iFi Audio
iFi Audio GO Blu Portable Bluetooth DAC/Amp
Best portable solution for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity wireless sound.
The iFi Audio GO Blu is a compact and portable Bluetooth DAC/Amp designed for high-fidelity sound on the go. It features separate Bluetooth, DAC, and amplifier stages for optimized performance, utilizing the latest QC5100 chipset for Bluetooth v5.1 and high-resolution codec support including aptX HD, LDAC, and HWA. The device offers both 4.4mm balanced and 3.5mm S-Balanced outputs, with the latter reducing distortion by 50% for single-ended connections. Its balanced twin-mono circuit design and Direct Drive technology ensure ultra-low distortion, while the precision rotary volume control with auto-gain adapts output to headphone sensitivity. Enjoy up to 5.6V of power to drive demanding headphones with ease.
$199.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 733
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-86%
Below average
Amplifier type
Solid-state
/ Solid-state
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound in a pocketable form factor
- Listeners wanting wireless convenience without sacrificing high-resolution audio quality
- Users needing flexible connectivity for various headphones and digital sources
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for more affordable portable audio solutions
- Commuters or travelers requiring all-day battery life for long trips
- Users who prefer tactile, easy-to-reach physical controls while on the go
Performance breakdown
Wireless Fidelity
Broad codec support ensures high-resolution streaming without compromising audio integrity.
Drive Capability
Impressive voltage output handles demanding headphones with surprising authority and ease.
Portability
Featherweight design fits effortlessly into any pocket for true mobile listening.
Output Versatility
Balanced and S-Balanced ports accommodate a wide range of headphone terminations.
Sound Customization
XBass and XSpace modes provide meaningful sonic adjustments without muddying the signal.
Battery Endurance
Eight hours of playback is sufficient for daily commutes but lacks longevity.
Key Specs
Amplifier type
Solid-state
Connectivity
Wired, Wireless
Portability
Portable
Supported codecs
aptX, aptX HD, aptX LL, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, HWA/LHDC, AAC, SBC
Bluetooth version
5.1
DAC stage
Hi-res
Amp stage
Twin-mono signal paths, Direct Drive technology
Volume control
Precision rotary with auto-gain
Features
- Pocket-sized design for ultimate portability
- High-definition Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
- Separate, optimized Bluetooth, DAC, and amp stages
- Balanced analogue circuit design for powerful and refined sound
- Dual headphone outputs (balanced and S-Balanced) for versatile use
- Supports all major HD Bluetooth codecs for superior wireless audio
- Precision volume control with auto-gain for optimal headphone matching
- Includes XBass and XSpace features for sound customization
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the iFi Audio GO Blu for its exceptional sound quality, transforming portable audio experiences with remarkable clarity and power. Its compact, lightweight design makes it an ideal companion for on the go listening, easily fitting into any pocket. Users frequently highlight its robust build and intuitive controls, making it a highly valued device for audiophiles seeking premium performance in a truly portable package. The overall consensus points to a significant upgrade in audio fidelity without sacrificing convenience.
Know before you buy
Yes, it supports virtually all major high-definition Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC, aptX HD, and HWA/LHDC, ensuring you get the best possible audio quality from your wireless source.
Absolutely. It features a 4.4mm balanced output for compatible headphones and a 3.5mm S-Balanced output, which uses a specialized design to reduce distortion by 50% when using standard single-ended cables.
The GO Blu delivers up to 5.6V of power, which is quite robust for its size and capable of driving most demanding headphones with ease.
The precision rotary volume control automatically adjusts the output level based on the sensitivity of your headphones, ensuring you have a smooth, usable volume range regardless of whether you are using sensitive IEMs or harder-to-drive headphones.
You can expect approximately 8 hours of playback time, though actual performance may vary slightly depending on your volume levels and the specific Bluetooth codec being used.
XBass is designed to enhance low-frequency response for a deeper, punchier sound, while XSpace widens the soundstage to create a more immersive, speaker-like listening experience.
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