JDS Labs EL DAC II+ – Digital-To-Analogue Converter

JDS Labs EL DAC II+

JDS Labs EL DAC II+ transitions EL DAC II from an AKM to an ESS chipset, building upon the same core feature set: relay muting, an XMOS based UAC2 engine, TOSLINK input, and transformer isolated coaxial S/PDIF input. The upgraded ESS chipset achieves higher performance and adds DSD128 support, and for those interested, EL DAC II+ accommodates an optional Bluetooth 5 module.

The JDS Labs EL DAC II+ provides pure sound presentation far beyond the standard. Reference level sound output with the lowest possible noise floor and near zero distortion provides studio-grade listening for audio enthusiast that seek pure sound. To achieve single button switching between headphone and speakers the EL DAC II+ can be stacked with JD Labs’ EL Amp II+. Externally the uncomplicated design consists of one button for front and centre mode selection through a touch-sensitive light ring.

Simplified audio, re-engineered.

Advanced Processing
Microprocessor controlled relays are standard in EL DAC II+ so that power up and input mode changes are free of audible transients. The USB engine of EL DAC II+ is clocked by an SiTime MEMS oscillator with highest frequency stability, delivering pristine jitter.

USB Audio Class 2
EL DAC II+ supports up to 32/384kHz PCM over a custom XMOS XU208 based UAC2 engine. While JDS Labs claim no measurable superiority of high sampling rates, UAC2 and ASIO support satisfy your pursuit of bit-perfect listening.

Externally Powered
EL DAC II+ is powered by a perfected supply network, with an external AC transformer and 14 regulators that ensure consistent rail voltage and super low ripple. Never be bothered by USB hubs or OS power difficulties again.

Differential Summing Output
Differential output of an ESS Sabre DAC is paired with JDS Labs’ unique, DC coupled, precision tuned I/V converter with three stages per channel, or six NJM opamps in total.

Optional Bluetooth 5
An optional Bluetooth 5.1 module feeds the received digital audio signal directly to the DAC via S/PDIF, relying on ESS’s patented jitter recovery to deliver maximum performance from the wireless transmission.

Upgradeable Firmware
Our custom XMOS based firmware configures and manages EL DAC II+’s USB input and DAC, with DFU support for possible future feature additions.