Geshelli Labs J2S DAC review and comparisons

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  • čas přidán 23. 07. 2024
  • Geshelli Labs J2S with AK4499EX review. Read my written reviews with scores at iiwireviews.com/
    Support the channel via Patreon (BIG thanks to current patrons!): / iiwireviews
    Buy Geshelli Labs J2S - geshelli.com/product/jnog2-so...
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    00:00 Basic Info
    02:10 Features
    04:09 How to buy
    05:41 Trashing Incoming
    06:00 Sound
    07:44 vs Topping D70 Pro Octo
    08:54 + iFi iPower X
    11:28 + Sparkos SS3602
    14:31 vs Topping D90 III Sabre
    15:24 vs SMSL SU-10
    18:12 + iFi iPower Elite
    18:44 Get the socketed version
    20:45 vs Chord Mojo 2
    22:05 Can we trust him?
    Follow me on Instagram for behind the scene stuff: / iiwireviews
    Room test system:
    Eversolo DMP-A8
    Lampucera DIY DAC
    Gustard R26 DAC: bit.ly/3XLyNCF
    Acoustic Invader AMP and PREAMP (Fulcrum version): acousticinvader.com/
    Spirit Wind Speakers: • High End 2-way speaker...
    Head-Fi:
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    #hifi #audiophile #dac #stereo
  • Věda a technologie

Komentáře • 295

  • @johntucker5994
    @johntucker5994 Před 5 měsíci +102

    You are so good at describing the differences between dacs, and the fact that English is not your native language makes that all the more impressive. Thanks.

    • @jakedavila4468
      @jakedavila4468 Před 5 měsíci +12

      Actually enjoy his accent and effort of English! Refreshing!

    • @Shaken_AND_Stirred
      @Shaken_AND_Stirred Před 5 měsíci +16

      ​ @jakedavila4468
      Good point. I like his accent as well. He actually speaks better English than a lot of Americans I know.

    • @richardfrankel6102
      @richardfrankel6102 Před 5 měsíci +5

      ​@@Shaken_AND_StirredThis American agrees completely!

    • @2kdesignstudios72
      @2kdesignstudios72 Před 5 měsíci +1

      I like to tell people on the Internet that they're wrong, but I couldn't agree with you more.

  • @yeghigmikaelian
    @yeghigmikaelian Před 5 měsíci +43

    and that's called a review ladies and gentlemen, much respect!!! mic drop at the end :)

  • @jd2plus2
    @jd2plus2 Před 5 měsíci +19

    This company a small family is one of the kindest and pleasant I’ve ever had the pleasure of dealing with . Buying their products is an amazing value but the best customer interaction . Take note being small your order is custom made and takes a bit of time .

  • @NosEL34
    @NosEL34 Před 5 měsíci +11

    Videos like this are why i consider you the best subjective Dac reviewer out there. Some good humor in this video as well. I can assure you that i am not the only person in the US that questioned this Dac's performance..as it does get quite a bit of hype for is price point..and believing the hype in HiFi can usually lead one down the wrong path. Nice to see that the J2 is legit enough to get iiwi's recommendation.

  • @stevem4413
    @stevem4413 Před měsícem +3

    I own this DAC with Sparkos op-amps and have been impressed from day one. It does sound amazing and definitely outperforms it's price point. Geshelli Labs should be applauded for what this product accomplishes at its price. I've owned it for about 6 months now and am totally satisfied.

  • @gregbailer8701
    @gregbailer8701 Před 5 měsíci +14

    Your review was palpable and crispy. Modular boards for "Pimpin'" are the future of DAC design and Geshelli was 6 months ahead of the curve. AKM4499/4491 is the top combo with split duties. Sparkos Ops are the "open exhaust" to the hot rod.

    • @zombielandiii2711
      @zombielandiii2711 Před měsícem

      Hello, that Sparkos Ops... You have to solder them? Or put them in? 😅 Hope you can shed some light. Thanks.

  • @willemvdg9557
    @willemvdg9557 Před 5 měsíci +19

    So nice to have a review from Europe!
    I have the J2 with AKM and USB which is $300, it cost about €30 shipping and €100 taxes to get it to the Netherlands (December ‘22).
    My aluminium case is purple for the best sound 🙃

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +11

      Purple case is the next level upgrade. 👌

  • @theyreMineralsMarie
    @theyreMineralsMarie Před 5 měsíci +43

    To my fellow US citizens, support small businesses! Gishelli Labs is a family run company and produces incredible products.

  • @jakedavila4468
    @jakedavila4468 Před 5 měsíci +6

    His descriptions are always the most detailed!

  • @EvanRamos
    @EvanRamos Před měsícem +1

    Thumbs up and subscribe because of the way you did your descriptions. Links to the times and subjects on each section is much appreciated

  • @EnriqSandoval
    @EnriqSandoval Před 5 měsíci +5

    Once again, you really rocked this review! So insightful, informative, and clear. Your review was well organized and easy to understand and follow. I was really impressed with your price to performance analysis and your exploration and elaboration of an upgrade path. I feel this analysis is really lacking out there. Thank you again. Keep up the great work.

  • @mebaugh1
    @mebaugh1 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Fabulous review and comparison. I think you are the most honest, articulate reviewer out there! Thank you.

  • @joseluishernandezseptien
    @joseluishernandezseptien Před 4 měsíci +1

    Great review! Thank you for this!

  • @charlesclifton1006
    @charlesclifton1006 Před 5 měsíci +6

    That review was simply excellent. Most of your reviews are of the same quality and
    you have a real talent for explaining the sonic signature of audio products. I've always
    trusted your presentations to be totally objective, truthful and without undue influence.
    This being said, I think Geshelli Labs owe you a big debt of gratitude for this. I say this
    because: even though I have listened to other reviews on this Dac and I will be purchasing
    a new Dac later this year, nothing I heard previously raised my interest to the degree that
    this review has. This Dac seems to strike the balance of warmth and detail combined
    without going too far in either direction. First delta sigma Dac to do that.

  • @grhaggerty
    @grhaggerty Před 5 měsíci

    Great review, I bought the gustard A26 based on your review and have been really happy with it.

  • @leodesforges161
    @leodesforges161 Před 5 měsíci +1

    The soundstage depth, the natural and coherent sound is what I noticed so much about my J2 AKM (single ended sparkos opamp and iPower X power supply).
    It’s smooth while still being revealing and crisp.

  • @test40323
    @test40323 Před 5 měsíci +5

    Thanks for the review, I was considering it for one of my systems.

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +2

      Glad I could help, thanks for the support!

  • @bling5279
    @bling5279 Před 5 měsíci +22

    I agree. purple sounds the best to me also.

    • @look8234
      @look8234 Před 5 měsíci

      So do you still satisfied with this product?

    • @bling5279
      @bling5279 Před 5 měsíci +2

      Yes, jokes about LEDs aside, the Geshelli J2 is incredible dac for the price. Their customer service is also top notch.

    • @abehaile2659
      @abehaile2659 Před 4 měsíci

      I second the customer service praise. Shelly responded to a question I had--within 1 hour over the weekend--with images 👏🏾
      Ordered mine in canary wood w/teal glass "fully pimped"

  • @pauld5530
    @pauld5530 Před 5 měsíci +3

    It was comforting watching this review as I already ordered one and did exactly as you recommended - socketed, 99 chip, Sparkos on the RCAs. Of course, you just cost me another 120 bucks as now I’ve gotta go order a new power supply 😋 thanks for all your great reviews. 🤙🏻😎

  • @riccitone
    @riccitone Před 5 měsíci +1

    Great review, as always. Needed your clear cut perspective...And purple is a great choice!

  • @edwinperez125
    @edwinperez125 Před 5 měsíci

    A really well done assessment of the Geshelli Lab dac. I use the bare-bones variation in my bedroom setup to improve the sound of an Oppo 203. Kudos to your review!

  • @stevezeidman7224
    @stevezeidman7224 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Always love your descriptions of sound. I’ve have made note in the past how impressive your mastery of English is. I also like how you’re letting your snark out. I have this DAC with one Sparkos for single ended out. I have vintage McIntosh. It has no balanced in. So, this was an easy choice. I use a LPS than was inexpensive. I found this device to be terrific. I love listening to it. I also have a Ladder Schumann. I really can’t say I like Ladder Schumann better.

  • @RayCabrera1
    @RayCabrera1 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Great and honest review. I also own the J2S Dac with the 4499 dac and the two Sparkos Opamps for XLR and have it paired with my Lake People G111 Mks ii Amp. This is best and most amazing sounding pairing that Ive heard for my Arya Organic. Very ironic but I also purchased the Ifi power X 12v last week and agree with you, it does give the sound a cleaner sound and more defined bass its a great addition to a already great sounding dac.

  • @FunFiEmpire
    @FunFiEmpire Před 5 měsíci +5

    This is my favorite review, trashing and all 😉. I think you are the first reviewer to use the very descriptions I do when talking about the Geshelli sound (I have the older ESS with standard op amps). The sound when listening to a good recording is table-slapping good. I am a SMSL junkie (I have 4 of their products!) but Geshelli is my go-to DAC as is my balanced headphone amp the Erish 2. Not only is it my favorite to listen to, but the designer (Geno) and his boss (Sheri) are two of the nicest people in audio, dare I say manufacturing in general. My full time business is implementing manufacturing / warehouse software so I deal a lot with manufacturers and they both are not only 100% into getting the best out of audio at the most affordable price, but are possibly the most customer-centric business owners I know. I am sorry you were not able to get the wood design to match your hand made speakers, but I empathize with the great difficulty you had in getting the DAC at all. Thanks for the great video and I look forward to many more in the future (gotta love my Toppings and SMSL for the product of the week).

    • @stevezeidman7224
      @stevezeidman7224 Před 5 měsíci +2

      Right on the money, Chris. They are great people. They care more about their customers than any audio manufacturer I’ve ever dealt with.

  • @edholmwood2263
    @edholmwood2263 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Great review. Thank you.

  • @JTB--
    @JTB-- Před 5 měsíci +6

    Great Review. One of the Best Reviews I've seen anywhere in a long time!! I have a Geshelli Stack with their newest offerings. I went with the Zebra Wood on Both the DAC and Amp and paid for the Kitchen sink extras. I've got the JNOG2 SOCKETED [J2S] DAC with the AK4499 chip that's also loaded with the Sparkos Op Amps. You are absolutely on the money when saying upgrading to the Sparkos Op Amps is a must. It's a huge difference maker and the Sparkos are what really give these Geshelli products their magic. The DAC and Amp are so much better with the Sparkos Op Amps in them. It gives a nice smooth, warm presentation that's still very detailed. No loss of Impact or Soundstage either. The Geshelli stuff is good bang for the Buck that rivals products 3X its price. And while some maybe prefer DACS and Amps with the LED screen... I actually like this simplistic look where you can see the Purple Light etc... inside the units. I prefer the more Intense looking Red Lights in my DAC and Amp stack

  • @ginom407
    @ginom407 Před 5 měsíci +4

    I've had the ESS version of the J2 for a few years and I absolutely Love it! I recently bought the Archel 3 Pro headphone amp and couldn't be happier! They make great products at Geshelli. Great Review!!! 👍👍👍

  • @williammitchell3271
    @williammitchell3271 Před 5 měsíci

    Well done. Very descriptive. Very precise. And genuine. Listeners need to think about how they listen to music to decide whether the differences matter, but you set the stage for consideration. Thanks.

  • @TheodoreBreaux
    @TheodoreBreaux Před 5 měsíci +2

    Excellent review. I have the J2S with AKM 4499EX with Sparkos SS3602. I upgraded to a linear power supply, and I also upgraded all three op amps to the flagship Sparkos SS2590, which required some trickery to fit inside the case. The soundstage depth , clarity, and dynamic punch this combination brings continues to impress. I would put it against anything under $1500 USD. Instead of increasing costs with things like an OLED display, Geshelli focuses on implementation, and that is what makes them successful.

  • @middleearthltd
    @middleearthltd Před 5 měsíci +2

    I was glad to see you review the Geshelli.
    Primarily because of the reviews over here in the U.S. seemed overly enthusiastic
    I ordered the Orchard Audio for use as my computer DAC based on your review
    I ordered a ARMATURE Hecate XMOS Xcore 208 USB SPDIF Asynchronous Interface to optimize it as my computer DAC and clean up the USB connection.
    It seems like I would have been better served with the Geshelli with their USB option.
    Excellent review as always

  • @s.daniel9224
    @s.daniel9224 Před 5 měsíci

    I have both of these dacs. Your review is 100% on every point.

  • @user-ps6kt7eh2m
    @user-ps6kt7eh2m Před měsícem

    Great review!!! I bought this dac with sparkos op amp. I LOVE it. Sounds fantastic.

  • @razuu
    @razuu Před 5 měsíci

    Great and very informative review. Thanks

  • @NeilBlanchard
    @NeilBlanchard Před 5 měsíci +24

    When all else fails - read the manual? 🙂 There are 3 output/gain levels, that are switchable with the input button - push and hold for ~2 second goes from high to medium, and then again for low, and then again to back to high.
    For me, the Geshelli J2S AKM 4499EX and a 50W linear power supply, and the big Sparkos SS2590 - it is my current reference DAC. Until I get Geshelli Labs new flagship DAC, the Dayzee, that is.

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +8

      Yes, smart people read manuals. 😊 I forgot to mention gain settings in the video. That said, I prefer high gain which is the default one anyway.

    • @TriAmpHiFi
      @TriAmpHiFi Před 5 měsíci +2

      . Alright. Spill. What do you know about the Dayzee?
      Acid Jazz, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊

    • @NeilBlanchard
      @NeilBlanchard Před 5 měsíci

      @@iiWiReviews same here - it's just that I have mistakenly gone to medium gain, and wondered what happened ... so knowing how to get back to high gain is good.

    • @NeilBlanchard
      @NeilBlanchard Před 5 měsíci +1

      @@TriAmpHiFi I have heard the Dayzee - Geshelli has generously shared one of the their rooms at Capital Audiofest - and at the upcoming AXPONA - with me. I have designed mass loaded transmission line speakers, and Geshelli has their Dayzee DAC and Zoofa integrated amp. I used a Pine Tree Audio linear power supply on the Dayzee, and it had the stock TI OPA 1655 op-amps.
      The Dayzee is a fully balanced DAC - it has two AKM 4499EX chipsets - one for each channel. It has eight single op-amps - the optional upgrade is to use eight Sparkos SS2590 units. There are separate 6 pin sockets that "straddle" the DIP8 sockets - you remove the OPA1655, and then plug in the big Sparkos boards.
      The Dayzee and Zoofa system sounds incredibly great! Open and spacious and layered - a bunch of recordings are palpable 3D. The texture and super subtle details are just evident, right there in front of you.

    • @korling99
      @korling99 Před 5 měsíci +1

      Tell us more about the SS2590 and your linear power supply. I would be curious to know more about the Dayzee too. Haven’t heard anything yet and haven’t looked yet either.

  • @philippecouturier7400
    @philippecouturier7400 Před 5 měsíci

    Perfect comparison ! Thanks a lot !👍

  • @Artemis_Prix
    @Artemis_Prix Před 5 měsíci +2

    Hi Srboliub, thank you so much for reviewing the J2S 4499ex with the Sparkos op-amps!
    That's precisely been my experience as well, even the comparison with the Mojo2.
    However, one difference worth noting is how significant of a difference adding an LPS from Pine Tree Audio had made...the soundstage became bigger, the sound became more authoritative and more fuller in sound. Very sophisticated sound for sure.
    Can't speak on how the Pine Tree Audio LPS would compare in a head-to-head comparison with the LPS you had tested, but I can just say the results were stunning...so much so that I felt the need to upgrade my components. (upgraded to a PS Audio BHK 250 amplifier and Freye+ preamp) so that they were more evenly matched with the J2S/Pine Tree Audio combo.
    For reference, the unit I bought was a fully custom, dual-variable LPS, and is the very unit that you see on their landing page. Amazingly well built functionally and aesthetically.
    Thank you.

  • @PlaAwa
    @PlaAwa Před 5 měsíci +2

    I like the honesty about the purple placebo :)

  • @69leehammond
    @69leehammond Před 5 měsíci +5

    I have this DAC with full sparkos op amp upgrade in the white oak frame. Yes cost a bit to get it to the UK + import duties as well. But well worth it. It looks beautiful & sounds beautiful 🙂

    • @69leehammond
      @69leehammond Před 5 měsíci +3

      Ps I also like the purple setting 😂

    • @doifeellucky
      @doifeellucky Před 5 měsíci

      How much in total? Thanks.

    • @69leehammond
      @69leehammond Před 5 měsíci

      Close to £900 after paying import tax.
      @@doifeellucky

  • @AverageNiceGuy
    @AverageNiceGuy Před 5 měsíci +1

    Very nicely done 😎👍

  • @Simon_Hawkshaw
    @Simon_Hawkshaw Před 5 měsíci +1

    Thank you very much for this fantastic review of this great DAC. Geshelli is a family business with wonderful people and customer support. Sparkos is certainly the way to go.

  • @mov3d-strengthforliving717
    @mov3d-strengthforliving717 Před 5 měsíci

    Great review thanks

  • @user-bc6ok1yh4s
    @user-bc6ok1yh4s Před 3 měsíci

    Great review on the GL J2S DAC, and thanks for being upfront about how the reviewed unit found its way to you. BTW, if you ever find your way to Hollywood USA, you would find employment in the movies in record time.

  • @dylanemeraldgrey
    @dylanemeraldgrey Před 5 měsíci +1

    I was hoping someday you'd get to review this DAC. You confirmed all of the assumptions I've been making as I decide. My favorite part was the audiophile "self-own" in the intro. ;)
    Though I was hoping for a ladder DAC comparison, I was not disappointed. You have essentially mastered the DAC review. I know it's not world changing, but it's still an accomplishment - and one that helps us guys who have to scrimp and save to get anything better than simply good sound. - Cheers

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +2

      Ladder Schumann has even richer tone timbre and even bigger soundstage, R2R style. Geshelli can maybe catch up with some more expensive linear power supply and that flagship Sparkos opamp (I forgot the model number) but then the price would be similar too.

    • @dylanemeraldgrey
      @dylanemeraldgrey Před 5 měsíci +1

      @@iiWiReviews Thanks man. Good to know for sure. The maximum limit for my next DAC keeps going up, which I guess is the reason I still don't have it. ;) silliness. ;)

  • @AA-df7bv
    @AA-df7bv Před 5 měsíci +1

    I upgraded the Geshelli labs ak4499 with a sparko
    SS2590 pro discrete op amp and a linear power supply. Sounds AMAZING

  • @psyphonyxaudio
    @psyphonyxaudio Před 5 měsíci

    This is one of the best DACs with customizing options anyone could ask for. A phenomenal product =)
    I am MOST excited for the NEW DAC yet to be finalized... however, .. If that AKM is the type of precision sound you like.. this (JS2) is the way.

  • @Scrufboy
    @Scrufboy Před 5 měsíci +2

    Great review!
    If you drop SS2590 dual pro opamps in... And add an Intona USB isolation unit. You can take the J2 even higher... I invested into the power supply and I bought an inline supercapacitor and Yes! - cables matter too. This J2 with the SS2590's is by far the best DAC setup you can buy for the pricepoint. Shout out to Geno! Andrew! Mike! & all the SS2590 fans...

    • @brianmiller3121
      @brianmiller3121 Před 4 měsíci

      What adapter did you use to fit the sparkos 2590 op amps in the balanced sockets

  • @tumater729
    @tumater729 Před měsícem +1

    Dude, I'm 64 year old from Texas and hope to use the english language so well someday. ...Well done and great review!

  • @DJ_DJ
    @DJ_DJ Před 3 měsíci

    Great review! I swapped in the Sparkos SS2590 op-amp in my J2S (single-ended only) and the performance to my ears is even better than with the SS3602 - more separation and layering of sound. For a pre-assembled adapter and two SS2590's it's $126 USD (vs the $80 for the SS3602) direct from Sparkos.

  • @mindhead1
    @mindhead1 Před 5 měsíci

    I have the J2S w/ Sparkos OpAmps and think it sounds fantastic.
    I agree with this review.

  • @DaMaxchi
    @DaMaxchi Před 5 měsíci +1

    You are a very funny man. If I threw a party, you would be the only CZcams reviewer I would invite.🤣

  • @net_news
    @net_news Před 5 měsíci +1

    best dac reviewer in the world!! 🙌

  • @DIVA-MC-7
    @DIVA-MC-7 Před 5 měsíci

    aaaaaaaaaaaaaah finally

  • @manzanaresantonio
    @manzanaresantonio Před 20 dny

    I love supporting my fellow Americans and I try to buy affordable and great Schiit and Emotiva products and now I will experience this company.

  • @joaquinbarreto9398
    @joaquinbarreto9398 Před 5 měsíci +2

    😂😂 “ when you pimp it” that was hilarious. Love the review as always!!! what do you recommend for in room presence live type sound front row seat Dac? Thanks

  • @NosTubes58
    @NosTubes58 Před 5 měsíci

    You’ve done a wonderful job on expressing what said sonic differences exist at these price points, which in itself a great service to us fellow music lovers. Thanks for said opinions | honestly above all else.

  • @r00s.
    @r00s. Před 5 měsíci +14

    The best DAC reviewer on Planet Earth!

    • @NosEL34
      @NosEL34 Před 5 měsíci +2

      Yeah, he definitely has a talent for it

    • @net_news
      @net_news Před 5 měsíci +1

      seriously!! Spot on!

    • @pavlobilous4030
      @pavlobilous4030 Před měsícem

      what about other planets?

  • @kenlane3001
    @kenlane3001 Před měsícem

    You have the toughest job in the hifi world!....Describing the undscribable.....And always just nail it,,,,Thank you so much for your work.

  • @neosystas
    @neosystas Před 5 měsíci +1

    First of all I would like to congratulate you on this great channel. I like the calmness and precision with which you present the products.
    You mostly like to compare higher priced one DACs with the SU-10 from SMSL. I have compared several DACs over the past few years. For example, I tried the DX-7 pro +, the D70 and the D70 pro Sabre from Topping, but also an SMSL D0400 and I'm currently comparing the SU-10 with the VMV D2R with his ROHM.
    I find the D2R to be very beautifully made and designed the more I look at it. He seems to be made of one piece. In the first comparison, the SU-10 seemed to sound better to me. The stage seems wider to me than that of the D2R. However, after listening for a while, I find the sound of the VMV better, as voices and, for example, a violin seem more natural to me.
    Maybe you want to test the VMV-D2R. I would be interested in your opinion.
    Kind regards from Germany, Michael

  • @briangurnett
    @briangurnett Před 5 měsíci +1

    Damn fine video sir.

  • @kl9941
    @kl9941 Před 5 měsíci

    Great review. Peace!

  • @s.daniel9224
    @s.daniel9224 Před 5 měsíci

    The J2S dac with the sparkos, for me, made my hifi journey complete. I’ve stopped searching for another sound. Crazy good outfit to buy from.

  • @LorDarkGoose
    @LorDarkGoose Před 5 měsíci

    Great review as always!! Very nice, but no remote is a deal killer for me.

  • @roa5359
    @roa5359 Před 5 měsíci

    Thank you for another nice review. My partner and I really appreciate your style. Unique (in a good way). Are you planning to review Fiio's K11 soon? Thank you.

  • @pierregrandchamp4370
    @pierregrandchamp4370 Před 5 měsíci

    Thank you for introducing me to Dusko Goykovich!

  • @JanPippel
    @JanPippel Před 5 měsíci

    Many many thx for that super detailed review. Always a pleasure to hear what you feel/hear on different components.
    Can I ask you a little question please.
    Did you ever hear the new Vista Spark III, a specially in comparison to a Dayens Ampino?

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +1

      I haven't. I was willing and in talks about getting Spark amp in for a review, but for some reason it didn't go through.

  • @louisbotes337
    @louisbotes337 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Hi Thank you once again for. An informative and entertaining review. What I realy like about your reviews is that you show some music the I can go and listen to. This gives me some cross pollination on what someone else has in his collection.
    I would realy like you to make comparisons to one standard reference product irrespective of price. Say when reviewing dacs to do a comparison with say the Denafripps ares II most of us have an idea of what that sounds like and can put the comparison into perspective. I like your taste of music. Keep well from Downunder

  • @kdomster9141
    @kdomster9141 Před 5 měsíci

    Thanks for another great video, so J2 would be your top DAC under 1000usd ?

  • @Alberto-gl7mu
    @Alberto-gl7mu Před 5 měsíci +1

    Great comparison-based reviews. Have you thought of reviewing the Geshelli A3pro?
    To me, next level reviews would compare dac+preamp combos from Geshelli, Ladder, Gustard, Denafrips... (I own active speakers 😊)

  • @cherihorvath2047
    @cherihorvath2047 Před 5 měsíci

    Thank you so kindly for an impeccable review that is greatly appreciated! I too have a J2S w/Sparkos balanced outputs and a Talema 25W LPS thru Topping Pre90 to two bridged SMSL A300’s to my JBL D44000 Paragon and the richly detailed and balanced soundstage is phenomenal with this ‘pimped’ setup as you call it. If I may ask, what XLR cables do you use between your DAC and preamp?

  • @anthony2010707
    @anthony2010707 Před 5 měsíci

    I have this same Dac, i really enjoy using it with my Eversolo streamer, the sound is nice, i like it.

    • @wegardfjeld3789
      @wegardfjeld3789 Před 5 měsíci

      Wich Eversolo? Having A6 ME with LPS. I have a hard time finding a worth while upgrade dac without ending up spending considerably more. I've heard similar things from people with A8.

  • @anonimushbosh
    @anonimushbosh Před 5 měsíci +3

    The Mojo can't be left on and can't be turned on without performing a rain dance (I forget the exact details) whereas the J2 can be left on forever and I believe most Topping & similar have signal detection.
    Unless you live manually switching things on these little things quickly become incredibly important and imo should be in reviews (but never are).
    ✌️

  • @c34webb
    @c34webb Před 5 měsíci +2

    I'd love to hear your thoughts on a piped out Geshelli v Denafrips Ares II and Chord Qutest.

  • @Mithros69
    @Mithros69 Před 2 měsíci

    Thank you! After watching hours on different DACs I believe this fully decked out is the way to go. Now i just need to know which streamer to pair it with.

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Take a look at the Wiim Pro streamer. Fantastic value.

  • @oliverjosshvac2101
    @oliverjosshvac2101 Před 5 měsíci

    I have two Geshelli JNOG. One in the office on my Macbook Air through USB and another one in main tube amplifier system. The newer one is the fancy socketed AKM 4499 version with Sparkos OP Amps on the SE outputs. The older one uses also an AKM chip but I can't remember which one. I am super happy with the sound charcteristic and system matching. I tested them against a Denafrips Ares which wasn't a good match in my tube system. Too rolled off. In my office I tested the newer JNOG against an older wavelenght BRICK DAC. I kept both JNOG's. They ship to Switzerland by the way. Just ask them nicely.

  • @phantomplastics6582
    @phantomplastics6582 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Using the Sparkos in the xduoo-xd05-pro with the ESS DAC and external linear power supply. Sounds amazing. The ESS sounds better than the AK4499EX in that system.

    • @joeschwartz2636
      @joeschwartz2636 Před 5 měsíci

      How's the sparkos working in the xduoo? i seen early reports that the sparkos cause a ( i forgot the term) and goes into standby until a firmware update comes and fix's it.

  • @jd2plus2
    @jd2plus2 Před 5 měsíci

    I have their original j2 DAC with ak4493 and it played musically ? Better than my original topping D90 akm chipped . Your descriptions as usual are very organic and descriptive. As I’m not in the US it is costly for me as well but geshelli shipped mine at fair declared value . I’m very happy with my J2 OG2 but would love the newer upgrade . It’s still better value than many others . I’m waiting for my PS upgrade as well . Enjoy your always descriptive analysis.

  • @paulgross682
    @paulgross682 Před 5 měsíci

    Another great review. Thanks for all your efforts. Would the J2S be a strong upgrade for the Eversolo DMP-6?

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci

      To me, it feels like no upgrade in J2S' default state, and like a decent upgrade when Sparkos and good PS are added. But again, I can't guarantee that you would share my feelings about it as it depends on your system and even more on your level of obsession. 🙂

  • @brianmiller3121
    @brianmiller3121 Před 4 měsíci +1

    I can confirm using the ifi power x power adapter adds 20% to the overall sound quality 👍🏼. I was blown away. It's not snake oil

  • @user-ln4lq8ih3l
    @user-ln4lq8ih3l Před 5 měsíci +1

    Would you recommend pairing this with a wiim pro for streamer/dac combo? As always great job with the review! Rock on🤙🏽

  • @FukemStudios
    @FukemStudios Před 5 měsíci +2

    Thanks for this video! Orchard Audio PecanPi plus vs Geshelli Labs J2S with AK4499EX which one did you enjoy most in your system? ...Thanks!

  • @jukingeo
    @jukingeo Před 5 měsíci

    GREAT review and comparisons of the Geshelli J2 with other DACs. Coming from a long stint on the Cheap Audio Man channel, the fellow there had always held Geshelli in high regard. I recognize the importance of a good DAC, but I am not willing to drop $1000 or more for one. I am definitely considering the 4493 version as I think that the 4499 will not show it's true colors on my system, futher, it starts to get pricey. What I have is more mid-fi than high end system, but ehhh, what can I do? It is what I can afford. I definitely would get the socketed version of the 4493 though.

  • @paganrythyms
    @paganrythyms Před 5 měsíci

    I was hoping you would review this one.

  • @Elboogs
    @Elboogs Před 4 měsíci

    Great review! I have a pair of Klipsch forte 1’s with Crites tweeters paired with a Yamaha a- S801 amp, do you think I will notice the upgrade to the sparkos in this dac? Thanks

  • @jasonallen1205
    @jasonallen1205 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Great review! I really appreciate the comparisons. I would be interested in comparison vs gustard R26 tonally/richness?

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +4

      R26 has basically the same tonality. Full-bodied, three-dimensional, smooth. But R26's soundstage is even bigger and bassline punchier, with a bit higher detail retrieval. So I would say that these two in line, but R26 is a higher tier performer.

    • @JTB--
      @JTB-- Před 5 měsíci +1

      The R26 is more than twice the Price of a loaded JNOG2 SOCKETED [J2S]. I sold my R26 and A26 and downsized. Happy with J2S

    • @Alberto-gl7mu
      @Alberto-gl7mu Před 5 měsíci

      ​​@@JTB--can you share the other components in your system?

  • @dpavs8158
    @dpavs8158 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Thanks!

  • @cezarygoclowski2069
    @cezarygoclowski2069 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Serbjuba,
    Thank you for the great review - as usual.
    I would like to assure you that DAC reviews, which you do a lot of, are necessary and important. Not everyone probably realizes that the DAC plays a greater role in the entire audio system than is commonly believed. At the same time, it is in DACs that the greatest technical progress has recently been made. There are a lot of them lately, and SMSL and Topping are companies that flood the market with dozens of new models every year: cheap and with good sound. A sound that gets better every year for a lower price.
    Therefore, purchasing a new DAC can quickly and cheaply change our audio experience.
    Please consider making a video in another format: summarizing your experience with DACs over the last few years: how you test them, which design elements influence sound quality in what ways, the differences between chipset-based and R2R-based DACs, how important is the volume control function based on an analog preamplifier and linear power supply, types of filters and your preferences in configuration, etc... The information I mentioned above is the knowledge I gained thanks to your reviews.
    Thank you very much!
    And I can't wait to review the Topping D90III Saber, Topping DX9, and SMSL-SU-X, the latest flagship models around $1,000. The video - a direct duel - would be very interesting.
    Best Regards
    Cezary

  • @FunAllDayLong4353
    @FunAllDayLong4353 Před 2 měsíci

    "I still prefer the purple though!" Subbed for your honesty! 😁😂

  • @arunindc6145
    @arunindc6145 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Great review, as always, thank you. How does the J2S with Sparkos compare to an Denafrips Ares II? The latter can be had used for about the same price as the J2S kitted out.

    • @octaviodiaz938
      @octaviodiaz938 Před 5 měsíci

      Ares II with Ares 12th Firmware preferably

  • @Jamy4ya
    @Jamy4ya Před 5 měsíci +3

    Hi,
    Please review Denafrips Ares 12th-1 anniversary vs Geshelli
    I would like to try next an R2R DAC which is quite affordable, hence the above request.. 🙏

  • @ehong123
    @ehong123 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Thanks for another great review.
    I wonder how the J2 with sparkos compares with Aune X8 with sparkos? In your Aune X8 video you said that with sparkos, the Aune X8 can compete with $1000 DAC. 🤔

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +8

      Aune is a colder/leaner sounding DAC with more emphasis on high frequencies. It sounds airy but can appear thin tonally. Geshelli is juicier, more liquid like sounding, and with fuller midrange that makes vocals bolder. I personally prefer Geshelli but can't say that it would be better for everyone and in every setup.

  • @anastassiosroumboutsos8288
    @anastassiosroumboutsos8288 Před 5 měsíci

    For what it’s worth I had the J2 with stock op amps with the ESS Dac chip paired with an ultra high end power supply from Ferrum Hyspos and switching to a Mojo 2 was a a considerable step up from the J2. Haven’t compared to their latest iteration with Sparkos op amps and things can certainly change favouring the J2. Can’t ignore Mojo 2’s portability as I can take it to go and I am just amazed how good of a DAC it is in such a small package. The Mojo 2 appears to extract so much more information with music and sounds very refined.

    • @Artemis_Prix
      @Artemis_Prix Před 5 měsíci +2

      I had the J2 and upgraded to the 4499ex with the Sparkos op-amps that he describes here.
      I was fortunate to have both at the same time and did an A/B test...the J2S had a wider soundstage, true, much more dynamics, true, but the DEPTH of the soundstage is what had caught my attention... it was about 2 feet. Wow!
      I also had a chance to A/B the J2S with the Mojo2. In my system, they were essentially equivalent...minor differences, yes, but I really had to listen for them, and I wouldn't have noticed without back to back comparisons.
      However, when I added a custom, LPS from Pine Tree Audio, it was a mind blown moment. No joke, everything was improved across the board, more dynamics, sound had more authority and was fuller, and yes, the soundstage got bigger too.
      That combination far exceeded what Mojo2 can do...hands down, no contest.
      Can't speak about how it compares to a nice R2R, but Sjulibab said the Geshelli with his LPS approached that level and I can believe it.
      I hope to upgrade to the SS2590 op-amps at some point to push it's performance further. Good luck!

  • @Rob-Davidson
    @Rob-Davidson Před měsícem

    That purple light filter bit was me all the way. 😂

  • @peDERETIĆ
    @peDERETIĆ Před 5 měsíci +1

    Pozdrav i hvala za novosti,živio!!!😊

  • @bunjidogg
    @bunjidogg Před 5 měsíci

    Hello Srboljub, I wonder if it is simply the Sparkos amp that does the magic. Maybe the Sparkos amp in a cheaper smsl or topping DAC would do the trick.

  • @khallgrimsen
    @khallgrimsen Před 5 měsíci +1

    Waves theory did a comparison with the sparkos setup against the r26 in his r26 review. He says they sound soo alike. Like almost identical. I have the r26 and love it. But i would for sure sell and buy geshelli if this is true.
    What is your opinion on this?
    Kenneth

  • @Ratboy1
    @Ratboy1 Před 5 měsíci +7

    As always, a fantastic review. If people can't figure out what you observed with the Geshelli vs. the comparison DACs, it's certainly on them, not you.
    I've had a J2S 4499EX w/Sparkos (single-ended only) in a metal case for several months now. I also have an SMSL D300, which I slightly prefer to the base original J2. But the newer J2S model wins hands down. Yes, it's twice the cost of the original model, but it's actually a great value when one considers that the search for a wonderful all-around DAC is over.
    Peace, brother. ✌🏻

  • @Apocrypha303
    @Apocrypha303 Před 2 měsíci

    Just got my j2s with a 4499 chip, purple heart wood case today 5/15/24. I put muses2 opamps in the xlr slots. Makes my xb2 emotiva speakers sound wonderful. I put the ti opamps that came with the j2s into my fosi za3 speaker amp left and right channel. Should i get a different power supply than the one provided?

  • @myaudioquest
    @myaudioquest Před 5 měsíci

    I just bought a pimped out Geshelli J2S and now wonder how it compares to the Aune S9c Pro?

  • @paulo7237
    @paulo7237 Před 5 měsíci

    Hi iiWi Reviews,
    can you tell me how this perform in terme of soundstage and imaging compare to Aune S9c Pro ? thanks !

  • @IQisDEAD
    @IQisDEAD Před 5 měsíci

    Great and interesting review. What would be the comparison with RME ADI-2 DAC FS?

    • @iiWiReviews
      @iiWiReviews  Před 5 měsíci +2

      ADI-2 has a very similar kind of tonality and quality to Topping D70 Pro Octo, so you can just insert RME instead of it in this review.