Why Choose the iFi Audio GO link Max?

The GO link Max is designed to deliver studio-quality audio in a device small enough to fit in your pocket. Perfect for music lovers on the go, it brings professional-grade sound to everyday listening. Here’s why it stands out:

1. 1.Enhanced Sound Quality
   • Dual ESS Sabre DAC Chips: Provides a balanced audio circuit for crystal-clear sound.
   • Dynamic Range Enhancement (DRE): Expands the volume range for richer dynamics in every track.
   • THD Compensation: Minimizes harmonic distortion for pure, uninterrupted listening.
2. 2.Powerful and Versatile
   • Up to 241mW Output: Drives even demanding headphones with ease.
   • Balanced and Single-Ended Outputs: Features a 4.4mm balanced connection and 3.5mm single-ended jack for compatibility with various headphones.
3. 3.Hi-Res Audio Support
   • Handles formats up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256, ensuring every detail of your favorite music is preserved.
4. 4.Premium Build for Portability
   • Silver-Plated, Twisted-Pair Copper Cable: Reduces interference for a clean signal.
   • Gold-Plated USB-C Connector: Durable and reliable for long-term use.
   • Flexible cable design minimizes stress on USB ports, perfect for use on the go.

Who Is the GO Link Max For?

The GO Link Max is for anyone who wants to experience high-fidelity audio without being tied down by bulky equipment. Whether you’re an audiophile building the ultimate portable setup or a casual listener upgrading your daily commute, this device transforms the way you experience sound.

Key Features at a Glance

• Hi-Res Audio: Supports PCM 384kHz and DSD256 for uncompromising quality.
• Power: Delivers up to 241mW, nearly 5x a MacBook Pro’s output! It can drive demanding headphones with ease.
• High Compatibility: Works with USB-C devices and supports high-end headphones via balanced and single-ended outputs.
• Cutting-Edge Technology: Dynamic Range Enhancement and THD Compensation create an immersive, distortion-free experience.

Transform Your Listening Experience

Compact, stylish, and packed with advanced technology, the iFi Audio GO link Max is the ultimate tool for anyone who demands exceptional sound. It’s a perfect gift for audiophiles or a treat for yourself to elevate your audio setup for both at home and on the move.

Tech Specs:

• Input: USB-C
• Hi-Res Audio Support: PCM 384kHz; DSD256 (11.3MHz)
• DAC: Dual Bit-Perfect DSD & DXD DAC by ESS
• Headphone Outputs: Balanced: 4.4mm / S-Balanced: 3.5mm
• Output Power: Balanced (4.4mm) ?241mW at 32?; ?4V at 300? / S-Balanced (3.5mm) ?100mW at 32?; ?2V at 300?
• Output Impedance: Balanced (4.4mm) <0.35? / S-Balanced (3.5mm): <0.7?
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): Balanced 130dB(A) at 600? (20Hz-20kHz) / S-Balanced: 125dB(A) at 600? (20Hz-20kHz)
• Dynamic Range (DNR): Balanced 130dB(A) at 600? (20Hz-20kHz) / S-Balanced: 125dB(A) at 600? (20Hz-20kHz)
• Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N): Balanced ?0.0016% at 2.4V (32?, 20Hz-20kHz) / S-Balanced: ?0.0015% at 1.27V (32?, 20Hz-20kHz)
• Frequency Response: 10Hz-80kHz (-3dB)
• Power Consumption: No Signal ~0.6W / Max Signal: ~3.2W
• Dimensions: 150mm (+10/-5) x 15mm x 10mm 5.9″ (+0.4/-0.2) x 0.6″ x 0.4″)
• Net Weight: 14.5g (0.51 oz)

Interested in iFi Audio? Read more news and reviews here!

The post The GO Link Max: Redefining Portable Audio appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

About iFI Audio & caterting to High-octane audio that takes your breath away.

iFI oversee the design, development and manufacturing of more than 60 products from their headquarters in Southport, UK. To uphold high-quality iFi Audio sources parts for its products from across the globe, including Germany, USA and Japan. Their focus is on creating products that improve sound quality and eradicate noise, distortion and hiss from the source device. In turn this allows you to hear as close as possible the studio-quality audio your favourite artists created.

This dedication to delivering the cleanest, most noise-free signal possible has resulted in iFi Audio also creating a range of power conditioners and isolators that ensure all mains and USB noise is blocked from contaminating the signal. On top of this they have developed a reange of high quality cables to carry those very signals.

iFi loves innovation and catering their products to up and coming technology

Over the last 11 years of research & development, iFi Audio has managed to put out an outstanding line-up of devices that have won many awards for their superior performance. Some of their most successful products include the Hip DAC 2, GO Bar, Zen DAC V2, iSilencer+, GO Blu, Zen Blue V2, the iFi XDSD Gryphon & the GO Link, to name but a few.

iFi loves innovation and catering their products up and coming technology, it does position itself as a “tech” company after all. Every iFi DAC and Amp features some of the best technologies around today. Burr-Brown DAC Chips, Custom Op-Amps and exceptional battery life. Many products even feature iFi’s cutting-edge technologies like 3D+ and XBass and the ability to drive xMEMs drivers.

Portable Audio

If you the type of person who enjoys your music on the go, then iFi has you covered. They are determined to deliver every symbal crash and a each pluck of a string straight into your ears. Their GO range of products has taken 2023 by storm and let’s not forget how successful and popular their Hip-dac2 is and how much new tech they have managed to pack into their iDSD Diablo X.

Home Audio

Another success story is iFi Audios home audio range and in particular the the ZEN series of DAC’s/Amps/Steamers/pre-amps. The most successful USB D/A converter is without a doubt the ZEN DAC V2, which is also available in a signature version (ZEN DAC Signature V2) and a “stripped down” version, the ZEN DAC Air. There is also the ZEN CAN headphone amplifier which is proudly advertised as a fully balanced amp that provides nitro for your headphones. Customers, reviewers and the awards received could not agree more.

Our Top 5 iFi Audio Product Picks

1. iFi Audio ZEN CAN Signature – £299.00

The ZEN CAN Signature is an upgraded version of the original, award-winning ZEN CAN headphone amplifier. Design for IEMs and headphones with audiophile-grade components for superior sound. The ZEN CAN Signature offers more than just power; it also delivers warm and exceptional sound quality. This is thanks to its Class A discrete balanced circuitry, inherited from the flagship Pro iCAN headphone amplifier.

2. iFi Audio GO link – £59.00

GO link from iFi audio – the headphone dongle linking you with your music. Its purpose is twofold. First, to enable corded headphones and earphones to connect to digital devices that don’t have a 3.5mm headphone output. Second, even if a device does have a headphone socket, the GO link delivers a big sonic upgrade. This is because its sophisticated DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) and headphone amp circuitry is superior to the audio tech contained within mobile devices and computers.

3. iSilencer+ & iDefender+ – £59.00

Have a buzz problem from your sources USB? Get the iDefender+. Getting pops, clicks, delays? Fear no more! The iSilencer+ whisks those noises away.

4. Zen DAC V2 – £199.00

Compact enough to use as a USB DAC/amp on your work desk and stylish enough to use at home with your favourite active speakers or amp, it delivers a level of specification and performance that punches above its super-affordable price tag.

5. iFi Audio NEO Stream – £1,299.00

iFi NEO Stream is built to deliver optimal versatility and sonic performance. It combines the latest version of our network streaming engine with our award-winning DAC stage to deliver a level of audio previously unattainable without spending much more than its price tag. Just add your choice of amp and speakers.

Lastest iFi Audio Updates and News:

iFi GO blu Air: Portable Hi-Fi, Made Lighter

August 28, 2025

Say hello to the iFi GO blu Air! This pocket-sized Bluetooth DAC & headphone amp puts premium sound in the…

GO Pod Max: The Wireless Upgrade Your IEMs Deserve

June 25, 2025

Say goodbye to compromise. The iFi GO Pod Max gives your favourite in-ear monitors the freedom of true wireless, without…

Take Off with Better Sound: Meet the iFi UP Travel

May 15, 2025

The iFi UP Travel is built for those who take their sound seriously, even when they’re on the move. Whether…

Go Pod Air : Free Your IEMs

May 15, 2025

The Go Pod Air turns your favourite IEM’s into high preformance TWS earbuds without compromising on sound. Are you are…

The post Brand Story: iFi Audio appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

For those that want powerful sound from the future – Gravastar Mars Pro Speaker- from £199.99

If you are after a sci-fi designed speaker with next generation sound tech and arguably one of the Bluetooth speakers on the market, then boy, do we have a surprise for you! The GravaStar Mars Pro is created for audiophiles, who love sci-fi. They can be paired together to give epic, immersive surround sound. They also have built-in, exclusive DSP audio algorithms that give you a deep bass, accurate mids, and crisp highs. Combined with an equal-loudness contour, you get a powerful sound experience.
They are very well made, look fantastic, some models are hand painted and they sound amazing. What is not to love ?

For those that want peak performance on a modest budget – Audeze Penrose / Penrose X – £298.99

With the advent of the PS5 and Xbox X consoles, us gamers need headphones to maximise our chances of winning online (as well as a good gaming chair, naturally ). Using Audeze’s low latency wireless technology for accurate listening, presets and other customization options. As well as a built-in microphone designed by the one and only Shure. Rounding off with planer magnetic drivers for award winning sound quality makes these beauties a must have. Check out our – Full Review

For those that do not want a mic – Final E500 – £19.99

No mic! It has no mic! Perfect for those who want to game in peace and quiet. Whether on a plane or a train, or even jacked into your console contorller. The Gaming performance is one of the highlights of the E500 and was a clear focus for Final when designing them. You will not be prepared for a £19.99 pair of earphones to provide such accurate spatial feedback. In Online Battle Royales, you can hear exactly where bullets are coming from. Footsteps are pinpoint accurate and they give a very honest and detailed sound. Just remember to clean them regularly to keep them tip-top (as they go in your ears after all)

For those that want wireless and to stand out – Final Evangelion 01, 02 & 06 TWS Earphones – £199

This is something for lovers of the anime show, or for people who want to stand out at a LAN party, in their stream or the next Insomnia. Final has collaborated with Evangelion to release these TWS models based on different robot units from the hit show. With Final behind the build, sound quality is as good as you’d expect – and the design is equally impressive. Maybe you also love playing Neon Genesis so much, you just want to go that extra mile!

For those that want a clean and full output for their headphones (PS4/5) – JDS Labs Element III – £499.00

Sony is notorious for making it difficult for anyone with decent equipment to get good sound out of the PS5. Luckily JDS Labs is so customer focused that they jumped on this early and have a solution. Just make sure to buy the UAC1 fallback cable and the inbuilt software does the rest. This is a great bit of kit that can also be used with your PC. (If you want a cheaper set up or just want a DAC or an Amp, take a look at JDS Labs Atom+ Stack) – Element III Full Review

For those that want superb TWS earphones with a bottle opener – Gravastar Sirius Pro – £109

Back to sci-fi but this time with an extra twist! In fact, no twist caps needed as these earphones have an integrated bottle opener on the earphone case itself. And guess what? It works! With a dedicated Gaming mode you are easily able to pinpoint the direction of your enemy’s footsteps by harnessing the buds 5.1 virtual surround sound. They have a dedicated Movie and Music mode too, adjusting the EQ accordingly to get the most out of what you use them for. These are eye catching earbuds sent from the future and well worth a further look into.

For those that want earphones & the full experience on a budget – SoundMAGIC E11C Silver – £52.99

A Brilliant Budget Earphone that Sounds MAGIC. The E11C gives a clear and accurate presentation across the board making them not just great for gaming for everyday listening to tunes as well. The mic and controls are an added bonus that make these great for online teamplay. Just do not forget to make use of the included case as well as regular cleaning. As this ensures that these earphones last well beyond their warranty. Perfection? Not quite. But at £52 you will struggle to find a similar product worthy of your investment.

For those who want to silence the outside world & immerse themselves fully into their game – Final UX3000 – £119.00

These are a fantastic pair of headphones for the price. The inclusion of a 3.5mm audio cable allows you to use the UX3000 with your favourite games console (no ANC via this method). But via the cable, games sound atmospheric and you can easily pick out distinctive noises like footsteps and distant enemies. Thanks to the built-in microphone you can also communicate clearly with your teammates and the quality of the mic is simply superb.
The Final UX3000 also supports aptX LL, a low-latency codec, meaning gaming on a smartphone or tablet or wirelessly on your PC is also an enjoyable experience. Whack on ANC mode and you can fully immerse yourself into the game you’re playing. No loud Fan noises, no screaming kids, just you and the game on the screen in front. Not only that, they are also a brilliant device for listening to music. The UX3000 really can be recommended to anyone looking for a portable over-ear headphone. check out our Full Review.

For those that simply want the best (and to game like a streamer) – Audeze LCD-GX – £899.00

The LCD-GX looks like it was made for the professional gamer. It is wired, analog, and stereo only. But it offers probably the most accurate, detailed listening experience you can get for a gaming headset. The LCD-GX has advanced the gaming category beyond the stratosphere. The finest sound quality paired with a clear voice chat means this headphones is for the serious audiophile gamer.

For the listening experience and the immersion it provides, you simply won’t find a better gaming headset and certainly not one that looks and feels as exquisite as the LCD-GX.

Anything we have missed? Let us know what you use for Gaming in the comments below!

The post Our Top Gaming Picks to get You in the Zone appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

As some of you more tech savvy readers out there may know, when JDS Labs released their newest DACs they all came as USB Audio Class 2 DACs (UAC2) devices out of the box so they could support higher bitrates amongst other things. This did however mean they were designed for PC/Mac use mainly and consoles were not supported, however you can now change this via a simple firmware change.

The firmware change makes the DACs run as USB Audio Class 1 (UAC1) devices which means your PS4 or PS5 will now see them when connected via USB, you just have to navigate to: Settings ? Devices ? Audio Devices ? Output Device ? JDS Labs XXX DAC UAC1.

One small caveat, the PS4 and PS5 are known to limit USB Audio output volume, so this UAC1 firmware is locked to max volume as a workaround, but you can still adjust the volume at your console.

Please note this disclaimer from JDS Labs Please keep in mind that installing a UAC1 firmware disables UAC2 support and removes the ability to install firmware updates on the DAC, meaning installing UAC1 firmware is a one-way street. Any firmware built for UAC1 will be listed with a warning note.

Additional information and the UAC1 firmware can be found HERE

You can find our full range of JDS Labs products HERE

The post JDS Labs add Playstation 4 and 5 Support via a Firmware change appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Design and Functionality

The Conductor 3X Reference stands out, its aluminium chassis has rounded edges and acts as a heatsink meaning your unit will run cool too. It’s a unique design but the display on the front is clear and easy to read, the remote is easy to use and the volume knob is a good size. On the back you get digital and analogue inputs along with analogue outputs as it can be used as a pre-amp too. On the front you have a 4-pin XLR balanced output and a 6.3mm single ended output, most power comes from the balanced output as you would imagine.

The 3X Reference is a DAC/Headphone amp that works as a pre-amp too, it’s designed to be the centre of any system and fit in seamlessly. It has USB/Coax/Optical and Bluetooth digital inputs, along with balanced analogue inputs. It also has balanced outputs to use the pre-amp stage for external amplifiers, one fixed voltage and one variable voltage. On the front you also have a microphone input which gets converted by an ADC to be picked up by the PC the unit is plugged in to. The unit runs warm as it is pure class A with fully discrete components, and there are 2 gain settings along with various digital filter settings.

See our full range of Burson Audio products

Sound

The 3X Reference features a true Class A amp section for driving headphones, couple this with a DAC for each channel and you get truly stellar sound quality. The 3XR is smooth and refined backed by plenty of power to bring out impact and punch even when using hard to driver planars. The amp section has a firm hold over the headphones driver, with excellent articulation and snappy dynamics. At the same time the DAC section is well balanced and detailed allowing plenty of micro-detail to shine through.

Burson have put a lot of thought into pairing the correct DAC section with a complimentary amp section, and it really does pay off. You don’t get a perfectly neutral reference style sound, instead I would describe it as mildly warm and sweet. It pairs well with a lot of headphones, but really shines when you pair it with a good pair of planar headphones, that power on tap really does wonders with them.

The Conductor 3XR is designed to allow you to not worry about power output, and whether you are driving your headphones to their fullest, instead it allows you to focus more on the listening. It lets you sit back and enjoy, knowing that you are feeding your headphones with plenty of clean power. It really is a fun and enjoyable listen that is never fatiguing or boring.

Check out our Best DACs & Headphones Amps of 2020 Guide

The post Burson Conductor 3XR Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Design and Functionality

The Atom Amp is simple, with both RCA and 3.5mm inputs on the back, RCA outputs for use as a pre-amp and a volume knob, headphone jack and gain/input selectors on the front. The Atom DAC on the other hand has USB input and RCA output on the back, with a white ring on the front that illuminates when it is on. They look clean and simple, yet inside they have been engineered to provide a clean and clear sound.

The Atom amp has 2 gain settings (1x and 4.5x), if you are pairing it with the Atom DAC you likely won’t need more than 1x for most headphones. The volume know turns the amp on, and there is a white ring around it to indicate the power is on. The Atom DAC on the other hand does not have a power switch, instead JDS Labs have shipped an inline switch you attach to the power supply cable, simple yet efficient. Turn them on, set up the input and hit play, it couldn’t be much simpler. If you want a neat and clean desktop setup the JDS Labs Stack RCA cables really help keep the units together. The Atom DAC supports up to 32/384kHz PCM

Find our range of JDS Labs here

Sound

Well JDS Labs are one of those companies who strive to provide products that don’t flavour the sound, they want you to have a neutral and transparent source so you can use the headphones as the standard tuning point. This rings true of the new Atom DAC, take a look at the specs and measurements, have a listen with your own ears, and all it does is masterfully convert your digital audio into an analogue signal for the amp to amplify. It doesn’t try to add anything, nor does it try to take anything away. Distortion levels are astonishingly low, the Atom DAC is effortlessly clean and clear sounding, allowing you to hear all the finer details with ease. JDS Labs are purists if you like, and the Atom DAC is a no-frills, pure DAC that gets out of the way of what is important – the music.

I reviewed the Atom Amp on it’s own a while back, and adding a high quality DAC to it obviously helps get the most out of it. It purely amplifies what you feed it, and the Atom DAC provides a really good base sound for the amp to amplify. As I have said earlier on in this review, this setup aims to provide a clean and neutral sound, allowing you to pick the headphones that suit your needs rather than finding an amp/DAC to compliment your headphones. The pre-amp outputs are really handy if you have an active speaker system too. The great thing about this combo is that is ultimately gives you a very good base system for a desktop headphone setup, and is one that will work with a great range of headphones, from IEM’s to full size planars.

Read our Best DACs & Headphone Amps 2020 Guide

The post JDS Labs Atom DAC / Atom Amp Stack Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

The original Element was always a great looking DAC/Amp with plenty of people loving it’s look and functionality. A well machined aluminium chassis with a large central volume knob with light illuminating the ring, it’s classy.

On the back you have RCA inputs and outputs so it can be used as a DAC/Pre-amp for speakers, or as an amp only when paired with a different external DAC. You also have the gain button and power button (which also switches between headamp and pre-amp). On the front you have the headphone output socket, that is it. JDS Labs have packed in plenty of functionality into an attractive package, it really does look great when sat on a desk.

The new Element II has a better DAC section which now supports higher resolution bitrates, along with other enhanced specs. The amp section is based on the one in the Atom, which we all know is super clean with low output impedance. Gain is set at 1x and 4.73x, which should fit most peoples needs.

Sound:

Well the Element II, just like the original, is designed to power your headphones to their maximum potential without colouring the sound. It can be used with sensitive IEM’s, right up to most planar headphones without missing a beat, it is clean and exceptionally well controlled. The Element II is not a bright sounding DAC/Amp, instead it will let you hear the true signature of the headphones you are plugging in to it. Having such low output impedance means even the most sensitive IEM’s won’t have their sound signature altered.

The Element II perfectly demonstrates that neutral is not boring, and it allows you to pick the headphones to suit your needs rather than picking the amp for your headphones. The Element II also looks superb when on a simple desk, it is clean and minimalist and is all the DAC/Amp you really need for most headphones. I for one, appreciate that the Element II is not trying to wow you with colouration, nor is it analytical to the point of sounding cold and artificial.

Conclusion:

If you are looking for a clean and neat setup, that also sounds clean and detailed, you cannot go wrong with the Element II. Just don’t expect it to flatter you with a warm and analogue sound, it will reveal the true sound signature of your headphones instead.

Build Quality: 5/5

Features: 4/5

Sound Quality: 5/5

Value: 4/5

The post JDS Labs Element II Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

People deciding to work from home is on the rise – and why not? There are lots of perks to be had when working from home, and along with being able to stay in your PJ’s – you can listen to music all day without disturbing the office. Here’s our pick of some the best audio tech that every home office could benefit from.

Lypertek PurePlay Z3

There are many reasons why the Lypertek PurePlay Z3 is a solid favourite for true wireless earbuds under £100, and many of the PurePlay Z3’s features are well suited for use in your home office. The 70 hour battery life means they’re unlikely to die during an important call, and the microphone quality is impressive. The PurePlay Z3 is IPX7 waterproof rated, so they’ll survive if you spill your morning coffee on them and you can give them a full wash if needed – you can even take them into the shower with you! Most importantly, they sound superb with people even describing them as audiophile worthy – so they must be good!

B&W PX7

For the ultimate package, then the B&W PX7 is a complete solution for your audio and isolation needs. These full sized, noise cancelling Bluetooth headphones will give you freedom from wires, able to connect wirelessly to devices supporting Bluetooth. Being B&W, you can expect the sound quality to be up there with the best. The PX7 is energetic and clear, with deep and well controlled bass and a great sense of space. Then the features give you 30 hours of listening, Bluetooth 5, AAC, aptX and aptX-HD codecs and B&W’s leading noise cancelling technology for uninterrupted listening.

JDS Element II

If it’s a desktop option you need, then the JDS Labs Element II will not only bring an audio upgrade – it will look great too. Beautifully designed with a simple yet striking look – the Element II headphone amplifier and DAC will fit into any setup. Historically, JDS Labs has been known for their functional design and great sound – now with the Element II, they have shown that they can make great looking equipment too.

Flare Isolate 2

There will be some of you out there that prefer complete silence when working from home – don’t worry, we have you covered. Flare are leading the way when it comes to hearing protection, and their newest model – the Isolate 2 – is going to be the one we recommend. These are made of aluminium and not only do they do a great job of blocking out unwanted noise – they look stunning too. The Isolate 2 is CE certified and has a high sound protection rating of SNR32, so you can be confident they’ll do a good job.

Campfire Audio Cascade

If you’re not ready to ditch the wires, and you want to listen comfortably with maximum isolation, the Campfire Audio Cascade closed back headphones will do just that. The Cascade is extremely comfortable, which is ideal for wearing for long periods of time while getting your work done. These are closed back headphones, so they will also do a great job of blocking out external noise – allowing you to enjoy your music in peace. Then the sound is what you’d expect from Campfire Audio – engaging, punchy and very enjoyable. The Cascade uses filters which can be changed to suit your taste in sound – allowing you to customise your listening.

Audeze LCD-GX

Those of you who want the very best headphones that can double up as communication headsets may be interested in the Audeze LCD-GX. This is a high end gaming headphone aimed at audiophiles. The attachable microphone will give you superb voice quality and can be used for those all important business calls. Then, when you’re done with work – fire up your favourite game and enjoy the real to life spatial awareness and clarity provided by these all purpose open backed cans.

Final E500

The Final E500 is the ideal earphone for those wanting to upgrade from the ones supplied from your device – without breaking the bank. At £20, these are the best value performers we’ve come across. Sound quality is the E500’s main focus, and their level of detail, separation and imaging challenges models twice the price and more. The earphones themselves are small so they are very comfortable, and the supplied Final eartips will ensure you get a good seal which really helps isolation – blocking out background noise to help you focus.

B&W PI3

If you want some wireless earphones, and true wireless doesn’t appeal to you – then B&W has you covered with the PI3. These hybrid dual driver wireless earphones use a neckband design, and come with all of the latest features including Bluetooth 5, AAC, aptX and aptX-HD codecs, 8 hours of playtime, and very impressive microphone call quality – perfect for those video conferences. The dual hybrid driver setup means you get a 9.2mm dynamic driver and a balanced armature driver inside each housing. This driver combination delivers sound that’s packed with detail and space – with an almost 3D quality.

Kanto YU4

While you’re going to be at home a lot more, you may want to improve your audio setup. The Kanto YU4 is an ideal speaker for desktop use. They are powered speakers, so don’t require a separate amplifier, and they have Bluetooth functionality – so you can connect them to other Bluetooth devices wirelessly. Their compact and stylish design means they’ll fit into most setups and their sound will really impress you. They pack a lot of punch for their size, and deliver a tight and detailed sound. A great all-rounder for those days working from home, and to enjoy once the work is done.

Shanling UP2

Want to go wireless but are not ready to stop using your favourite wired headphones? Fear not. The Shanling UP2 is a Bluetooth headphone amplifier and DAC, meaning that you can plug your headphones in and then connect wirelessly to your Bluetooth compatible device. This is perfect for use with PC’s, laptops, tablets and mobile phones. The UP2 also has a built in microphone, so you can take calls even if your headphones do not have a built in mic. Fully charged you can expect up to 11 hours of playback and the UP2 will support all popular audio codecs including LDAC, aptX, aptX-HD and AAC.

The post Audio Gear For Your Home Office – Headphones, Earphones, DACs and more appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Not to be overlooked, a good quality DAC and amp can do wonders to any setup. We have seen huge growth in interest towards DACs and amps, so it makes sense that we put together our favourite headphone amplifiers and DACs to help make that decision easier.

Whether you want to use them with your TV, computer, laptop, smartphone or hifi system. We’ve gathered our picks for the best DACs and headphone amplifiers that you can buy!

BEST DAC / AMP UNDER £100

1. Shanling UP2 – £79.99

The Shanling UP2 is the perfect way to bring added power and audio quality to your smartphone, tablet or computer. Using Bluetooth, the UP2 will connect wirelessly to your phone – or any Bluetooth compatible audio device – and thanks to the on board dedicated headphone amplifier and high quality Sabre DAC chip – you’ll be able to get high fidelity audio wherever you go.

READ MORE: Shanling UP2 Portable Bluetooth DAC & Headphone Amplifier Review

BEST DAC / AMP UNDER £200

2. JDS Labs Atom – £129.99

JDS Labs has mastered the art of making high quality amplifiers and DACs at affordable prices – and the Atom is their most impressive yet. For just over £100, the Atom desktop headphone amplifier will drive any headphone you throw at it and will bring improved soundstage, depth and dynamics to your setup. All in a neat and tidy desktop design.

READ MORE: JDS Labs Atom Desktop Headphone Amplifier Review

3. Periodic Audio Ni (Nickel) – £199

This one’s for the purists out there. On the outside, the Periodic Audio Ni seems like a very simple and basic headphone amplifier – plug it into your source and you’ll soon see that it most definitely isn’t simple or basic. This amp brings added power, punch and improved dynamics to whichever device it gets used with. Those that really appreciate good sound will love the Nickel.

MORE INFO: Periodic Audio Ni (Nickel) Portable Headphone Amplifier Review

BEST DAC / AMP UNDER £500

4. iFi Audio xDSD – £399

The xDSD from iFi Audio is a portable amplifier and DAC that can connect to your audio source wirelessly. So if you like to use your phone, but want to plug in some high quality headphones – then the xDSD will allow you to get the most from them, without adding more cables. The xDSD will take over the amp and DAC roles, so you will know that you’re getting the best sound no matter the source device.

MORE INFO: iFi Audio xDSD Portable Bluetooth DAC & Headphone Amplifier Review

5. JDS Labs Element II – £399

If it is a desktop option you need, then the JDS Labs Element II will not only bring an audio upgrade – it will look great too. Beautifully designed with a simple yet striking look – the Element II will fit into any setup. Historically, JDS Labs has been known for their functional design and great sound – now with the Element II, they have shown that they can make great looking equipment too.

BEST DAC / AMP UNDER £1000

6. iFi Audio Micro iDSD BL – £599

For the ultimate amp and DAC solution, look no further. The 2 Burr-Brown DAC chips provide a solid foundation for the custom op-amps, which help to deliver an impressive amount of fidelity and power. Using sensitive IEMs? This amp/DAC handles these superbly, with no noise or distortion. Whether used on a desktop or on the move – the iFi Audio Micro iDSD BL does it all… really well. 

MORE INFO: iFi Audio Micro iDSD BL Portable DAC & Headphone Amplifier

Have We Missed Anything Out?

Please feel free to leave a comment below and let us know…

The post Best DACs & Headphone Amps 2020: USB, Portable, Desktop appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

iFi Audio xCAN Portable Wireless Headphone Amplifier

Perfect for those travelers looking to get the best audio while on the move. The iFi Audio xCAN can wirelessly connect to your audio device via Bluetooth, whether you listen to music on your phone, laptop or tablet. The xCAN adds iFi Audio’s high quality amplifier expertise to your setup, able to power some of the more difficult to drive cans with no extra wires. Just plug your favourite earphones or headphones into the xCAN to get the very best out of them.

SoundMAGIC E11BT Wireless In Ear Isolating Earphones

Widely considered to be this year’s best wireless earphones for under £100, the SoundMAGIC E11BT brings years of budget perfection to a Bluetooth neckband design. We’re certain that the E11BT delivers the best sound quality at this price point, with top features like Bluetooth v5.0 technology, AAC audio compatibility and IPX4 water resistance. Then to top it all off, the E11BT has the most impressive battery life going. We’ve experienced over 30 hours of continuous playback from one full charge, which should cover most of your travel needs there and back.

Bowers & Wilkins PX Wireless Full Size Noise Cancelling Headphones

B&W’s PX Bluetooth headphone is still our favourite sounding wireless noise canceler out there. The classic design is tasteful and attractive, showing off the B&W heritage with a modern edge. The earpads are soft and comfortable. They fully enclose the ears and isolation is impressive, blocking out a lot of background noise passively. Then, when you need complete silence, the built-in noise cancelling does wonders. When used with the dedicated app, the PX can be customised to suit most environments. They do it all!

Shanling M0 Portable Wireless Hi Res Audio Player

If you fancy getting better sound on the move, but don’t want to add a large device to your setup, the Shanling M0 could be just what you’re looking for. This tiny player delivers top quality Hi-Res audio and can be used in two different ways. The SD card slot allows you to store your own library of tunes, from MP3 to DSD. It can handle it all. The M0 can also act as a Bluetooth amp and DAC for your headphones. So, if you prefer using Spotify or Tidal on your phone, then wirelessly connect to the M0 to boost the audio quality while using an interface you are comfortable with.

Sennheiser Momentum TW True Wireless In Ear Isolating Earphones

For those that value design and build quality along with great sound, then the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless earphones are worth checking out. Relatively expensive for a true wireless earphone, considering there are plenty of cheaper options available, we believe that the Momentum True Wireless is worth the money. From the supplied charging case, with its fabric outer coating, to the earphones themselves: attractive, stylish and extremely comfortable. Sennheiser have put a lot of work into their True Wireless flagship, and it has truly paid off.

Remember to subscribe to our channel for more weekly content and click the links for information on all of the products mentioned. Thanks for watching and happy sunny listening.

The post Summer Sounds Guide & Video appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Well, all devices that have a headphone jack have internal circuitry that uses a DAC (digital to analogue converter) and then a headphone amplifier. The quality of these components varies a lot between devices, but most suffer from a certain amount of noise and hiss that is detrimental to the overall sound quality.

USB-C or Lightning earphones have this circuitry built into the connector itself, meaning the phone sends the digital data to the earphones and the conversion is done there. This gives the earphone maker a chance to match the specific circuit to a specific pair of earphones/headphones for optimal power and quality. This also means that the circuit is detached from the main board which is a common source for interference and noise.

Whilst not as common as Bluetooth models, USB earphones are on the rise and are an excellent choice if you have a device that has no headphone jack. They offer better sound quality than Bluetooth models along with being more convenient than using a dongle or external DAC/Amp.

Within our range of headphones, we have the new SoundMAGIC E11D which includes a 24bit capable DAC, along with a 4-core cable for balanced signal transmission. These have been getting great reviews in the press, being some of the best USB-C earphones available on the market.

If you don’t mind adding an extra device to get that extra bit of quality out of your regular wired earphones, then take a look at the Cyrus SoundKey. This little DAC/Amp gives you a great step up in clarity and control.

The post What are USB earphones? appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Aesthetics and Build Quality:

The xCAN is built much the same as the xDSD, with a metal housing that is a bit of a fingerprint magnet and a plastic rear cap where the Bluetooth circuitry is located. The xCAN looks superb in person with a great size and shape.

The build quality is superb and the volume control does not stick out, meaning it is well protected and all the sockets are tight. Everything just feels very solid.

Features:

Unlike the xDSD, the xCAN only have analogue inputs along with Bluetooth capability. You get a regular 3.5mm line-input, along with a 2.5mm TRRS balanced line-input. Outputs are the same, one 3.5mm and one 2.5mm TRRS balanced.

The xCAN has the XBass II and 3D+ adjustments. The XBass II is a completely analogue bass correction curve and can be switched to boost low frequencies or to correct the presence region, or both. The 3D+ is also an analogue circuit that aims to correct the holographic soundstage, making headphones sounds less like the music is coming from inside your head.

The volume knob changes colour depending on the volume, starting at blue for low volume going up to red at full output. The xCAN delivers more power from its balanced output as you would expect, so it is recommended to use balanced if you can.

Sound:

Well, as the xCAN is mainly an amplifier, the quality of sound will largely depend on what you are feeding it. But feed it with a high-quality source and it will do its job of amplifying the signal without adding too much flavour. The xCAN is neutral and detailed. It may be a tiny bit on the smoother side so as to prevent it from sounding overly analytical, but it is not coloured to my ears.

When using it with Bluetooth you are relying on both devices; when using an AptX-enabled device, you get excellent audio quality. I really don’t know how iFi do it, but you really do not lose much in terms of sound quality when using this with an AptX device.

The xCANs dual mono amplification stage really is impressive, hiss free with sensitive IEM’s yet at a push it can power the Beyerdynamic T1 2^nd Gen with good results (Volume on red). Not that anyone would buy this solely for use with the T1 I don’t think, but it is still a very impressive feat from this tiny amp.

The XBass is a really handy boost for when out and about in noisy environments or just for slightly brighter sounding headphones. The 3D+ works wonders for more closed in sounding headphones giving you a more realistic soundstage. The ability to choose between bass and presence on the XBass setting is actually really handy and allows you a little finer tuning than a standard bass boost.

Conclusion:

The xCAN has all you need from a portable amp, perfect size, good battery life and easy to use. Add to that excellent Bluetooth implementation, balanced circuitry and overall sound quality is the only portable amp you will ever need. Another superb product from iFi that has our seal of approval.

The post iFi xCAN Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

It’s that time of year again. So here’s our pick of the best audio gadgets available – with something for everyone.

Audeze Mobius

Audeze have created a superb all rounder in the Mobius. Whether music, films or gaming is your thing – the Audeze Mobius does it all extremely well. Inside the housings are planar magnetic drivers, providing sound quality that even the audiophiles out there will appreciate. Then the 3D emulation technology delivers a superb surround sound experience, perfect for watching films or playing Fortnite and thanks to the integrated head tracking – you’ll hear sound effects as if they’re really there.

Bower & Wilkins PX

The B&W PX is the ultimate portable headphone. With the latest aptX HD Bluetooth technology, wireless sound quality is of the highest level. Providing a very well balanced sound with tight bass – bass heads may want to look elsewhere – crystal clear clarity and superb soundstage. The PX also has adaptive noise cancelling and uses six microphones to help block out external sounds – allowing you to focus on the music. Along with the advanced technology – the PX has superb build quality and comfort – making them our go to recommendation for wireless headphones.

SoundMAGIC P22BT

At under £40 – the SoundMAGIC P22BT Bluetooth headphone provides high quality at a low price. The design is sturdy and comfortable, with a lightweight foldable headband which is great for portable use. These headphones are easy to use with controls conveniently placed on the left earcup. The most impressive feature is the sound quality – audio is crisp and punchy with plenty of energy, making them a lot of fun to listen to.

SoundMAGIC E11C

SoundMAGIC seems to have nailed the under £50 earphone. If you’re looking for a wired earphone and want to keep the price down, then we believe that the E11C is the one. SoundMAGIC have gone for a mature design, and used a silver plated copper cable to deliver superb sound quality which will compete with earphones over £100. The E11C has plenty of energy and punch with a dynamic and well detailed sound. There is also a 3 button inline control and mic, which is fully compatible with Apple and Android smartphones.

Flare Audio Flares Jet 2

Now, if you’re looking for an earphone with a more aggressive sound then the Flares Jet 2 could be the one. These earphones go loud, and they provide thumping bass and sharp clarity. The housings are made of aluminium and are built to last. There is also an in line single button remote to take calls and the cable itself is strong and tough. The design of the Jet 2 definitely stands out and the shape makes them very comfortable.

Final E4000

For those that appreciate their music a bit more and are happy to up their budget,  Final’s E4000 is a superb place to start. Final have been in the audio game for a long time, and their E series shows us what they can do. The E4000 is the sweet spot for me – musical and well balanced sound quality that draws you in, great comfort and design and a nicely made replaceable cable – all for just over £100.

Shanling M0

For something so small, the Shanling M0 manages to pack in a load of features. Starting with the design, the M0 looks and feels great. The display is made by LG and is very crisp – and thanks to Shanling’s own MTouch software, the player is extremely easy to use. The sound from the M0 is clear with good bass-weight, punch and fine detail. Thanks to the on board EQ settings, you can add some warmth or sharpness to suit your taste. The M0 can pair with Bluetooth headphones, and the 2-way Bluetooth feature will allow you to connect to your phone to use the player as an external DAC/amp – very clever.

Optoma NuForce BE Sport4

The NuForce BE Sport4 is widely regarded as the go to Bluetooth earphone – and we would agree. At just under £90, they combine good value with superb sound quality – the Graphene coated drivers deliver a crisp and punchy sound with plenty of clarity. The BE Sport4 is IPX5 water resistant and can provide up to 10 hours or battery life. And to top it off, you get 2 hours of charge in just 15 minutes thanks to their Fast Charge feature.

JDS Labs Element DAC

Whether you like to listen to your headphones at home using your computer, laptop or hifi system – the JDS Labs Element will breathe life into your setup. For a long time now, JDS Labs have been making high quality headphone amplifiers and DACs with a simple design and superb value. The Element shows that not only do they have the technical knowhow – they have a great eye for design too. With analogue RCA inputs and digital USB – the Element is extremely versatile and as expected, provides a clean, expressive and powerful sound.

iFi Audio XDSD

Ever wondered if you could have a high quality headphone amplifier connect to your phone or laptop wirelessly? Well wonder no more. The iFi Audio xDSD is the perfect way for you to get the most from your headphones and chosen device – without adding more wires. Use your phone to listen to Spotify, your favourite podcast or play PUBG and let the xDSD wirelessly drive your headphones, giving them all the power they would need to deliver a balanced and dynamic sound.

The post Top 10 Audio Best Buys for 2018 appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

The xDSD is tiny but packed full of tech; a must have for the audiophile who listens on the go.

Aesthetics and Build Quality:

The xDSD is a lovely little thing, with a shiny gunmetal finish and matte black backplate it is neat and tidy. The finish is a bit of a fingerprint magnet though, so be sure to give it a wipe down from time to time. On the back you have the inputs, on the front you have the volume knob/on-off switch, xBass and 3D+ button, and the 3.5mm headphone output.

Build quality wise it is a solid unit; the mostly metal construction should help it to survive day to day use along with holding up to the occasional knock that is bound to happen. All the sockets are tight and the buttons all feel sturdy. The volume knob is flush with the main body, meaning there won’t be additional stress added to it.

Features:

The xDSD accepts all sorts of inputs, you have the main USB input for using with a mobile phone (camera connection kit requires for iOS devices). On the back there is also the 3.5mm coaxial/TOSLINK combo S/PDIF input for DAP’s and CD players. Internally you have Bluetooth connection, allowing you to transmit Bluetooth audio from your device to the xDSD, it supports the regular Bluetooth protocols along with AptX, in the future it would be nice to see it support LDAC.

On the back you have a micro-USB port that is for charging only, along with a filter switch. This changes the digital filter from Measure to Listen. The differences between the 2 filters modes is subtle, so play around and see which you prefer. To my ears the Measure is a little more neutral, the Listen is a little more forgiving and better for extended listening.

The 3.5mm socket on the back can be set as a line-out so you can use the xDSD as a DAC for your hifi system or to connect to a different amplifier. Overall for the size of the device, iFi have managed to pack a lot in.

The volume knob has a clear centre that changes colour depending on the volume, starting at blue (low) and going up to red (high). Next to this are LED indicators, showing what input is being used and the bitrate, along with showing if the 3D+ and xBass+ settings are in use.

Sound:

So how does the xDSD sound, well first off, I will say that it pairs equally well with IEM’s as it does with most full-size headphones. It will power most headphones, but may not be the best match for low sensitivity headphones, with 500mw@16 Ohms it really can pack a punch for its size.

The xDSD has superb audio quality though, as with most iFi products it is clean as a whistle but with a hint of smoothness to it, this prevents the xDSD from sounding too sterile. There is excellent definition to the sound, with great separation and everything is in its right place. The noise floor is low, you will only notice a tiny bit of noise with extremely sensitive IEM’s.

The xDSD steers clear of sounding too digital, the bass is controlled with only a slight hint of added body. The midrange is clean and insightful handling everything with ease. The highs are detailed and extended but without a hint of glare, overall it is a well balanced and detailed DAC/Amp.

What surprised me here is the Bluetooth quality, the sound quality is very consistent, no matter what input is used. The added convenience of going wireless is handy, and knowing that you don’t lose out on a lot of sound quality makes it ever better.

Conclusion:

iFi have managed to pack a lot into a small device, and it works in perfect harmony. Unfortunately, there is a tiny bit of background noise with extremely sensitive IEM’s. Overall however the xDSD is clean, detailed and easy to listen to. Nothing stands out, and the feature set is excellent for the price. A must have for the audiophile on the go.

The post Review- The iFi Audio xDSD appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Years ago when recorded music on vinyl was first available, music fans would dress up as if going to a concert in order to listen. It seems daft now, but with their limited frame of reference and their respect for musicianship, we can understand.

And the same has happened many times since; with developments in technology over the past century or so, our relationship with music changes again and again. The development of such things as amplification in the 1920s, magnetic tape, and the famous Sony Walkman all affected our lives in one way or another. It brought more options when listening, and it brought more lifelike and better-recorded music to us. So much so, that we can now take it for granted to the point of listening to our musical heroes in our underpants.

Apple created its own musical revolution years ago with the iPod; although these little players tended to cost big bucks, it was another Walkman-like effect on how we consume music with the iPod’s (then) huge capacity of 20 or 40 gigabytes. Since then we’ve had micro SD cards which increase capacity, but the lasting perception since the iPod is that decent mobile audio is expensive. Step forward, Shanling!

The M0 achieves the mobile audio holy trinity; it’s small, can accept Micro SD cards of up to 512Gb, and costs only £99. Added to that, the M0 has features such as Bluetooth Hi-Res transmission, a touch screen and build quality you can bang nails in with.

Don’t believe us? Give the M0 a try and if your relationship with music doesn’t change within 30 days, we’ll give your money back!

The post Lauri Cular reviews the Shanling M0 appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Our top recs for seriously impressive headphone amplifiers.

Stick a pin in it, summer’s just about done for.

Now we’re staring down the barrel of the big chill, and we’re gonna have to get serious about our indoor entertainment if we want to get through it without  either losing our marbles or freezing them off. What else are you supposed to do, take in the beautiful changing foliage? Get really into trick-or-treating?  As if.

It doesn’t have to be all gloom and doom, though! Whether you’re looking for something to complement your perfect gaming rig or a punch of power for your juice-hungry headphones, we’d be willing to bet we’ve got something for you to get excited about.

Pick 1: The Burson Audio Play with V6 Vivid

Settle in for a long winter’s night with this awesome, customisable amplifier from Burson. This is one of the most powerful headphone amps around, and it’s perfect for anybody looking to upgrade their gaming setup to include a serious sonic boost.

No high end soundcards in gaming feature the DAC chip found in the Play, which means PC gamers have to settle for distortion, poor sound quality, and noisy power supplies. Who wants subpar audio dragging you out of the moment when you’re trying to keep an ear out for raiders lurking in the capital wasteland?

The Play is perfect for users wanting to roll their opamps, which means you can tweak that sound to your exact specifications and lose yourself completely in whatever world you’d like to substitute for the cold, wet one outside.

Pick 2: The iFi Audio Micro iDSD Black Label with USB DAC

You’ve gotta show your face in the real world eventually, but why resign yourself to a less-than-stellar listening experience while you’re making moves?

The Micro iDSD Black Label is a perfect portable companion for those wanting to maintain a high standard both at home and on the way to your friend’s ill-advised homemade fireworks display. Drown out the sounds of his self-inflicted injuries with three power output modes to make it the perfect match for the most sensitive headphones all the way to the most power-hungry. What’s that? You need more options? It’s got you covered- the 3D+ option allows you to focus the stereo image, and the XBass+ gives you control over deepening and tightening bass frequencies.

This amp is a real ride-or-die. You’ll get 6-12 hours of power out of it depending on use and settings, and the USB port means you can charge your phone or other electronic devices as well! Do your other friends put in this kind of effort for you? Ricky won’t even lend you £5 for lunch. Serves him right about the fireworks mishap.

Pick 3: JDS Labs ‘The Element’

Treat yourself to a slice of simplicity in the form of The Element, a deceptively powerful unit from JDS Labs. You don’t need anything too showy- not like your neighbours already throwing their Christmas lights up. The Element’s gentle copper-coloured ring of light beneath the volume control will inspire plenty of warm cozy feelings.

The Element’s minimalist design houses absolute reference quality perfection in a body that doesn’t fight for attention, but will probably get it, because- let’s face it,  it looks good.

And it’s more multifaceted than it appears- just turn the amplifier off and use the analog jack inputs to turn The Element into a standalone DAC. The gift that keeps on giving!

So whether you’re dreading the change of the seasons or welcoming it with open arms, it’s more fun to do things with a buddy. Or three.

The post Getting Amped Up for Autumn appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Sennheiser HDV 820 Headphone Amplifier / DAC Review

Sennheisers new HDV 820 is a smooth, powerful and versatile DAC/Amp that is all about musical enjoyment and flexibilty.

Pros:

• Smooth effortless sound
• Detail retrieval
• Versatility

Cons:

• A little pricey for some

Aesthetics and Build Quality:

Sennheiser have gone away from the silver colour scheme with their latest products, opting instead for a matte black finish. In my opinion the products look a lot sleeker now, and the matte black aluminum casing of the HDV 820 looks superb. The LED status lighting is white and perfectly blends with the whole look.

The build quality is as you would expect from Sennheiser, flawless. The casing is superbly finished and put together, all the sockets are tight and have no play in them. I could not find a single fault with the build and finish of the HDV 820.

Features:

The HDV 820 can be used as a pure amp, pre-amp and also as a DAC/Amp. It has balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs and supports DSD playback.

On the front panel you have a 6.3mm/3 pin XLR combo single ended headphone out, a balanced 4-pin XLR output and a pair of 4.4mm balanced pentaconn outputs. You also have the power button, source select knob and volume knob.

On the back you have the balanced analogue inputs and outputs, single ended analogue input, gain knob, and finally the optical, coaxial and USB digital inputs.

It is a very versatile unit that can be fitted into any system.

Sound:

The HDV 820 is plenty powerful for most headphones out there, and even does a decent job at driving the HiFiMan HE-6. It is no wonder that it pairs wonderfully with Sennheisers own HD800, bringing out plenty of body, dynamic punch and detail without becoming shouty. The HD800 sound smooth and effortless when paired with the HDV 820, a pairing that is revealing with heaps of detail but never brash or too in your face.

The highlights of the HD800 are accentuated by the HDV 820, offering one of the airiest and widest soundstages of any headphone, orchestral passages are simply sublime. The HDV 820 has no trouble with separating more complex tracks, offering up a textured and well layered sound.

The HDV 820 is not the most neutral and analytical sounding unit out there, it does have a certain smoothness to it but without taking away detail. It won’t become fatiguing to listen to, and is the perfect companion to the HD800.

Conclusion:

The HDV 820 is powerful and versatile making itself at home in any system. It pairs well with many different headphones and has a slightly smoother more laid back sound than some of the other more neutral amps. The HDV 820 is all about musical enjoyment, just sit back and enjoy the effortless sound of your headphones.

The post Sennheiser HDV 820 Headphone Amplifier / DAC Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Questyle CMA400i DAC/Headphone Amplifier Review

The Questyle CM400i proves that neutrality really works when it comes to an all in one desktop device. One that works well with sensitive IEM’s all the way up to full size planar magnetic headphones.

Pros:

• Neutrality
• Detail
• Power
  

  Cons:

• May sound clinical to some
• No analogue inputs
  

  Aesthetics and Build Quality:

  The CMA400i is a sleek, matte black DAC/Amp which looks very professional and understated. There are orange LED’s on the front along with the outputs and volume knob; the inputs are on the back. It looks superb, but if you want to change the looks up a little you can buy an optional clear top cover to show off the internals. You can also get an optional desk stand that stands the CMA400i upright to save space.

  The CMA400i has a solid CNC machined aluminium shell and feels extremly well built. All the connectors are solid, the buttons precise and the volume control is super smooth. Questyle have made a superbly built unit here, with no flaws in the finish whatsoever.

  Features:

  The CMA400i is a DAC/Amp, and does not have any analogue inputs, for that you will need the CMA600i which offers a pair of RCA analogue inputs.

  The CMA400i has 2 coaxial inputs, 1 optical input and a USB input, so it can be used with a wide range of devices. On the back you have outputs that can be used as line-outputs to an external amplifier or pre-amp output to powered speakers. You get a pair of balanced XLR outputs and a pair of RCA outputs, along with a spdif digital output (USB to spdif converter use).

  On the front you have the 4-pin balanced XLR output, a standard 6.3mm singled ended output and a 2.5mm balanced output. This covers the most common single ended and balanced connectors. You have the volume knob and also 2 buttons, one to switch between inputs and one to switch between Amp mode (for headphone and pre-amp use), or DAC mode (DAC mode switches the outputs on the back to line-outputs).

  On the bottom you have gain switches, for standard or low gain, this means it can be used with a wide variety of headphones and IEM’s (standard is roghly 2.47x and low is roughly 1.1x)

  

Sound:

The CMA400i as a pure DAC is superb, it is one of the more detailed and neutral DACs out there not adding any sweetness to the sound. The separation is one of its strong points, and its ability to show up fine detail is also excellent. The DAC won’t smooth over imperfections in recordings, it is very revealing and presents the recording to you as it should be.

Going on to the amp section this is also a more neutral and revealing amplifier, one that could be used in a reference system. The CMA400i could sound cold and clinical to those that are used to smoother sounding amps, however it is not. It is revealing and will show up flaws in the recording, and it will let you hear the real sound of your headphones of choice.

The sound is tight, controlled and detailed, there is no added warmth so careful system matching is a must. The CMA400i is powerful enough for most full size headphones, yet also has a low gain option which can be used in conjuction with sensitive IEM’s and it has a 2.5mm balanced output. The resolution and detail of the sound is superb for the price, you will hear details you have not heard before.

Conclusion:

For an all in one unit the CMA400i is remarkably clean, crisp and detailed. It has excellent control and balance throughout the frequency range and is a great reference setup for testing headphones. It also makes a great desktop setup for most headphones, especially those that lean towards a smoother, warmer sound. Pairing the CMA400i with the Audeze LCD-2 for example really shows what they are capable of with a fun and punchy but not bloated sound. However pairing with the Sennheiser HD800 is perhaps a little too clinical for some tastes.

The post Questyle CMA400i DAC / Headphone Amplifier Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

Shanling UP Portable Headphone USB DAC and Amplifier

Up your portable audio game with the Shanling UP, with excellent detail retrieval and a wide soundstage, a must have for the audiophile on the go.

Pros:

• Clarity
• Size
• Value for money

Cons:

• None for the price

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Shanling UP is a tiny little device, the size of a memory stick, with a glossy black front and matter black rear. It has a USB tybe C socket on the top and a 3.5mm headphone jack output on the bottom, on the front an LED will light up telling you the device is on and what sample rate is playing. It is so simplistic and elegant it will fit into any system with ease.

The build quality is excellent with the glass front and the rest of the body being aluminium. Both sockets feel tight, and there is nothing on it to go wrong.

Accessory wise all you get is various cables, which is all that is needed. You get a lightning to USB C, USB C to USB C, Micro USB to USB C and a regular USB to USB C cable, so it covers most phones and PC use.

Ease of use

The UP does not have an internal battery, it just plugs into your device and runs as a DAC/Amp. It should work with most android devices that support OTG accessories, iPhones with lightning port and also PC’s. With the new Windows 10 creators update you no longer need to install drivers.

The devices has no buttons, thus you control the volume level via your phone or PC, I had no issues getting it to work with a Samsung phone, and a regular Windows 10 PC. It is recommended you use the Hiby music app when using the UP.

———————————————————————————————–

READ MORE: NuForce uDAC5 Portable Headphone DAC/Amp Review

———————————————————————————————–

Sound Quality

The UP is so clean, so clear it is hard to go wrong for the price. I am a DAP user, and don’t use my phone for music as I like having files stored locally. But the trend to not want to carry an extra device nowadays has grown and also Apple did away with the headphone jack so the market for portable DAC/Amps is booming.

There are plenty out there, but few that offer full DSD support and an ES9018 DAC chip for this price. The Shanling UP may only be able to output 35mW @32 Ohms, but it gets loud and driver easy to medium hard to drive headphones.

From IEM’s to portable full-size headphones you will be guaranteed to get much cleaner and better separated sound with the UP.

• Bass

The bass is tight and controlled, with precise kick and good body to back it up, the bass notes also decay as they should.

• Mids

There is no added body to the lows, this means the midrange is allowed to shine and it does, with vocals coming across clean with excellent detail retrieval. There is also plenty of air around notes which allows you to pinpoint each and every part of the recording.

• Treble

The treble is well extended without any harsh metallic tone to it, what is best about the highs is their imaging, the placement within the soundstage is critical and this little device has managed to get it spot on.

Conclusion

The Shanling UP is a superb High Resolution DAC/Amp for portable use, if you have some good headphones, you are not hearing their full potential out of a phone. This will change that, the UP with give you the clarity, detail and soundstage that your phone simply cannot.

Even being used with a PC there is a substantial upgrade from the on-board audio, so this can be used on your morning commute with your phone, then plug it into your PC at work and enjoy the same quality of music.

The post Shanling UP Portable DAC / Amplifier Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.

NuForce uDAC5 Mobile DAC/Amp Review

The Optoma Nuforce uDAC5 is an excellent little DAC/Amp that cannot be beaten in size or sound for the price. It is a solid unit with a slightly smooth sound that is sure to please.

Pros:

• Size
• Build
• Sound

Cons:

• None for the price

Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories

The Nuforce uDAC5 is a tiny little thing, that looks great with a clean metal housing and good sized volume knob. The casing is all metal with a LED light on the front indicating it is on, along with the volume knob and headphone socket, inputs and outputs on the back and that is it.

Built quality is excellent, with the all metal case and solid sockets this little thing is built to survive. The volume pot moves smoothly and everthing feels well put together, the finish of the case is impeccable.

Accessories are not really included, all you get is the DAC, USB cable and quick start guide. I would have like to have seen some rubber feet included, maybe a pair of RCA cables too. But most people already have interconnects so not a huge issue.

Ease of use and Features

The uDAC5 is simple and easy to use, with the latest Windows 10 update, it is plug and play with no need to install drivers. Otherwise the drivers are available from the Nuforce website, I had no issues getting the DAC to work and it just started playing music instantly.

The RCA outputs are controlled by the volume pot, and not a fixed line out. This means you can use this with active monitors, but if you are going into an external amp set the volume to 100%.

It can also be used to convert USB signal to a coaxial for use with an external DAC that has no USB input.

Sound Quality

First off I will say the headphone output has fairly high gain and can drive the Beyerdynamic DT990 600 Ohm with ease, it also worked well with less sensitive IEM’s but won’t be the best match with very sensitive IEM’s unless you lower the volume in windows.

Out of the headphone output the uDAC5 has excellent sound throughout the range, it is not bright and clinical yet still brings out the detail in music. It is a big step up from on board audio out of a PC/Laptop, the sound is sightly warm and euphoric with good separation. I do find the internal amp to be fine for casual listening with easy to drive headphones, but you will notice a difference when going to a full size desktop amp with harder to drive headphones.

Everything is well placed in the mix, the lows hit hard and dig deep, vocals have a sweetness to them that is quite pleasing and highs have good definition and extension, lacking only the micro detail and air that higher end equipment offers.

———————————————————————————————–

READ MORE: Grado SR80e Audiophile Headphone Review

———————————————————————————————–

As a pure DAC the uDAC5 is clean and clear without any real flaws, it works really well in any system providing a big step up from on-board audio. I feel there is still a slight smoothness to the overall sound which does get rid of any potential harshness but can slightly hide some micro detail.

Conclusion

For the price the Nuforce uDAC5 is an excellent piece of kit, it would be perfect for a coffee shop setup, or a small office rig, it is also perfect as a DAC for active desktop monitors and to feed an external amp at home.

It is not for driving really demanding headphones to their full potential, it is for casual listening and getting better sound out of a PC on a budget, and for this purpose it is a no brainer.

The post Optoma NuForce uDAC5 Review appeared first on HiFiheadphones.