JDS Labs Element
Jul 9, 2015 at 8:38 AM Post #181 of 636
   
I originally couldn't get it to work and had to use a powered usb hub to supply enough power.  Here's the response from jds.
 

 
Ok cool, so it sounds like it will behave as per the ODAC then, so would have to use it with a powered USB hub. Cheers :)
 
 
   
I will try it with my Android phone later today.   I can't imagine ever using it with a phone, it's not portable of course by any means.

 
Yea haha, not portable, and mains powered, my intention is to get one for work, and have it connected to both my PC and my phone and be able to swap between those two sources. Sounds like it will be possible with a powered USB hub and the lightning to usb camera adapter :)
 
Jul 9, 2015 at 2:45 PM Post #182 of 636
Regarding volume and channel imbalance:
 
With my iMac volume at 100%, and The Element turned down all the way (6 o'clock position), I can still hear the audio (very faintly).
Also, I can turn the iMac volume down to 12 out of 16 bars (so 75% volume) and still hear the audio if I try really hard.
Just shows you how little juice these SE846 need.
 
Anyway at these super low levels, I do not detect a channel imbalance, using this youtube test:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8ODm-F9-IM
 
Jul 10, 2015 at 1:29 PM Post #184 of 636
Anyone compare this to a schiit stack yet?

I'd be glad to, once my Element is shipped.
In the meantime 
popcorn.gif

 
Jul 10, 2015 at 10:22 PM Post #185 of 636
I received my Element, and the amp's sound signature reminds me a lot of HeadAmp's pico Power. If that information is helpful to anyone! 
redface.gif

 
Jul 11, 2015 at 12:21 PM Post #187 of 636
I swear, the Element has the most pleasurable volume pot I've ever turned. 
biggrin.gif
 Quiet as the grave, zero channel imbalance that I can detect. And the white accent lighting is gorgeous!
 
As for the volume control being digital, JDS' website mentions that the "volume potentiometer taper" component is an "Alps 15A." I don't know precisely what that means, honestly, but perhaps that info clears things up for someone who does? I know that Alps is a fine purveyor of analog pots, but I've no idea about that particular part.
 
Jul 11, 2015 at 8:36 PM Post #188 of 636
  I swear, the Element has the most pleasurable volume pot I've ever turned. 
biggrin.gif
 Quiet as the grave, zero channel imbalance that I can detect. And the white accent lighting is gorgeous!
 
As for the volume control being digital, JDS' website mentions that the "volume potentiometer taper" component is an "Alps 15A." I don't know precisely what that means, honestly, but perhaps that info clears things up for someone who does? I know that Alps is a fine purveyor of analog pots, but I've no idea about that particular part.

15A is the rate of volume change. It's the most common type I think. I don't think it necessarily means analog potentiometer, since I think a digital could have any rate you want.
 
Jul 12, 2015 at 4:06 PM Post #189 of 636
Did anyone find out if we can switch the rca input for the amp in ouput for Dac? From what i saw here , is a jumper on the board that can do that, or you need to configure it before purchasing ?
 
Jul 12, 2015 at 4:09 PM Post #190 of 636
  Did anyone find out if we can switch the rca input for the amp in ouput for Dac? From what i saw here , is a jumper on the board that can do that, or you need to configure it before purchasing ?

yes.  you have to request it at the time of order.
 
Jul 12, 2015 at 6:05 PM Post #192 of 636
  So if i didn;t request it, that means i dont have the jumper on board for switching the input to ouput ?

the jumper is still there but they recommend having it done at the factory.
http://www.head-fi.org/t/769643/jds-labs-element/75#post_11691929
 

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top