iFi ZEN DAC Signature V2
Best desktop DAC for audiophiles seeking pure, balanced high-resolution sound.
Experience pure audio with the iFi ZEN DAC Signature V2, a desktop DAC engineered for superior sound. This specialized unit enhances external amplifier performance for headphones or speakers. It boasts a powerful 16-core XMOS chip and an upgraded clock for refined digital processing and reduced noise. Featuring premium components and a true-dual-mono, fully balanced design, it delivers bit-perfect playback up to 32-bit/384kHz and native DSD up to DSD256. The ZEN DAC Signature V2 also offers full MQA decoding, ensuring an authentic listening experience.
$299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
99
/ 489
#99 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
-93%
Below average
Input
3.02.0
/ USB Type B (compatible with USB )
Who it's for
- Listeners requiring versatile connections for diverse audio gear
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound clarity and detail
- Desktop users prioritizing aesthetic appeal and long-term durability
Who should skip it
- Users preferring remote-controlled convenience from their listening position
- Budget-conscious buyers avoiding extra equipment and setup costs
- Owners of headphones requiring specific gain adjustments for optimal volume
Performance breakdown
Digital Resolution
Handles high-resolution files with exceptional clarity and bit-perfect precision.
Signal Purity
Advanced clocking technology effectively eliminates jitter for a cleaner soundstage.
Balanced Connectivity
The 4.4mm output provides superior channel separation for demanding audiophile headphones.
MQA Decoding
Full hardware decoding ensures authentic studio-quality playback from supported streaming services.
Build Integrity
Compact, robust chassis design feels premium and built for desktop longevity.
System Versatility
Flexible fixed or variable outputs integrate seamlessly into any existing audio setup.
Key Specs
Input
USB 3.0 Type B (compatible with USB 2.0)
Supported Formats
PCM up to 384kHz, DXD, DSD up to DSD256, MQA
DAC
Bit-Perfect DSD and DXD DAC by Burr Brown
Outputs
4.4mm Balanced, RCA Unbalanced
Output Impedance
<= 200 Ohms (BAL), <= 100 Ohms (SE)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
-117 dB(A) @ 0dBFS (BAL/SE)
Dynamic Range
>117 dB(A) @ -60dBFS (BAL/SE)
THD+N
<0.0011% @ 0dBFS (BAL/SE)
Features
- 16-core XMOS chip for advanced processing.
- True Native Burr-Brown DAC for bit-perfect sound.
- Full MQA decoding for studio quality.
- Low-jitter GMT clock for signal purity.
- Premium component selection.
- Dual-mono, fully balanced circuit.
- Selectable variable or fixed output.
- 4.4mm balanced output for high performance.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the iFi ZEN DAC Signature V2 for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable value. Users frequently highlight the significant audio improvement, noting a clear, detailed, and engaging listening experience across various headphones and speakers. The device's ability to elevate music reproduction, delivering a rich and warm sound signature, is a recurring theme. Many reviewers feel this DAC offers performance typically found in much higher priced equipment, making it an outstanding investment for audio enthusiasts seeking premium sound without a premium cost. Its robust build quality also contributes to a sense of lasting satisfaction.
Know before you buy
No, this is a dedicated DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter). It is designed to be paired with an external headphone or speaker amplifier to complete your audio chain.
Yes. You can connect the RCA or 4.4mm outputs to your active speakers. The unit features a selectable variable output, allowing you to use the volume knob on the DAC to control the speaker volume.
Yes, the ZEN DAC Signature V2 features full MQA decoding. This allows you to play back MQA files at their full resolution, providing a studio-quality listening experience.
The fixed setting outputs a constant signal level, which is ideal if you are connecting to a pre-amplifier or integrated amplifier with its own volume control. The variable setting allows you to use the DAC's volume knob to adjust the output level directly.
The device is generally plug-and-play for most operating systems, but you may need to download the latest iFi drivers from their website to ensure full compatibility with high-resolution formats like DSD and MQA on Windows.
Yes, it is powered directly via the USB input from your computer. This simplifies your desktop setup by eliminating the need for an additional power brick.
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$299