iFi Audio
iDSD Diablo 2 Portable DAC Amplifier
Best portable powerhouse for audiophiles driving demanding high-end headphones.
The iFi Audio iDSD Diablo 2 is a top-tier portable DAC/Amp designed for audiophiles seeking unadulterated sonic performance. It features a striking, futuristic all-metal body and supports every Bluetooth format, including aptX Lossless. The dual-core DAC design ensures true-native DSD and PCM playback with advanced jitter reduction. With an astonishing 5,180mW of power, it can drive demanding headphones and IEMs through its multiple power modes. The Diablo 2 also supports next-generation xMEMS headphone technology and offers both wired and wireless listening options.
$1149.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
388
/ 733
#388 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-18%
Below average
Bluetooth formats supported
aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, LHDC/HWA
/ aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, LHDC/HWA
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking uncompromising sonic clarity and detail
- Owners of power-hungry, high-impedance studio headphones
- Users requiring versatile connectivity for diverse audio setups
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners prioritizing value over luxury performance
- Commuters needing a truly lightweight, pocketable device
- Travelers requiring extended battery life for long listening sessions
Performance breakdown
Driving Power
Massive output effortlessly handles even the most demanding high-impedance planar headphones.
Wireless Fidelity
Industry-leading aptX Lossless support delivers near-wired quality without the cables.
Format Versatility
Handles everything from native DSD512 to MQA with absolute bit-perfect precision.
Build Integrity
Robust all-metal chassis feels like a premium piece of studio equipment.
Input Flexibility
Comprehensive connectivity options ensure seamless integration with any digital source.
Future-Proofing
Dedicated xMEMS support keeps you ahead of emerging high-end headphone technology.
Key Specs
Bluetooth formats supported
aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, LHDC/HWA
DAC Design
Dual-core, True-native DSD and PCM
Power Output
5,180mW/12.9V into 32 ohms (4.4mm balanced)
Power Output
611mW/19.2V into 600 ohms (4.4mm balanced)
Power Modes
Normal, Turbo, Nitro
Supported Audio Formats
PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD up to 22.579MHz (DSD512), MQA
Bluetooth Version
5.4
Inputs
USB-C, 4.4mm Balanced Line Input/Output, S/PDIF 3.5mm Coaxial/Optical
Features
- World's first Lossless Bluetooth portable DAC/Amp with aptX Lossless support
- Supports every Bluetooth format for maximum wireless audio quality
- Dual-core DAC design for bit-perfect DSD and PCM playback
- Astonishing 5,180mW power output for driving demanding headphones
- Customizable circuits for next-generation xMEMS headphone technology
- Three distinct power modes (Normal, Turbo, Nitro) for optimized headphone matching
- Striking futuristic design with detachable 'wings' for versatile placement
- Powered by battery or mains with included iPower 2 power supply
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the iDSD Diablo 2 for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Many highlight its ability to drive demanding headphones with remarkable clarity and power, delivering an immersive audio experience. The premium design and solid construction also receive frequent commendation, reinforcing a sense of high end craftsmanship. While its price point is noted, the perceived audio performance often justifies the investment for serious audiophiles, making quality and design standout themes.
Know before you buy
Yes, with a massive 5,180mW power output, it is designed to handle even the most demanding audiophile headphones. The three power modes—Normal, Turbo, and Nitro—allow you to precisely match the output to your specific headphone's requirements.
It is the world's first portable DAC/Amp to support aptX Lossless, ensuring CD-quality audio over Bluetooth. It also supports every major high-resolution codec, including LDAC, LHDC, and aptX Adaptive, for the best possible wireless performance.
The Diablo 2 includes specialized circuitry to support next-generation xMEMS headphone technology. This ensures that if you are using compatible xMEMS drivers, you get the correct voltage and signal processing required for their unique performance characteristics.
Yes, you can use the device while it is connected to power. It comes with an iPower 2 power supply, which is designed to provide clean, noise-free power for optimal sonic performance during both battery and mains operation.
The device features a versatile USB-C input for digital audio, as well as a 3.5mm S/PDIF port that accepts both coaxial and optical signals. This allows you to connect a wide range of sources, from smartphones and laptops to dedicated digital transports.
The detachable wings are designed to provide stability and versatility in how you position the unit. They allow you to stand the Diablo 2 vertically to save desk space or keep it horizontal depending on your setup preferences.
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