Randy , I am a 76yr old black man, and I have been an audiophile ever since I was 13yrs and even back then, I never put much value on 45rpm records, as opposed to lps,were typically recorded in stereo. I never dreamed that I would end up hearing such great music at this price-point! AI is great for me so far!
Randy,l just to reiterate how I am literally overwhelmed by what’s by what’s going on in 2024. Why, a year ago I had never even heard of a DAC. I thought that my Onkyo reicever was the ultimate thing .(for me) . I year later, I’ve completely ditched my expensive receiver for a SMSL DAC. That’s all in span of 1 year!
Any small company would be lucky to have Randy as an enthusiastic spokesperson. Hopefully the relationship is real enough that Geshelli Labs would listen to critical feedback from Randy, about any of their products. The Dayzee, fully naked to the world, does seem impressive. The teaching aspect of the plexi cabinet is cool and it lets you see accumulated pet hair and dust sitting on the componentry inside, but I'm not going to say it's a "beautiful cabinet". Is it "unique, whimsical, dramatic, teachable and personalized" ? Absolutely. But of course it's what's inside that really matters.
Dont worry I am sure they pay him and take care of him for his enthusiasm. He is awesome at marketing, and hell I watch some of his stuff. But we are fools if we dont feel he is getting some kickbacks here. Its extremely rare to find someone doing these type of videos that is not.
Another review channel is reviewing $87,000 dollar stand mount speakers today, so while $1,300 isn't cheap, it is within the realm of possibility for most of us, unlike nearly 100 large speakers.
At least with those TAD's which I assume you are referring to, it could be said you are getting your money's worth. Can't say that about too many other high end speakers IMO. But yea, out of my league too.
Diminishing returns come in heavy at some point. $87,000.... They better have 16 different species of exotic wood inlays, gold foil embossing and a built in Hibachi chef.
@@lithiumstatic None of that crap makes any difference to sound. Maybe do a little research on the speaker and you might understand what I am talking about.
@@boneseyyl1060 I bow before your great speaker knowledge. I'm referring to $87,000+ speakers in a general, not a specific brand. It's my opinion that diminishing returns is a real thing. If I'm about to dump $80,000+ I better have bling with great sound. In the end 99.999% of us aren't going to spend that on speakers. I'm happy as hell with my $1,500 speakers even though better can be purchased. The most I'd ever let go on speakers is $5,000 or so. If that means I own garbage in the eyes of others, I'll be happy with my garbage speakers. Haha!! I have no desire for exotic audio equipment that costs tens of thousands of dollars. If that's your cup of tea I'm very happy for you..
I'm probably about your age, and your references to Crutchfield are spot on. I bought so much from them be they were the go to source for anything good.
Great video, Randy! Geno and Sherri are at the top of their game. I heard Dayzee at SWAF, and it sounded every bit as good as DACs that retail for literally 10 to 20 times the price. The comments from people at the show were fittingly glowing, and their jaws collectively hit the floor when they heard how (frankly ridiculously) low the price was for the sound. Anybody who hasn't at least heard a J2 with the 4499 chip set...hasn't lived. Dayzee is just the latest groundbreaking release from the company doing EVERYTHING righ. It ain't hyperbole; it's just a fact. Love those folks.
Can accept this as you were very clear about bias up front. Good on you. I’ve not heard this new thing, but I can say that the J2 with sparkos op amps feeding some high end cans at the DC audio show was the best headphone sound I have ever heard (including all the other $$$ stuff I listened to at the show…). Clear, accurate, deep, spacious, rich, full… I was blown away.
You made me a huge fan of Geshelli Labs. Have purchased two. So far. Love their sound, hits my button. And customer support is outstanding! Going to think hard about this new DAC. Thanks for all the info, and your enthusiasm. 💯
That is awesome Randy, I’m definitely jealous of that giant plexiglass beast!!! I’m also very biased towards Geshelli, they obviously make some great stuff at a great price but I’d buy a wet blanket from them and I’d love every soggy bit of it. Like you said I hope they (and more companies like them) are the future of audio, thanks again Randy!!!
What I’d like to see as a comparison is the new Holo Audio Cyan DAC, which is a $1080 DAC which is purportedly a stripped down version of the $5000 May DAC that sounds almost as good. Also, my understanding is that the $1350 is just the starting point, from which the price goes up significantly. Not to mention, the new LAiV HARMONY DAC that has multiple reviewers falling over themselves gushing about it, though granted, now you’re talking maybe double the price of the base Daysee.
@@cheapaudioman If I was Holo Audio, I don't think I'd be anxious to send you a DAC for review. Inevitably you would compare it to Geshelli Labs, and my guess is Geshelli would always come out on top. So why would I go through the effort? iiWi Reviews at least changes his recommendations as time goes on because something will displace a previous favorite. Whereas yours was always (and will likely continue to be) Geshelli Labs J2, Geshelli Labs J2S with Sparkos, and now Geshelli Labs Dayzee.
The Cyan being a R2R, I think most of what he said about the Denafrips would apply to the Cyan too. Are there other dacs that use multiple delta sigma chips we could compare it to, and how does it sound compare to the Bifrost?
@Mark198d Seems to be a recurring theme based on the same identical speakers that were graded, rated, categorized, and made into fill vids from back in the day. Although many suggestions for new gear comparisons were proposed. Just disappointed that more wasn't spent on different quality manufacturers. Sorry if offense is taken CAM, I know how you can get butthurt. I still tune in, and I'm a huge Geshelli fan too. Thnx
Great review Randy! Must have been hard to hold back on how much you like Geshelli. With how Sherri, Geno, and the rest of the Geshelli family have treated me I would never be able to do an unbiased review. They are truly amazing people that really honestly care about everyone getting great value from their products. They make me feel as though I've been adopted into their audio family! So glad in this day and age that we can be a part of their journey and they can be a part of ours!
100% agree, I’ve spent several hours talking with them over the last 3 years at axpona and there’s absolutely nothing bad to say about any of them, except that they’re way too nice.
This is a gorgeous looking device. I love the plexy look. If I were to buy one it would have to be that deliverable. I have a J2. I won’t upgrade now, but someday…
That is a very beautiful piece of kit for your channel and environment. I don't care how it sounds. That look makes it perfect. I am sure it is the bestest DAC ever and something everyone needs. Thanks for sharing this amazing product and good looks with us all. Stay well, brother.
Have you heard the J3 Pro with the Sparkos op amp upgrade? Was curious to hear about the performance comparison between the J3 Pro, (with the Sparkos upgrade), and the Dayzee with stock op amps. Excellent detailed videos, keep up the great work!
Just got the Erish 3 Amp a few days ago to stack with my J2S AK4499 DAC loaded with Sparkos Op amps. Great bang for the Buck Stack. Grandpa Joe(Not Willie Wonka's Grandpa Joe) is a very skilled Woodworker. My E3/J2S stack is all Zebra Wood with Dovetails and it looks 🔥 I REALLY like how the AK4499 DAC Chip sounds. I also have the Topping DX9 AIO and it has an AK4499EQ DAC Chip. Best AIO I've heard
@@radiofreealbemuth They are very close. The DX9 will give you more power though for the harder to drive headphones. Soundstage is good on both... but I'm using an HD 800S a lot of the time where Soundstage is its forte. I have a Stabilized ZMF Atrium coming this week so I'm curious how the synergy will be with them. I use the DX9 in a Desktop setup for Gaming and Movies with headphones and also with Monitor Speakers. The DX9 is the best AIO I've heard to date and it's power should drive basically anything to it's fullest abilities other than maybe a Susvara and Tungsten which need a TOTL Amp to get the most out of them. I use the Geshelli Stack for music only. But I'd recommend either of these in a heartbeat. A quick fyi... Geshelli just announced the New J3 Pro DAC(coming later in June) which can use the Sparkos SS2590 Op Amps that many have been requesting. So the J3 Pro is most likely going to be even better paired with the Erish 3 Balanced Amp which already has the 2590 Op amps. If you want to keep things simple and have a little desk space... the DX9 is a great choice as an AIO. looks really cool too with the Glass top and Red Lights visible inside. Both are a great value that complete with Audio Gear 2X the price
@@JTB-- ah, i'm looking forward to the reviews for J3 and Erish 3. the dx9 does look really neat. can i ask how is the separation and layering? also, is the sound signature punchy and dynamic, laidback and relaxed, linear and flat, etc?
@@radiofreealbemuth I mostly listen to Hard Rock and Metal Genre's and the DX9 is pretty punchy/dynamic, and has good Bass when it called for. It handles everything I've thrown at it well really. I'll throw a Little Hans Zimmer or acoustic stuff on now and then it delivers everything the way you want it. I'm not gonna a pretend I've heard the Boutique stuff to compare... but the DX9 and Geshelli stuff are as good as anything I've heard up to the $2K level. Have you watched the SoundNews Review of the DX9? He can give you WAY more of the type of info you're looking than I can. He liked the DX9 a lot.
Great piece, wonder how it looks like in a nice woodcase. Would be great addition to my vintage stuff. I am just missing a volume control and remote. Would be smart if Geshelli would add that in combination with a aluminium frontplaat, lots of vintage lovers out there! Thanks for your Chanel and good luck from the Netherlands
I loved my Geshelli Labs DACs. Still have 1 connected to my PC. Unfortunately, for my Stereo system not having a remote to change inputs was a deal killer so I sold my 2nd one. All my sources are digital. SMSL D400ES is what I have now on my main system.
Got to see/hear one of these at Southwest Audio Fest. The wood casework looked great, but this clear case was actually very insightful. I do wish they had a linear power supply option, but I'm sure they'll move a ton of these.
I've been watching for years but I know after all this time I cannot take your advice seriously : Every other week you tell me a piece of equipment from the same category is " the best ever". It starts to become humorous ....
Agreed! But I think he’s just very enthusiastic about HiFi stuff. He get’s excited and the stuff he have fun with right now is the best stuff ever. I know what it is, my teenager is the same.😅 Don’t grow up Randy. 😊
yall on some BS...always getting your panties rumpled. You all need to stop being goofies and understand something--once you start going upmarket, EVERYHTING IS GOING TO START SOUNDING BETTER AND BETTER. Its the way it is...I dont think he is effin with yall, its just once you break out of the cheap stuff, gear DOES get better and better---especially if youre getting gear from solid manufacturers that we audiophiles are in to. Plus yall dont realize there is a real ARMS RACE in hifi RIGHT NOW....EVERYONE IS TRYING TO TOP EVERYONE ELSE. Just look at the streamer wars for example...so it's very plausible that everything he gets is damn good and tops the last thing he heard.
Somebody comments that because the case is glass plastic (whatever it is) its not electronically shielded. Is that true Mr Cheap Audio Man? Sorry if its dumb question, but i don't know about that type of things , but i have read many comments on interference is bad for audio signals. Thanks.
We have our products CE certed at an accredited lab with just the bare board. I can't speak for every company, but for us, that's how we test for emissions. There are pictures of this on our socials. Bare boards in the chambers. Trust me, we did plexi (see thumbnail pic) back in 2017 and got picked to death until we started showing receipts.
Unique product to be sure. But I can't help but feel they missed a big opportunity. Modern DACs need: HDMI +eARC. No ifs, no buts. Additionally the cost to implement I2S (IIS) isn't much and is an open standard so for a product like this is also a no-brainer. Especially at $1,300USD. There will be future projects and hopefully they'll get included.
Gino doesnt even like to have usb lol, you need to pay $50 to get it. I doubt is2 is in the cards. They seem pretty set in their ways, like most small business owners (that is why they are small business owners usually). If you like their way, great..if not..there is the highway lol- seems to be the way things are. Some people like that.
The problem with I2S is that there is not a standard pin layout, so if you do not double check layout settings and/or hardwire diagrams you may fry something. In my opinion, I2S needs to either figure out how to standardize on one specific HDMI pin layout or preferably switch to a specific and different from everything else connector.
Why do you need eARC when ARC will do. You seem to want an all in one receiver and DAC The problem is it doesn't matter unless you pay Dolby the money to basically make a 5.1/7.1 signal stereo, or 2.1. I don't believe that Dolby music is better than other formats. A stereo DAC with an ARC or eArc port gets you PCM audio decoded by your TV or the source has to be set to output 2.0/2.1 PCM because for movies, a stereo DAC gets you nothing unless it's got a Dolby Logo on it and can process it. So, if you can get the same 2 or 2.1 channel PCM audio from toslink or digital coax, you will get the EXACT.same audio as you would over HDMI. So why is HDMI or eARC needed unless you have a TV that doesn't have any digital outputs? It's already down mixed by something higher in the chain like the source or TV? It can't handle (nor should it) a 7.1 Dolby TrueHD Atmos signal.
After watching this video a month ago I ordered the Dayzee; clear plexiglass, blue light-controls, and both the OPA1655 and the Sparkos opamps (Sparkos installed). I only have around 6 hours on it since it arrived yesterday. It sounded great out of the box, it will be interesting to see if the sound changes with more hours. I have played this through my primary system Pass Labs solid state equipment and through Type 45 tube mono amps, it works well with both. The Geshelli family is amazing and Sherri was great to work with. I have to say that acoustic music is at another level and I agree with you that this DAC works well despite the type of music you listen to. My system is primarily American made with the exception of a Cambridge Audio CXC CD transport and a Dual 701 turntable, I has happy to find an American made DAC. I would like to know if you have noticed a difference in the sound as the hours increase?
In 1966 I built a speaker in a clear cab meter box , 5 in Lafayette woofer ,two 2in tweeters wound the inductors put the tweeters on back took polarized caps hooked back to back to make nonpolar speaker caps. Won the science fair in 10th grade
It's hard to swallow when the DX9 exists for $1299. The topping DX9 is fantastic! The best thing about the DX9 (besides the build) is that it does not sound like any other Topping.
Hi randy. I have the j2 (4599)with sparko op amos on the xlrs. Love the sound. This new piece is basically twice the cost. Does this really sound twice as good? Or is it just a little better?
How about your cambridge streamer/Dayzee combo for the digital front end and a Schiit Freya+ and two Fosi V3 mono's for amplification. This would lower the entry costs considerably and might sound darn good.
@@misterzero8667Ah, I sniff conscious bias and an almost complete lack of grammar and punctuation, rendering your opinion somewhat opaque. I actually suspect that combination would sound pretty decent depending on speaker matching. But don't know, because I haven't heard it, though I have heard the V3 stereo. You can do way better, but for the price it's a steal.
@@cheapaudioman I'm thinking it's a critique of the ventilation and airflow in the Gishelli components. I'm pretty sure they're low enough heat output to not be a big concern but I can see why some folks would be of that opinion. Still don't care and want that poly case unit. (looking for more money to throw at Gishelli)
To clarify, the AKM 4499EX is a dual chip DAC. The J2S uses one 4499EX chipset, the Dayzee uses a pair - one 4499EX chipset for each channel. I see the Dayzee is offered with optional 8 single Sparkos 2590s. The J2S with 4499EX and massive Sparkos dual 2590s shoehorned into it sounds impressive, MUCH better than the standard Ti, as does the smaller Burson V7 Vivid. If you liked the Dayzee with the Ti op amps, you would be more impressed by the much improved dynamics and expansive soundstage of the SS2590s, but the total price tag for 8 single SS2590s will be quite spendy - likely an additional $500-600.
Couldn't agree with you more...I also went down the expansionist hole and was amazed at how well the (i) SS2590 op-amps; and the (ii) Pine Tree Audio LPS, enhanced the sound of my J2S 4499ex. I did shudder a little when I heard the Dayzee had 8 SS2590 op-amps, but was pleased to hear those are mono and not stereo...as a result, upgrading all 8 would be about the price you stated and not >$1000, inclusive of shipping (dual with 8 pin adaptor are ~$123 each, but the monos are ~ $78 or so a piece)! The Dayzee is on my upgrade list for sure, but due to other upgrade priorities, I think I'll wait until Dayzee 2.0!
Listening from my office desk with PC as source to FiiO BTA30 Pro in TX Mode. Then wirelessly (BT/LDAC) to MUSE HiFi M4 (DAC/AMP); cabled (silver-plated OFC) to Hidizs MP145 planar IEM's. The BTA30 Pro set me back about $125 (2 years ago). Under $100 today. The MP145 was about $120. The recent M4 purchase, about $100. I must say, the M4 is a terrific device...ZERO regrets with this most recent purchase. It even has a clear Gorilla glass window to view the circuitry! The MP145's...incredible planars. The BTA30 Pro...an audiophile's Swiss Army knife if there ever was one, with TX/RX/DAC modes and a hefty basket of codecs (LDAC, AptX HD/LL, AptX, SBC, AAC). Supports USB-C in, COAX in/out, OPT in, OPT out, 2 x RCA out (L/R). I suppose one might accuse me of being CHEAP! In any event, the music sounds great to me.
Geshelli labs is awesome; great support, family owned, and USA made. I had a JNOG2 socketed ordered, but found out today my job was terminated due to downsizing and business moving out of state. I had to cancel my order, and they were fully supportive, which will make me a future customer. That being said, even with the JNOG2 fully decked out (Best OP AMPS, linear power) is not going to outclass a lot of R2R DACS, delta sigma just cannot compete. My $500 Loxjie D40 Pro (Current best ESS DAC chip) does not sound as good as my Mod 2 Multibit ($300.00 with older chip) due to basically being a R2R. Delta sigma = Specs R2R/Multibit = Sound quality. My Loxjie blows the Schiit out of the water with specs,. but playing music (the intention), the Schiit sounds much better and everything has more distinction (instruments, vocals, etc.) It's basically records vs CD. CD has better specs, cleaner. But Vinyl sounds so much better. Manage your expectations is my point. Chi-Fi DACS at that price range spec out to the moon, but often sound sterile compared to a decent to good R2R DAC. I am hoping that Geshelli makes some R2R DACS, once I am back on my feet I would buy one in a heartbeat! But Randy is right on praising Geshelli, they deserve the hype.
A TH-cam reviewer who admits a bias towards a particular company - this shows honesty and passion, also he explains why that bias exists and with those reasons you cannot blame him. A great channel and a great reviewer. He should look at the iFi AC iPurifier sometime though, it's a winner and great value.
Hi Randy, have you ever made in-room measurements when you have noticed differences between different electronics? Would be very interesting to see the results between dacs and amps.
Hi Sir!! Thank you for the great review. If you allow me, how will you pair the Dayzee with a budget of 3-3.5k dollars? Source-Dayzee-Amp-Speakers for a room of 14m2. Thanks
I tested a fully loaded J2 with Burson opAmps to a AUNE S9 PRO and Fiio R7 and they are a totally a big step down. 💪🏼 😎👍🏼 . I saved a few hundos when I kept the J2. So, this product is coming to my stable
Personally, I like the acrylic window into the internals, but I think Gishelli is holding itself back with its idiosyncratic approach to cases. The brushed aluminum case they did recently can push them into the quality category they deserve.
If you have been with Cheap Audioman since the start, you have also graduated to spending a little more on gear, just how it goes. I'd rather buy a component for give or take $1,000 than keep accumulating cheap gear.
Speaking of conversations with your kids about hifi. When I was a little guy my dad had a MCS component rack and I thought it was the coolest looking thing ever so I used to pretend it was the control panel for a spaceship I was flying to mars. He didn’t find it amusing so his belt and I had a conversation.
To me it seems that the benefit of this Dac is the plethora of inputs/outputs..full size. I would assume it is exactly like the J2 except comes stock with AK99 chips & the opamp options. I understand it's not every designers cup o' tea but if you are talking the future of Hifi & Dac's you should strongly consider adding eArc & i2S connections. Just my opinion.
Got my Dayzee DAC today! OMG is it amazing! Had an AKM J2 in my system and thought it sounded amazing. The Dayzee blows it away. The bass control is like I have never experienced. The separation and detail off the charts. I hooked it up and planned on just demoing a couple songs ended up spending almost 2 hours listening! Could not stop. Things the real deal. And I just got the standard unit no upgrades. I honestly do see how it could be any better! One happy customer.
@@giulianof8687had a J2 with the AKM chip..and it sounded great. I was skeptical the Dayzee would make a huge difference especially at $1300. But I can’t explain but I asm hearing things I never heard before and I have had my Klipsch Reference 7 speakers for almost 20 years. Blown away.
Randy, Sorry about getting to this so long after video. I’m extremely interested in this dac. Just have few questions I’d love to discuss with you before contacting Geshelli. Is there a good way to discuss more?
What a nice family. I’ve been to Melbourne, FL to visit them and go on a tour. Also you should see the Zeos version, they sent the wood case to Chris to go wild!
I've been waiting for this ever since I saw it at the Florida audio show. I even talked to the crew before I had a bit of a tangent with some broken speaker drivers I had to fix. I literally Live in Central Florida so I'm going to have to go visit their factory-- this one I've had on my radar for a while as I said...
Crutchfield is great. I've purchased several things from them over the years. Fast, great prices, free returns so you can audition speakers in your system..
Where are they in Florida? I’m in Florida, idk if that’s good or bad just yet, verdict is still out, definitely a weird place to live. I’d love to visit a place like Geshelli. I just bought the Eversolo dac, like a week ago, and I’m loving it, best digital sound I’ve personally experienced, that was my own gear at least. Now I need even more monies for yet another dac🤦🏻♂️ ugh
I'm in Florida for the next few months and thought the same, it would be cool to visit them. They are in Melbourne, FL. I do not know if they let people into their office. I'm about an hour north of them, so I'd like to check out their place if it's possible.
We sure do let folks visit, we're in Melbourne on the East Coast. We just need a few dates/times and can work in a visit. Email in and we'll schedule you in. I must warn you though, I will expect you to ooooh and ahhh over my powder coating since nobody at Geshelli does -Sherri
Clear acrylic is beautiful when NEW. AS it ages, it gets dirty inside and looks awful. This was the case with Apple products in the late 90's+ and probably why they stopped making them. Of course, you CAN open things up and try to clean, but it's mixed at best. I love it too, but I know what it's gonna look like down the road...
@@cheapaudioman Not a downer at all. Reality. I have been in love with audio gear since the 70's, but sadly I'm also OCD and that stuff is something I have to consider. Hey, keep one running for a couple years and tell me if I'm wrong...I'll wait! I said I love the look too, but I won't when it starts to cloud up down the road - and well before I would want to replace it.
8:20 While I am on the fence about the AKM J2 with the 4499 chips, I am hesitant because of the cost. When I saw the Dayzee, I kind of figured it would break the $1k mark. So it is out of the question for me. One thing I am curious is that, how much, in terms of a percentage does the Dayzee sound better than J2-AKM4499? For twice the price it better be at least 25% to 30% better. But, I seriously doubt that. 14:45 You can't be serious right? I don't know of anyone that would say a $6000 sound system is budget. That, for me, would be top tier, anything above that is just feeding into the trolls and the Law of Diminishing returns. It amazes me when I hear that some people would spend that amount for a set of speakers or any single component. Why? You really want to drive yourself bankrupt in the pursuit of perfect audio...a goal that can never be achieved? I put my hands up in the air. You want mortgage your home on a sound system, that is up to you, but I would say your absolutely, certifiable and should be carted off to Bellevue. @Randy The review was great and I listened to the end because I do feel the Geshelli is the real deal and not a troll company. But even so, as I said, you get to the point of diminishing returns. I think the most I ever spent on an entire sound system was $1800, and while I would go a bit more, or even take it to $5k, that it the absolute max. Now as you probably will know what I am going to say next and that is to address the elephant in the room. Over $1k DACs and over $5k sound systems really shouldn't be on the topic of discussion for cheap, AFFORDABLE, hi-fi equipment. If it was the latter, I would able to afford it. I and about 80% of the people here that watch your videos will not be able to afford the Dayzee. Again, please...put the expensive stuff in another channel.
A future "improvement" maybe woul be the use of two Usb-C port for connections and attach a power supply. At that point could be used even a power bank to drive it. When the energy required to drive certain component is sufficient limited, it is such for Dac (but even for power, at least for earphone and headphone) the possibilities to have a complete system that is able to work off the grid would be nice, instead of thinking only at solution such as dongle, where the target is over their portability more than the rest. Plus no more necessity to use propertary PSU for each product.
Nice job on explaining how to pipe signal through the components. Everything has a DAC in it, so I have been hesitant to buy first and ask questions later. “Transport” is an excellent word. I’m old enough to think “tuner” but digital. Except now, the incoming signal is often the best sampling rate available, whereas in the old days inbound FM was relegated to an afterthought. …Y’know, wouldn’t it be fun if they’d send the unmixed tracks and let me mix it for MY room with AI? 🤔 Cheers!
This DAC looks tremendous, but I only have a CDTransport and streamer that I’d need to connect. The remaining inputs seem almost overkill for me. How many sources do most people use regularly? Currently, I’m leaning towards the J2 but really prefer the input selector on the Dayzee.
I've been looking for a DAC around $1000, I was interested in the Aeries 12th but many seem to say the holo audio cyan2 is better (I've not seen anyone do a direct comparison), I really wanted to go the R2R route, I'll certainly consider Dayzee now.
Randy, you are a very bad man lol. After your review of the Geshelli labs AKM J2 dac, oh well over a year ago now, I ordered 1 and had it shipped to me in Belfast N.Ireland. I love it, I had not even considered upgrading or looking at any other dacs this whole time, and now, now you start waving a new betterer one under my nose??? Not cool, Now I might have to upgrade what I thought I was perfectly happy with, considering the J2 was a massive improvement over my topping d50s 🤔😂🤣😂
A really important aspect to think about this DAC, is the resell value. I think it's not affordable enough to "play" with personal taste (transparent, wood, yellow, purple) and then try to resell it expecting to get back some decent percentage. So for me and for that reason, it's a very tough sell. Hope they come with some standardized, good looking ( maybe aluminium, and display?) DAC, for when you want to sell and want something else, or you ended up not liking it in the end, or just because life happens.
Not to play devil's advocate but in my community Geshelli products hold their value better than a a more traditional looking component. I could be wrong but a quick check on eBay may give you an indication of how many are available. For me that's always a great barometer of how happy customers are with the product. Great example is KEF LS50's which are replete on the secondary market. If you ever do pull the trigger and want to sell check out my Patreon community. There is always a strong demand there. And I get it. the looks are polarizing. thanks for commenting and watching. It's great to have options and it's great to see companies taking risks. but their first products were along these lines and I love to see someone sticking to their roots.
We have folks who buy pre-owned units write in and just buy a case and plates because they didn't like the one that was sold. Pretty common and something we support. Wood is the case price plus shipping.
Would the Dayzee be a good match for me? I'm an older guy not knowledgeable to do with streaming. I'm streaming from my iPad through audioquest cobalt into headphone amp now would like to step up.
Hate the clear plastic but ❤️ Geshelli Everyone has their own aesthetic My components are all black and as industrial as possible My J2 is black aluminum with Smoke color face
I love Gashelli Labs. They think out of the box. I just wonder when I could purchase one of their amps in CLEAR GLASS. Any way Love what they are doing! Perhaps you could push to make SEE THRU COMPONENTS 😅
I have so much noise in my apartment's AC that a 12V DC for a DAC would be awesome. I could probably figure out a way to run it off a motorcycle battery, ...maybe.
Randy , I am a 76yr old black man, and I have been an audiophile ever since I was 13yrs and even back then, I never put much value on 45rpm records, as opposed to lps,were typically recorded in stereo. I never dreamed that I would end up hearing such great music at this price-point! AI is great for me so far!
Randy,l just to reiterate how I am literally overwhelmed by what’s by what’s going on in 2024. Why, a year ago I had never even heard of a DAC. I thought that my Onkyo reicever was the ultimate thing .(for me) . I year later, I’ve completely ditched my expensive receiver for a SMSL DAC. That’s all in span of 1 year!
AI?
Where are you getting AI?
If my 17lb cat, Tuna Boy, were to sit on top of the plexiglass, would it be able to support his chonk weight?
Depends on the op amps installed. Some have a higher fat cat levitation quotient than others.
Any small company would be lucky to have Randy as an enthusiastic spokesperson. Hopefully the relationship is real enough that Geshelli Labs would listen to critical feedback from Randy, about any of their products. The Dayzee, fully naked to the world, does seem impressive. The teaching aspect of the plexi cabinet is cool and it lets you see accumulated pet hair and dust sitting on the componentry inside, but I'm not going to say it's a "beautiful cabinet". Is it "unique, whimsical, dramatic, teachable and personalized" ? Absolutely. But of course it's what's inside that really matters.
Dont worry I am sure they pay him and take care of him for his enthusiasm. He is awesome at marketing, and hell I watch some of his stuff. But we are fools if we dont feel he is getting some kickbacks here. Its extremely rare to find someone doing these type of videos that is not.
Geshelli... respect that you state it will not be an unbiased (like we didn't know that already...).
Randy, You obviously have the coolest of friends in the audio world!
Another review channel is reviewing
$87,000 dollar stand mount speakers today, so while $1,300 isn't cheap, it is within the realm of possibility for most of us, unlike nearly 100 large speakers.
At least with those TAD's which I assume you are referring to, it could be said you are getting your money's worth. Can't say that about too many other high end speakers IMO. But yea, out of my league too.
Diminishing returns come in heavy at some point. $87,000.... They better have 16 different species of exotic wood inlays, gold foil embossing and a built in Hibachi chef.
@@lithiumstatic None of that crap makes any difference to sound. Maybe do a little research on the speaker and you might understand what I am talking about.
@@boneseyyl1060Yes TAS are not about bling.
@@boneseyyl1060 I bow before your great speaker knowledge. I'm referring to $87,000+ speakers in a general, not a specific brand. It's my opinion that diminishing returns is a real thing. If I'm about to dump $80,000+ I better have bling with great sound. In the end 99.999% of us aren't going to spend that on speakers. I'm happy as hell with my $1,500 speakers even though better can be purchased. The most I'd ever let go on speakers is $5,000 or so. If that means I own garbage in the eyes of others, I'll be happy with my garbage speakers. Haha!! I have no desire for exotic audio equipment that costs tens of thousands of dollars. If that's your cup of tea I'm very happy for you..
Having bias is not a deal breaker for me. Transparency is most important.
I'm probably about your age, and your references to Crutchfield are spot on. I bought so much from them be they were the go to source for anything good.
Great video, Randy! Geno and Sherri are at the top of their game. I heard Dayzee at SWAF, and it sounded every bit as good as DACs that retail for literally 10 to 20 times the price. The comments from people at the show were fittingly glowing, and their jaws collectively hit the floor when they heard how (frankly ridiculously) low the price was for the sound. Anybody who hasn't at least heard a J2 with the 4499 chip set...hasn't lived. Dayzee is just the latest groundbreaking release from the company doing EVERYTHING righ. It ain't hyperbole; it's just a fact. Love those folks.
Can accept this as you were very clear about bias up front. Good on you. I’ve not heard this new thing, but I can say that the J2 with sparkos op amps feeding some high end cans at the DC audio show was the best headphone sound I have ever heard (including all the other $$$ stuff I listened to at the show…). Clear, accurate, deep, spacious, rich, full… I was blown away.
You made me a huge fan of Geshelli Labs. Have purchased two. So far. Love their sound, hits my button. And customer support is outstanding! Going to think hard about this new DAC. Thanks for all the info, and your enthusiasm. 💯
That is awesome Randy, I’m definitely jealous of that giant plexiglass beast!!! I’m also very biased towards Geshelli, they obviously make some great stuff at a great price but I’d buy a wet blanket from them and I’d love every soggy bit of it. Like you said I hope they (and more companies like them) are the future of audio, thanks again Randy!!!
What I’d like to see as a comparison is the new Holo Audio Cyan DAC, which is a $1080 DAC which is purportedly a stripped down version of the $5000 May DAC that sounds almost as good. Also, my understanding is that the $1350 is just the starting point, from which the price goes up significantly. Not to mention, the new LAiV HARMONY DAC that has multiple reviewers falling over themselves gushing about it, though granted, now you’re talking maybe double the price of the base Daysee.
I'd love to have it in but they're not knocking on my door.
@@cheapaudioman If I was Holo Audio, I don't think I'd be anxious to send you a DAC for review. Inevitably you would compare it to Geshelli Labs, and my guess is Geshelli would always come out on top. So why would I go through the effort? iiWi Reviews at least changes his recommendations as time goes on because something will displace a previous favorite. Whereas yours was always (and will likely continue to be) Geshelli Labs J2, Geshelli Labs J2S with Sparkos, and now Geshelli Labs Dayzee.
The Cyan being a R2R, I think most of what he said about the Denafrips would apply to the Cyan too. Are there other dacs that use multiple delta sigma chips we could compare it to, and how does it sound compare to the Bifrost?
@Mark198d Seems to be a recurring theme based on the same identical speakers that were graded, rated, categorized, and made into fill vids from back in the day. Although many suggestions for new gear comparisons were proposed. Just disappointed that more wasn't spent on different quality manufacturers. Sorry if offense is taken CAM, I know how you can get butthurt. I still tune in, and I'm a huge Geshelli fan too. Thnx
I always loved getting the Crutchfield catalog in the mail.
I like the clear plexiglass, gets it more interesting .👍
Great review Randy! Must have been hard to hold back on how much you like Geshelli. With how Sherri, Geno, and the rest of the Geshelli family have treated me I would never be able to do an unbiased review. They are truly amazing people that really honestly care about everyone getting great value from their products. They make me feel as though I've been adopted into their audio family! So glad in this day and age that we can be a part of their journey and they can be a part of ours!
100% agree, I’ve spent several hours talking with them over the last 3 years at axpona and there’s absolutely nothing bad to say about any of them, except that they’re way too nice.
This is a gorgeous looking device. I love the plexy look. If I were to buy one it would have to be that deliverable. I have a J2. I won’t upgrade now, but someday…
That is a very beautiful piece of kit for your channel and environment. I don't care how it sounds. That look makes it perfect. I am sure it is the bestest DAC ever and something everyone needs. Thanks for sharing this amazing product and good looks with us all. Stay well, brother.
Simon! My man. Hope you're doing well, my friend.
@cheapaudioman All good here, brother. Thanks for asking.
Does it come with a power supply or could I use the power supply on my J2?
Have you heard the J3 Pro with the Sparkos op amp upgrade? Was curious to hear about the performance comparison between the J3 Pro, (with the Sparkos upgrade), and the Dayzee with stock op amps. Excellent detailed videos, keep up the great work!
Just got the Erish 3 Amp a few days ago to stack with my J2S AK4499 DAC loaded with Sparkos Op amps. Great bang for the Buck Stack. Grandpa Joe(Not Willie Wonka's Grandpa Joe) is a very skilled Woodworker. My E3/J2S stack is all Zebra Wood with Dovetails and it looks 🔥
I REALLY like how the AK4499 DAC Chip sounds. I also have the Topping DX9 AIO and it has an AK4499EQ DAC Chip. Best AIO I've heard
Can I ask how the e3/j2s compares with the topping dx9? How is the soundstage depth?
@@radiofreealbemuth They are very close. The DX9 will give you more power though for the harder to drive headphones. Soundstage is good on both... but I'm using an HD 800S a lot of the time where Soundstage is its forte. I have a Stabilized ZMF Atrium coming this week so I'm curious how the synergy will be with them. I use the DX9 in a Desktop setup for Gaming and Movies with headphones and also with Monitor Speakers. The DX9 is the best AIO I've heard to date and it's power should drive basically anything to it's fullest abilities other than maybe a Susvara and Tungsten which need a TOTL Amp to get the most out of them. I use the Geshelli Stack for music only. But I'd recommend either of these in a heartbeat. A quick fyi... Geshelli just announced the New J3 Pro DAC(coming later in June) which can use the Sparkos SS2590 Op Amps that many have been requesting. So the J3 Pro is most likely going to be even better paired with the Erish 3 Balanced Amp which already has the 2590 Op amps. If you want to keep things simple and have a little desk space... the DX9 is a great choice as an AIO. looks really cool too with the Glass top and Red Lights visible inside. Both are a great value that complete with Audio Gear 2X the price
@@JTB-- ah, i'm looking forward to the reviews for J3 and Erish 3. the dx9 does look really neat. can i ask how is the separation and layering? also, is the sound signature punchy and dynamic, laidback and relaxed, linear and flat, etc?
@@radiofreealbemuth I mostly listen to Hard Rock and Metal Genre's and the DX9 is pretty punchy/dynamic, and has good Bass when it called for. It handles everything I've thrown at it well really. I'll throw a Little Hans Zimmer or acoustic stuff on now and then it delivers everything the way you want it. I'm not gonna a pretend I've heard the Boutique stuff to compare... but the DX9 and Geshelli stuff are as good as anything I've heard up to the $2K level. Have you watched the SoundNews Review of the DX9? He can give you WAY more of the type of info you're looking than I can. He liked the DX9 a lot.
Great piece, wonder how it looks like in a nice woodcase. Would be great addition to my vintage stuff. I am just missing a volume control and remote. Would be smart if Geshelli would add that in combination with a aluminium frontplaat, lots of vintage lovers out there! Thanks for your Chanel and good luck from the Netherlands
I loved my Geshelli Labs DACs. Still have 1 connected to my PC. Unfortunately, for my Stereo system not having a remote to change inputs was a deal killer so I sold my 2nd one. All my sources are digital. SMSL D400ES is what I have now on my main system.
Got to see/hear one of these at Southwest Audio Fest. The wood casework looked great, but this clear case was actually very insightful. I do wish they had a linear power supply option, but I'm sure they'll move a ton of these.
Yaht, that's the truth Willie. Lol, I always giggle when I say that & I got a Willie friend, lol. Happened again.😁
I've been watching for years but I know after all this time I cannot take your advice seriously : Every other week you tell me a piece of equipment from the same category is " the best ever". It starts to become humorous ....
Agreed! But I think he’s just very enthusiastic about HiFi stuff. He get’s excited and the stuff he have fun with right now is the best stuff ever. I know what it is, my teenager is the same.😅 Don’t grow up Randy. 😊
Every one of these gear dudes has to have their mind blown weekly for the clicks.
yall on some BS...always getting your panties rumpled. You all need to stop being goofies and understand something--once you start going upmarket, EVERYHTING IS GOING TO START SOUNDING BETTER AND BETTER. Its the way it is...I dont think he is effin with yall, its just once you break out of the cheap stuff, gear DOES get better and better---especially if youre getting gear from solid manufacturers that we audiophiles are in to.
Plus yall dont realize there is a real ARMS RACE in hifi RIGHT NOW....EVERYONE IS TRYING TO TOP EVERYONE ELSE. Just look at the streamer wars for example...so it's very plausible that everything he gets is damn good and tops the last thing he heard.
Agreed
for sure. got to keep that money truck rolling
Somebody comments that because the case is glass plastic (whatever it is) its not electronically shielded. Is that true Mr Cheap Audio Man? Sorry if its dumb question, but i don't know about that type of things , but i have read many comments on interference is bad for audio signals. Thanks.
We have our products CE certed at an accredited lab with just the bare board. I can't speak for every company, but for us, that's how we test for emissions. There are pictures of this on our socials. Bare boards in the chambers. Trust me, we did plexi (see thumbnail pic) back in 2017 and got picked to death until we started showing receipts.
@@sherrigeshelli7906 Hey, Thanks for show up and clarify some questions.
Unique product to be sure. But I can't help but feel they missed a big opportunity.
Modern DACs need: HDMI +eARC. No ifs, no buts.
Additionally the cost to implement I2S (IIS) isn't much and is an open standard so for a product like this is also a no-brainer. Especially at $1,300USD.
There will be future projects and hopefully they'll get included.
Gino doesnt even like to have usb lol, you need to pay $50 to get it. I doubt is2 is in the cards. They seem pretty set in their ways, like most small business owners (that is why they are small business owners usually). If you like their way, great..if not..there is the highway lol- seems to be the way things are. Some people like that.
A DAC may need HDMI + eARC for you, it certainly doesn't for me. I don't even know what eARC is.
The problem with I2S is that there is not a standard pin layout, so if you do not double check layout settings and/or hardwire diagrams you may fry something. In my opinion, I2S needs to either figure out how to standardize on one specific HDMI pin layout or preferably switch to a specific and different from everything else connector.
Why do you need eARC when ARC will do. You seem to want an all in one receiver and DAC
The problem is it doesn't matter unless you pay Dolby the money to basically make a 5.1/7.1 signal stereo, or 2.1. I don't believe that Dolby music is better than other formats.
A stereo DAC with an ARC or eArc port gets you PCM audio decoded by your TV or the source has to be set to output 2.0/2.1 PCM because for movies, a stereo DAC gets you nothing unless it's got a Dolby Logo on it and can process it.
So, if you can get the same 2 or 2.1 channel PCM audio from toslink or digital coax, you will get the EXACT.same audio as you would over HDMI.
So why is HDMI or eARC needed unless you have a TV that doesn't have any digital outputs? It's already down mixed by something higher in the chain like the source or TV? It can't handle (nor should it) a 7.1 Dolby TrueHD Atmos signal.
After watching this video a month ago I ordered the Dayzee; clear plexiglass, blue light-controls, and both the OPA1655 and the Sparkos opamps (Sparkos installed). I only have around 6 hours on it since it arrived yesterday. It sounded great out of the box, it will be interesting to see if the sound changes with more hours. I have played this through my primary system Pass Labs solid state equipment and through Type 45 tube mono amps, it works well with both. The Geshelli family is amazing and Sherri was great to work with. I have to say that acoustic music is at another level and I agree with you that this DAC works well despite the type of music you listen to. My system is primarily American made with the exception of a Cambridge Audio CXC CD transport and a Dual 701 turntable, I has happy to find an American made DAC. I would like to know if you have noticed a difference in the sound as the hours increase?
In 1966 I built a speaker in a clear cab meter box , 5 in Lafayette woofer ,two 2in tweeters wound the inductors put the tweeters on back took polarized caps hooked back to back to make nonpolar speaker caps. Won the science fair in 10th grade
Bose made the first 501 years later in fiberboard, sorta feel cheated. I deeply love the geshllia products.
What is the max voltage output of each set of RCA and XLR Outputs when they are all connected simultaneously?
It's hard to swallow when the DX9 exists for $1299. The topping DX9 is fantastic! The best thing about the DX9 (besides the build) is that it does not sound like any other Topping.
Hi randy. I have the j2 (4599)with sparko op amos on the xlrs. Love the sound. This new piece is basically twice the cost. Does this really sound twice as good? Or is it just a little better?
How about your cambridge streamer/Dayzee combo for the digital front end and a Schiit Freya+ and two Fosi V3 mono's for amplification. This would lower the entry costs considerably and might sound darn good.
Garbage amps totally letting down the system by real class d amps not cheap toys for near field $500 systems
@@misterzero8667Ah, I sniff conscious bias and an almost complete lack of grammar and punctuation, rendering your opinion somewhat opaque.
I actually suspect that combination would sound pretty decent depending on speaker matching. But don't know, because I haven't heard it, though I have heard the V3 stereo. You can do way better, but for the price it's a steal.
"SHUT UP AND TAKE MY MONEY" -Phillip J. Fry
I second that! Take mine too!!
Crutchfield has no 😮
thermal consciousness
@@CarlVanDoren61 Don't care! Still throwing money at them!!
And Carl, shouldn't you be over at Andrew Robinson's channel? IYKYK
@@CarlVanDoren61 what is thermal conscioness? I can’t spell the darn word.
@@cheapaudioman I'm thinking it's a critique of the ventilation and airflow in the Gishelli components. I'm pretty sure they're low enough heat output to not be a big concern but I can see why some folks would be of that opinion.
Still don't care and want that poly case unit.
(looking for more money to throw at Gishelli)
To clarify, the AKM 4499EX is a dual chip DAC. The J2S uses one 4499EX chipset, the Dayzee uses a pair - one 4499EX chipset for each channel. I see the Dayzee is offered with optional 8 single Sparkos 2590s. The J2S with 4499EX and massive Sparkos dual 2590s shoehorned into it sounds impressive, MUCH better than the standard Ti, as does the smaller Burson V7 Vivid. If you liked the Dayzee with the Ti op amps, you would be more impressed by the much improved dynamics and expansive soundstage of the SS2590s, but the total price tag for 8 single SS2590s will be quite spendy - likely an additional $500-600.
Couldn't agree with you more...I also went down the expansionist hole and was amazed at how well the (i) SS2590 op-amps; and the (ii) Pine Tree Audio LPS, enhanced the sound of my J2S 4499ex.
I did shudder a little when I heard the Dayzee had 8 SS2590 op-amps, but was pleased to hear those are mono and not stereo...as a result, upgrading all 8 would be about the price you stated and not >$1000, inclusive of shipping (dual with 8 pin adaptor are ~$123 each, but the monos are ~ $78 or so a piece)!
The Dayzee is on my upgrade list for sure, but due to other upgrade priorities, I think I'll wait until Dayzee 2.0!
Preach, CheapAman. As long as the reviewer is up front about personal biases it's not a problem.
Not sure what is up with the negative comments being pushed to the surface. Eff the haters, keep being you CAM. Great video.
Listening from my office desk with PC as source to FiiO BTA30 Pro in TX Mode. Then wirelessly (BT/LDAC) to MUSE HiFi M4 (DAC/AMP); cabled (silver-plated OFC) to Hidizs MP145 planar IEM's. The BTA30 Pro set me back about $125 (2 years ago). Under $100 today.
The MP145 was about $120.
The recent M4 purchase, about $100.
I must say, the M4 is a terrific device...ZERO regrets with this most recent purchase. It even has a clear Gorilla glass window to view the circuitry!
The MP145's...incredible planars.
The BTA30 Pro...an audiophile's Swiss Army knife if there ever was one, with TX/RX/DAC modes and a hefty basket of codecs (LDAC, AptX HD/LL, AptX, SBC, AAC). Supports USB-C in, COAX in/out, OPT in, OPT out, 2 x RCA out (L/R).
I suppose one might accuse me of being CHEAP! In any event, the music sounds great to me.
Geshelli labs is awesome; great support, family owned, and USA made. I had a JNOG2 socketed ordered, but found out today my job was terminated due to downsizing and business moving out of state. I had to cancel my order, and they were fully supportive, which will make me a future customer.
That being said, even with the JNOG2 fully decked out (Best OP AMPS, linear power) is not going to outclass a lot of R2R DACS, delta sigma just cannot compete. My $500 Loxjie D40 Pro (Current best ESS DAC chip) does not sound as good as my Mod 2 Multibit ($300.00 with older chip) due to basically being a R2R. Delta sigma = Specs R2R/Multibit = Sound quality. My Loxjie blows the Schiit out of the water with specs,. but playing music (the intention), the Schiit sounds much better and everything has more distinction (instruments, vocals, etc.)
It's basically records vs CD. CD has better specs, cleaner. But Vinyl sounds so much better. Manage your expectations is my point. Chi-Fi DACS at that price range spec out to the moon, but often sound sterile compared to a decent to good R2R DAC. I am hoping that Geshelli makes some R2R DACS, once I am back on my feet I would buy one in a heartbeat! But Randy is right on praising Geshelli, they deserve the hype.
A TH-cam reviewer who admits a bias towards a particular company - this shows honesty and passion, also he explains why that bias exists and with those reasons you cannot blame him.
A great channel and a great reviewer.
He should look at the iFi AC iPurifier sometime though, it's a winner and great value.
Needs metal case for shielding the electronics.
😅
Hi Randy, have you ever made in-room measurements when you have noticed differences between different electronics? Would be very interesting to see the results between dacs and amps.
Hi Sir!!
Thank you for the great review. If you allow me, how will you pair the Dayzee with a budget of 3-3.5k dollars? Source-Dayzee-Amp-Speakers for a room of 14m2. Thanks
I think you've become too commercial now, you've morphed into an advert.
all reviewers are like that....99%...
Please don't sell out man.
exactly this.
The fact he has his logo etched onto the top of the unit says that he wouldn't say a bad word even if he knew it was a pile.
@@lewisevans2394 lmao
Do you want him to grow his channel or remain small time?
I tested a fully loaded J2 with Burson opAmps to a AUNE S9 PRO and Fiio R7 and they are a totally a big step down. 💪🏼 😎👍🏼 . I saved a few hundos when I kept the J2. So, this product is coming to my stable
Personally, I like the acrylic window into the internals, but I think Gishelli is holding itself back with its idiosyncratic approach to cases.
The brushed aluminum case they did recently can push them into the quality category they deserve.
If you have been with Cheap Audioman since the start, you have also graduated to spending a little more on gear, just how it goes. I'd rather buy a component for give or take $1,000 than keep accumulating cheap gear.
This has to be the cleanest piece of audio equipment to exist to date. Fkn unreal!
If You are truly subjective all the time You have done Your job well. Greatings from Sweden. Luve the channel!🙂
Speaking of conversations with your kids about hifi. When I was a little guy my dad had a MCS component rack and I thought it was the coolest looking thing ever so I used to pretend it was the control panel for a spaceship I was flying to mars. He didn’t find it amusing so his belt and I had a conversation.
I love my J2. I bet this Dayzee sounds just as good as I am imagining it does.
Am I the only one seeing the weirdness of a “DAC only” item with CHEAPaudioman etched on it, starting at $1300….
Yes, You’re the only one.
No, he's not.
To me it seems that the benefit of this Dac is the plethora of inputs/outputs..full size. I would assume it is exactly like the J2 except comes stock with AK99 chips & the opamp options.
I understand it's not every designers cup o' tea but if you are talking the future of Hifi & Dac's you should strongly consider adding eArc & i2S connections. Just my opinion.
Randy, I’d really like your take on the Fosi Audio T20, it’s the best mini amp I’ve ever heard
Got my Dayzee DAC today! OMG is it amazing! Had an AKM J2 in my system and thought it sounded amazing. The Dayzee blows it away. The bass control is like I have never experienced. The separation and detail off the charts. I hooked it up and planned on just demoing a couple songs ended up spending almost 2 hours listening! Could not stop. Things the real deal. And I just got the standard unit no upgrades. I honestly do see how it could be any better! One happy customer.
J2 or J2S?
@@giulianof8687had a J2 with the AKM chip..and it sounded great. I was skeptical the Dayzee would make a huge difference especially at $1300. But I can’t explain but I asm hearing things I never heard before and I have had my Klipsch Reference 7 speakers for almost 20 years. Blown away.
@@toddlaing1 So J2 with ak4493?
@@giulianof8687 yes that’s the one! I also had the J2 classic before that. I found the AK version much better than the classic.
@@toddlaing1 i think J2S with ak4499ex + Ss2590 is not far from Dayzee in terms of SQ if not similar
Pretty cool but I don't come close to listening to enough digital music to justify it. I am curious if they'll build power amps down the line.
Yes - there will be monoblock power amps, in the plexi cases.
@@NeilBlanchard I like the monoblock aspect. Unless they're dirt cheap the plexiglass is a deal killer for me.
@@tmdillon1969 I think that there may be other case options.
Randy,
Sorry about getting to this so long after video. I’m extremely interested in this dac. Just have few questions I’d love to discuss with you before contacting Geshelli. Is there a good way to discuss more?
Is it twice as good? No, the answer is no
What a nice family. I’ve been to Melbourne, FL to visit them and go on a tour. Also you should see the Zeos version, they sent the wood case to Chris to go wild!
Used to work in Melbourne and reside in Palm Bay,loved it there but 2004 hurricane season drove me out of there
missing a IIs input , & all the output are on all the time & no shielding .I think may have impact on sound ?
Dayzee is very transparent about their audio.
I've been waiting for this ever since I saw it at the Florida audio show. I even talked to the crew before I had a bit of a tangent with some broken speaker drivers I had to fix. I literally Live in Central Florida so I'm going to have to go visit their factory-- this one I've had on my radar for a while as I said...
You inspired me to get out of bed and start my day, thank you.
That's so beautiful
Wow Pretty
Crutchfield is great. I've purchased several things from them over the years. Fast, great prices, free returns so you can audition speakers in your system..
Ok, how can I buy this in the EU? Every time I want to order I get kicked out or no delivery service is available.
My current receiver is the weak link in my sound system. I'll have to see what they have available!
Hope they bring out a tube dac soon.
Where are they in Florida? I’m in Florida, idk if that’s good or bad just yet, verdict is still out, definitely a weird place to live. I’d love to visit a place like Geshelli. I just bought the Eversolo dac, like a week ago, and I’m loving it, best digital sound I’ve personally experienced, that was my own gear at least. Now I need even more monies for yet another dac🤦🏻♂️ ugh
I'm in Florida for the next few months and thought the same, it would be cool to visit them. They are in Melbourne, FL. I do not know if they let people into their office. I'm about an hour north of them, so I'd like to check out their place if it's possible.
We sure do let folks visit, we're in Melbourne on the East Coast. We just need a few dates/times and can work in a visit. Email in and we'll schedule you in. I must warn you though, I will expect you to ooooh and ahhh over my powder coating since nobody at Geshelli does -Sherri
@@sherrigeshelli7906 excellent! I'll try to set something up when I have a better idea of a good window to visit. Thank you for the response!
Clear acrylic is beautiful when NEW. AS it ages, it gets dirty inside and looks awful. This was the case with Apple products in the late 90's+ and probably why they stopped making them.
Of course, you CAN open things up and try to clean, but it's mixed at best.
I love it too, but I know what it's gonna look like down the road...
talk about Debby downer. I'll switch it out for a wooden case or an aluminum one later
@@cheapaudioman Not a downer at all. Reality. I have been in love with audio gear since the 70's, but sadly I'm also OCD and that stuff is something I have to consider. Hey, keep one running for a couple years and tell me if I'm wrong...I'll wait!
I said I love the look too, but I won't when it starts to cloud up down the road - and well before I would want to replace it.
@@cheapaudioman Or maybe replace over time with tempered glass? At least the top.
Ach, just paint it a nice Magnolia to go with the walls.
I just got off the phone with them! Amazing customer support!
Maybe they can add an HDMI arc input before they release the final model.
It might sound terrific, but without display, volume control or remote at >$1200, the price puts it on par with the discontinued Schiit Gungnir.
A sonic comparison to the j2s 4499 and 4493 with sparkos would be nice
8:20 While I am on the fence about the AKM J2 with the 4499 chips, I am hesitant because of the cost. When I saw the Dayzee, I kind of figured it would break the $1k mark. So it is out of the question for me. One thing I am curious is that, how much, in terms of a percentage does the Dayzee sound better than J2-AKM4499? For twice the price it better be at least 25% to 30% better. But, I seriously doubt that. 14:45 You can't be serious right? I don't know of anyone that would say a $6000 sound system is budget. That, for me, would be top tier, anything above that is just feeding into the trolls and the Law of Diminishing returns. It amazes me when I hear that some people would spend that amount for a set of speakers or any single component. Why? You really want to drive yourself bankrupt in the pursuit of perfect audio...a goal that can never be achieved? I put my hands up in the air. You want mortgage your home on a sound system, that is up to you, but I would say your absolutely, certifiable and should be carted off to Bellevue. @Randy The review was great and I listened to the end because I do feel the Geshelli is the real deal and not a troll company. But even so, as I said, you get to the point of diminishing returns. I think the most I ever spent on an entire sound system was $1800, and while I would go a bit more, or even take it to $5k, that it the absolute max. Now as you probably will know what I am going to say next and that is to address the elephant in the room. Over $1k DACs and over $5k sound systems really shouldn't be on the topic of discussion for cheap, AFFORDABLE, hi-fi equipment. If it was the latter, I would able to afford it. I and about 80% of the people here that watch your videos will not be able to afford the Dayzee. Again, please...put the expensive stuff in another channel.
For someone who hasn't heard high end equipment you have very strong opinions on it , a devoted asr member
I just ordered my DAYZEE today! Can't wait!
A future "improvement" maybe woul be the use of two Usb-C port for connections and attach a power supply.
At that point could be used even a power bank to drive it.
When the energy required to drive certain component is sufficient limited, it is such for Dac (but even for power, at least for earphone and headphone) the possibilities to have a complete system that is able to work off the grid would be nice, instead of thinking only at solution such as dongle, where the target is over their portability more than the rest.
Plus no more necessity to use propertary PSU for each product.
Nice job on explaining how to pipe signal through the components. Everything has a DAC in it, so I have been hesitant to buy first and ask questions later. “Transport” is an excellent word. I’m old enough to think “tuner” but digital. Except now, the incoming signal is often the best sampling rate available, whereas in the old days inbound FM was relegated to an afterthought. …Y’know, wouldn’t it be fun if they’d send the unmixed tracks and let me mix it for MY room with AI? 🤔 Cheers!
I love Geshelli Labs. I dream that someday I have the resources and opportunity to purchase a stack including amp/preamp.
Or...maybe... that's what the Dayzee is!?!
This DAC looks tremendous, but I only have a CDTransport and streamer that I’d need to connect. The remaining inputs seem almost overkill for me. How many sources do most people use regularly?
Currently, I’m leaning towards the J2 but really prefer the input selector on the Dayzee.
on my desk 2, in my home theater 3.
Can’t wait for you to get your own Cheapaudioman coffee machine! 😬👍👍
The AKM4499 is kinda like a mini R2R in a chip 🤣😂
😂😂😂
I bought my Lintons from Crutchfield, .....da bomb.....
Great guys at Crutchfield.
I've been looking for a DAC around $1000, I was interested in the Aeries 12th but many seem to say the holo audio cyan2 is better (I've not seen anyone do a direct comparison), I really wanted to go the R2R route, I'll certainly consider Dayzee now.
You mention yours came with the "Texas Instruments Opamps that came with it".....was that the current Stock Version OPA1655?
Gold capacitors? Audionote kaisei by any chance?? Good Capacitors can make the difference between plain ok and fantastic sound.
Randy, you are a very bad man lol. After your review of the Geshelli labs AKM J2 dac, oh well over a year ago now, I ordered 1 and had it shipped to me in Belfast N.Ireland. I love it, I had not even considered upgrading or looking at any other dacs this whole time, and now, now you start waving a new betterer one under my nose??? Not cool, Now I might have to upgrade what I thought I was perfectly happy with, considering the J2 was a massive improvement over my topping d50s 🤔😂🤣😂
Are those the Emotiva towers that are super power hungry? The ones that A. Robinson just reviewed?
No, Andrew reviewed the XT2. CAM said these are the XT1. I wondered the same thing & looked it up. They look very similar, though
A really important aspect to think about this DAC, is the resell value. I think it's not affordable enough to "play" with personal taste (transparent, wood, yellow, purple) and then try to resell it expecting to get back some decent percentage. So for me and for that reason, it's a very tough sell. Hope they come with some standardized, good looking ( maybe aluminium, and display?) DAC, for when you want to sell and want something else, or you ended up not liking it in the end, or just because life happens.
Not to play devil's advocate but in my community Geshelli products hold their value better than a a more traditional looking component. I could be wrong but a quick check on eBay may give you an indication of how many are available. For me that's always a great barometer of how happy customers are with the product. Great example is KEF LS50's which are replete on the secondary market. If you ever do pull the trigger and want to sell check out my Patreon community. There is always a strong demand there. And I get it. the looks are polarizing. thanks for commenting and watching. It's great to have options and it's great to see companies taking risks. but their first products were along these lines and I love to see someone sticking to their roots.
@@cheapaudioman I don't think I'd be selling that stack anytime soon. KEEPERS...the whole lot! CONGRATS & ENJOY!
We have folks who buy pre-owned units write in and just buy a case and plates because they didn't like the one that was sold. Pretty common and something we support. Wood is the case price plus shipping.
@@sherrigeshelli7906 Great to know.
Would the Dayzee be a good match for me? I'm an older guy not knowledgeable to do with streaming.
I'm streaming from my iPad through audioquest cobalt into headphone amp now would like to step up.
Maybe try the Geshelli J2 or J2S unless you want to spend more $.
Who makes your audio rack?
Hate the clear plastic but ❤️ Geshelli
Everyone has their own aesthetic
My components are all black and as industrial as possible
My J2 is black aluminum with Smoke color face
I love Gashelli Labs. They think out of the box. I just wonder when I could purchase one of their amps in CLEAR GLASS. Any way Love what they are doing!
Perhaps you could push to make SEE THRU COMPONENTS 😅
Ran-Man, thanks for the vid. Seems like an awesome product.
Right on. What a unique piece.
I think the biggest or most well known HiFi brands were also small independent companies in the past. So it does scan for the future.
Well praise the load it comes in other cases cuz that see thru is ugly as sin! Remember those old phones? Wish I could forget..
SOO happy for ya =) That's so great.. AKM for the win.
Are they AN caps?
Here in the UK we have a store called Crotchfield. Very different product range and demographic, though.
PS. No I2S??? I'm shocked.
I have so much noise in my apartment's AC that a 12V DC for a DAC would be awesome. I could probably figure out a way to run it off a motorcycle battery, ...maybe.
This DAC compared to the much hyped Denifips Aries? Who’s one do you think would be better?
Ok. I just watched the end of the video.
Denefrips is far better , great power supply and i2s connector