General Information
https://geshelli.com/j2
We went through many iterations of prototypes using the different models and brands and found the ES9026PRO worked best for our design requirements.
We chose the PRO series because of the 4x2 current based configuration. This means, you can tie four independent channels together as one therefore lowering noise and distortion levels. We also chose to run the DAC analog output in current mode.
For our current to voltage conversion we chose the Texas Instruments OPA1656 opamp chips. Like the original JNOG, we are running three independent opamps, which give you the ability to run the XLR (L/R) at the same time as the RCA outputs.
The J2 includes four SPDIF interfaces (two Coaxial, two Toslink). These SPDIF connections are routed through a Texas Instruments DIX9211 digital audio receiver. This provides a 216khz/24bit capable digital signal.
We also kept with the optional Amanero USB Module which allows the user to stream 32bit 384khz PCM signal or bit perfect DSD512. In our opinion, this is the best USB module on the market.
Lastly, for a bit of fun, we incorporated a tricolor LED that can display several colors along with pulse modes and a multicolor mode all controllable at a touch of a button.
We went through many iterations of prototypes using the different models and brands and found the ES9026PRO worked best for our design requirements.
We chose the PRO series because of the 4x2 current based configuration. This means, you can tie four independent channels together as one therefore lowering noise and distortion levels. We also chose to run the DAC analog output in current mode.
For our current to voltage conversion we chose the Texas Instruments OPA1656 opamp chips. Like the original JNOG, we are running three independent opamps, which give you the ability to run the XLR (L/R) at the same time as the RCA outputs.
The J2 includes four SPDIF interfaces (two Coaxial, two Toslink). These SPDIF connections are routed through a Texas Instruments DIX9211 digital audio receiver. This provides a 216khz/24bit capable digital signal.
We also kept with the optional Amanero USB Module which allows the user to stream 32bit 384khz PCM signal or bit perfect DSD512. In our opinion, this is the best USB module on the market.
Lastly, for a bit of fun, we incorporated a tricolor LED that can display several colors along with pulse modes and a multicolor mode all controllable at a touch of a button.
We feel that measurements are useful for debugging hardware, figuring out your sound signature, and overall understanding where your distortion levels are at on the product. We find that it is an important tool to use during development and production testing, but my no means is the great decider for what is good or bad. Audio is an Art Form - You should be the judge for what works for you.
In the end, let's have fun! We are all blessed to be in an era with such wonderful hardware at our fingertips at every corner of the market. Enjoy the gear, the debate, and most importantly - Enjoy the Music!
A NEW DESIGN
ESS Here we come!
Here at Geshelli, we like to find the positive light in an adverse situation. Our bright light was the absolutely beautiful sounding ESS Sabre series DAC chips.We went through many iterations of prototypes using the different models and brands and found the ES9026PRO worked best for our design requirements.
We chose the PRO series because of the 4x2 current based configuration. This means, you can tie four independent channels together as one therefore lowering noise and distortion levels. We also chose to run the DAC analog output in current mode.
For our current to voltage conversion we chose the Texas Instruments OPA1656 opamp chips. Like the original JNOG, we are running three independent opamps, which give you the ability to run the XLR (L/R) at the same time as the RCA outputs.
The J2 includes four SPDIF interfaces (two Coaxial, two Toslink). These SPDIF connections are routed through a Texas Instruments DIX9211 digital audio receiver. This provides a 216khz/24bit capable digital signal.
We also kept with the optional Amanero USB Module which allows the user to stream 32bit 384khz PCM signal or bit perfect DSD512. In our opinion, this is the best USB module on the market.
Lastly, for a bit of fun, we incorporated a tricolor LED that can display several colors along with pulse modes and a multicolor mode all controllable at a touch of a button.
A NEW DESIGN
ESS Here we come!
Here at Geshelli, we like to find the positive light in an adverse situation. Our bright light was the absolutely beautiful sounding ESS Sabre series DAC chips.We went through many iterations of prototypes using the different models and brands and found the ES9026PRO worked best for our design requirements.
We chose the PRO series because of the 4x2 current based configuration. This means, you can tie four independent channels together as one therefore lowering noise and distortion levels. We also chose to run the DAC analog output in current mode.
For our current to voltage conversion we chose the Texas Instruments OPA1656 opamp chips. Like the original JNOG, we are running three independent opamps, which give you the ability to run the XLR (L/R) at the same time as the RCA outputs.
The J2 includes four SPDIF interfaces (two Coaxial, two Toslink). These SPDIF connections are routed through a Texas Instruments DIX9211 digital audio receiver. This provides a 216khz/24bit capable digital signal.
We also kept with the optional Amanero USB Module which allows the user to stream 32bit 384khz PCM signal or bit perfect DSD512. In our opinion, this is the best USB module on the market.
Lastly, for a bit of fun, we incorporated a tricolor LED that can display several colors along with pulse modes and a multicolor mode all controllable at a touch of a button.
MEASUREMENTS AND COMPARISONS
OUR TAKE ON THE NUMBERS GAME
We own a fully calibrated APX555 Audio Analyzer in our shop. We use custom made cables with Neutrik connectors and Mogami wire. For these measurements we felt it was fair to pick random samples from our stock. Measurements on different devices can vary based on numerous outside factors including heat, noise (emi), board temperature, etc. For these charts, we simply screen cap the machine while it's running and go with the current measurement at that point in time.We feel that measurements are useful for debugging hardware, figuring out your sound signature, and overall understanding where your distortion levels are at on the product. We find that it is an important tool to use during development and production testing, but my no means is the great decider for what is good or bad. Audio is an Art Form - You should be the judge for what works for you.
In the end, let's have fun! We are all blessed to be in an era with such wonderful hardware at our fingertips at every corner of the market. Enjoy the gear, the debate, and most importantly - Enjoy the Music!
SPECIFICATIONS
Inside the Hood
- ES9026PRO DAC Chip
- TI DIX9211 SPDIF DIR Chip
- Twin TI1656 OPAMPS for Balanced (XLR) Outputs
- Single TI1656 OPAMP used for Unbalanced Output Circuit
- Ultra Low Noise Power Supplies
- 12V ("Geshelli Style" 5.5mm x 2.1mm) POWER SUPPLY
Optional Amanero USB Available
- USB 2.0 High Speed Interface
- Plug and Play LINUX,MACOS,WIN10
- 32Bit PCM (44.1Khz to 384Khz)
- DSD64 - DSD512 Compatible
- Optional Windows Driver Available (Needed for High Speed DSD Interface)
SPDIF Interface
- 24bit SPDIF PCM Interface up to 216Khz
- 4 Independently Selectable Ports Available (2xTOSLINK, 2xCOAX) Front and Rear
Outputs
- Stereo RCA (Unbalanced) Outputs
- Stereo XLR (Balanced) Outputs
- Outputs Work Simultaneously
- THD+N < .000300%
- SINAD < 111dB
- SNR < 121dB