iFi’s premium portable DAC offers a clear, composed performance

Key Points:

• The iFi iDSD GR 2 is a premium DAC/headphone amplifier positioned between desktop and portable use, featuring a robust aluminium chassis, responsive OLED touchscreen, and a metal control knob, but with some minor usability quirks such as unclear port labeling and counterintuitive volume control.
• Equipped with a new Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC chip and fully balanced circuitry, the iDSD GR 2 supports high-resolution audio playback up to DSD512 and 32-bit/768kHz PCM, offering various digital filters and analogue processing features like XBass and XSpace for sound customization.
• The device delivers clear, detailed sound with good bass precision and a broad soundstage, performing well with a range of headphones, though it lacks the dynamic drama and rhythmic punch of more affordable competitors like the Chord Mojo 2.
• Bluetooth 5.4 support with aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, and LDAC codecs is included, but wireless listening is recommended as a convenience feature rather than the primary mode to fully appreciate the DAC's capabilities.
• Overall, the iFi iDSD GR 2 offers a strong feature set, solid build quality, and excellent sound clarity, making it a compelling option for audiophiles seeking a versatile DAC, though it may not surpass some rivals in musical expressiveness.