iFi Audio
ZEN DAC Signature V2
Best desktop DAC for audiophiles seeking high-resolution, studio-quality sound.
Elevate your listening experience with the iFi Audio Zen DAC Signature V2, a refined desktop DAC/AMP. It features an upgraded 16-core XMOS processor for exceptionally detailed audio sampling and a precision low-jitter clock for superior noise reduction. This device supports high-resolution playback up to 32-bit/384 kHz and includes MQA decoding for studio-quality sound. Enjoy ample, clean audio headroom with versatile connectivity, including balanced 4.4mm and unbalanced RCA outputs. Powered conveniently via USB, it offers a compact yet powerful upgrade for audiophiles seeking pristine sound.
$299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
223
/ 733
#223 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-79%
Below average
Processor
16
/ XMOS -core
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking superior channel separation and power
- Listeners demanding high-resolution, transparent audio performance
- Desktop users integrating active speakers or external amplifiers
Who should skip it
- Users requiring optical or coaxial connectivity for diverse sources
- Bass lovers who rely on hardware-based low-end enhancement
- Budget-conscious buyers avoiding additional power supply costs
Performance breakdown
Audio Resolution
The 16-core XMOS processor delivers exceptional detail for high-resolution audio files.
Noise Floor
Precision clocking ensures a remarkably clean and silent background for listening.
Connectivity Versatility
Balanced 4.4mm and RCA outputs provide flexible integration for diverse setups.
MQA Decoding
Full MQA support unlocks studio-grade streaming quality with ease.
Desktop Ergonomics
Compact footprint fits perfectly on crowded desks without sacrificing performance.
Power Efficiency
Convenient USB-powered design simplifies cable management for a cleaner workspace.
Key Specs
Processor
XMOS 16-core
DAC
Bit-Perfect DSD & DXD DAC by Burr Brown
Sampling Rate
Up to 32-bit/384 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)
117 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N)
0.0011%
Power Consumption
2.5 W
Input
USB 3.0 B socket
Outputs
Balanced 4.4 mm and Unbalanced RCA
Features
- Upgraded 16-core processor for detailed sound
- Improved noise reduction with low-jitter clock
- Supports high-resolution audio playback
- Includes MQA decoding for studio quality
- Provides clean, untarnished audio headroom
- Easily powered via USB connection
- Versatile connectivity with balanced outputs
- Bit-Perfect DSD & DXD DAC technology
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the ZEN DAC Signature V2 for its refined and musical sound signature, noting it is warm, detailed, and highly engaging. A key highlight is the fully balanced 4.4mm output, which delivers superior dynamics and channel separation, significantly elevating the experience for balanced headphone users. The robust aluminum chassis conveys high build quality. While it drives most headphones effectively, some users with demanding planar magnetics desire more power headroom. Despite lacking MQA, the optimized analog stage and excellent chipset make this unit an exceptional value. It delivers high fidelity performance often found in much pricier equipment, making it a highly recommended centerpiece for desktop audio.
Know before you buy
No, the unit is conveniently powered directly through its USB 3.0 connection. This makes it a great space-saving option for desktop setups where extra power bricks can be cumbersome.
The ZEN DAC Signature V2 features a 4.4mm balanced output. If your headphones use a standard 3.5mm connection, you will need a 4.4mm to 3.5mm adapter to connect them.
The upgraded 16-core processor allows for faster and more precise digital signal processing. This results in better handling of high-resolution audio files and improved overall clarity compared to previous iterations.
Yes, the ZEN DAC Signature V2 includes full MQA decoding capabilities. This allows you to play back studio-quality audio files from streaming services like Tidal without needing additional software.
While the ZEN DAC Signature V2 provides clean, powerful audio, it is primarily designed as a high-performance DAC. If you are using very demanding, high-impedance audiophile headphones, you may want to pair it with a dedicated external amplifier for maximum headroom.
This technology ensures that the digital audio file is converted to analog without any re-sampling or processing that could degrade the original signal. You hear the music exactly as it was recorded, maintaining the integrity of high-resolution formats like DSD and DXD.
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$299