iFi Audio
iFi Audio Uno DAC/Headphone Amplifier
Best portable DAC for listeners upgrading their desktop audio experience.
The iFi Audio Uno is an excellent entry point for upgrading your digital audio setup, functioning as a portable DAC and headphone amplifier. It converts digital signals from your PC, tablet, or smartphone into superior analog sound using a sophisticated 32-bit ES9219 Sabre DAC chip. Power and data are supplied via a single USB-C connection, ensuring portability. Listeners can tailor the sound using three distinct analogue processing modes—Music, Movie, and Game EQ—and benefit from reduced noise via the S-Balanced 3.5mm output and variable RCA connections.
$79.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
255
/ 733
#255 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-94%
Below average
DAC Chip
329219
/ -bit ES Sabre DAC with Quad DAC+
Who it's for
- Multimedia users wanting quick sound adjustments for different media
- Travelers needing a lightweight, plug-and-play audio solution
- Desktop listeners seeking a significant jump in audio clarity
Who should skip it
- Audiophiles requiring balanced connections for high-end headphones
- Owners of power-hungry, high-impedance planar magnetic headphones
- Users needing optical or coaxial inputs for non-USB devices
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
The Sabre DAC chip delivers crisp, high-resolution clarity for entry-level setups.
Portability
Compact, USB-powered design makes high-fidelity audio effortless to carry anywhere.
EQ Versatility
Dedicated modes for music, movies, and gaming add meaningful sonic flexibility.
Build Quality
Mineral-filled polymer shell feels sturdy despite its lightweight, desktop-friendly footprint.
Ease of Use
Plug-and-play USB-C connectivity eliminates the need for complex external power supplies.
Noise Floor
S-Balanced technology effectively minimizes crosstalk for a cleaner, more focused output.
Key Specs
DAC Chip
32-bit ES9219 Sabre DAC with Quad DAC+
Hi-Res Support
Up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256, and MQA
Input
USB-C
Outputs
3.5mm headphone output, Stereo RCA output
Dimensions (WxHxD)
88 x 26 x 81 mm (3.5″ x 1.0″ x 3.2″)
Material
Mineral-filled polymer shell with aluminium front plate
Power Source
USB Powered
Connectivity
USB-C input, 3.5mm headphone, Stereo RCA output
Features
- Superior sound upgrade over built-in converters
- USB-C powered; no external supply needed
- Three distinct analogue EQ processing modes
- S-Balanced technology reduces noise and crosstalk
- Supports high-resolution audio formats
- Compact and highly portable design
- Variable stereo RCA output for speakers
- Advanced features like DRE and gain control
What customers say
The iFi Audio Uno DAC Headphone Amplifier is highly praised as an excellent entry point for better desktop and portable audio. Customers consistently report that the sound quality offers significant upgrades over standard computer audio, delivering a warm, detailed, and engaging listening experience with improved clarity and soundstage. Its core appeal lies in simplicity; the plug and play setup and compact design make it extremely user friendly for audio newcomers. While the plastic build keeps the price accessible, the overall impression is one of sturdy construction. Selectable EQ modes offer welcome customization. The Uno is celebrated for providing tremendous value, successfully democratizing high fidelity sound in the budget DAC amplifier category.
Know before you buy
No, the iFi Uno is entirely USB-powered. It draws all the necessary power and data directly from your PC, tablet, or smartphone via its USB-C connection.
Yes, you can connect the iFi Uno to active speakers using the stereo RCA outputs on the back. The volume control on the front of the unit will adjust the output level for your speakers.
The Music, Movie, and Game modes are analogue-based EQ settings designed to optimize the audio profile for specific content. Music mode provides a balanced sound, Movie mode enhances dialogue clarity, and Game mode makes low-level sound effects easier to pinpoint.
Yes, the ES9219 Sabre chip supports high-resolution audio formats including PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz, DSD256, and MQA, ensuring you get the most detail out of your high-fidelity music files.
S-Balanced technology is designed to reduce noise, distortion, and crosstalk. It provides a cleaner signal path to your headphones, which results in a more precise and immersive listening experience compared to standard headphone jacks.
The iFi Uno works well with most standard headphones and IEMs. However, if you are using high-impedance, power-hungry audiophile headphones, you may find that a dedicated, more powerful desktop amplifier is required to reach their full potential.
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$79