iFi Audio
iFi Audio xDSD Gryphon
Best portable DAC for audiophiles seeking versatile, high-fidelity sound on the go.
The iFi Audio xDSD Gryphon is a portable DAC/amp that excels in both its digital and analog sections, offering a dual-beast approach to audio. It features a Burr-Brown MultiBit DAC for its Ultra-Res digital stage and a PureWave analog power section capable of delivering 1,000mW. This device supports a wide range of digital and analog sources, including advanced Bluetooth 5.1 codecs like aptX Adaptive and LDAC, as well as USB, S/PDIF, 4.4mm, and 3.5mm inputs. The Gryphon also includes sound-enhancing features like XSpace, XBass II, and iEMatch for a tailored listening experience.
$499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 733
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-64%
Below average
Inputs
Wireless, Wired (digital), Wired (analogue)
/ Wireless, Wired (digital), Wired (analogue)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles demanding uncompromising high-resolution sound quality
- Listeners seeking dynamic power for diverse headphone collections
- Users requiring seamless integration across multiple digital sources
- Design-conscious listeners valuing premium build and intuitive controls
- Mobile users needing versatile wired and wireless connectivity
- Music lovers wanting customizable sound signatures and robust amplification
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking entry-level portable audio solutions
- Commuters prioritizing ultra-compact and lightweight gear
- Travelers needing long-lasting battery for extended listening sessions
Performance breakdown
Driving Power
1,000mW output effortlessly handles even the most demanding high-impedance headphones.
Wireless Fidelity
Advanced codec support ensures near-wired quality over a stable Bluetooth connection.
Sonic Customization
XSpace and XBass II provide meaningful, non-destructive adjustments to your soundstage.
Input Versatility
Seamlessly bridges the gap between digital sources and analog audio gear.
Portability
Compact enough for travel while packing desktop-grade amplification into your pocket.
Noise Floor
SilentLine technology keeps background hiss virtually non-existent for sensitive IEM users.
Key Specs
Inputs
Wireless, Wired (digital), Wired (analogue)
Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX LL, LDAC, HWA, AAC and SBC Codec)
USB-C
S/PDIF co-axial
Balanced 4.4mm
Single-Ended 3.5mm
Formats
DSD512/256/128/64, PCM 768/705.6/384/352.8/192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1kHz, DXD 768/705.6/384/352.8kHz, MQA (Decoder) 384/352.8kHz, Bluetooth Up to 96kHz
DAC
Burr-Brown
Features
- Dual DAC/Amp design for optimized digital and analog performance
- High-resolution wireless audio with advanced Bluetooth 5.1 codecs
- Hybrid Burr-Brown DAC chipset for exceptional wired audio quality
- Powerful amplification with 1000mW output to drive demanding headphones
- Versatile connectivity options including USB-C, S/PDIF, and analog inputs
- User-customizable sound with XSpace, XBass II, and iEMatch
- Clear OLED display with SilentLine technology to minimize noise
- Portable design for high-fidelity audio on the go
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the iFi Audio xDSD Gryphon for its exceptional sound quality, delivering a rich and detailed audio experience across various headphones. Users frequently highlight its robust and elegant design, appreciating the premium materials and solid construction. The device is often celebrated for its versatility and compact form factor, making it a highly regarded portable audio solution. Its ability to elevate listening pleasure is a recurring positive point among enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Gryphon is quite powerful for its size. With a balanced output of over 1,000mW at 32 ohms, it can comfortably drive demanding headphones up to 600 ohms.
It does. The Gryphon features Bluetooth 5.1 and supports high-fidelity codecs like LDAC and aptX Adaptive, allowing you to stream high-resolution audio wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet.
These are analog signal processing tools designed to tailor your listening experience. XBass II adds depth to the low-end frequencies, while XSpace widens the soundstage to create a more immersive, speaker-like presentation.
Yes, the device is equipped with both a 4.4mm balanced output and a 3.5mm single-ended output, ensuring compatibility with almost any standard headphone cable.
iEMatch is specifically designed for sensitive in-ear monitors. It reduces background hiss and allows for more precise volume control, which is particularly useful if you find your IEMs are too loud even at low volume settings.
Absolutely. You can connect the Gryphon to your home system via its analog outputs, and it will function as a high-quality DAC/preamp for your digital sources.
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