Your ROI is going to probably be very small if you step up price ladder. For example, I shot out the Clarett USB with a friends line up of >$1k Studio DACs, and the difference was almost imperceptible. I mainly listen with headphones, and if that's you too, the headphones will matter a lot more (and change the sound more) than any DAC beyond something like the E50. Unless you have a specific headphone or speaker you like, that you are going for a certain sonic synergy with the gear, you're good. Sometimes really technical and analytical drivers, can benefit from a lower-end smeary Amp or DAC, and vice-versa. - In terms of shear DA conversion, the E50 is probably as neutral and smooth as it needs to get.
How would you compare the Schiit Modi Multibit to these others? It's usually about $150 more than the base Modi but about half as much as the Bifrost. So with a price of around $300 would it be better than the Gishelli or Emotiva?
I need help. Any recommendations for a deck amp combo with really good headphones. My primary objectives are video games, entertainment, and music. Please help with some good recommendations that is great for entry-level to where I can be satisfied for a couple years. Please and thank you.
I have 3 DACs. One in my pre amp, another in my CD player, and my Bluesound Node 2i. There is no audible difference. I have compared them at various volumes and with headphones. You must have superhuman hearing. I’m glad I don’t. I should add, my rig cost about $3k.
I have a Pioneer Elite VSX-505 and an Emotiva XPA amplifier. I’m new to DACs and HiFi. I’m not sure if I even need one. I’m all the clarity and performance so if I can make what I have better I’m all for it. I’m just not sure if I need one. What do you think?
I don’t think anything happened to the eversolo A6. I’ve never heard it. And that is an awesome sale on the WIIM. I’ll post it up. Thanks for the heads up
Hi guys, i would like to ask a question i have a dac with a es9038pro, i am connecting it with usb and optical from my pc, for me they sound almost the same, but i would like to know what do you guys prefer and why. thanks everyione
So, I have the Denon DCD 2560 which was made in 1991. 4 x AD182N-D 20 bit THD .0018%, Looking to see if I can improve the sound quality, which is excellent by getting either the Geshelli J2 or iFi Audio NEI IDSD. Any suggestions or do I just stay with the vintage Denon Dac? Thanks
Wondering how you feel about the Bifrost with the Unison USB? I have issues with weird digital sounding noises on my J2 when it is connected with USB to my computer or phone.
I've been using the original Schiit Modi (not the "+" version you have) to convert my TV's optical audio to analog for my big stereo rig. It is always powerd on, it always works flawlessly, and I only use it for this specific purpose. A real winner.
I bought the Aries II back when you first reviewed it, and recently updated it to the 12th anniversary firmware. It's an awesome DAC. The sound stage is indeed extremely wide and immersive. I am very happy with that purchase. Denafrips has sent another firmware update that I haven't had the opportunity to install. Love their customer service!
I just received my Geshelli J2 DAC (AK4493) - less than three weeks to my door from the time of order. It opened up my Elac Debut 6.2 speakers. It's like I went from listening to mono to stereo. Detail is amazing. My progression of DACs was Hifiberry DAC+ to the Schiit Modi+ (v2) then the Geshelli. Love, love, love the Geshelli DAC! For the living room with my Vandersteen 2 speakers I am considering the Denafrips Ares 2.
so the Geshelli is noticeably better than the Modi?
That is great to hear, I have the Modi 2 and while it is good and nothing to complain about, it is kind of vanilla.
Yes better then modi.
I'm still very happy with my schitt modi +. Great DAC, it's just more expensive to get in the UK, but it's still worth buying. I bought this on your recommendation, Randy. I'm not disappointed. Great video, as always. All the best.
@Click-here-... REPORTED
Can attest to Geshelli's customer service. Bought a J2 used from Ebay, and one of the channels went out. Called Geshelli thinking maybe they'd repair it for a fee, if at all, with no warranty. Turns out their free repair policy covers all items-pre-owned or new-even if purchased from a third party. They replaced the board at no extra charge; only had to pay roundtrip shipping. Thanks for the rec 🙏🏾
I’ve relied on your advice to purchase an SVS 3000 micro and Wiim Mini. Just received my J2S AKM with Sparkos opamps. Huge difference from the onboard DAC in my Onkyo A9050. Thanks Randy! You’re batting 1000!
Wow! Thanks so much for your support! Really appreciate the note and encouragement. So glad you enjoy everything
Have been using an iFi Zen DAC V2 as a DAC and volume control with the XTZ Edge A-300 for amplification. A clean simple system.
1:55 SU1；3:17 Modi；5:18 E50；6:57 Geshelli Labs J2；9:31 SU-9n；10:22 Dac-Z8；11:44 Ares
GREAT run down Randy!! Well done as usual. Loving what Eversolo is putting out these days! Cheers and Happy Friday... :)
Thanks, brother! Really appreciate it!
@@cheapaudioman Is there something at SMSL price range that has an HDMI arc input. I just got a new TV that can do it all and would like the HDMI arc to be what carries all my audio to my DAC. Would need RCA output as well. Or should I just be content with the s/pdif input? Seems like arc has some advantages.
EverSolo DAC-Z8 has the Built, Lovely screen and Sound going for it. Getting in the Eversolo DMP-A6 Streamer/DAC as this is the buzz right now.
I’ve had both the Schitt and the Topping discussed here, and just recently bought the Chord Mojo 2. I know it is designed to be a headphone dac (maybe why not mentioned here?), but I have it connected to my stereo with a high quality 3.5 to rca and well, for me it is better than both of the ones mentioned, by a bit. It has the dimensionality that Randy mentioned about the Denafrips, and with great punch and detail. I got it used for $550, but even new it is well under 1K, with volume control, EQ, etc. Should be considered.
Facts. This is what I came to say. It’s better than all of these. I can’t speak on the denafrips, otherwise, all things considered, used correctly with good cables, Mojo 2 is a revelation.
I bought an audioquest black dragonfly for $99 a few years ago. The sound from that compared to the shitty dac in your computer is a huge step up. Im not sure how much they cost now, but i think they are good.
I really like this particular video breaking down sound characteristics of each dac....
A great list Randy. As I ponder a future dac this is timely information. Thank you.
I own both the Topping E50 and the Denafrips Ares II and I love them both, it's great having two different but excellent options. Then if they're not going into my main system, they're going into either Topping L50 or Geshelli Archel 3 Pro headphone amps. Spoiled for choice. The great thing about high quality inexpensive options is that you can often get two or three (or ten) for the price of an expensive option.
I watched several reviews of the Ares12th, yours being one of them. I had recently tried the dak magic, and I sent it back. I received the denefrips ares12th, and the sound have been so much more amazing.
I have the schitt modi+ …I use it between my tv and mixer board in my garage and WOW what difference! Thanks cheapaudioman ❤️👍
I must admit, out of all the equipment I have, the DAC is the unit that I really don't hear much sonic difference. It is very frustrating to me as so many better qualified and experienced people swear by many different units. This fuels my FOMO paranoia and has me chasing the proverbial hidden dragon. Once I have reset my audio funds account, I will be back into the fray and searching. So, thank you for this timely review and suggestions. Your time, effort, and straightforward honesty are very much appreciated and refreshing.
Same here. I haven’t heard one that I feel as a ‘have to have’ piece of equipment.
Don't follow the sheep. If you can't here the difference save your time and money. These reviewers are not your ears.
My 60 year old ears may or may not hear a difference. I still mainly use the first dac I purchased (Sanskrit 2). I bought a couple others but didn't hear an improvement.
@@carlsitler9071 yep, my 53 year old ears, most of which on a flight line, can’t really make a difference.
@@carlsitler9071 Absolutely. I'm with you on this. I really can't hear the difference between DACs either, but it is 'fun', and expensive, searching for the grail. 😂
These are great choices! Eliminates trying to wade through the hundreds of dacs out there. Great vid, Randy.
Thanks, Steve O
Picked-up the SU-1 for my desktop. Wow...for the money, it is crazy good.
I agree. The industry has used this simple way to clean up a digital signal into a ‘crucial’ piece to our systems. Different ways to dress up an input/output/chipset that they’ve packaged and overcharge us…
Nice list! I like the Bifrost 2/64. Good bang for the buck (relatively speaking). I've never heard the Ares through
I concur fully with the Geshelli J2S being a reference DAC - it is my reference. I use the big Sparkos SS2590 dual mono module on the RCA socket (1 riser required); and I use a 12V 50W linear power supply.
I have compared this to the Ares II (OG) with the 12th Anniversary firmware update - and my J2S is significantly better, in all aspects. Even with the Sparkos and LPS, the J2S costs half as much.
What types of details are you listening for when comparing DACs?
@@spamcan9208 Bottom to top - back to front - all of it! The clarity and separation and layering are all quite excellent. Dynamics in the bass and midrange - airiness and space; and on good recordings, it isn't "dead" space. It feels like you can hear the space in between musicians/instruments. Details and subtleties all the way back into the mix - are all there.
Curious what LPS you're using?
@@toddmoser19 I am using a Sigma 11 dual voltage unit - 5V 50W for my Node 2i, and 12V 50W for the J2S.
I just got the parts today to make a Noise Nuke, which is a DC noise filter and capacitive buffer. It is supposed to significantly quiet switch mode PS, and can also make linear PS quieter, as well.
Neil, do you have the 4493-S or 4499/4491 current-based chips? Your thoughts on the high output 2590 Op Amps and LPS pushing more heat through the board infrastructure and pre-mature failure of the DAC? New Dayzee is factory optioned with 2590 (x8) and I am curious if upgraded to handle more juice. Geno says newer power supply but no specs on any of this just yet. Dayzee is sexy @ $1500 base +++, but is too high for me and J2S fits my comfort zone better under $800 with goodies plus LPS cost.
Out of this price range yet my RME ADI-2 PRO FS R BE is absolutely awesome and is my preamplifier as well so that helps.on the costs to me plus it has so many options inside. Just awesome cannot praise it enough!
Just bought a Geshelli J2 DAC with AKM4499EK chip and Sparkos Opanps and an Archel 3 Pro to drive it, after loads of advice from the patrons. Geshelli support is amazing and they are really helpful can’t recommend them enough. Just need to wait a while for it to arrive
how was it?
Absolutely amazing love them I really notice a difference over the FIIO K9 Pro I was using before. I have focal clear MG’s which seem to really like this AMP and I had a pair of Sennheiser HD 6XX’s which I thought were awful but now they sound a hell of a lot better as well which inwas told may be down to the Archel driving them better. I have other headphones but I will be honest I haven’t got to them yet been using the HD6XX’s quite a lot trying them out and seeing if it was just me imagining a change but I don’t think in the past I could have used these for more than a day never mind 2 weeks in the past. I am going to try my Hifiman Edition XS next for a few weeks and see how they sound and if I notice the same kind of diffrence with them.
I commented on your review for the SMSL SU-1, that I just ordered it the day before you posted the review. You asked what I think about it so here it is. I replaced my SMSL M100 with it because the micro USB connection is failing, so this is only compared to that DAC. I have it as a secondary set up connected to my laptop and going to a Monolith Liquid Spark headphone amp. It's not night a day different, but there is subtle but noticable difference. Mainly ( for me ) it has improved soundstage and imaging. ( went from an ok 3 to 5 blob locations ( depending on headphones ) to a almost perfect smooth transition from left to right and back again ) Bass impact is a little better and overall it is a cleaner sound all together. Nice little unit.
Purchased the Modi+. Huge improvement over the dac in the mini wiim. Played The Beatles White Album, all I can say " Amazing!" Thanks
I have been interested in Hifi hobby since 2010. I don't know the technical part of the job. I take a basic system and proceed by adding to it. Cable dac. The real skipping point in music was that I was connecting the laptop directly to the DAC. I bought Sotm 200 neo on the recommendation of a friend. I hear more mature music in my room. I don't claim it's the best. Media player and dac. That's real progress. Hifi hobby itch never ends.😂
On your and NRD's recommendation I bought a Denafrips and I love it, thank you for the insight.
I need second J2 for my headphone stack. The one I have in my main system really made a difference. I'm All In on Geshelli!!! Great Recommendations Randy! 👍👍👍
I know the endless din of DAC discussions may make this a somewhat redundant request, but would love to get your impressions of the Geshelli with some different discrete opamp swaps. Have always been interested in getting a more value oriented dac and raising the bar via output stage with a simple tweak. Especially if it could then compete with dacs two or even three times the cost 🙏🏼
A recent firmware update had a really good improvement on the denafrips ares 2.
Geshelli J2 socketed with Sparkos labs op amps = Chefs kiss. Ended up stealing them from a A07 I wasn't using anymore. Definitely noticed a difference after the op amp swap.
I’ve got the Geshelli J2 and the only other dac I have is the ifi zen dac v2, the ifi is cool cuz it’s also a headphone amp with that sweet bass boost button, but the j2 wins all day, thanks Randy!!!
I have Eversolo Z8 and I am very happy with it. I was also planning to get a denafrips ares 12th but instead I decided to get a Gustard R26
Since I started to follow your channel, I already bought the Topping e50, the Modi 3, The Modi Multibit and a Geshelli Labs. You are ruining my bank account : )
I love them all, and agree with every comment about them. I would place the Modi 3 a hair behind the others, and the Geshelli a hair in front of the group.
But I should suggest you to try out the Drop Grace Design SDAC. I Don't know it they are still available, but it fits very well in this category, just beside the Geshelli.
I would love to hear your comments about it.
I’m so so sorry.
@@cheapaudioman Having a lot of fun with them!
Thank you!
The smsl Do300 is pretty sweet also with remote and screen
Love my J2, and I am with you, had the changeable OP Amp board been available, I would have purchased that one.
Good stuff, thanks
I like the SMSL M300SE over the Su-1 for the remote control and slightly better sound. But you seriously cannot beat the SU-1 for value if you just want to stream especially on a vintage receiver or integrated amp.
Could you do a video explaining the op amps??
Hi, Cheap audio man. Thanks for the wonderful videos. They have been very helpful to me as I am trying to build my budget system. Can you compare Chord mojo 2 vs Geshelli J2?. I am thinking of getting a used Chord mojo because it's portable, but sound is my priority.
Ok I bought a dac at your urging, hooked it to my phone. Now what? The music still comes straight from the phone like the dad isn't there. What a financial fiasco. Thsnks.
Actually.......the J2 does not have volume, but you can cycle through 3 gain levels - low, med, high.
Interesting that you didn't include any of the Schiit multibit DACs, I am curious how they stand against the J2.
Synergy applies to dacs as any other audio product . I think only the very neutralist amps dac speakers etc can give you the omg moment, but that's not cheap . However you can get there with good matching . I have a ton of gear trying to get there 😅 in the end everyone to their own .
Btw, the Geshelli does have some volume control...H/M/L... which might be useful to some
In 2022 ASR did a review of the Geshelli Labs J2 and it didn't measure that well. The Topping E50 for example did measure much better. However I wonder if we can hear the difference between them.
What if they don't last; and have limited support. I find your videos very entertaining, you're funny. I purchased the SMSL Su9n march 2022 and I thought it sounded very good, I liked everything about it except the occasional static which was a known issue and remedied by leaving the unit on 24/7 problem solved sounded great to me. The unit died 8 months after purchase still under warranty. Shipping to and from China? Support? I didn't bother. Prior to the Su9n I had a Modi Multibit which lasted approximately 5 years reasonable I think. Now I need a new dac and its a tough decision. My point is reviewers talk about how great a product is or isn't but rarely about reliability or longevity. I'm not sure a product should be touted as best for the price when they essentially have no warranty or in some cases ( Eversolo) no track record that I know of. 1st comment ever; sorry!
I tried to mention it a couple of times to purchase from amazon or apps for the Chinese products. Apos actually handles the warranty aspect of it as well too. you can't beat schiit and Geshelli labs for support. they will bend over backwards to help you.
I love the J2 the only issue I have with it is the inputs on the front I wish they were on the back instead.
Believe they fixed that with the new J3 which allows for much re room for op amp upgrades as well. Cheers!
Try the Beringer UMC 202HD interface as your DAC , you are welcome.
Can I ask how is the noise floor on the Denafrips Ares 12? The product specs says THD+N is 0.004% I'm not sure if this is the spec to look for, when it comes to noise floor, but SMSL SU9 Ultra gets praised for having a black background, and its THD+N is 0.0006%
Ordered my Modi yesterday should arrive tomorrow (I hope)... Want to see how much it improves my Sundaras sound...
Interesting..
Q. Why would an audio DAC have a sound characteristic ?
0s and 1s to PCM ?
And many folks will add equalization downstream anyway....
Love your presentation..
Oops, forgot my coffee..
No SU-10 or Bifrost 2/64?
I’m pleased you time stamped your video to the month, as they’ll be a bunch of new DACs to review/change your mind about next month. The DAC review thing is fuelling this ridiculous obsession with generic chip sets in new chassis’…. You’ve sold out son, clearly !!
my next dac will be the geshelli labs j2s.....want to compare to the su1.
Earmen Tradutto is my DAC of choice but I am tempted by Venture Electronics Prime DAC
Great video Mr. CAM! I’m trying to like DAC’s, but I’m thinking-less equipment, the cleaner the sound.
Perhaps that is the case with analog. Not with digital though. Not at all.
I just picked up the Wiim Pro streamer and hooked it up to a Topping E50 …and onto the Xduoo 604 driving my Sen’s 650’s .
Great video 👍🍕☕️
I know it's hard to keep up, seeing how fast smsl and topping launch dacs, but i think some of their newer units could have a place in your ranking. I think mojo 2 from chord could also have a place. Been eyeing that one. Seems great value looking at its features and overall quality.
Have you tried Octo Dac 8 Stereo? I can only find a few reviews but all exceptional. Stereophile rated it Class A and comparable to $15k MBL. My curiosity is peeked.
I have a Yamaha A/V receiver with integrated Tidal app and am enjoying streaming music to this receiver. It's output is "only" CD quality FLAC 16 bit / 44.1, although the receiver is capable of outputting 24 bit / 192. I have the Tidal subscription that now includes high res audio. Does it make sense for me to get a DAC, play Tidal from my laptop or phone to get all of the 24 bit / 192 resolution. What is the chance I will notice a difference from my current setup? Interested in your thoughts and those of your viewers.
Unfortunately the lauded J2 DAC has been a maJ2or disappointment compared to the built in DACs in all my devices, including my Yamaha 801, Audiolab 6000, and Emotiva PT1. I believed you enough to order one and wait 4 months for its arrival! To add salt to the wound, it sounds worse(less punchy, less clarity) than my 30 yr old Sony 5Disc CD Player with its “1 Bit DA Convertor”. Randy you have steered me well with the Critons and I agree with your opinions on many of your prior reviews (Lintons, Elac B6, Aiyma A07etc…) but my experience with the J2 has been massively to the contrary.
Weird, maybe there’s a problem with yours? They do have superb customer service, see if they have any ideas? I’m bias but it’s hard to believe that you’re not amazed by it, (like myself and soooo many others) good luck, hopefully you can figure it out
I have a Ess and AKM. Both sound great to me. It could be your preference doesn’t jibe.
@@Brian_Romska I was glad to support a US based company. And it looks fantastic! Believe me, I wanted it to be noticeably better in some way audio-wise. It was intended for the toslink output on my original Sony CD player from 3 decades ago, which I thought would be the best way to really contrast its modern benefits against. But it’s just mediocre, less detail and bass in about every subjective listening I have given it. This has been my only purchase since re-entering the hobby in 2016 that I would qualify as snake-oil or being audiophooled. I enjoy Randy and will continue to support his channel, but this was a significant letdown.
@@stevezeidman7224 yeah maybe it’s me, but I have been on the ‘same page’ with Randy and other reviewers on many audio preferences, so it’s a bit unnerving.
I read your last update. Is there another source you can try for it? Can you say what about it you found disappointing? Sorry, I just reread your first entry. You may want to call them. They have great customer service and will talk to you.
when is the new geshelli dac coming?
I know it doesn’t fit the category exactly, but the erc-4 could be used as a DAC. How would you stack it against this list? Great channel!
Trying to decide between the SMSL SU1 or the Topping D10B. The Topping has better specs on paper, but different chip...
I have a sony smart tv year 2021 and have a bose LS 650 eArc hdmi connected to my Bose LS 650 please suggest a compatible DAC
So would a combination of say, the Cambridge cd 35 and a Modi DAC be preferable to say, the Denon 600n or Denon 900N ?
So the Aiyima T9 PRO does not function well as an external DAC?
Randy, I'm looking at a couple DACs to purchase. What do you recommended based off of what I want between these 2 DACs?:
I would like great Dynamics with lots of punch with a great sound stage. It needs to be engaging and fun, not sterile.
Based off this would you go J2 base model with AKM 4493 or Schiit Modi multibit 2?
Thanks sir!
Any opinion on Topping D70 Octo?
Looking for some of those good deals coming up during prime days. 7.2.2 reciever somewhere around the $500 to $700 mark. Something that you push a button and it adjusts everything for you. If you see anything or recommend anything. I mainly want to have a movie theater setup. Thank you
Why is it that when a thread from a UA-cam video gets used as a forum, absolutely nothing gets accomplished ???
Why do I get the notion that the ESS versions of the J2 are less favorable than the Modi or the E50 ?
Hi Randy, love the Channel.
I’m thinking of buying the Eversolo dac-z6 have you any experience of how it stands up to the z8 ?
Thanks
Great video as always. Please can you advise whether the SU-10 is a better option to pair with my Audio Gd Master 19 than the Aune S8 or EverSolo Z8?
I recently got a bluesound node. have musical fidelity 3si amp and paradigm signature S1 speakers. with NAD cd player the set-up is amazing. with node and Tidal it is very disappointing, thin sound. I am wondering if an external DAC would take care of it. But also don't feel that the node should be this disappointing. thoughts?
I have the Topping E50 powered by LPS Topping P50. I am tempted by upgrades but I fear the ROI would be marginal from where I am at now.
This is also my fear, I have an SMSL-SU 6 and I get pretty deep soundstage already, also like the filters on it. Wonder how big an improvement it really would be.
Both of you have good hardware. That's as good as DACs get. Anything above that is either people convincing themselves that it "sounds better" or something else (outside of the conversion) flavoring the sound. Which is obviously not good
@UTR1 that's what I was thinking, I was able to compare my DAC to the onboard one of the Aiyima T9 Pro and mine was slightly better with regards to wider and deeper soundstage. But it required very critical listening, that one was good enough already and that unit (its an amp and DAC) is the same price as my DAC basically. Thanks for your response!
@@danielh12345My humble advise to you it, keep what you have and be happy with it as you are already happy with your HiFi. Actually we are more Audiophools than Audiophiles.
Every 2 months a new DAC will come out claiming this and that...pure B.S.
Focus on your room treatment more than anything else on the system. Period.
For DAC's, I have Presonus Quantum 2, Focusrite Clarett USBpre, RME Fireface 800, Motu M2, ifi Zen Dac v2, Fiio K7, & Topping E50. - The E50 is the smoothest and highest quality of these, and most of my units are audio interfaces universally praised (at one time or another) as best in class. Your ROI is going to probably be very small if you step up price ladder. For example, I shot out the Clarett USB with a friends line up of >$1k Studio DACs, and the difference was almost imperceptible. I mainly listen with headphones, and if that's you too, the headphones will matter a lot more (and change the sound more) than any DAC beyond something like the E50. Unless you have a specific headphone or speaker you like, that you are going for a certain sonic synergy with the gear, you're good. Sometimes really technical and analytical drivers, can benefit from a lower-end smeary Amp or DAC, and vice-versa. - In terms of shear DA conversion, the E50 is probably as neutral and smooth as it needs to get.
How would you compare the Schiit Modi Multibit to these others? It's usually about $150 more than the base Modi but about half as much as the Bifrost. So with a price of around $300 would it be better than the Gishelli or Emotiva?
Hi, How would you compare the SMSL SU-1 with the Geshelli J2, both with the AKM chip? Thanks
I need help. Any recommendations for a deck amp combo with really good headphones. My primary objectives are video games, entertainment, and music. Please help with some good recommendations that is great for entry-level to where I can be satisfied for a couple years. Please and thank you.
If you have to pick only one, denafrip or eversolo???
Su1 went pop. To slink input stopped working.
I have 3 DACs. One in my pre amp, another in my CD player, and my Bluesound Node 2i. There is no audible difference. I have compared them at various volumes and with headphones. You must have superhuman hearing. I’m glad I don’t. I should add, my rig cost about $3k.
Would this small su1 be an upgrade from the DAC in my pioneer amp SX- S30?
Rock on
I have a Pioneer Elite VSX-505 and an Emotiva XPA amplifier. I’m new to DACs and HiFi. I’m not sure if I even need one. I’m all the clarity and performance so if I can make what I have better I’m all for it. I’m just not sure if I need one. What do you think?
I took my dac out of my system. Really didn’t need it since I’m not hooked up to a computer. I prefer the sound with out the dac.
What about Topping D90LE? No chance?
Bifrost instead of Modi???
I have the latest Bifrost. I think it is an outstanding piece of US-made gear in the $500-$1000 category, even using the RCA outs.
They're not in the same price range
@@CADClickerHe said under $1000, not $150.
What no techole or prozor? 😅
Cheapaudioman, have you ever reviewed a Dolby Atmos system for music? I notice Apple and Tidal have a lot of Atmos titles.
What happened to the EVERSOLO A6 streamer dac? Did you mention Wiim mini $78 Amazon?
I don’t think anything happened to the eversolo A6. I’ve never heard it. And that is an awesome sale on the WIIM. I’ll post it up. Thanks for the heads up
What about a built in DAC, my Marantz CD 6007 has the switchable filter!! Sweet sounding player
Which of these dacs would be an improvement over the one already installed in my Emotiva PT1?
I stream Apple Music from my Wiim Mini through the Modi 3+. To my ears it makes my TA1 sound much better.
I have a question. I have got a smsl sa 300 amp with acoustic energy 100. Is the Su1 an upgrade?
Hi guys, i would like to ask a question i have a dac with a es9038pro, i am connecting it with usb and optical from my pc, for me they sound almost the same, but i would like to know what do you guys prefer and why. thanks everyione
So, I have the Denon DCD 2560 which was made in 1991. 4 x AD182N-D 20 bit THD .0018%, Looking to see if I can improve the sound quality, which is excellent by getting either the Geshelli J2 or iFi Audio NEI IDSD. Any suggestions or do I just stay with the vintage Denon Dac? Thanks
Wondering how you feel about the Bifrost with the Unison USB? I have issues with weird digital sounding noises on my J2 when it is connected with USB to my computer or phone.