iFi Audio
iFi NEO iDSD 2
Best versatile DAC/amp for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity wireless and wired performance.
The iFi NEO iDSD 2 is a versatile 3-in-1 DAC/Amp designed for audiophiles. It seamlessly functions as a Head-Fi DAC/Amp, a pure DAC for integrated amplifiers, or a DAC/Preamp for active speakers. Featuring the latest Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, it streams CD-quality audio without compression. This device boasts five times more headphone output power than its predecessor, integrating a Diablo headphone circuit for exceptional performance. It includes Auto iEMatch for sensitive headphones and offers four gain settings. The NEO iDSD 2 allows sound customization through analogue processing modes like XSpace and XBass II, and four digital filters.
$899.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
388
/ 733
#388 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-36%
Below average
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-resolution clarity and dynamic sound reproduction
- System builders needing a central hub for diverse digital sources
- Headphone enthusiasts using a wide variety of demanding gear
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners prioritizing value over premium performance
- Casual users preferring a straightforward plug-and-play setup
- Vinyl collectors requiring direct analog connectivity for turntables
Performance breakdown
Headphone Driving Power
Massive output reserves easily handle the most demanding planar magnetic headphones.
Wireless Fidelity
Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless delivers near-wired transparency for wireless streaming.
IEM Compatibility
Auto iEMatch technology eliminates background hiss for ultra-sensitive in-ear monitors.
Sound Customization
Analogue processing modes offer meaningful, non-destructive tweaks to your sound signature.
System Versatility
Seamlessly transitions between desktop DAC, headphone amp, and active speaker preamp.
Digital Precision
Femto-precision clocking ensures jitter-free conversion for high-resolution digital audio files.
Key Specs
Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC, SBC
USB DAC
PCM 32-bit/768kHz, DSD512, Full MQA decoding
Headphone Output Power
5,551 mW (@ 32Ω)
Gain Settings
-12dB to +16dB
Analogue Processing Modes
XSpace, XBass II
Digital Filters
4 options
Output
Balanced (19.5V max), Unbalanced
Display
2-inch color display with auto-rotation
Features
- Versatile 3-in-1 functionality: Head-Fi DAC/Amp, pure DAC, or DAC/Preamp.
- Latest Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless for CD-quality wireless streaming.
- Significantly increased headphone output power for demanding headphones.
- Integrated Diablo headphone circuit for superior audio performance.
- Auto iEMatch reduces hiss for sensitive IEMs without dynamic range loss.
- Customizable sound with XSpace, XBass II, and four digital filters.
- 2-inch color display with auto-rotation for vertical or horizontal orientation.
- Analogue volume control for superior sound quality.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the iFi NEO iDSD 2 for its exceptional sound quality, noting a clear, detailed, and engaging audio experience across various headphones and speakers. Many highlight its versatile connectivity options and robust build, appreciating the sleek design. While a premium product, users generally feel it delivers significant sonic improvements, justifying its cost through its performance and elegant presentation. The device is often seen as a substantial upgrade for serious audio enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
Yes, it functions as a high-quality DAC/Preamp. You can connect it directly to active speakers and use its precise analogue volume control to manage your listening levels.
Absolutely. The NEO iDSD 2 features Auto iEMatch, which automatically detects and reduces background hiss for sensitive in-ear monitors without sacrificing dynamic range.
By utilizing the latest Bluetooth 5.4 standard with aptX Lossless, the device supports CD-quality wireless streaming. While wired connections still offer the highest possible resolution, this is currently one of the most capable wireless implementations available.
Yes, with 5,551 mW of power at 32Ω and four adjustable gain settings, it is designed to drive even the most power-hungry audiophile headphones with ease.
Yes, the 2-inch color display features an auto-rotation sensor. It will automatically adjust its orientation whether you choose to position the unit horizontally or vertically on your desk.
These are analogue processing modes that allow you to tailor the sound signature to your preference. XSpace widens the soundstage for a more immersive feel, while XBass II enhances low-end frequencies without muddying the midrange.
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