Burr-Brown Portable DAC/Amp

The iFi iDSD GR 2 is a DAC and headphone amplifier designed for both portable and desktop audio systems. Building on the foundation of the xDSD Gryphon, it introduces a redesigned audio architecture centered around a Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC, a fully-balanced analogue amplification stage, an upgraded touchscreen interface, and expanded wired and wireless connectivity. 

Redesigned Burr-Brown conversion and balanced analogue architecture

At the heart of the iDSD GR 2 is a Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC chipset supporting PCM audio up to 768kHz and native DSD512 playback. The current-output architecture allows iFi to implement a custom analogue output stage rather than relying on the DAC's integrated output circuitry. This approach improves dynamic range, reduces distortion, and preserves the smooth, natural presentation long associated with Burr-Brown conversion.

Following the DAC stage is a redesigned fully-balanced analogue amplifier built around Class-A op-amps. The balanced output delivers up to 1,513mW into 32 ohms, providing both the voltage swing and current required for a wide variety of in-ear monitors and full-size headphones. Upgraded iEMatch circuitry uses low-impedance MOSFETs to help maintain low output impedance, consistent channel balance, and low distortion across a broad range of headphone sensitivities.

Modern interface and high-resolution wireless playback

A new capacitive color OLED touchscreen replaces deeper menu navigation with direct access to inputs, playback options, and system settings. The simplified interface allows common adjustments to be made quickly while keeping the compact enclosure free from excessive physical controls.

Wireless performance has also been updated with Bluetooth 5.4 and support for aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC, and SBC codecs. aptX Lossless supports CD-quality wireless transmission when paired with compatible source devices, while LDAC operates at transmission rates up to 990kbps for higher-bandwidth Bluetooth audio.

K2HD processing and flexible connectivity

The GR 2 incorporates licensed JVCKENWOOD K2HD Technology, which restores harmonic information commonly reduced during digital recording and compression. A separate K2 processing mode provides similar enhancement without upsampling, giving listeners an alternative processing option while preserving the original sample rate.

Connectivity is designed to support both portable and desktop use. Digital inputs include USB-C, optical/coaxial S/PDIF, and Bluetooth, while analogue sources can be connected through balanced 4.4mm or single-ended 3.5mm inputs. Dedicated balanced and single-ended outputs allow the GR 2 to function as both a headphone amplifier and a DAC with fixed line-level output for external amplification or powered speakers.

Hybrid power system and Nexis compatibility

The GR 2 uses a hybrid power management system that prioritizes external USB power before drawing from its internal 4,900mAh lithium-polymer battery. Reducing unnecessary battery cycling during stationary listening helps preserve battery longevity while maintaining approximately seven hours of portable playback when operating on battery power alone.

Support for the iFi Nexis app adds remote device management, advanced configuration options, and over-the-air firmware updates. Compatible Android devices also gain access to additional USB-based Nexis functionality, allowing future software enhancements to be delivered as new features become available.

Availability

The iFi iDSD GR 2 is available now on Apos.