JDS Labs Element 4 Released

[dougq]

Thanks, I appreciate the comparison since you have both. Maybe I’m a purist, but I’ve never thought of EQing my headphones. Maybe I need to rethink that stance.

It's not about changing the intent of the headphone. The problem is every ones ears are different and hear different. I don't just press auto eq on a graph to get to some harman target but it's about hitting preference zones.

 

[skoiboy]

One other interesting note, when you look at the circuit board of the original Element versus the new one, it’s clear there’s a tremendous amount more going on with the new one. Whether all that translates to better sound or a better experience sounds up for debate depending on the features one would use.

OG:

IV:

 

[Rassilon]

Is anyone on Linux able to connect to the element 4 with the "core" web interface? Ive tried like 4 different browsers and all give me a "failed to connect" error. The element shows up as "paired" and its working normally, just cant get in to the settings with "core"..

Edited to add solution:
In case anyone else is on linux, and having the same issue: i had to add my user to uucp group (and then reboot or logout) to have permissions for webserial.
I couldnt get the firmware updater to work on the core webpage, but the CLI tool for flashing firmware works fine.
Otherwise, all the settings and EQ options are working fine now in firefox with the webserial extension.

 

[jseaber]

Is anyone on Linux able to connect to the element 4 with the "core" web interface? Ive tried like 4 different browsers and all give me a "failed to connect" error. The element shows up as "paired" and its working normally, just cant get in to the settings with "core"..

Edited to add solution:
In case anyone else is on linux, and having the same issue: i had to add my user to uucp group (and then reboot or logout) to have permissions for webserial.
I couldnt get the firmware updater to work on the core webpage, but the CLI tool for flashing firmware works fine.
Otherwise, all the settings and EQ options are working fine now in firefox with the webserial extension.

We added Linux guidance to the Firmware page this morning. In short, it's necessary to add a udev rule to grant access to the firmware update device (DFU). The rules can be retained or removed afterwards as you see fit.

 

[Sunset1982]

nice, I just noticed that firmware 1.2.0 is available. Updating right now.

 

[francerex]

We added Linux guidance to the Firmware page this morning. In short, it's necessary to add a udev rule to grant access to the firmware update device (DFU). The rules can be retained or removed afterwards as you see fit.

Not really related, but do you have any news on shipments to and from levelaudio in Europe? I was promised shipment two weeks ago and still have not heard anything!

Thanks

 

[jseaber]

@francerex Yes, levelaudio's order happens to be in our shipping department this afternoon, so they will receive in about 1 week.

 

[The Grongle]

JDS labs ever considered making an audio dedicated auto-detecting USB-C power supply? we don't have a lot of audio dedicated power supplys for a good price
ifi charge so much

 

[rgbyhkr]

Got mine. My first JDS product and I am so far very pleased. It feels like a good time to have jumped into the Element lineup as the EQ function is fantastically handy. Love the feel of the knob too.

As an aside for anyone who might be curious about using it away from a wall outlet - I tested plugging the wall wart into the AC outlet of my Omnicharge Omni 20+ (AC output of it is 100W, 120V, 60Hz, modified sine wave) and it's working with no issues that I can tell.

 

[audionooby]

Got mine. My first JDS product and I am so far very pleased. It feels like a good time to have jumped into the Element lineup as the EQ function is fantastically handy. Love the feel of the knob too.

As an aside for anyone who might be curious about using it away from a wall outlet - I tested plugging the wall wart into the AC outlet of my Omnicharge Omni 20+ (AC output of it is 100W, 120V, 60Hz, modified sine wave) and it's working with no issues that I can tell.

Never heard of this company, but it looks like they have some pretty cool products for travel:

https://www.omnicharge.co/

 

[rgbyhkr]

The portable power bank market has grown dramatically the past 5+ years and while AC outlets on them are less common, a variety of companies make units with that output in a small form factor. I've had the omnicharge for a few years and am happy with it, but there are also much more cost effective solutions out there.

 

[oldson]

I have a good feeling about JDS Labs and their plans for this product, that's why I imported the Element IV to Germany for about 700€ ( I got 650€ for my used RME).

RME developed the ADI2 DAC FS' firmware and software for a long time and it is a very nice German company with a really good customer support and very good engineering and products. I would not have sold my RME for a company that is less consumer friendly. I strongly believe that JDS Labs is a very good company, too. My first conversations with John Seaber via the blog and email were very good. He is very nice and responds ultra fast on every question I asked. You feel it from the first seconds on that he is fully engaged in his products and wants to make his custumers happy with a good product.

I'm excited to see what the future fort the Element IV will bring. The base with the firmware and the Core software looks promising right now.

i am trying to decide between the 2 devices you mention.
in your opinion what makes the Element IV better than the RME?

i too could import the Element for just over £700 , whereas the RME is currently £930 locally

 

[Poimandres]

I am considering selling my Element IV (as new condition from a non smoking home) with the clear knob and am willing to ship it abroad. Let me know if you have any interest.

 

[Sunset1982]

i am trying to decide between the 2 devices you mention.
in your opinion what makes the Element IV better than the RME?

i too could import the Element for just over £700 , whereas the RME is currently £930 locally

They are both great devices. Sound wise, I think I can't tell a difference. I like the clean look of the Element and the abikity to change and store settings via browser and easily upgrade the firmware.

With the RME I liked the ability to change the bass/hights with just the knobs.

You can't go wrong with bioth. I would go for the cheaper one. If you buy the Elemnt, get the Synapse USB isolator too.

 

[starence]

I'd say get the Synapse if you have a specific issue that it might help with, like a usb ground loop. Don't get it hoping for better sound quality.