iFi Audio
Zen DAC V2
Best desktop DAC for audiophiles seeking high-resolution sound on a budget.
Elevate your audio experience with the iFi Zen DAC V2, a desktop USB DAC and headphone amplifier designed for high-resolution sound. It offers full MQA decoding and an upgraded 16-core XMOS chip for studio-quality audio reproduction. Connect seamlessly via USB to your computer and enjoy pristine sound, whether powering sensitive in-ear monitors or demanding headphones. The Zen DAC V2 also serves as a premium source for active speakers or external amplifiers, providing personalized sound through its balanced 4.4mm output, PowerMatch gain, and TrueBass bass boost.
$149.37
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 733
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-89%
Below average
Converter Type
D/A Converter with Burr-Brown Chipset
/ D/A Converter with Burr-Brown Chipset
Who it's for
- Audiophiles streaming high-resolution files and DSD libraries
- Listeners using a variety of headphones and IEMs
- Bass lovers seeking a cleaner low-end boost
Who should skip it
- Users demanding maximum power and noise-free performance
- Owners of high-impedance or power-hungry planar headphones
- Listeners requiring precise volume and sample rate readouts
Performance breakdown
Resolution Clarity
Burr-Brown chipset delivers exceptional detail for high-resolution audio files.
Headphone Versatility
Balanced output and switchable gain handle diverse headphone impedances with ease.
Digital Processing
The 16-core XMOS chip ensures seamless, jitter-free MQA decoding performance.
Low-End Enhancement
TrueBass provides a natural, analog-style boost without muddying the midrange.
Connectivity Options
Robust selection of balanced and single-ended outputs for desktop setups.
Build Integrity
Solid desktop chassis feels premium despite the lightweight, compact footprint.
Key Specs
Converter Type
D/A Converter with Burr-Brown Chipset
Max Sample Rate/Resolution
384 kHz / 32-Bit
Host Connection
1 x USB Type-B (USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen 1)
Analog Outputs
1 x 4.4 mm TRRS Balanced Headphone, 1 x 1/4" TRS Headphone, 2 x RCA Coaxial Line Out
Headphone Output Power
330 mW into 32 Ohms (4.4 mm)
Dimensions
6.3 x 4.6 x 1.4 inches
Weight
1.8 lb / 0.8 kg
Power Requirements
USB Bus Power or AC/DC Adapter (Not Included)
Features
- Full MQA decoding for studio quality
- Upgraded 16-core XMOS processor
- Switchable gain for headphone matching
- Analog bass boost for richer lows
- Bit-perfect playback via Burr-Brown chipset
- Balanced 4.4mm headphone output
- Switchable line out for versatile use
- Improved clock stability for cleaner audio
What customers say
The iFi Audio Zen DAC V2 earns high praise for its exceptional sound quality and outstanding value. Users consistently describe the audio as warm, musical, and detailed, significantly elevating digital listening experiences. Its feature set, including MQA decoding and signature sound adjustments, offers versatility usually reserved for pricier gear. Furthermore, customers appreciate the robust build quality and solid metal chassis, suggesting strong durability. Functioning effectively as a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier, it serves as a versatile desktop audio hub. For those seeking high fidelity without a large investment, the Zen DAC V2 is widely regarded as an incredible, must-buy component.
Know before you buy
No, it is primarily powered via the USB connection from your computer. However, you can add an external 5V power adapter if you prefer to save your computer's battery or if you are using power-hungry headphones that benefit from a more stable power source.
No, the Zen DAC V2 is designed to output audio to only one headphone connection at a time. Plugging in a second pair of headphones will typically mute the first.
PowerMatch is a gain adjustment switch that allows you to match the amplifier's output to your specific headphones. Use the lower setting for sensitive in-ear monitors to prevent background hiss, and the higher setting to provide the extra voltage needed for demanding over-ear headphones.
Yes, the Zen DAC V2 features a 16-core XMOS chip that performs full MQA decoding. This allows you to play back high-resolution MQA files from services like Tidal in their intended studio-quality format.
Yes, you can use the RCA outputs on the back to connect to active speakers. The Zen DAC V2 includes a switchable line-out feature, allowing you to choose between a fixed volume level for use with a separate preamp or a variable level to control the volume directly from the DAC.
It can work with mobile devices, but you will likely need a camera adapter or an OTG (On-The-Go) cable to bridge the connection. Because the Zen DAC V2 draws power from the host, ensure your mobile device can provide sufficient power or use a powered USB hub.
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