![]() We get a PowerMatch button, the high setting mostly for on/over ear headphones, namely those harder to drive, and the low setting geared towards IEMs. ![]() For inputs we have a USB audio and power input along with a DC 5V power input. For outputs, we get two 4.4mm balanced Pentaconn outputs, a 6.3mm S-Balanced output, and an RCA analogue output. Both models have the same inputs and outputs. It’s not meant to be a pocket unit but would fit easily in any small bag. I did a video review of the Zen DAC V2, you can watch it here.īoth Zen DACs have identical outer builds, made of matte-black metal and having a relatively low profile and light weight. Let’s see what new features are being brought to the table with the Zen DAC V2. At $159, the upgraded Zen DAC sits slightly above the $129 price tag of the original. However, while they may share the same build, there’s a reason iFi has decided to release a new iteration of this DAC/Amp. When looking at the brand new Zen DAC V2, it’s indistinguishable from its originator. The original Zen DAC sat at a very low price point for its quality and build, and offered great clarity, consistency, and power to headphones. I don’t think you can go wrong either way, but at $400 for either the Element or the Asgard/Modius stack, I would recommend the latter for the reasons mentioned above.IFi decided they had a few adjustments to make to their much-loved Zen DAC with the new upgraded Zen DAC V2. My favorite combination is the Modius feeding the Asgard, which sounds better while also providing more input options. I wouldn’t recommend the Schiit DAC card, which far underperforms the amp. I like the fact that the power supply is built in and the volume pot and headphone jack are nicer than those on the Element. The Asgard is also a very competent amp, more powerful than the Element and, to my ear, a little smoother and warmer. My only complaints are the fact that the large knob is attached to a small volume pot so it wobbles, and the finish is highly susceptible to fingerprints and scratches. It’s basically an Atom amp in a much nicer box combined with a pretty good performing DAC. The Element sounds great, neutral and clean. I have an Element II, an Asgard 3 with the 4490 DAC card, and a Modius. That being said, it probably doesn’t really help you choose but I felt like sharing anyway. Schiit B products discounted only by 3% felt ridiculous for me They basically encouraged anyone who doesn’t need the SPDIF to buy the cheaper option (Element II) cause everything else is the same JDS Labs was very honest about Element II vs El Dac II + El Amp II. I felt Schiit was extremely well marketed and designed, but reviews about sound quality were not as unanimous as Element II or Atom I chatted with them and they seemed to care about me and took time to give advice JDS Labs customer support is known to be excellent. The element II knob and form factor was a big factor in my decision JDS Labs have a distributor in Canada, Schiit doesn’t (and doesn‘t seem to care about the crazy high duties, taxes and fees we get r*ped with) Here’s what made me choose Element over Asgard : I was pretty much set on Asgard before finally landing Element II.
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