Also have to mention JDS support is AMAZING. I'm in Australia and the man himself replies within hours of me requesting help and does everything he can to get me a new unit ASAP
Based on the earliest articles I've found about it, that's not what balanced-for-headphones was invented to do - it's not for noise rejection (that's for long interconnect cables, headphone cables don't qualify as they're not long enough to pick up audio frequency EMI) and it's not for power (except maybe in small portable devices running off batteries) even though companies lately have mostly marketed it as being about power. It's for crosstalk rejection and all the benefits that could come out of that in terms of staging and imaging/detail. That's why they got rid of the common ground: inter-channel crosstalk through the voltage drop over the common return wire disappears from the equation. Balanced for headphones is about crosstalk. Not power (mostly), not noise.
Thank you for the review. JDS labs is awesome. I have owned several items from them. The only reason I don't currently have anything by JDS is because I wanted PEQ. I will certainly own one of the Mark IV Elements some day. If I didn't already have an RME ADI-2 PRO, I would order one like yesterday. ❗JDS Element IV Measurements: [Coming later today]🚨
I have the JDS Atom Amp 2 as my first desktop/non-portable amp and 2.65W of power is way more than enough. I don't go past 60% of the knob on my 6XX or my Hifiman planars (Ananda, Sundara, HE400i) on LOW gain. I didn't believe amps would change the sound that much but it was so much blissful than my FiiO BTR5 and Q3. The bass had way more detail and spacious and the sibilance from the treble was reduced. The spatial imaging and soundstage just feels so much more...right? The only headphone that didn't work was the Meze 99 because it was too easy to drive and the bass became quite boomy.
I’m interested in buying my first audiophile headphones. If price doesn’t matter, and all I’m looking for is pure enjoyment, what would you recommend? Thanks.
I’ve got the RME ADI 2 DAC FS and use the preamp for my Dynaudio LYD 8’s through XLR. I’m guessing this isn’t going to do it for me since it lacks XLR outputs?
RME ADI-2 Dac FS has an app now for ios, Ipad and Windows called RME Remote. You can adjust EQ, save the presets.. set EQ per input... it works very well.
@Choloo-jf7fw no it’s 7 bands if you enable the option to turn the treble and bass into peak filters. Oratory1990 has EQs just for the RME ADI Dac fs they are 7 bands panoramic. You just have to check an option that has them included in the EQ and then they show up and you can change them to peak high pass or low pass. They will no longer work as treble and base toning nobs but only for that particular saved EQ.
@@TheRuiner0987 Everywhere in the RME ADI-2 DAC manual it's quite clearly stated that this device's _parametric_ EQ is only 5-band. The manual is quite (perhaps overtly?) honest about this and doesn't qualify the bass/treble adjustments as part of the parametric EQ, probably because they only act as up to +/- 6dB shelf adjustments (no up to +/- 12dB peak and 12 dB low/high cut adjustments here are possible, unlike for bands 1 and 5), even though indeed you can adjust the gain, frequency and Q factor of these.
To really get the most out of your GoXLR, you probably want to use it for your output to headphones too, especially if you stream. Integrating streaming oriented devices with other output devices is... Not always very easy or seamless.
No, the Holo Spring 3 already has full galvanic isolation on its USB module. In fact, you're actually better NOT using another isolator as this would leave both ends of the connection ungrounded and may make the connection unreliable. The spring 3 I've already confirmed as immune to source noise
@@tothcsaba3461 I agree, I should have just asked if cyan 2 and sa-1 are a good upgrade. If you already have a Singxer SA-1, the difference with the Holo Cyan 2 is almost double the price of the Element IV + Synapse.
It varies significantly. Some devices like the Holo Cyan 2 have full galvanic isolation internally and are immune to source noise. Others aren't 'isolated' but have very effective filtering to where performance typically doesn't show any difference. Other products can be really susceptible. I've not tested the K7 specifically so can't speak to that unfortunately. A USB Galvanic isolator in my opinion is a great thing to have though and I use one all the time unless the DAC has galvanic isolation already. The problem was that previously they were really expensive. Texas Instruments recently released a new isolator IC which is what allowed JDS to make one so cheap.
Fantastic review! One minor detail, the RME ADI-2 now has remote software for Mac & Windows allowing you to use a much easier interface to make all the adjustments to your ADI-2 EQ and settings.
@@cheesychester9647 I used to have one of those too. I went to a FiiO K11 to try it and it’s also good. What do you play and what’s the biggest differences between the Hel and Element?
I paired my Singxer SA-1 with a second hand Gustard X16 since I could get it for fairly cheap. How does the Eversolo Z8 compare to it? Would it be a meaningful upgrade?
He mentions Topping amplifiers sound in the review. Feature wise, I'd choose the Topping kit just because I like having a balanced DAC connected to my PC. It reduces the chance to get noise and ground loop problems. Make sure to use TRS or XLR cables. It's a shame because the JDS really looks more to my taste than the Topping. 😓
It’s a hi-fi device, so it’s the best thing in the world until a certain price threshold of $X. Every $ beyond $X would diminish the quality of the product by %P, until you reach a price where it’s the worst product in the world.
@ thanks! That is a very mathematical way to think about it maybe even algebraic. But since the Cyan 2 is only slightly over $1,000 I need the rest of the formula to compute the answer. 😀
Did you had the opportunity to test the Atom stack from JDS Labs? If so, how does the Element IV compare with the Atom stack? I know that the stack is cheaper than the Element IV, but having 2 components that do only one thing (being an amp and being a DAC) a beginner like myself would think that it would result in better audio than a component that tries to do 2 things at the same time. Also the stack has a balanced output, something that some people in the comments seem to want from their amp. So, yeah, I am very curious about your opinion on this matter.
Can’t wait to get mine. I ordered the Clear Resin Knob with Red ring but I guess I won’t get it before mid January. I didn’t plan to get a new Dac/Amp but I damaged my FiiO Q15 and then I saw the Element IV just got released and besides the Knob, Inputs + Software features are perfect for me. Its still super overpowered for my headphones but whatever lol
Correct me if I’m wrong but wouldn’t a Fossi SK02 be better for a dedicated device for EQ? It too has noise but at only $100 it lets you adjust treble, mids, bass, and let’s you reset it immediately with a “Tone” button.
Just because two devices have EQ, it doesn't mean they have similar functionality. The fossi uses a very basic GEQ. This uses a variable band PEQ filter set. They are not remotely comparable.
Interesting review Cameron... I do miss a somewhat more detailed comparison with the RME ADI-2 DAC, which has many similarities and about the same price range.
I stand corrected - I didn't see the JDS Element IV's price tag, it's actually less than half that of the RME ADI-2 DAC (currently $1,299), so it's definitely *not* in the same price range. In that case, the JDS Element IV indeed makes a lot more sense for most people, even taking into account the USB isolator. Sure, it doesn't have balanced XLR and dedicated IEM outputs, but it has a 10-band parametric EQ (the RME ADI-2's is only 5-band, even with the Remote app). Also, most of the RME ADI-2 DAC DSP features won't be useful to most people. Still, I wonder how both compare sound-wise...
Thanks for the review,and tbh,I can get nearly all the information you present in this video from JDS labs offical website and ASR.I suppose people who are going to buy this new arrival are more care about the comparison between element IV and his predecessor.
Unfortunately the Element IV is only 10V output max. The Tungsten is very dependent on voltage capability, so I found the Element could run out of juice or clip on some bass content. I'd recommend a 20V output amp at least for tungsten
@@Sturgon Yeah it works with the App. I don't have the K9 anymore as I've moved onto the Geshelli Stacks. But the biggest appeal to me is the AKM DAC chip and the POWER the K9 delivers. It can drive 95% of HP's out there. Also the FIIO K11 Desktop 1400W Power Balanced Headphone DAC & Amplifier is only $130 Bucks. Huge Power for a small DAC/AMP combo device
Didn't even know "USB isolator" was a thing. Should watch more of your content. My old-a$$ motherboard ports are extremely noisy and i have a single Type-C port (didn't even know until recently) and that one is pretty bad too, a lot better than the Type-A's but still bad. Was planing to get Element a good while ago but never did and seeing the price skyrocketing to 500$ now is way out of budget as i am not big believer in "dacs and amps". Just wanted to support JDS for their practices in favor of the consumer aka not having 100 products making false claims how they "sOuND DiFFeREnT" selling people snake oil.
Cam, you legitimately have my favorite earphone and audio equipment reviews. Your clarity, format and integrity are of the highest quality. I selfishly wish you would post every other day.😅
I own the element three and used to own a FiiO. You’re making a good decision. I’m trying to convince myself I don’t want the IV. I really want that EQ.
@@BoomerPlusUltraI’m primarily a gamer with minor in music but I have been searching for an end game desktop solution for awhile now. The Element 3 was what I wanted but my new PC cost so much this year I thought I’d buy something a little more economical for now. Then I saw the Element 4 was released. And with a new parametric EQ and usb C….. I ordered one today lol. What FiiO did you own and what are the benefits going to an Element for you?
If this had a 4.4mm balanced input as well then it would be basically perfect. I have so many headphones with a balanced cable and to buy all new cables just to have a single ended 1/4” jack would add on a lot of extra cost.
That device looks great! But to me, paying 500 USD$ for an unbalanced audio device that plugs into a noisy computer makes no sense... What if you have a ground loop or noise issue? Will the USB isolator really fix the problem? Personally, I don't take any chance and use a balanced DAC output 👍
The PSU is actually ungrounded, so ground loops won't be an issue. The USB noise pickup is a little annoying, but as mentioned can be solved with the isolator (and balanced won't fix performance degredation from USB noise in other devices anyway)
This design reminds my good old Grace Design M9xx, which was IMO better looking and built BTW 😊 Lack of 4.4 is a downside. I highly doubt that it is better than Chord Mojo 2, which has much more features and much more innovative 😊
6:50 my brother in christ you are talking about a BETA web driver. That means it will be improved and worked on, it can't get any more obvious than that. Also when you called for a "firmware update" to fix that, what you actually meant was a software update, it's not related at all to the firmware.
Checks all the boxes ??? How so and what about the lack of I/O options ? IMHO, at the asking price of around 550 bucks, connectivity in terms of both inputs and outputs really leaves a lot to be desired when compared to the competition, at or below its' asking price, of which there are quite a few.. No complaints regards the looks and performance. It is obviously a very good unit, but it needs to be said that the use prospect is limited due to the lack of I/O connectivity, IMHO..
![[Unboxing] The Composer by Austrian Audio](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kxkV95ankBU/mqdefault.jpg)
Something I didn't know: Upon purchase you can request for your unit to have a 4.4mm output instead of 6.35mm if preferred
Don’t they also do engraving free for the volume knob? I heard they do.
can anyone confirm wether or not the 4.4 is balanced?
@@kennwin 4.4 traditionally is a balanced output but the Element isn’t balanced so no.
I love their customization options... the acrylic volume knob is pretty dope as well
@@dustinmihalcheon5013 That is correct :)
Fucking love JDS Labs as a company. From their vision to their products, to their support, to the culture and blogs, etc....
Also have to mention JDS support is AMAZING. I'm in Australia and the man himself replies within hours of me requesting help and does everything he can to get me a new unit ASAP
Based on the earliest articles I've found about it, that's not what balanced-for-headphones was invented to do - it's not for noise rejection (that's for long interconnect cables, headphone cables don't qualify as they're not long enough to pick up audio frequency EMI) and it's not for power (except maybe in small portable devices running off batteries) even though companies lately have mostly marketed it as being about power.
It's for crosstalk rejection and all the benefits that could come out of that in terms of staging and imaging/detail. That's why they got rid of the common ground: inter-channel crosstalk through the voltage drop over the common return wire disappears from the equation. Balanced for headphones is about crosstalk. Not power (mostly), not noise.
Thank you for the review. JDS labs is awesome. I have owned several items from them. The only reason I don't currently have anything by JDS is because I wanted PEQ. I will certainly own one of the Mark IV Elements some day. If I didn't already have an RME ADI-2 PRO, I would order one like yesterday. ❗JDS Element IV Measurements: [Coming later today]🚨
I have the JDS Atom Amp 2 as my first desktop/non-portable amp and 2.65W of power is way more than enough. I don't go past 60% of the knob on my 6XX or my Hifiman planars (Ananda, Sundara, HE400i) on LOW gain. I didn't believe amps would change the sound that much but it was so much blissful than my FiiO BTR5 and Q3. The bass had way more detail and spacious and the sibilance from the treble was reduced. The spatial imaging and soundstage just feels so much more...right?
The only headphone that didn't work was the Meze 99 because it was too easy to drive and the bass became quite boomy.
Thank you for the review. I wonder how it compares to FIIO K9 or K9 Pro ESS?
I have an Element 2. It's been serving me well but maybe now that there are more features that I can see myself using maybe it's time
Genuinely curious; why is this better than something like the SMSL MDA1 RAW?
PEQ, Form factor, Made in USA, Top tier support.
@ all valid points for sure
3:35 what are those "default" values you talked about?
I’m interested in buying my first audiophile headphones. If price doesn’t matter, and all I’m looking for is pure enjoyment, what would you recommend? Thanks.
I love this volume control location but not the best in case of coffee accidents.
Maybe set it up vertically somehow, or perch it on a platform thingy.
I’ve got the RME ADI 2 DAC FS and use the preamp for my Dynaudio LYD 8’s through XLR. I’m guessing this isn’t going to do it for me since it lacks XLR outputs?
so what chip its on?? what tech inside???
RME ADI-2 Dac FS has an app now for ios, Ipad and Windows called RME Remote. You can adjust EQ, save the presets.. set EQ per input... it works very well.
Is it still just 5 bands?
@Choloo-jf7fw unfortunately yes.
@Choloo-jf7fw no it’s 7 bands if you enable the option to turn the treble and bass into peak filters. Oratory1990 has EQs just for the RME ADI Dac fs they are 7 bands panoramic. You just have to check an option that has them included in the EQ and then they show up and you can change them to peak high pass or low pass. They will no longer work as treble and base toning nobs but only for that particular saved EQ.
@@PedroLauridsenRibeiro it’s been 7 bands forever
@@TheRuiner0987 Everywhere in the RME ADI-2 DAC manual it's quite clearly stated that this device's _parametric_ EQ is only 5-band. The manual is quite (perhaps overtly?) honest about this and doesn't qualify the bass/treble adjustments as part of the parametric EQ, probably because they only act as up to +/- 6dB shelf adjustments (no up to +/- 12dB peak and 12 dB low/high cut adjustments here are possible, unlike for bands 1 and 5), even though indeed you can adjust the gain, frequency and Q factor of these.
Does EQ also work on pre outs?
If I have a mic with a GoXlr for exemple, do I have to plug my headset in it or is it better to use a desperate dac for my headphones ?
To really get the most out of your GoXLR, you probably want to use it for your output to headphones too, especially if you stream. Integrating streaming oriented devices with other output devices is... Not always very easy or seamless.
@ ok thank you for the answer! I’ll have to drop my steelserie game dac and just use de xlr interface then
No mojo2 comparison?
How about a head to head agains the Element 4 and the Burson Playmate II? Both are under 1k.
Can JDS Synape bring any benefit to the Holo Spring 3, I am planning to connect a RPI4 (HQPlayer NAA) to the Spring 3 via JDS Synapse.
No, the Holo Spring 3 already has full galvanic isolation on its USB module. In fact, you're actually better NOT using another isolator as this would leave both ends of the connection ungrounded and may make the connection unreliable. The spring 3 I've already confirmed as immune to source noise
@@TheHEADPHONEShowThanks!
7:59 which eartips did u use on ur blessing 3 there?
I have the III, other than EQ (which looks cool, but I use Audirvana plug ins), is there a big difference?
They should have built the USB isolator into the DAC. That would have been sweet!
u wont get symetric trs for 500 bucks ?
Would there be a big difference between this and the SMSL Raw MDA1 that literally just arrived at my doorstep?
Didn't know JDS makes a USB isolater now. Been needing one for a while so ordered.
Hmm, wonder if this would be better with the Arya Organics over a TA-22?
Best dac amp combo undet 1k usd should be udp6pro
Wait, how did I just hear about the 365 day return policy?!
@GoldenSound So, Singxer SA-1 and a Holo Cyan 2 would be a better alternative (or upgrade) for someone in Europe?
Thanks!
Can check out Aune S17 Pro too
Are you serious ??? The Cyan alone is more expensive than this unit.
@@tothcsaba3461 I agree, I should have just asked if cyan 2 and sa-1 are a good upgrade.
If you already have a Singxer SA-1, the difference with the Holo Cyan 2 is almost double the price of the Element IV + Synapse.
do most dac/amps have usb source noise? I use fiio k7 currently.
It varies significantly.
Some devices like the Holo Cyan 2 have full galvanic isolation internally and are immune to source noise. Others aren't 'isolated' but have very effective filtering to where performance typically doesn't show any difference. Other products can be really susceptible.
I've not tested the K7 specifically so can't speak to that unfortunately.
A USB Galvanic isolator in my opinion is a great thing to have though and I use one all the time unless the DAC has galvanic isolation already. The problem was that previously they were really expensive. Texas Instruments recently released a new isolator IC which is what allowed JDS to make one so cheap.
fyi..... the FiiO K9 is a nice step up from the K7. I gotta look into that USB Galvanic isolator for my Geshelli stacks
Fantastic review! One minor detail, the RME ADI-2 now has remote software for Mac & Windows allowing you to use a much easier interface to make all the adjustments to your ADI-2 EQ and settings.
Yeah the ADI Remote app is pretty great
Is the jitter audible when increasing the DPLL setting?
I got this day 1. It’s awesome. Huge upgrade from my Schiit Hel gaming amp
@@cheesychester9647 I used to have one of those too. I went to a FiiO K11 to try it and it’s also good. What do you play and what’s the biggest differences between the Hel and Element?
I paired my Singxer SA-1 with a second hand Gustard X16 since I could get it for fairly cheap. How does the Eversolo Z8 compare to it? Would it be a meaningful upgrade?
How does it compare to the Topping D50/A50 III stack? The D50III also has built in EQ.
He mentions Topping amplifiers sound in the review.
Feature wise, I'd choose the Topping kit just because I like having a balanced DAC connected to my PC. It reduces the chance to get noise and ground loop problems. Make sure to use TRS or XLR cables.
It's a shame because the JDS really looks more to my taste than the Topping. 😓
Thanks Golden Sound. Would it challenge the Holo Cyan 2 in terms of DAC SQ?
It’s a hi-fi device, so it’s the best thing in the world until a certain price threshold of $X. Every $ beyond $X would diminish the quality of the product by %P, until you reach a price where it’s the worst product in the world.
@ thanks! That is a very mathematical way to think about it maybe even algebraic. But since the Cyan 2 is only slightly over $1,000 I need the rest of the formula to compute the answer. 😀
I sold the Cyan 2 and kept the Element 4 if that tells you anything
@@Ge0vasny why did you did you do that if I might ask?
cyan is r2r EL4 isn't so probably depends what you're looking for, usually these guys prefer things that measure well over how it sounds
How about El dac have they come up with new one?? I have asgard 3 and want a single ended dac.
Would this be a noticeable improvement for sound over a Qudelix 5k? (using with HD800S)
Udp6pro
Did you had the opportunity to test the Atom stack from JDS Labs? If so, how does the Element IV compare with the Atom stack?
I know that the stack is cheaper than the Element IV, but having 2 components that do only one thing (being an amp and being a DAC) a beginner like myself would think that it would result in better audio than a component that tries to do 2 things at the same time. Also the stack has a balanced output, something that some people in the comments seem to want from their amp.
So, yeah, I am very curious about your opinion on this matter.
JDS Labs have said their atom line offers the same performance as their element line and you should base your purchase decision on features.
Also I have the atom amp 2 the balanced output is just an extra connection and doesn't offer actual balanced output
@@Hi85C thank you for enlightening me! :)
@@GangityBirdity interesting, didn't know that. Thank you for your answer!
How does it compare to the chord mojo 2?
Can’t wait to get mine. I ordered the Clear Resin Knob with Red ring but I guess I won’t get it before mid January.
I didn’t plan to get a new Dac/Amp but I damaged my FiiO Q15 and then I saw the Element IV just got released and besides the Knob, Inputs + Software features are perfect for me.
Its still super overpowered for my headphones but whatever lol
honestly a high end dongle Dac these days is the move unless you need/want other features
@@chrisk3127yeah I use the Apple Dongle a lot.
Is this sold by an outlet based in the EU?
Correct me if I’m wrong but wouldn’t a Fossi SK02 be better for a dedicated device for EQ? It too has noise but at only $100 it lets you adjust treble, mids, bass, and let’s you reset it immediately with a “Tone” button.
Doesn't that use just a basic GEQ tone control?
@@En_Joshi-GodrezHm I’m not an audiophile so I don’t know the specifics. Just my budget alternative
@@Deytookourjurrrs it doesn't do what this does. This is a full PEQ device. Big difference.
Just because two devices have EQ, it doesn't mean they have similar functionality. The fossi uses a very basic GEQ. This uses a variable band PEQ filter set. They are not remotely comparable.
Does the eq only work with usb input not optical?
Optical is 90% complete and will be functional in an update.
Interesting review Cameron... I do miss a somewhat more detailed comparison with the RME ADI-2 DAC, which has many similarities and about the same price range.
Yes same here
I stand corrected - I didn't see the JDS Element IV's price tag, it's actually less than half that of the RME ADI-2 DAC (currently $1,299), so it's definitely *not* in the same price range. In that case, the JDS Element IV indeed makes a lot more sense for most people, even taking into account the USB isolator. Sure, it doesn't have balanced XLR and dedicated IEM outputs, but it has a 10-band parametric EQ (the RME ADI-2's is only 5-band, even with the Remote app). Also, most of the RME ADI-2 DAC DSP features won't be useful to most people. Still, I wonder how both compare sound-wise...
How much better is this than an Atom 2 Stack?
How does this compare with fiio k9 pro?
3rd drawback. Not available outside the Americas without paying a 40% markup.
we movin to america brother..
Bad decision@@kato2395
40%? really? where?
Portugal goes over 700€
@@AliArghavan turn your notifications on
I'm Portuguese now apparently
Bem-vindo :)
Bem vindo
You wish! LOL.
Are you also seeing the video title in Portuguese then, Cameron? Odd.
Lmao
I love the clear knob with the copper ring... it's chefs kiss!
hylo
I forking love digital knobs, they are so clicky.
Step 1: Design a product without USB noise filter
Step 2: Design a standalone USB noise filter
Step 3: Profit
most standalone dacs in this price range have worse USB filtering sooo just JDS being good for consumers lol
Yeah right…
Step 0: Make an ignorant anarchist’s comment
@@18yearsoldnot 🤡
Thanks for the review,and tbh,I can get nearly all the information you present in this video from JDS labs offical website and ASR.I suppose people who are going to buy this new arrival are more care about the comparison between element IV and his predecessor.
The only DAC amp review I've wanted to watch.
4:50 Dang I was really hoping it could power the Mod House Tungsten.
It can….especially the DS version.
Unfortunately the Element IV is only 10V output max. The Tungsten is very dependent on voltage capability, so I found the Element could run out of juice or clip on some bass content. I'd recommend a 20V output amp at least for tungsten
@@TheHEADPHONEShowThanks for the explanation. Looks like a great/dac amp otherwise!
It can... you just have to plug it into your car battery first
Congrats on the weight loss. Next thing you'll be hitting the gym, getting some sunshine, and then you can rename yourself as GoldenSwoleEars
I guess the FiiO K9 DAC/Amp combo would be the only direct competitor to the Element IV in the $550 Price range
Does that have access to fiio's PEQ app?
@@Sturgon Yeah it works with the App. I don't have the K9 anymore as I've moved onto the Geshelli Stacks. But the biggest appeal to me is the AKM DAC chip and the POWER the K9 delivers. It can drive 95% of HP's out there. Also the FIIO K11 Desktop 1400W Power Balanced Headphone DAC & Amplifier is only $130 Bucks. Huge Power for a small DAC/AMP combo device
Element 4 vs. Asgard 3/Modi+ ???
Just compare the customer support: S(c)hitty vs Excellent.
@AliArghavan Element 4 is not available in Europe unfortunately. That's the problem
Didn't even know "USB isolator" was a thing. Should watch more of your content. My old-a$$ motherboard ports are extremely noisy and i have a single Type-C port (didn't even know until recently) and that one is pretty bad too, a lot better than the Type-A's but still bad. Was planing to get Element a good while ago but never did and seeing the price skyrocketing to 500$ now is way out of budget as i am not big believer in "dacs and amps". Just wanted to support JDS for their practices in favor of the consumer aka not having 100 products making false claims how they "sOuND DiFFeREnT" selling people snake oil.
Cam, you legitimately have my favorite earphone and audio equipment reviews. Your clarity, format and integrity are of the highest quality. I selfishly wish you would post every other day.😅
What? Why does this have Portuguese dub? Lmao thats awsome
If you don’t wanna buy something don’t watch reviews of the product you were considering. Lol. Apparently my FiiO K11 will be on eBay shortly. 😂
I own the element three and used to own a FiiO. You’re making a good decision. I’m trying to convince myself I don’t want the IV. I really want that EQ.
@@BoomerPlusUltraI’m primarily a gamer with minor in music but I have been searching for an end game desktop solution for awhile now. The Element 3 was what I wanted but my new PC cost so much this year I thought I’d buy something a little more economical for now. Then I saw the Element 4 was released. And with a new parametric EQ and usb C….. I ordered one today lol. What FiiO did you own and what are the benefits going to an Element for you?
If this had a 4.4mm balanced input as well then it would be basically perfect. I have so many headphones with a balanced cable and to buy all new cables just to have a single ended 1/4” jack would add on a lot of extra cost.
I think you can request to have this port instead of the 1/4 Jack.
I saw it mentioned on their website but I didn’t look further into it.
You can request for headphone port change from 6.35 to 4.4 in the Shipping notes box while ordering it.
Why not get one or a couple high quality 1/4" male to 4.4mm female adapter cables?
You mean headphones output 😋 and yes I'm with you 👍
Just use an adapter
I'm telling Santa that I want one of these.
AUNE S9C PRO is under 1000$, but it doesn't have an PEQ, other than that I would consider it an upgrade.
S9c is trash, no base, no resolution, no depth, everything is blurry and heavy.
That device looks great!
But to me, paying 500 USD$ for an unbalanced audio device that plugs into a noisy computer makes no sense...
What if you have a ground loop or noise issue? Will the USB isolator really fix the problem?
Personally, I don't take any chance and use a balanced DAC output 👍
The PSU is actually ungrounded, so ground loops won't be an issue. The USB noise pickup is a little annoying, but as mentioned can be solved with the isolator (and balanced won't fix performance degredation from USB noise in other devices anyway)
@TheHEADPHONEShow that is very good news. Thank you for your response. 😎
Video volume is too low. Fyi
This design reminds my good old Grace Design M9xx, which was IMO better looking and built BTW 😊 Lack of 4.4 is a downside. I highly doubt that it is better than Chord Mojo 2, which has much more features and much more innovative 😊
I still prefer IFI Zen Cam 3 over this.
6:50 my brother in christ you are talking about a BETA web driver. That means it will be improved and worked on, it can't get any more obvious than that. Also when you called for a "firmware update" to fix that, what you actually meant was a software update, it's not related at all to the firmware.
My bother in Christ touch grass
Checks all the boxes ??? How so and what about the lack of I/O options ?
IMHO, at the asking price of around 550 bucks, connectivity in terms of both inputs and outputs really leaves a lot to be desired when compared to the competition, at or below its' asking price, of which there are quite a few..
No complaints regards the looks and performance. It is obviously a very good unit, but it needs to be said that the use prospect is limited due to the lack of I/O connectivity, IMHO..
jds is trash
Another lt account. Sigh
Thanks, C,, 👍🥰👍
Why no Schiit?
Not as good as the FiiO K11 R2R, sorry.
I think you oversold this one a little. Newer fiio and topping dacs all have EQ in the device.