This JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review features two enhanced audio products: the El DAC II+ and El Amp II+. When combined, they form the El Stack II+. Their upgraded and redesigned components work to deliver superior sound quality.
Designed as successors to the El DAC II and El Amp II, these updated versions promise enhanced performance and versatility. Combining the improved models form a robust audio stack that delivers high-fidelity sound.
Can these audio products meet the demands of audiophiles and casual listeners? Our JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review will discuss all the essential details about them to answer this question.
JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review – Design and Functionality
The El DAC II+ and El Amp II+ have identical designs featuring a CNC-milled aluminium chassis with a black finish. They offer a sleek and stealthy appearance, making it easy to integrate into your setup.
The two audio units are also similar in size and shape. What makes the El Amp II+ distinct is its primary difference – a large volume wheel on top of the chassis.
The El DAC II+ has a flat surface, allowing you to place the El Amp II+. Setting up the audio stack was seamless. The quick setup allowed us to immediately test the products for this JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review.
The El DAC II+ and El DAC Amp II+ connect via RCA or 6.35mm stereo cables.
Key Features of the JDS Labs El Stack II+
Our JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review will discuss the features of the El DAC II+ and El Amp II+. These details help you learn more about what they offer and how the El Stack II+ delivers high-quality audio.
JDS Labs El DAC II+ Features
Re-engineered and Simplified Audio
JDS Labs redesigned the Element line to optimise its fit and function precisely. The El DAC II+ improves the superior audio of its predecessor with a transformer-isolated coaxial input and enhanced optical input. It also allows relay muting and equips a UAC2 engine that works with DSD & PCM.
Its outputs allow connecting any amplifier, and it also has a Bluetooth 5.1 module for wireless streaming. When stacked with the El Amp II+, the El DAC II+ offers the convenience of single-button switching. A single press lets you toggle between the headphones and speakers.
MEMS Oscillator
SiTime MEMS oscillator clocks the El DAC II+’s USB engine to achieve a pristine jitter.
Relay Muting
The El DAC II+ has relays controlled by a microprocessor by default. These eliminate transients during input mode and power changes.
USB Audio Class 2
The El DAC II+ supports up to 32/384kHz PCM with its UAC2 engine. This high bit rate delivers satisfying listening experiences.
Externally Powered
The El DAC II+ uses an optimised supply network and 14 regulators as its power source. These ensure low ripple and consistent rail voltage.
Light Ring
The front and centre mode selection has a touch-sensitive light ring. It also enhances the appearance of the El DAC II+.
Differential Summing Output
The El DAC II+ uses an ESS Sabre DAC’s differential output paired with a precise I/V converter optimised by JDS Labs. The latter has three stages per channel (six NJM op-amps).
The optional balanced TRS and single-ended RCA outputs offer flexibility and compatibility with any amplifier. We plugged various amplifiers to test this feature and share our experience in this JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review. The El DAC II+ worked without problems when we paired it with amplifiers from different manufacturers.
Transformer Isolated S/PDIF
The isolated coaxial S/PDIF input uses a pulse transformer to eliminate or minimise ground loop noise.
ASIO and DSD Support
The El DAC II+ automatically handles DSD & PCM playback. It provides access to the live sampling rate and status mode in the XMOS control panel.
Upgradeable Firmware
The custom firmware controls and configures the El DAC II+’s USB input and digital-to-analogue conversion (DAC) process. It supports DFU for future upgrades and additional features.
Optional Bluetooth 5
The El DAC II+ has an optional Bluetooth 5.1 module for wireless audio. It feeds digital audio signals to the DAC via S/PDIF and uses ESS jitter recovery, offering optimal performance.
JDS Labs El Amp II+ Features
Streamlined and Redesigned – Enjoy Enhanced Audio with the JDS Labs El Stack II+
The El Amp II+ is an optimised version of the original El Amp II. JDS Labs redesigned the previous model and packed it with better performance, offering a more enjoyable sound quality.
This amplifier offers increased maximum power, seamless shifting between speakers & headphones, and button-activated RCA outputs. You can also choose from variants with RCA or Balanced TRS inputs.
Preamp Outputs
The preamp RCA outputs let you control the volume of your powered speakers.
Output Selection
The El DAC II+ has a mode button that toggles and connects to different headphones and powered speakers without disconnecting any cable.
Adequate Power for Driving Headphones and IEMs
The El Amp II+ delivers clean, continuous power with its +/-15VDC rails, enabling it to drive all headphones. JDS Labs boosted its power to handle balanced headphones and planar magnetics.
Our tests for this JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review showed that the El Amp II+ is powerful. Driving all our headphones was a breeze, allowing them to deliver high-quality audio.
Dual Gain
The El Amp II+ has a 1.0x low gain, making it suitable for driving IEMs efficiently. High gain allows the amplifier to deliver power for demanding full-size sets.
Single-ended and Balanced Input
This amplifier features a 6.35mm output jack. Its inputs include RCA connectors for most DACS, but you can select Balanced TRS jacks. The latter lets you pair with balanced DACs and audio interfaces.
Relay Muting
JDL Labs designed the El Amp II+ for desktop listening. It has complete relay muting. It eliminates thumps and pops during startup via the preamp outputs and headphones.
Hands-on with the JDS Labs El Stack II+
We tested the products to share our experience in this JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review. Before testing the sound quality of the audio stack, we used the units individually. First, we will focus on the El DAC II+.
JDS Labs El DAC II+ Performance
The El DAC II+ delivered impressive audio. Its bass was deep, quick, and clean, offering excellent transparency. Its presentation was completely linear without roll-off. This DAC performed best with headphones that present bass well.
We loved the nuance and depth of the El DAC II+. Its sound profile was clean, crisp, and linear in the lows rather than warm and thick.
The mid-range resembled the clarity and precision of the bass. This DAC delivered excellent nuances and timings and had no noise for all frequencies. Drums were present across the sonic scape, while the depth was natural.
The treble extended to the highest octaves without roll-off. It did not spare any detail, which was pleasing. Although everything was present, the audio remained smooth without hints of sharpness.
We were impressed with the wide and holographic soundstage. It gave us realistic, 3D-like listening experiences, making the audio more enjoyable.
JDS Labs El Amp II+ Performance
The El Amp II+ offers lush, impactful, and dynamic sounds with adequate depth and punch. Its driving capabilities were superior, and it worked with different IEMs and headphones without difficulty. We were impressed since there was no noise, regardless of the headphones and IEMs we connected.
The El Amp II+ delivered full, deep, and impactful bass, making it suitable for all music genres. It was also forward and present but not overpowering other frequencies. This amplifier reproduced the bass with impressive speed and precision.
The sub-bass had excellent impact and extension, while the upper-bass was natural without added weight or thickness. These elements blended into a perfectly smooth response.
The mid-range had similar resolution and speed as the bass, delivering clean and detailed sound.
Its treble was smooth and energetic but not intrusive or fatiguing. The tonality was clean and natural without noticeable peaks and dips. This amplifier also delivered impressive dynamics, making it one of the best amplifiers we used.
The soundstage was not too broad, but the El Amp II+ delivered good separation and layering. The natural presentation makes this amplifier excellent for users who want realistic audio.
The El Stack II+ offered a pleasing audio experience. The DAC and amplifier complemented their audio quality, delivering superior sound. We were impressed since the audio stack had no hissing or background noise.
Another thing we appreciate about the El Stack II+ is it did not produce colouration. Pairing it with different headphones and speakers was seamless since the audio stack had adequate power to drive them.
The El Stack II+ made details more audible with its outstanding clarity and instrument separation. We also loved how it added thickness and weight to the music when we connected our thin-sounding headphones and IEMs.
JDS Labs El Stack II+ Review Summary
The JDS Labs El Stack II+ exemplifies meticulous engineering and superior craftsmanship. Comprising the El DAC II+ and El Amp II+, this audio stack offers audiophiles and casual listeners alike a gateway to high-fidelity sound. Its clean design, precise functionality, and seamless integration make it a compelling addition to any audio setup.
Throughout our tests, the El DAC II+ impressed with its linear, transparent sound profile and exceptional bass precision. It handled complex audio with clarity, ensuring a balanced and nuanced listening experience. The advanced features, such as relay muting and the MEMS oscillator, highlight its focus on delivering pristine audio without compromise.
The El Amp II+ complemented the DAC with its dynamic performance, powerful driving capabilities, and natural tonality. Its ability to handle diverse headphones and IEMs with ease demonstrated its versatility. The amplifier’s deep bass, clean mid-range, and smooth treble provided an immersive listening experience, bringing music to life with remarkable accuracy.
Together, the El Stack II+ delivers a robust and satisfying audio experience. With its refined sound, thoughtful design, and exceptional performance, it is a standout option for anyone seeking an upgrade to their desktop audio system.
