This review page is supported in part by the sponsors whose ad banners are displayed below |
 |
 |
|
 |
On John’s recommendation I experimented with ditching the USB cable altogether in favor of a type A/B adaptor for a more direct connection. Amazon has a wide variety of such adaptors as would any local computer shop. It took a bit of fiddling to obtain a secure connection due to the layout of the JKDAC32’s back panel. Initially I was surprised by just how more lit up and transparent playback was by going USB direct. Someone had removed a blanket from my speakers. But over time I became increasingly aware of an overly analytical and etched quality. In the end it was just too fatiguing. Thus back went the Cardas Clear Serial Buss cable. Still the adaptor is worth trying. Your results may differ. Many of Kenny’s customers report positive results. |
|
|
 |
Music playback was more similar than different when I compared the Calyx 24/192 DAC to the JKDAC32. There were noticeable differences that might sway you one way or the other but they both excelled at getting the timing and flow plus the meaning and intent of the music right. The Calyx 24/192 produced greater richness of tone and a smoother slightly more relaxed sound. The JKDAC32 seemed to possess a lower noise floor which was already exceptional with the Calyx. The 32 was strikingly quiet and therefore a little more nuanced. The JKDAC32 also injected a bit more caffeine and excitement with a greater emphasis on clarity, speed and transient fidelity. If aspects like soundstaging top your list, the Calyx came across as bigger, wider and more upfront. The JKDAC32 broadcast a tad smaller but deeper with a slightly more distant perspective.
|
|
|
Compared to my considerably more expensive Audiomat Tempo 2.6 DAC—via the JKSPDIF to add USB— the JKDAC32 was less colorful and dramatic. So was the Calyx. On climatic peaks with large-scale orchestral and choral music such as Ivan Fischer’s Mahler 2 [Channel Classics 24/88.2 WAV] I could hear just a trace of strain through the JKDAC32. The Audiomat/JKSPDIF combo consistently kept its composure regardless of the music. Beats possessed a bit more texture and shape. Excitement and immediacy were a tick superior too. Having said that, the Calyx and JKDAC32 came real close, in fact closer than their price differentials would have suggested.
|
|
|
 |
In my opinion advances in digital playback far outstrip that of any other audio category over the last few years. The entry-level price for great-sounding digital has never been lower. I would sooner spend $5,000-$6,000 on an amp or pair of speakers than a digital front-end. Things are changing too rapidly on the digital front to warrant dropping large coin. Case in point, just as I was proofing this article I took delivery of a pair of gorgeous—hey they’re Italian!—ATD Capriccio Continuo Admonitor 311 speakers with those incredibly transparent hi-tech foam/nano-graphite/titanium drivers. That aforementioned Liszt recording was even more stunning. I’ll have more to say about these intriguing speakers. For now the €500 JKDAC32 did not sound out of place in the company of considerably more expensive speakers, amplification and ancillaries.
|
|
|
|
|
In conclusion the JKDAC32 offers fine value for well below $1,000 and compares well against DACs several times its price. It continues to amaze me just how good computer-based music has become. You do not need to spend a fortune to realize it in your home. As for overpriced twitchy CD players? Stick a fork in their collective asses and turn ‘em over. They’re done.
|
|
Quality of packing: Plain but functional.
Reusability of packing: Several times.
Quality of owner's manual: Good. All pertinent info is there along with several tips for best sound.
Condition of component received: Flawless.
Completeness of delivery: Perfect.
Website comments: Decent info and pictures.
Human interactions: Professional and friendly.
Warranty: One year.
Pricing: Excellent value.
Final comments & suggestions: None.
|
 |
 |
|
 |
