JDS Labs Element 4 Released

May 15, 2025 at 1:39 PM Post #166 of 207
Так, перегляньте розділ «Кодер і баланс каналів» зі статті про випуск EL3 2022 року (вставка нижче). Те саме стосується EL4.

Завдяки вдосконаленню балансу каналів,
I'm wondering if it's really problematic to make a slightly larger case and place the power supply inside?
 
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May 15, 2025 at 2:07 PM Post #167 of 207
I'm wondering if it's really problematic to make a slightly larger case and place the power supply inside?

My guess is that it would be a bit more expensive. In addition to the larger case, you also would have to deal with UL certification.
 
May 15, 2025 at 3:03 PM Post #168 of 207
I'm wondering if it's really problematic to make a slightly larger case and place the power supply inside?
Maybe I am in the minority here but I vastly prefer separate power supply for all of my desktop devices. The reason is simple - most transformers emit at least some kind of buzzing noise, no matter how minor. Plus this way, if the PSU dies, it is easily replaceable. And it must simplify thermal management of the main device not to have to worry about added heat that the internal power supply brings.
 
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May 15, 2025 at 4:02 PM Post #169 of 207
Maybe I am in the minority here but I vastly prefer separate power supply for all of my desktop devices. The reason is simple - most transformers emit at least some kind of buzzing noise, no matter how minor. Plus this way, if the PSU dies, it is easily replaceable. And it must simplify thermal management of the main device not to have to worry about added heat that the internal power supply brings.

I also would prefer the power supply inside the unit. I hate chunky power plugs. Plus the end which plugs into the unit is garbage. I have never liked that plug. Even a "figure eight" connector would be better.

Also would the Element IV be an upgrade to the Element III in any way?
 
May 16, 2025 at 10:55 AM Post #170 of 207
Is there a significant difference in sound between the atom 2 stack and the element IV?
 
May 16, 2025 at 8:22 PM Post #171 of 207
Is there a significant difference in sound between the atom 2 stack and the element IV?

I have the Atom 2 stack and Element III. I'd be curious if the Element IV is an upgrade.
 
May 16, 2025 at 8:53 PM Post #174 of 207
How do those two compare sound wise?

Honestly I don't think I could tell the Element III and Atom 2 stack apart in a blind test. I think the Element III is just the Atom 2 stack smushed together. if you like the big knob go for the Element III. The only two "downsides" to the Element amp is there is no coax digital input and RCA input if you wanted to use a different DAC. Get the Atom 2 amp if you want a different DAC.
 
May 20, 2025 at 9:43 AM Post #177 of 207
Does anyone know if loudness equalization has been released for this yet? It's the only thing holding me back from purchasing this
Not yet, I'm pretty sure they are working on stored eq profiles right now. I am not sure if loudness will be in the next update but it is on their list of upcoming features. Maybe John will pop back in here and confirm what is expected in the next core update.
 
May 28, 2025 at 2:32 PM Post #178 of 207
Welp, I previously made a post about $550 being too much for me to jump in, but after researching the device quite a bit over the last week or so I finally placed an order for the Element IV. Its currently on back-order, but seems like it should only be about a week.

This thing checks every box for me personally, including:

  • Top Knob
  • UAC 1/2 switching
  • Optical In
  • Channel balance
  • Visual representation of volume setting while still being analog
  • All-in-one dac/amp
  • Enough power for 300 ohm Sennheisers and planars
  • Small form factor
  • Aesthetics (this thing looks gorgeous)
  • Clean, un-adulterated sound

I'm a bit OCD about finding the perfect volume setting for each headphone and using it at that volume all of the time, so a digital display of what volume I'm at is actually a big thing for me lol.

Also after being in this hobby for many years and having used several sources, I tire of wondering how each source is influencing the sound of my headphones. Is this a warm amp? A clinical amp? Does this one give more bass? I'll be happy knowing I'm using a device that's clean, clear and "how its intended to sound".

Also finding an "audiophile grade" source that can be used on consoles has been really difficult. Schiit was basically the only one making devices for that purpose, so I always would need two devices- one for gaming/consoles, and one for pc music listening- the Element IV should let me condense to one device, and being an all-in-one condense number of devices even further.

Also top knob is king lol.

Very excited to get mine. I have only ever messed with EQ through equalizer APO and just copying Oratory settings. Was never a fan, but with this web interface and ease of use I may mess with it more now. I am definitely going to need some help from the community on that part!

Plan to be back with my impressions once received :)
 
May 28, 2025 at 2:45 PM Post #179 of 207
Welp, I previously made a post about $550 being too much for me to jump in, but after researching the device quite a bit over the last week or so I finally placed an order for the Element IV. Its currently on back-order, but seems like it should only be about a week.

Welcome!

I think most of us here have been there.

I wrote the Element III Boosted off as being too expensive then that wss a new-ish release, haha.
 
May 28, 2025 at 2:49 PM Post #180 of 207
Welp, I previously made a post about $550 being too much for me to jump in, but after researching the device quite a bit over the last week or so I finally placed an order for the Element IV.

Welcome - It is a great device :-)

JDS Labs Element IV.jpg
 

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