Just to clarify, the AK4499 being used in the J2 is the AK4499EX. Apologies for not specifying the "EX" bit in the video.

Thanks for not jumping blindly on the hype train.

So, I was a little put off when you called my Saber J2 Dac nothing special. I thought my system sounded great. Based on this video I upgraded to the J2 4499ex. I installed it this evening. I have to say it was an emotional experience. I had no idea what a really good dac can do. All my music sounds better and new regardless of recording quality. Thank you for showing me the light

Thank you for taking us on this journey. I appreciate the clear description of options and performance.

Wow! You always commit to thorough and fair reviews. This was above and beyond. I now understand what I’m looking for and what to expect. Thanks.

Great work Lachlan. Good to see AKM ‘back in the game’ with the 4499.

Thank you for this excellent review. Coincidentally, I recently sent my J2 with AKM 4493, Ti Op Amps, and USB to Geshelli to be upgraded to the socketed J2S board with AKM 4499EX, Sparkos SS3602 Op Amps on the balanced outputs, and USB. The fully upgraded unit arrived just 3 days before writing this. I wasn't expecting much of a difference, but I was pleasantly surprised. Straight away on my system I noticed more vivid imaging throughout, better clarity and separation in the midrange, and "faster," punchier low frequencies with improved resolution. Wave Theory asserts in his review that the Sparkos SS3602 Op Amps make a greater difference on the J2's balanced outputs (all I use) than the single ended outputs, so consider that for whatever it's worth. Anyway, no buyer's remorse here. The improvement was well worth the cost, and I agree this configuration elevates the J2 into another performance category.

I pulled the trigger and ordered it with ak499 without the up amps. I figured i will upgrade in a month.

Definitely bad news for the purchases I have already made. Haha! I really appreciate your honest appraisal. The people that waited for the 4499 sound like they will be rewarded! Excellent to hear that my Bifrost was always a good investment.

Superb review. Cheers. I'm waiting for an AKM4493. You've convinced me that I haven't made a mistake.

Just got my loaded out Geshelli J2 socketed with Sparkos, AKM4499EX and Amanero USB in a Wenge and Zebra wood case. The sound just absolutely dropped my jaw! I am feeding a Burson Funk with Sparkos Opamps; my headphones just seem to disappear on my head and there is nothing but music. It is an absolutely smashing value!

Thanks for the honest review. Had the J2S version the Geshelli and played with all the opamp rolling. It's a competent DAC. Sold it because I was anticipating the 4499 version and what it could do. Great platform for versatility for sure. After I scratched my itch, I found I still preferred the more organic, layered sound stage of the Ares 12 that I owned. There are levels to this game.

Been waiting for this one since the first tease, well worth the wait. Brilliant work, everything i wanted to know and more!

Lachlan, thank you for taking these Geshelli DACs on - there are a lot of permutations. I *definitely* like a 50W 12V linear power supply. A 25W will be very good, as well. With a linear power supply, in my opinion the layering and the soundstage are improved. I like this better than my Ares II. The J2 Socketed I think is a big increase in sound quality. I have installed the dual mono Sparkos SS2590 module, in the single ended RCA socket. This is something that for my in my speaker system that is significantly better than the Bifrost 2/64 and Ares II with 12th Anniversary firmware. I am using an LPS and the big Sparkos. The Bifrost 2 was my first DAC, and I like it. I then got an Ares II, and I definitely prefer it to the Bifrost 2. I then got the J2 AKM 4493, and once I put an LPS on it - it is better than both the Bifrost 2 an Ares II at *their* strengths.

Thanks for reviewing these all at once! I've been window shopping and this was a lot of help, especially that 4499 and even mentioning CAM's comparison of the J2 to the Ares and disputing that, it helps put it in perspective

Great video, it was helpful for me. I just completed my own Bifrost 2 (OG) vs J2S 4499EX SS3602 shootout. LPS used on the J2S. RCA outputs, Coax inputs, Speakers only. Cool DAC from Geshelli but I think the Bifrost 2 is still a step above. The BF2 has proper depth in the soundstage to create that 3D feeling, whereas the J2S only has a small taste of that. I believe that is one of the most important aspects of sound quality. Also a bit of extra heft & extension in the bass percieved on the BF2, at the cost of a little bit of control vs the J2S but well worth it. The extremely wide soundstage on the J2S was nice & I even preferred the J2S on one my speakers. So both good DAC's and as always, system dependant.

So we'll done. Thanks! I just went to the Geshelli Labs site, and it is available now. This version is on my short list!

Holy Cow!! I have to post this... My Intona 7055-D came today and it is the single most beneficial upgrade I made to my system. Galvanic isolation and bit perfect IS a thing. The layers... The accuracy and better separation. The lows have more resolution and are deep and rich sounding. voices are really real...nuanced, The highs are crisper but not harsh. This is with the current DAC, the Aune X8 XVIII with the SS2590 dual pro Dip8 op-amp. Wireworld Starlight 8 USB cables, XP2 LPS + Supercapacitor bank... I am really looking forward to the Geshelli J2 now more than ever... But this INTONA is NO JOKE

I have an unsocketed J2 with an AKM chip in a wooden case (blood wood). When I got it the socketed version wasn't around, but I think that the woodwork then was of higher quality - a very competent family member of Geshelli was making these IIRC - but not anymore. That aside, the main two reasons for me to get this DAC was that I like supporting innovative family companies like Geshelli Labs. Second is that a wooden J2 is cute as it can be - and that is very hard for another DAC to beat.

Go the J2S AK4499 with the sparkos opamps 👍 I must be old school but I love the wooden cases. Thanks for these insights Lachlan.

Really good, thorough, clear and helpful review (survey). Thank you Lachlan.

Haven't heard a Geshelli DAC yet... but I can 100% endorse the Archel 3 Pro Amp as the best amp under $1K. Amazing value

Great video showing the versitility of these fantastic DAC options from Geshelli

Thanks for your very thorough review. Very helpful in making a decision.

Thanks for this... A day early too! 👍🍻 So, with that - There are two/three elements that need to be considered. 1️⃣ Lachlan mentioned a Linear power supply. But did not mention using one in any testing. So it is safe to say that there wasn't one used. Specifically for the AKM 4499EX against the Bifrost. So this, with the benefits that an LPS offers, are not part of his end results. But this could have easily had an impact in the testing. Giving an edge toward the Geshelli. Perhaps one was used and I didn't catch it being mentioned though. 2️⃣ If a Windows PC was/is used as a source with the USB module. It wasn't mentioned if the Amenaro drivers were installed. These are so important. Other reviewers have posted how much of an impact using the Amenaro drivers have over the Windows standard. The DAC will surely be able to reach it's fullest potential. 3️⃣ - This is also a consideration. Using Equalizer APO and taking full advantage of ASIO drivers and utilizing the -3db trick for digital sources. So this isn't a critique on the video... That was great, as usual. So, thanks again Lachlan!

It’s funny that I’m seeing this review today as I’m going to a demonstration of the 4499 on Sunday. I’ll have plenty of questions for the representative. Thanks

Thanks for the reminder of battery power. Hooked up the Wiim Pro Plus to a 12volt cheap rechargeable battery with USB power and the result was worth a smile so thanks. Tosicka.

Just so people know, at wholesale (Digikey) an AKM4493 is about $9. the AKM4499 is about $56. And you have to add in the design work necessary by Geshelli to use that new chip effectively, getting a new PCB designed, made, and shipped, tested and tweaked. Given the cost differential, what they are charging for the J2 fully decked out seems reasonable.

Fantastic video. For someone looking at external DAC for the first time, this video is fantastic.

Great video. Scared by thr total duration at first, but full review journey was well worth it! Not sure how easy it is to get these products in Europe but I love what this family business stands for... So I might go for this AKM 4499 one!

I thought your review was fair through, and direct. I appreciate you telling like you see or hear it.

Such an interesting DAC and finally a way to solve one "audiophile" argument: with the same overall design can we actually compare the sound of one DAC chip to another, not one DAC vs another. Comparing DAC chips instead of DAC units removes the effects of differing output circuit and power supply designs in different DACs which affect the sound significantly. So we can actually judge which DAC chip may be better! (Well in the J2's implementation any way 🙂 )

Hi, The Fiio K9 AKM (AK4191 + AK4499EX inside) compared to the Mytek Liberty DAC ii (ES9038 chipset inside) and the reviewer said: "The Mytek DAC is a Little more accurate in the placement in the stage, and has s little bit better depth and layering", so it's not a rule of thumb really. It's very individual. Thank you

Excellent review, as always. I know you reviewed the Gustard R26 DAC; how about a review of the A26 with the 449EX dual chips?

Those wood cases with the aluminium connectors look amazing. Beautiful design by Geshelli labs. Also very interested to see what you think about the Arya organic. Personally I think they're probably the best headphone under the 2K price point.

amirm from audiosciencereview did some measurements to this DAC and wrote: "I am sure the J2 sounds good but as objective results go, it is just not keeping up with the competition"

Interested in this. No chapter marker that I saw. I have both the OG ESS and AKM J2s. I I bought the plain cabinets and paid $250 for each. I think they’re both excellent and do a great job. I think the AKM does a better job with bass. Many people use the J2 with a LPS which they feel extends bass even more and adds to the high freq extension. Personally, I tried the LPS and I feel the effect was minimal in the long run. Frankly, I felt there was a bit of a placebo effect.

Excellent, detailed review, especially for the modularity of J2. With that being said, I wouldn't buy either the J2 or Z6 because I don't listen to headphones. For me, I'm using Qobuz on a Rotel A11 Tribute with the KEF LS50 Meta. As neither DAC has a streamer, they're of little value to me. Sure, I could use a PC with Audirvana Studio (which works great), but if I'm spending $500 plus, either the Cambridge MXN10 or DMP-A6 would be a better option. I have discovered an interesting configuration after listening to a variety of insightful reviews. I found that by using Audirvana Studio in Kernel Mode, and then connecting via UPNP to a Wiim Mini is jaw-droppingly good. By letting AS do the backend processing in Kernel Mode, the resulting sound is more detailed. Next, I found that connecting to the Mini via UPNP produced a more balanced sound than connecting to the DAC via USB. Finally, I found a couple of reviews (Tharbamar and iiWi) for the SMSL-SU1 that indicated it was the deal of the year for a DAC. Here's my take as I have enough of an audio background to reach a conclusion. The processor in a Windows 10 PC has more processing power than what's inside a DAC/streamer allowing Audirvana to tune their software. By connecting via UPNP, a bit-perfect signal is being sent to the Mini, which in turn is forwarded to the SU1 optically, so it's galvanically isolated. Finally, I have an iFi X-Power 5V supply that can power the SU1; although I did try a number of different 5V sources and couldn't hear a big difference (if any).

Still patiently waiting... Picked up a Gustard P26 while waiting... I like it so much better than the Freya S. Plus, I was able to drop two Sparkos SS2590 dual pro dip8's into the P26. Also.... In researching the Intona 3.0, I decided to pick one up just for piece of mind. This should solve the galvanic isolation. It also pretty much regens and puts bit perfect data into your DAC.. Everything is coming together for my next level.

thank you for an outstanding & comprehensive review.

Great video. Cleared up a lot of questions I had.

Hi Lachlan, Thanks for the honest review.

You just made me buy a 4499 version with the upgraded opamps

Love your reviews! It would be great if you could do a video on some recommended Dacs and amps and different price tiers

You should review the SMSL SU1 with linear power supply you will be surprise

My main system is a Wiim Pro feeding into a Geshelli Labs J2 AKM4499 with the Sparkos opamp chip for the RCSs which, in turn, feed into my Marantz 2235 which run to my Original Large Advents. That's in the master bedroom. In the family room, We have the Wiim Pro Plus without an external DAC feeding a Marantz 2270 into a double set of stacked Original Large Advents. At some point I might add an external DAC. I love both systems. Downstairs, we've got the more powerful amp and the stacked OLAs but just the internal DAC of the Pro Plus. Upstairs, we've got the less powerful amp and the single set of OLAs but with the AKM4499 J2 with Sparkos opamps. For entertaining, the downstairs system is lively and fun. For listening alone, I prefer the upstairs system with the far higher end DAC.

I like how honest you are 👍

As of October 2023 in the UK: Schitt MM2: £295 + PP (UK store) J2S AKM 4499 Top Spec: £592 + PP + tax Denafrips Ares II (direct): £812 (incl VAT) + PP Chord Mojo 2: £395 total (just bought mine brand new for £375) It's a no brainer in the UK.

Thanks for this. Just shopping the site, it was really baffling.

Super clear and informative. Thank you!

The original dac JNOG, was AKM. The fire caused them to switch to ESS. When the production came back to normal they went back but they call it JNOG2, but to my knowledge JNOG and JNOG2 AKM 93 are exactly the same. Also to add, Geshelli themselves chose the AKM 4493 over the ESS because it sounded better. If the fire didn't occur the ess would of probably never existed

Extraordinarily well done review. You compared and contrasted all of the options and made it understandable. I have the base J2 AKM and think it is better than the inboard dacs in my CD player and streamer. So, the interesting question for me is where can I get the best bang for the next $500 if I were to spend it. Something I will have to think about. Thank you.

Isn't it possible that the difference between XLR and RCA is greater than the difference between the two op amps? Or that it could have been the sole cause for what you heard or obscured what you heard, etc... ?

Anyone try the Sparkos SS2590 in the RCA socket?

Preciate you really explaining this

I haven’t read through all the comments yet but I was curious why I do not see a way to purchase the J2 with the AK4499 chip option on the Geshelli website?

With all that Lachlan has raved about the AKM 4499EX chip, I wonder what that chip could do in the RME ADI-2 DAC. I love the features of the RME (particularly the equalizer and loudness feature), so that could become a spectacular DAC with the 4499EX (+ AK4191) chip. [Note, the above is edited to include the -EX suffix and the second chip (AK4191) as per Lachlan's statement about the chips used].

Great review of options. Watched numerous YT videos on the J2 - yours is the most comprehensive. Planning to get the AK4499EX with the Sparkos in the RCA only and no USB as my first stand alone DAC for my 2Ch system. Nice that Geshelli provides customers with choices. Do you get a small commission if I order from your link?

Just bought the AK4499 with Sparkos RCA … fingers crossed it is worth the hype

Great honest revieuw. Like to know you’re reference gear right now….

I like their products but it wouldn’t be for me. Still appreciate their craftsmanship and progress over the years.

Another great video, very through, thank you

Thank you for your reviews, I always learn something and I trust your opinion. BTW, is there any chance you will be doing a review of the Questyle CMA 15 dac amp combo?

Would love to hear your opinion on using the Sparkos 2590 Pro Op Amp in the single-ended output. 😉 Again, another modular option for the J2s. Edit - just watched your video with the Geshelli’s and the properly formatted 8-pin 2590 stack does fit in the RCA spot. 😊

Another excellent review!

Generally I find ESS - for example ES9068 - more forward, kind of punchy and AKM a tad finer resolving. Both are very good, since I am a musician, I will admit AKM is a little more attractive to my ears. By the way, AKM 4493SEQ is already that good, for me there's no immediate reason to get an AKM4499EX based DAC at any cost. I also do not experience 4493SEQ as being "flat". But okay, I do believe the reviewer, when he says 4499EX has more space / 3-dimensionality. And the comparison between Schiit Bifrost and the J2 4499 is really very interesting.

Thank you for wonderful review❤👏 if I didn’t miss that, how does the J2 AK 4499 with Sparkos sounds in combination with A3 pro❓…. cause that is my pick😁🙋‍♂️

How does it compare to the mojo 2 and topping and smsl around the same price and Denafrips and other r2r DACs

I would have really liked the extra step you did with the 4493 (with and without the sparkos). Would really like to hear how big the difference is between the 1656opa and the sparkos on the 4499

Wow Larchan you did such a good job with explaining every incarnation of the J2 DAC. I’m big fan of Sparko’s OpAmps, I have exchanged a SS3602 on my xDuoo XD05 BAL. I understand that the J2 4499ex is very comparable to Bifrost 2/64 multibit as a DAC, but how does the Amanero compare to the Unison USB? You mentioned also that one can purchase the J2 without the USB and balanced/single ended op amps upgrade if added to the chain a USB Streamer, can you please recommend a good brand and or model? I understand that the Bifrost is better as a balanced DAC, I’m wondering if you had a chance to compare the single-ended performance? I notice that you mention the Gustard R26, I wonder if you will get a chance to compare the R26 vs A26 in the future?

Will you be reviewing the recently released J3?

lovely review

Great review without the usual audio hype thank you. I've had a look at their site and don't see any option for the Australian power supply. Any help would be appreciated.

Is there any sort of Memory of the last input?

Will the Sparkos Dual SS2590 opamps fit in the J2? With or without flexible extensions? They're a pretty firm step up over the SS3602 in my 2023 Soloist 3X GT so I would assume they'd be a big jump in a DAC output stage as well.

What good is having changeable opamps in a dac when the amp opamps are going to change the sound once again.

My apologies if you covered this in the video, but did you compare the Geshelli J2 AKM4499EX and BiFrost 2 DACs only using headphones, or did you also connect them to speakers? I'm currently using the Schiit Modi 3 DAC for TV sources going to a vintage analog two channel McIntosh integrated amp, with two tower speakers. The sound is good, but I'm ready to take it to the next level. Thanks again for the detailed videos, definitely top notch!

This leaves me totally bewildered in amongst the DAC soup avaiable. I ended up going for a Fiio K7 as a daily driver, could we get a performance list - regardless of price and based purely upon performance. And my biggest question is " What DAC do you use/prefer with your BottleHead ?" Very informative as usual, I enjoy the technical insight.

Are you comparing this to the original Bifrost 2 or the Bifrost 2/64 (which you said was objectively better, and is the only one currently available)?

Question: For a home theater / 2 channel listing room. Would there be any improvements over a Pioneer Elite receiver DAC for movies and 2 channel listing by adding a stock J2 DAC with the 4499 chipsets? Basic system for movie and music. Pioneer Elite RSL speakers 5.2 with RSL subs. Great honest video two thumbs up 👍🏻 👍🏻.

Sir, hve you tried stacked opamp with the original opamp? It may be best value to upgrade the audio. Try?

Great content as always, Lachlan! How close would you say the 4499 version is to something like the R26? 10%? 15%?Will probably be pairing one of those with an OTL amp or possibly Archel 3 and Atrium open for the time being.

Hey bro, Toppings E70VELVET DAC was the first, one of its kind to use this flagship AKM4499EX chip even without using any OpAmps at all in the chain and it still sounds Amazing. Hiw do i know ? Because i got One :D

I'm pretty sure there's a heated discussion somewhere regarding the difference in sound with the different cases :)

Lachlan, thanks for the review! One question: How much of a step up would the J2 4499 be from the Schiit Modi Multibit 2 be?

Wonder if the Topping E70 Velvet (having the same chip as this) is comparable in sonic performance

4499 is a bad boy for sure.

Wouldn’t the Bifrost 2 be the most appropriate choice when used with a PC since the Schiit utilizes Unison technology, and thus can be used via USB without the need to buy an additional DDC?

Is it worth getting the ak499 chip without the op amps?

Great review, question: Did you by chance compare the sound quality of the USB vs SPDIF on the J2? The fact that Schiit went and developed their own USB interface makes me skeptical of off-the-shelf interfaces like Amanero & XMOS. I currently run a Node via USB to a Bifrost 2/64 and love it

The improved layering and depth purveyed by the 99 chipset, are these just as audible with headphones not as expensive or refined as the ZMF Caldera? Will a HD600 or a Arya reproduce the aforementioned?

Question: Now, in comparison, would you choose the J2 AK4493 with Sparkos Op Amps, or the J2 AK4499 with the stock Op amps? Which sounds better and which do you prefer?

Once you go with 4499 chip and upgrade the op amps your cost is a little over $700. At this point, is this a good purchase or for that you can buy a new bifrost. Your opinion?

@Passionforsound Wow! I have an opportunity to get the Soncoz SGD1 for less than $300. I’ve wanted it for a long time, but now I’m thinking the J2 socketed with Sparkos. And the SMSL with the same chip configuration. What do I want? What was described. Layers of sound and wide sound stage. Oh what to do

So now that Geshelli is also offering the Burson op amps, which op amp would be your preference?

Nailed it.

Hello, thanks for the detailed review. What is the best way to connect this dac to tablet/laptop?

You compared the 4499 to the Bifrost and those are more price comparable at a higher tier. How does the 4493 w/ and w/o the sparkos upgrade compare to the multibit 2 both through single ended? I know it’s a little apples and oranges with the two delivery methods but these two are similarly priced. Mostly doing 2 channel music listening.

Hi, I want to play my WAV files that in my phone by using a USB-C to Coaxial Cable (In Amazon) (and use the HiBy Music App that allowing me to connect to a DAC). Do you know if it actually going to work? Thank you 🙏

Hi Lachlan. I appreciate your very informative and extensive reviews. How does the AK4499ex compare to the new Bifrost 2/64? These are the two I've narrowed down to since the Bifrost 2 is no longer available. Thank you!