iFi Audio has unveiled the iDSD GR2, a new portable DAC and headphone amplifier that builds on the legacy of the popular five-star xDSD Gryphon, bringing a substantial hardware upgrade for audiophiles on the move.
The new model has been rebuilt from the ground up, as iFi position it as its most capable true-portable DAC/amp to date. Among the headline upgrades are a new DAC architecture and a fully balanced amplification stage, support for lossless Bluetooth audio, and a touchscreen interface to make adjustments quicker and easier.
At the heart of the iDSD GR2 sits a Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC chip, marking the first time iFi has used this particular DAC in one of its products. The company says the new design retains the warm and analogue-like sound signature associated with previous iFi devices, while also improving dynamic range, reducing distortion and delivering full 32-bit audio support.
Power has also received a notable boost. The iDSD GR2 can deliver up to 1,513mW into 32-ohm headphones. According to iFi, this is a 50% increase over the original Gryphon, with that extra headroom making it better suited to driving more demanding headphones without sacrificing dynamics or bass control.
A new colour OLED touchscreen replaces the previous OLED control layout seen on earlier models. iFi Audio says the capacitive display provides direct access to key settings without forcing users to dig through complex menus.
Image Credit (iFi Audio)
Wireless performance has also moved forward with Bluetooth 5.4 support. The iDSD GR2 packs aptX Lossless for CD-quality wireless playback, while LDAC compatibility that enables higher bitrate streaming for Android users.
One of the more interesting additions is JVCKENWOOD’s K2HD technology. This is designed to restore harmonic detail that can be lost during digital recording and compression. The feature aims to deliver a more natural and engaging sound, allower uses to choose a lighter-touch K2 mode if they prefer a subtler effect.
Connections include USB, S/PDIF and line-level connections, while there’s even more room to adjust the sound profile with iFi’s XBass+ and XSpace audio processing modes, and there’s app support through iFi Nexis and a new hybrid power mode that helps preserve long-term battery health.
The iDSD GR2 is available now from iFi and authorised retailers, priced at £529 / $529 / €549.
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