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Geshelli JNOG2 Review (Balanced DAC)

Rate this DAC:

  • 1. Poor (headless panther)

    Votes: 14 5.9%
  • 2. Not terrible (postman panther)

    Votes: 74 31.2%
  • 3. Fine (happy panther)

    Votes: 112 47.3%
  • 4. Great (golfing panther)

    Votes: 37 15.6%

  • Total voters
    237
I like the the form of this unit but as I only need to clear 16-bit audio, and I don't need USB, there must be means of making a cost-reduced version, perhaps with a cheaper DAC chip. Perhaps I should get into this business.
You can buy it for less without USB...
The DAC chip used isn't very expensive anyway... You would save like $10-15 maybe. Not worth it.

If you want a cheaper DAC overall then there are cheaper ones...
 
Objectively you can look that up. Subjectively I am not sure if anyone has both to say.
I just get the new geshelli akm4499 with stock opa1656...sweep the floor of the smsl su1 with power supply upgraded, if this was a boxing fight the smsl is knocked out in the first 10 seconds.
I just ordered 1 sparkos ss2590 custom dual mounted with raisers, from what I read on YouTube several members said is better than ss3602 and beating some r2r,
No pop noise skipping music using Spotify / Wiim Pro/ Chromecast.
Extremely happy with my first 20 minutes of listening.
 
I just get the new geshelli akm4499 with stock opa1656...sweep the floor of the smsl su1 with power supply upgraded, if this was a boxing fight the smsl is knocked out in the first 10 seconds.
I just ordered 1 sparkos ss2590 custom dual mounted with raisers, from what I read on YouTube several members said is better than ss3602 and beating some r2r,
No pop noise skipping music using Spotify / Wiim Pro/ Chromecast.
Extremely happy with my first 20 minutes of listening.
First 20 minutes?? A bit early to be making boxing fight analogies...
 
Actually the fight last 10 seconds and every one on smsl corner were throwing towels to the ring. No contest.
I have been using the Topping D70 with 4493 chip as an early adopter. Since we have no idea on longevity or repairability, I decided I need a replacement. After years of various MSB and Channel Islands DACs I wanted to buy made in USA again.

I ordered the J2 socketed with AKM4499 and Burton V7 Classic op amps for my horn speaker and tube amp system.

Since I had a work project counterfeited by a Chinese company, I understand why Geshelli make their own USB by license by the Italian company, starts with an A. Some companies switch parts and suppliers without notice.

In 60 days I will order a linear power supply from Pine Tree Audio in the USA. Twice the price of a basic If but with Pine Tree and Geshelli you get to talk to real people who explain their warranty support. Topping if they offer phone support in the USA are not forthcoming on how to do so.

Both companies publish their phone numbers and picked up the phone on my first call during USA EST.

Op amp selection was a big benefit in ordering Geshelli.
 
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I have been using the Topping D70 with 4493 chip as an early adopter. Since we have no idea on longevity or repairability, I decided I need a replacement. After years of various MSB and Channel Islands DACs I wanted to buy made in USA again.

I ordered the J2 socketed with AKM4499 and Burton V7 Classic op amps for my horn speaker and tube amp system.

Since I had a work project counterfeited by a Chinese company, I understand why Geshelli make their own USB by license by the Italian company, starts with an A. Some companies switch parts and suppliers without notice.

In 60 days I will order a linear power supply from Pine Tree Audio in the USA. Twice the price of a basic If but with Pine Tree and Geshelli you get to talk to real people who explain their warranty support. Topping if they offer phone support in the USA are not forthcoming on how to do so.

Both companies publish their phone numbers and picked up the phone on my first call during USA EST.

Op amp selection was a big benefit in ordering Geshelli.
You must have missed all the comments I made on this and my experience with Geshelli and their USB.

Long Story short when I had a problem and the product was brand new, 2-3 days after delivery I was told it’s an isolated incident that’s on me. I’m not going to repeat or answer any questions about the matter, go back and read my previous posts.

I wanted to buy American for the same reason you did, and prior to that I’ve never purchased any products from China. Actually, Geshelli was the first dac I paid for or my first dac.

I’ve had the D70s for nearly 4 years with not a single issue. My pre90 was purchased less than 6 months after. 0 problems and consistent use in my reference system. In fact it has never exited the chain for my reference system.
 
I have been using the Topping D70 with 4493 chip as an early adopter. Since we have no idea on longevity or repairability, I decided I need a replacement. After years of various MSB and Channel Islands DACs I wanted to buy made in USA again.

I ordered the J2 socketed with AKM4499 and Burton V7 Classic op amps for my horn speaker and tube amp system.

Since I had a work project counterfeited by a Chinese company, I understand why Geshelli make their own USB by license by the Italian company, starts with an A. Some companies switch parts and suppliers without notice.

In 60 days I will order a linear power supply from Pine Tree Audio in the USA. Twice the price of a basic If but with Pine Tree and Geshelli you get to talk to real people who explain their warranty support. Topping if they offer phone support in the USA are not forthcoming on how to do so.

Both companies publish their phone numbers and picked up the phone on my first call during USA EST.

Op amp selection was a big benefit in ordering Geshelli.
How come burson op amps?
 
I had my J2 AKM 4493 converted to the socketed J2S AKM 4499EX late last summer. I use a linear power supply with this DAC. Mine came fitted with Sparkos SS3602 op amps, but I was able to fit the huge SS2590s all three outputs (XLR & RCA) using one DIP8 socket adapter and one extender. The presentation and soundstage is fantastic for a DAC in this price range. Burson sent me a pair of V7 Vivids to review. These are also excellent, albeit a little different than the SS2590s, with perhaps a slightly less expansive soundstage than the more relaxed SS2590s with slightly enhanced higher frequency energy and layering. Of course, the Bursons are easily fitted. Which one would prefer is a matter of taste. I wrote two reviews (for the SS2590 and V7 Vivid) in the Head-Fi.org forums.
 

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I had my J2 AKM 4493 converted to the socketed J2S AKM 4499EX late last summer. I use a linear power supply with this DAC. Mine came fitted with Sparkos SS3602 op amps, but I was able to fit the huge SS2590s all three outputs (XLR & RCA) using one DIP8 socket adapter and one extender. The presentation and soundstage is fantastic for a DAC in this price range. Burson sent me a pair of V7 Vivids to review. These are also excellent, albeit a little different than the SS2590s, with perhaps a slightly less expansive soundstage than the more relaxed SS2590s with slightly enhanced higher frequency energy and layering. Of course, the Bursons are easily fitted. Which one would prefer is a matter of taste. I wrote two reviews (for the SS2590 and V7 Vivid) in the Head-Fi.org forums.
That looks pretty technical, did someone do that for you? Make it socketed. Kind of surprised that the old board is compatible with a completely new setup or dac from the manufacturer
 
How come burson op amps?
As much as I hate You Tube reviews there were a few very positive reviews about Burton V7. I chose the Classic since I use Klipsch Chorus II with older CD players from 15-25 years ago could be shrill.

I really liked my Channel Islands Audio DAC, it stopped working two months after they folded up their business. Was looking for something easy to experiment with different op amps easily.

Sherry from Geshelli was very patient with my questions. As an MSME my electronics experience is analog back to the 1970s. I ask allot of questions and she was good with explaining how their team perceived the different op amps offered.

I was going to get a Topping E70 Velvet but read about reliability issues and cheapening of the power supply.
 
That looks pretty technical, did someone do that for you? Make it socketed. Kind of surprised that the old board is compatible with a completely new setup or dac from the manufacturer

I had Geshelli swap out the J2 board for the J2S socketed board - a service they offer for a fee. Also, because the newer AKM 4499EX is a dual chip DAC, it requires a different board anyway. as for fitting the huge Sparkos SS2590s into the sockets, that was up to me.
 
As much as I hate You Tube reviews there were a few very positive reviews about Burton V7. I chose the Classic since I use Klipsch Chorus II with older CD players from 15-25 years ago could be shrill.

Where as the V7V is quite detailed and lively, the V7C is reported to be very warm with a vintage-like presentation.
 
Where as the V7V is quite detailed and lively, the V7C is reported to be very warm with a vintage-like presentation.
Pretty much what I am expecting.

If it is too warm I can swap out to the V7V in a couple months.
 
It would be interesting to get a new review of the 4499 socketed version.

It has been two years.

I think this review is for the 4493 version but in rereading it is unclear.
 
I think this review is for the 4493 version but in rereading it is unclear.

Amir's review from June, 2022 is definitely the J2 / AKM 4493 / Ti OPA1656/TI1612 version. The official release of the J2S with AKM 4499EX was not until Fall, 2023, and has since been expanded to include multiple op amp options.
 
Interesting all the new Topping and SMSL DACs with 4499 chip get reviewed in the recent year but not Geshelli.

My Topping D70 was pretty solid but quite two dimensional in the soundstage. My Geshelli with 4499 chip and Burson V7 Classic op amps is better than my previous favorite Channel Islands Audio DAC.
Soundstage is deep, instruments located well in the soundstage, instrument realism of piano and cymbals are very good.

I will get a dedicated power supply by August to subjectively assess that upgrade.
 
Interesting all the new Topping and SMSL DACs with 4499 chip get reviewed in the recent year but not Geshelli.

My Topping D70 was pretty solid but quite two dimensional in the soundstage. My Geshelli with 4499 chip and Burson V7 Classic op amps is better than my previous favorite Channel Islands Audio DAC.
Soundstage is deep, instruments located well in the soundstage, instrument realism of piano and cymbals are very good.

I will get a dedicated power supply by August to subjectively assess that upgrade.

The J2/J2S has received perhaps the most chatter at the HeadFi.org forums, as well as in the comments of various YouTube videos. The original J2 with optional AK4493 and Ti OPA1656 sounded neutral and a bit richer than the slightly more clinical ES9026PRO option, although the soundstage in either was somewhat 2D. Then again, this was a $250 setup.

The J2S AK4499EX + Sparkos SS3602 changed that dramatically, with bigger soundstage, better punch and dynamics. Everything here I run on a Panamax MR4300 conditioner, but several reported a step up using an LPS, so I bought an from Ali Express after numerous others had taken this route with solid results (New 50W HiFi Ultra-low Noise DC Linear Power Supply 12V 3A Audio Amplifier LPS PSU With Blue Display). I have been pleased with this device and bought a second for another DAC. Some reported good results with the iFi Power X, although it is still a SMPS (but with good filtering) and more expensive. In any case, Geshelli doesn't warranty use with a different power supply, but no one has reported any issues, just good results. I use mostly USB as Geshelli's Amanero platform is dead quiet and excellent overall, although I noticed an audible improvement using an Oyaide NEO USB Class A Rev2 Cable that was suggested to me, and which I tried with initial skepticism.

I have now evaluated and reviewed both Burson V7 Vivid and V7 Classic, as well as have many hours with the giant Sparkos SS2590. The V7C I find neutral and natural with a touch of richness and a great "all arounder." The V7V is indeed vivid, sounding more clinical and airy with enhanced separation. Both present a deep soundstage with lush texture in the center image, and which to use is a matter of system synergy and individual taste. The SS2590 has a rich, natural sound that is not quiet as deep up front, but is noticeably wider with enhanced lateral separation. While these differences are audible to the headphone crowd, they become even more apparent with a resolving speaker system with excellent imaging capability and enjoys good room placement. As far as delta-sigma platforms, I might venture to say this is about as good as it gets, and does so in the mid $700 range.

Geshelli's forthcoming J3 PRO retains the AK4499EX, but features a redesigned board that allows using the large SS2590s on all three sockets with the aid of adapters or extenders, a newer Amanero USB revision, an upgraded power supply, and a more user friendly input switching provision - all clearly in response to consumer feedback.

Also forthcoming is the Geshelli DAYZEE, which breaks things out further, having dual AK4499EX chipsets (one for each channel), uses 8 (single) op amps, with (8) SS2590s being an option, and offers expanded connectivity. I don't know how little or great the sonic benefit, but this price point (~$1300) puts it squarely in the territory of R2R DACs, such as the highly regarded Holo Audio Cyan 2.

Anyway, this is my experience and assessments in a nutshell.
 
The J2/J2S has received perhaps the most chatter at the HeadFi.org forums, as well as in the comments of various YouTube videos. The original J2 with optional AK4493 and Ti OPA1656 sounded neutral and a bit richer than the slightly more clinical ES9026PRO option, although the soundstage in either was somewhat 2D. Then again, this was a $250 setup.

The J2S AK4499EX + Sparkos SS3602 changed that dramatically, with bigger soundstage, better punch and dynamics. Everything here I run on a Panamax MR4300 conditioner, but several reported a step up using an LPS, so I bought an from Ali Express after numerous others had taken this route with solid results (New 50W HiFi Ultra-low Noise DC Linear Power Supply 12V 3A Audio Amplifier LPS PSU With Blue Display). I have been pleased with this device and bought a second for another DAC. Some reported good results with the iFi Power X, although it is still a SMPS (but with good filtering) and more expensive. In any case, Geshelli doesn't warranty use with a different power supply, but no one has reported any issues, just good results. I use mostly USB as Geshelli's Amanero platform is dead quiet and excellent overall, although I noticed an audible improvement using an Oyaide NEO USB Class A Rev2 Cable that was suggested to me, and which I tried with initial skepticism.

I have now evaluated and reviewed both Burson V7 Vivid and V7 Classic, as well as have many hours with the giant Sparkos SS2590. The V7C I find neutral and natural with a touch of richness and a great "all arounder." The V7V is indeed vivid, sounding more clinical and airy with enhanced separation. Both present a deep soundstage with lush texture in the center image, and which to use is a matter of system synergy and individual taste. The SS2590 has a rich, natural sound that is not quiet as deep up front, but is noticeably wider with enhanced lateral separation. While these differences are audible to the headphone crowd, they become even more apparent with a resolving speaker system with excellent imaging capability and enjoys good room placement. As far as delta-sigma platforms, I might venture to say this is about as good as it gets, and does so in the mid $700 range.

Geshelli's forthcoming J3 PRO retains the AK4499EX, but features a redesigned board that allows using the large SS2590s on all three sockets with the aid of adapters or extenders, a newer Amanero USB revision, an upgraded power supply, and a more user friendly input switching provision - all clearly in response to consumer feedback.

Also forthcoming is the Geshelli DAYZEE, which breaks things out further, having dual AK4499EX chipsets (one for each channel), uses 8 (single) op amps, with (8) SS2590s being an option, and offers expanded connectivity. I don't know how little or great the sonic benefit, but this price point (~$1300) puts it squarely in the territory of R2R DACs, such as the highly regarded Holo Audio Cyan 2.

Anyway, this is my experience and assessments in a nutshell.
My J2 is for single end use in a tube and horn system. I rarely listen to headphones and have no balanced preamps so I only upgraded the single ended op amp. My price was around $560 USD Petro Dollars.

I was ready for a change so I decided not to wait for the J3.

For my modest midfi + system this DAC with the Buson V7 Classic is very good synergy.

Klipsch Chorus II
NOS Valves VRD KT88 power amp
C Johnson PV12B preamp
Tascam transport CD
Furman Elite 15 pfi power filter
 
Fortunately for Geshelli Labs their products are unique, attractive looking, sound great and are made in the USA.
I 100% agree. BTW the enclosure is not plastic. The hand built, in the US is applause worthy. (Hip hip hurray for real circuit boards!) Especially if you have been burned by the Chinese manufacturing QC fails, as I have more than once.
 
You don't need to OP amp roll. That is when the OP amps are swapped for various models of OP amps and the listener thinks they hear improvements when in reality some OP amps are simply louder due to having more gain than others. It's not science based and it is subjective listening.
Truth
 
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