High resolution DAC and headphone amplifier

The ZEN Air DAC 2 is a compact desktop DAC and headphone amplifier built for clean conversion, balanced output, and enough power to handle a wide range of headphones. It uses a Cirrus Logic DAC for natural detail, adds a 4.4mm balanced output for improved channel separation, and includes analog sound shaping tools like XBass+ and PowerMatch. USB-C power and input keep it simple at your desk while still delivering measurable performance: low distortion, strong dynamic range, and support for high-resolution audio formats.

designed around a cirrus logic dac

At the core is a Cirrus Logic DAC chosen for its natural presentation. Instead of pushing detail forward in a way that feels artificial, it keeps textures intact and lets instruments breathe. With support for PCM up to 384kHz and DSD256, it handles high-resolution files without conversion shortcuts.

balanced output for cleaner separation

The addition of a 4.4mm balanced headphone output changes how the DAC 2 handles space and channel separation. Balanced connections reduce crosstalk and noise, which helps maintain clearer left-right imaging. If you’re using compatible headphones, you’ll hear more distinct placement of instruments and a quieter background between notes.

more power where it counts

Balanced circuitry brings a meaningful increase in output. With up to 484mW at 64Ω through the 4.4mm output, the DAC 2 can drive more demanding headphones with better control. That translates into tighter bass, improved dynamics, and less strain when listening at higher volumes. Even through the 6.35mm output, it delivers solid performance for everyday listening.

analog controls that shape your sound

XBass+ and PowerMatch give you direct control over how your headphones behave. XBass+ adds low-end weight without overwhelming the rest of the spectrum. PowerMatch adjusts gain so you can properly drive both sensitive IEMs and harder-to-drive over-ears without sacrificing volume control range.

refined design for daily use

The updated midnight blue finish and metal fascia give the DAC 2 a more durable, grounded feel on your desk. A dedicated power button lets you turn it off cleanly without unplugging cables or reaching behind your gear. USB-C power keeps things straightforward, with one cable handling both power and data from your computer.

low-noise output for consistent performance

Output impedance stays low, helping maintain consistent frequency response across different headphones. Combined with strong SNR and low distortion figures, this keeps your music stable and predictable regardless of what you plug in.

Product highlights

• Cirrus Logic DAC with natural tonal balance
  
• 4.4mm balanced headphone output
  
• 6.35mm single-ended headphone output
  
• XBass+ analog bass enhancement
  
• PowerMatch gain control
  
• USB-C input and power
  
• High-resolution support up to PCM 384kHz and DSD256
  
• Low distortion and high dynamic range performance
  
• Dedicated power button
  
• Compact desktop form factor

Specs

• Dimensions: 6.2 x 3.9 x 1.4” (158 x 100 x 35mm)
  
• Weight: 0.69 lbs (315g)
  
• Dynamic range: 118dBA
  
• Frequency response: 20Hz–90kHz (-3dB)
  
• SNR: 118dBA
  
• THD+N: ≤0.0011% (6.3mm), ≤0.0015% (4.4mm)
  
• Headphone output power: 484mW @ 64Ω (4.4mm), 286mW @ 32Ω (6.3mm)
  
• Headphone output impedance: <1Ω
  
• Line output voltage: 2V; 3.4V max (variable)
  
• Output impedance (line): ≤50Ω
  
• Power consumption: ~0.55W idle; ~3.55W max
  
• Power supply: USB-C 5V/>1A

What’s included

• ZEN Air DAC 2
  
• USB-C cable
  
• User documentation