Short answer: both are discontinued, so this only matters if you are buying used. Used, the JDS Labs Element III is the better pick: it ranks #22 of 53 DAC and headphone amp combos by measured performance (rated 4.5/5), against #31 (rated 4.2/5) for the JDS Labs Element II. If you want one new, the JDS Labs Element IV replaces the JDS Labs Element III and is rated 4.8/5 at $549.
Why pick the JDS Labs Element II: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 106 dB, so noise and distortion stay well below audibility in normal listening. The tradeoff: Discontinued and replaced by the JDS Labs Element III.
Why pick the JDS Labs Element III: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 112 dB, so noise and distortion stay well below audibility in normal listening. Watch for: Discontinued and replaced by the JDS Labs Element IV.
Buy the JDS Labs Element III only if you find one used in good condition; both are discontinued, and it is the better rated of the two. For a new speaker, buy the JDS Labs Element IV, which replaces the JDS Labs Element III.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Headphone Amps and DACs rankings.
Specifications Side By Side
| JDS Labs Element II | JDS Labs Element III | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Ranked | #31 of 53 in DAC and Headphone Amp Combos | #22 of 53 in DAC and Headphone Amp Combos |
| Device Type | DAC and headphone amp | DAC and headphone amp |
| SINAD | 106 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) | 112 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Output Power (32 ohms) | 1,300 mW | 1,300 mW |
| Headphone Outputs | 6.35 mm | 6.35 mm |
| Balanced Output | No | No |
| Inputs | USB, RCA | USB, optical |
| Outputs | RCA | RCA |
| DAC Chip | AK4493EQ | ES9018K2M |
| Volume Control | Analog potentiometer (Alps) | Digital encoder |
| Dimensions | 5.8” x 1.6” x 5.8” (147 x 41 x 147 mm) | 5.8” x 1.6” x 5.8” (147 x 41 x 147 mm) |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs (510 g) | - |
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Prices on this page were last checked October 12, 2026 at 4:13 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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The Two Amps and DACs In Full
JDS Labs Element II Discontinued eBay
Newer model: the JDS Labs Element IV, ranked higher, rated 4.8/5. See every JDS Labs Element I generation.
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 106 dB, so noise and distortion stay well below audibility in normal listening. A rated 1,300 mW into 32 ohms is enough for most headphones. It offers USB, RCA inputs.
Cons: Discontinued and replaced by the JDS Labs Element III. There is no balanced headphone output.
Full JDS Labs Element II review and specifications →
| Released | 2019 (7 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | AK4493EQ |
| Device Type | DAC and headphone amp |
| Dimensions | 5.8” x 1.6” x 5.8” (147 x 41 x 147 mm) |
| Headphone Outputs | 6.35 mm |
| Inputs | USB, RCA |
| Output Power (32 ohms) | 1,300 mW |
| Outputs | RCA |
| SINAD | 106 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Analog potentiometer (Alps) |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs (510 g) |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
JDS Labs Element III Discontinued eBay
Newer model: the JDS Labs Element IV, ranked higher, rated 4.8/5.
Older model: the JDS Labs Element II (ranked lower, rated 4.2/5). See every JDS Labs Element I generation.
Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 112 dB, so noise and distortion stay well below audibility in normal listening. A rated 1,300 mW into 32 ohms is enough for most headphones. It offers USB, optical inputs.
Cons: Discontinued and replaced by the JDS Labs Element IV. There is no balanced headphone output.
Full JDS Labs Element III review and specifications →
| Released | 2022 (4 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Balanced Output | No |
| DAC Chip | ES9018K2M |
| Device Type | DAC and headphone amp |
| Dimensions | 5.8” x 1.6” x 5.8” (147 x 41 x 147 mm) |
| Headphone Outputs | 6.35 mm |
| Inputs | USB, optical |
| Output Power (32 ohms) | 1,300 mW |
| Outputs | RCA |
| SINAD | 112 dB (measured by Audio Science Review) |
| Volume Control | Digital encoder |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons