JCAT Optimo Nano – review

[Gavin1977]

 

For product details and ordering please visit JCAT: https://jcat.eu/product/optimo-nano/

Background

Like many others here on Audiophilestyle I have followed the experiments and subsequent wisdom that has been freely shared on the forums with great interest.  It’s been a real eye opener for me.  My first attempt at a DIY music server back in 2016 turned out to be more of a basic media server to be honest.  I used:

 

1. A cheap gigabyte motherboard (I thought that “DAC-UP” would guarantee supreme audio!).
2. A low power Intel processor.
3. Generic RAM
4. Pico PSU and external laptop power brick.

 

It sure looked the part, in its fancy Streacom case, but I had lost everything I loved from my beloved CD transport.  So, my first attempt at moving over to digital audio was an absolute sonic failure.

5 years on and the solution to the lifeless hazy digital sound that I was presented with can now be explained and overcome.  One of the greatest experiments I undertook was bringing my gaming PC down into the living room.  Now it was never meant for permanent residence, but when you hear what high end CPUs (e.g. Intel K series) and the right software (which was Audiolinux at the time) are capable of then there is no turning back.  ‘Wow’ I thought to myself, the advice on the forums is right!  The dynamics where back.  

Why did my Gaming PC sound so good?  You learn that it’s a multitude of factors, the lower latency and performance of gaming class CPUs, the improved layout and lower impedance of traces on the gaming motherboard, the improved voltage regulation on the motherboards VRM.  Very quickly you start to understand the recipe that works.

Several iterations later and you reach the point where you start to consider adding dedicated hardware… you question yourself if €800 on a JCAT PCIe card for improved USB output is worth it.  You read the early opinions on the forums, which are glowing, but then you hesitate because you are worried that you might not achieve the same results.  Luckily I have found that the sonic impressions posted here on every component and tweak I have tried has been reliable – it’s great that everyone on Audiophilestyle seems to have golden ears!

JCAT Optimo Nano

So, I followed the glowing reviews and purchased a JCAT USB XE and despite my initial doubts it did make a very noteworthy improvement to sound quality.  But then I had the dilemma of how to power it.  The JCAT USB XE card in isolation is a good jump up in performance because even if you use a standard ATX/SFX power supply the card still filters this power through LT3045 linear regulators and filters (reducing the noise floor).  But, I knew that isolating the USB XE card from the other demands that are placed on my music server’s power supply would bring further improvement.  I had previously owned a Paul Hynes SR5 that I used to power a NUC, and had also heard a Sean Jacobs DC4, so I had a reference as to what I should expect in terms of better solutions for powering the USB XE card.

My first attempt at powering the JCAT USB XE was using a 5v MCRU power supply, not bad by any means, but certainly not the improvement I was looking for.
Next up was a Teddy Pardo 5v 3A linear power supply – the same one that I used in my daisy chaining experiment with the JCAT USB XE and a Chord Qutest. Now that sounded good.

However I lusted after a one box solution without the need for extraneous power supplies.  I did purchase an Ian Canada Ultra Capacitor Conditioner Board, but ultra-capacitors did not seem to impart the same sonic benefit as regular high grade audiophile capacitors.

So when the JCAT Nano was announced I was quick to order as it matched my aims.

Review system and installation of the JCAT Optimo Nano

I have been running a Asus ROG Maximus XI Apex z390, Intel 8086k, APacer Ram, Intel Optane M2 SSD and HDPlex 800DC-DC with their 200watt switched mode power supply for a while.  Network is a completely unmodified Buffalo BS-GS2016 switch running optical to a Solarflare card.  I run Windows 10 LTSC (Taiko Audio use this as well) which despite lacking any form of optimisation or tweaks on my part sounds remarkably good – it imparts good body to the sound compared to linux based solutions.  I have directly compared my DIY music server to a ‘tricked out’ Innuos Zenith and there was not much in it in terms of sonic performance.  Happy Days.
 

 

Surgery on my DIY music server was pretty straight forward, even though it is a little crowded, I decided to place the JCAT Optimo Nano on top of the HDPlex 200w power supply using its 3M self-adhesive backing.

 

JCAT Optimo Nano installed.

 

JCAT provides the molex cable that takes 5v out from the Nano to your JCAT PCIe card/SSD.  But they do not include a fancy power input cable.  There is a good reason for this – every make/brand of power supply has a slightly different pinout, so if you are using modular cables you have to use the manufacturer supplied one – otherwise you might accidentally create an electrical short!  Alternatively you can very careful crimp your own, or do as I did if you want a good quality cable and purchase a Ghent audio Molex-6P to LP4 Gotham OFC Power Cable using JSSG360 shielding which is designed specifically for the HDPlex 800w DC-DC (not shown in the above photo!).  The Ghent audio cable made life really easy.

Once this is done, make sure all of the power connections are secure, close the lid, remember(!) not to re-connect the now outmoded external power supply and boot up!  Easy.

Sound

Reviewing power supplies can involve a lot of carefully powering down and switching of connections, but helpfully everything else stays constant, unlike evaluating speakers or amplifiers there is no need for level matching here!  Thus a subjective impression can be gained without much fuss.

In a nutshell here are my findings for the JCAT Optimo Nano:

 

• The €375 asking price is absolutely warranted, despite its small size the JCAT Nano performs as well, if not better, than an external linear power supply of the same retail price.
• The JCAT Nano provided an increase in resolution compared to my Teddy Pardo, whilst provided the same soundstage height and width.  The increase in resolution was also not at the expense of body and warmth, which I find impressive.  The Teddy Pardo with its super regulators sounds dryer and leaner in its presentation.
• The Teddy Pardo tries to pull apart the images within the soundstage, this is what makes it sound leaner but somewhat more open. Yet, image localisation with the Nano seems to be better – you get clearly defined outlines and rock solid imaging.
• The Nano has a slightly more front row (forward) presentation with both vocals and music existing on a similar depth plane, but it is not significantly removed from the performance of the Teddy Pardo.
• Bass response and frequency extension feel subjectively the same, but the JCAT Nano has more subjective weight in how it delivers music.
• I don’t know if it could be differences in transient response, power supply impedance or power reserves, but I find that the more powerful presentation that the Nano delivers music more intelligible / easier to follow.

 

I would also like to give you another example to aid your understanding of how the JCAT Optimo Nano sounds. If the Teddy Pardo sounds like a First Watt flea powered amplifier, then the JCAT Nano sounds like the grunt you get from a large Class A muscle amp… it is more easily able to fully flesh out the performance.  Another parallel would be what I experienced moving from a low power CPU to a gaming CPU.  If you have experienced either of these scenarios then you will have a good understanding of what the JCAT Optimo Nano brings to the table.

 

Conclusion 

The Nano has been specifically designed to work with JCAT products, there is therefore a synergy there just like if you purchase a pre-amp and matching amplifier from the same supplier.  There should be no doubt that it performs well, equalling the performance of similarly priced external linear power supplies, but with a guaranteed synergy.  What is also impressive is that it achieves this level of performance without its own toroidal transformer, instead sipping power from your music server’s power supply which already has a number of demands placed upon it.

In my opinion, the JCAT Optimo Nano provides me with the better rendition of the recording.  It has a smoothness to its delivery, just like a car with the right sized engine, and every sonic note is fully formed and complete.

It will be very interesting to see if the INITIO 3 or OPTIMO 3 DUO would sway me to move away from my ideal of the clutter free one box solution I have always wanted.  The technical specifications suggest yes!
 

[Marcin_gps]

Gavin, thank you for the review! 🙏

 

How many hours do you have on it already?

 

Regards, 

Marcin

[Gavin1977]

Probably about 100hrs, working hard at the moment so listening time is limited 🙁.  It’s still giving consistent performance.

 

I’ve also just changed amps to the Pass XA25 which casts a wide and deep soundstage with my music server.  Best yet.

[Gavin1977]

Great review by Thomas & Stereo on the Initio 3… whilst I haven’t heard it yet the qualities I experienced of ‘a denser sound’ hold true with the Nano as well.

 

 

[Elberoth]

I have recently built two servers using Optimo Nano super regulator - one based on Jcat XE USB card and a second one based on Pink Faun Ultra OCXO. 

 

In both cases the results were SIMPLY STUNNING.

 

Not only it betters fancy external linear PSUs, but also allows for a simpler system, with one less box and associated cabling to worry about.  

[Gavin1977]

27 minutes ago, Elberoth said:

I have recently built two servers using Optimo Nano super regulator - one based on Jcat XE USB card and a second one based on Pink Faun Ultra OCXO. 

 

In both cases the results were SIMPLY STUNNING.

 

Not only it betters fancy external linear PSUs, but also allows for a simpler system, with one less box and associated cabling to worry about.  

Glad you found similar to me... I think the nano does better than many external linear supplies, perhaps not the upper echelon ones, but it does very well and easily resulted in me selling my Teddy Pardo.

[jean-michel6]

Very interesting !  Do you think this small board will better à Sean Jacobs DC 3 psu ? 
 

This is what I use now to power my JCAT lan card .

[Gavin1977]

25 minutes ago, jean-michel6 said:

Very interesting !  Do you think this small board will better à Sean Jacobs DC 3 psu ? 
 

This is what I use now to power my JCAT lan card .

Everything scales with better power, the only way to know is to try.

[Marcin_gps]

4 hours ago, jean-michel6 said:

Very interesting !  Do you think this small board will better à Sean Jacobs DC 3 psu ? 
 

This is what I use now to power my JCAT lan card .

 

A customer who has both SJ DC3, DC4 just added nano to the mix. He should post his findings soon on the forum.

 

Regards,

Marcin 

[di-fi]

Great, look forward to that. What about the Nano compared to the Initio 3? Or maybe JCAT can put the Nano sound qualities in writing here? 

 

As a reference, if that can help, Jay @ Audiobacon described the Initio 3, compared to Optimo. Of course YMMV depending AC-cables or DC-cables or dc-atx converter (in case of JCAT Nano)

 

But if this person is going to publish a review soon I would love to hear when compared to or synergy with other psu's. look forward to it. There is not much to find about the Nano yet.

 

 

https://audiobacon.net/2021/08/06/the-worlds-best-audiophile-linear-power-supplies/15/

Comparisons

vs. JCAT Optimo 3 Duo

• The Initio 3 is not as dark or rich as the Optimo
• Initio 3 is more laid back and leaner than the Optimo
• Optimo has more depth and is much more dynamic
• Optimo has more top-end energy. Initio is more mellow.

vs. HDPLEX 300W

• Initio 3 has more bass
• Initio 3 has more body and is smoother
• HDPLEX has more rawness and lower level textures

 

[Gavin1977]

I have owned a HDPlex 500w and I can tell you that the JCAT Optimo Nano was a decent improvement over the HDPlex for powering my USB XE.

[di-fi]

On 4/25/2022 at 6:06 AM, Elberoth said:

I have recently built two servers using Optimo Nano super regulator - one based on Jcat XE USB card and a second one based on Pink Faun Ultra OCXO. 

 

In both cases the results were SIMPLY STUNNING.

 

Not only it betters fancy external linear PSUs, but also allows for a simpler system, with one less box and associated cabling to worry about.  

Hi ,

To better understand, you used the Optimo nano directly connected to a Teradack ATX or is there an ATX-DC converter in between?

[di-fi]

20 minutes ago, Gavin1977 said:

I have owned a HDPlex 500w and I can tell you that the JCAT Optimo Nano was a decent improvement over the HDPlex for powering my USB XE.

ok, meaning comparable to HDplex 500 but a little better I understand, but not night and day. Like the other user who had a simply stunning experience. I am just trying to interpret both your experiences in sound quality improvement, not always easy ;-)

[Elberoth]

1 hour ago, di-fi said:

To better understand, you used the Optimo nano directly connected to a Teradack ATX or is there an ATX-DC converter in between?

 

Both servers that I have recently built had DC-ATX DC/DC converters. 

 

My own server with Teradak full linear ATX psu uses Mojo Audio super regulator (based on Belleson regulator) - it works the same way as Jcat Optimo Nano (Molex in to Molex Out). 

 

I had the Mojo Audio super regulator long before Jcat Nano became available - and yes, the improvement over Teradak ATX PSU on the Molex rail was substantial. 

 

PS. Updated my signature.

[di-fi]

Thanks Elberoth,

You did compare your server to the two other recent ones (JCAT EX & PF Ultra OCXO) you built? And both with Nano were stunning in comparison. 

 

You did not try the Nano in your server by any chance?

 

I am a more visual person, so connection as in image shown?

https://www.mojo-audio.com/internal-regulator-modules/

[Elberoth]

Yes, this is how both of those superregulators (Jcat Nano and MojoAudio) work. They source the power from the internal Molex connector and output regulated voltage to another Molex connector. If you have the USB card connected with the internal power via Molex, you just slip those in.

 

PinkFaun Ultra OCXO USB card sounds better in my system (on both Lampizator Pacific and Topping D90) than Jcat XE USB - as it should at 2x the price. 

 

I bought the Ultra OCXO after trying it in my system, but two of my friends for whom I recently built custom servers decided the Jcat XE USB is "great enough". I guess it boils down to how much you are prepared to spend. 

 

I did not have a chance to compare the MojoAudio superregulator to Jcat Nano superregulator just yet - but looking at specs of the Belleson regulator MojoAudio is based on vs the LT3045 Jcat Nano is based on, I think the Jcat Nano has everything to sound even better. I have another Jcat Nano on order so will try that next.

[di-fi]

Thanks Elberoth, very clear. For my new server I am not able to obtain a HDPlex400 (is/are there any equivalent?) and I was going to feed two cards (Jcat Femto lan & Ered-dock) direct with a 5V lps.

 

A few days ago I read Gavin1977 (thanks also!) and you about the Jcat Optimo Nano, and here we are. This seems very promising now I know also about the Mojo Internal Regulator (is/are there any more equivalent?).

 

I just need to find the proper DC-ATX DC/DC converter, which these days can be quite a challenge. No rush (would not be possible anyway) so I look forward to read about your experience with the Jcat Optimo Nano in the near future to furher make up my mind. Good luck.

[Elberoth]

I have recently put together a server using an ancient CAPS v2 MoBo (Intel 2800) - the thing is powered by a quality Seasonic 12V / 65W brick and has just two extra components:

 

- Jcat Nano super regulator  

- Jcat XE USB card 

 

The thing sounds just spectacular with Roon Core installed (the owner is using it as a Roon end point only, with Roon Core installed on a NUC i7) - to the point I'm starting questioning the added value of so called "audiophile" servers. 

[Cazzesman]

I currently run a Keces P8 which is 19v 8amp.   The P8 drives my CAPS (same Intel 2800 MoBo).    It has a secondary USB output of 5V @ 1amp  that I use to drive the Jcat XE card.    

 

If I was to purchase the Nano, what is the best way to power it using the P8.   I get that the Molex would slot into the rear of the XE and could also drive one of my 2 SSD's (One SSD has the OS and Jriver etc and the other SSD is a 2tb that has the music files)

 

I presume I could expect a boost in SQ from the Nano driving the XE rather than to Keces USB 5v/1amp output.

 

Regards Cazzesman

 

 

[Gavin1977]

19 hours ago, Elberoth said:

I have recently put together a server using an ancient CAPS v2 MoBo (Intel 2800) - the thing is powered by a quality Seasonic 12V / 65W brick and has just two extra components:

 

- Jcat Nano super regulator  

- Jcat XE USB card 

 

The thing sounds just spectacular with Roon Core installed (the owner is using it as a Roon end point only, with Roon Core installed on a NUC i7) - to the point I'm starting questioning the added value of so called "audiophile" servers. 

I heard my custom music server, using JCAT USB XE against Innuos Zenith and it was of a similar level of performance.  Since then I also like to introduce a DDC, of which Singxer SU-6 is my favourite.  Like you I struggle to see what an "audiophile' server would give me, although I find the Grimm MU-1 an interesting proposal.

[Gavin1977]

1 hour ago, Cazzesman said:

I currently run a Keces P8 which is 19v 8amp.   The P8 drives my CAPS (same Intel 2800 MoBo).    It has a secondary USB output of 5V @ 1amp  that I use to drive the Jcat XE card.    

 

If I was to purchase the Nano, what is the best way to power it using the P8.   I get that the Molex would slot into the rear of the XE and could also drive one of my 2 SSD's (One SSD has the OS and Jriver etc and the other SSD is a 2tb that has the music files)

 

I presume I could expect a boost in SQ from the Nano driving the XE rather than to Keces USB 5v/1amp output.

 

Regards Cazzesman

Only way to know is to test - but there are well known benefits of dual regulation, which adding the nano would give you.

 

However if the P8 can only provide 1amp of current then its a bit weak to be putting in a further conversion stage.  JCAT recommend 2A being delivered.

[Cazzesman]

Hi Gavin,

 

I think you missed my question.    How do you power the Nano using the Keces P8 with the Intel 2800 motherboard?   Does the Keces power the DC  of the MoBo and then there is Molex or similar on the Mobo somewhere that would power the Nano, that then powers the XE (via rear molex) and SSD?     

 

Currently I have a cable that goes from the Keces USB (5V/1Amp) output that powers the XE via the 2.1/5.5 mm external jack.

 

Regards Cazzesman

 

 

[di-fi]

Just above, take a look at Gavin1977 server, the second picture, it seems to show a connection as you describe. From hdplex800 to Nano to Jcat. 

[di-fi]

22 hours ago, Elberoth said:

I have recently put together a server using an ancient CAPS v2 MoBo (Intel 2800) - the thing is powered by a quality Seasonic 12V / 65W brick and has just two extra components:

 

- Jcat Nano super regulator  

- Jcat XE USB card 

 

The thing sounds just spectacular with Roon Core installed (the owner is using it as a Roon end point only, with Roon Core installed on a NUC i7) - to the point I'm starting questioning the added value of so called "audiophile" servers. 

Probably not a coincidence (thanks to Chris!) but I also have an Intel DN2800MT mobo in storage somewhere, my first CAPS server.

But it has no pcie slot for the Jcat card? How is it connected?

Did you use any ‘better’ SODIMM, like Apacer?

Is the Seasonic a deliberate choice? We are on AudiophileStyle right ;-) ? You can still add an LPS of your choice, or did you try already?

 

I absolutely should try what you built. But then, with Mojo or with Nano regulator at twice the price? Thanks for sharing!

[Gavin1977]

1 hour ago, Cazzesman said:

Hi Gavin,

 

I think you missed my question.    How do you power the Nano using the Keces P8 with the Intel 2800 motherboard?   Does the Keces power the DC  of the MoBo and then there is Molex or similar on the Mobo somewhere that would power the Nano, that then powers the XE (via rear molex) and SSD?     

 

Currently I have a cable that goes from the Keces USB (5V/1Amp) output that powers the XE via the 2.1/5.5 mm external jack.

 

Regards Cazzesman

 

 

DC Jack to Molex adapter - you might need to fabricate yourself, but Ghent audio would probably do a good job (they come recommended!).