IFI LAUNCHES IDSD DIABLO 2 PORTABLE DAC/HEADPHONE AMP WITH BLUETOOTH INNOVATION

British audio technology company iFi has unveiled the iFi iDSD Diablo 2, the latest iteration of its portable DAC/headphone amp series, streaming CD-quality audio ‘losslessly’ with Bluetooth aptX Lossless.

Positioned as the pinnacle of the company’s mobile device lineup, the Diablo 2 features significant enhancements over the previous model, in design, connectivity, and technical capabilities.

IFI IDSD DIABLO 2 PORTABLE DAC/HEADPHONE AMP

The iFi iDSD Diablo 2 retains the form factor of its predecessor, measuring 166x85x28.5mm. While it falls more into the ‘transportable’ category than ‘pocket-size,’ its compact size makes it suitable for desks, tables, or on-the-go use. The redesigned crimson aluminium enclosure, featuring 22 grooves for improved thermal dissipation, adds a touch of style to its robust structure.

LOSSLESS BLUETOOTH

One of the standout features of the Diablo 2 is its incorporation of iFi’s latest Bluetooth engine, making it the world’s first (claim iFi) portable DAC/headphone amp capable of processing lossless Bluetooth audio. Supporting aptX Lossless, the device aims to deliver wireless connectivity without compromising on sound quality.

The Bluetooth module of the Diablo 2, redesigned by iFi, introduces aptX Lossless,  touted as the first ‘lossless’ Bluetooth audio format. This format, part of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Sound platform, stands out for its ability to stream CD-quality audio ‘losslessly,’ preserving the original data during compression.

The portable DAC/headphone amp is equipped with Bluetooth version 5.4, offering an extended wireless range, high speed, and low latency. It can store up to eight paired Bluetooth source devices in its memory for convenient switching.

BURR-BROWN DAC

The digital stage of the iDSD Diablo 2 features a Burr-Brown DAC chip in a custom ‘interleaved’ configuration for improved performance. The device supports high-resolution audio formats, handling PCM data up to 32-bit/768kHz and all levels of DSD up to 22.5792MHz.

IFI PUREWAVE

The iDSD Diablo 2’s analogue circuitry features iFi’s PureWave design, incorporating balanced, differential circuitry for reduced noise and crosstalk. The amp stage delivers an output of 5,180mW/12.9V into 32 ohms, making it capable of driving various headphones, from highly sensitive in-ear monitors to planar headphones.

The device offers three gain settings, Normal, Turbo, and Nitro, to accommodate different headphone requirements. Additionally, an IEMatch attenuation mode helps eliminate background noise for super-sensitive in-ear monitors.

IFI IDSD DIABLO 2 PREMIUM COMPONENTS

To ensure its sound quality, the iDSD Diablo 2 uses high-quality components throughout its circuitry, including custom ultra-low-distortion MOSFET op-amps and premium capacitors.

The power supply circuitry is carefully designed to address potential downsides of battery power, ensuring stable DC current and consistent performance. The device features a 4800mAh lithium-ion battery for extended use and an optional mains power connection via the iPower 2 AC/DC adapter.

IFI IDSD DIABLO 2 PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

The iFi iDSD Diablo 2 comes with a comprehensive accessories pack, including various cables, adapters, and a travel case.

RRP £1,299

Available now.

HiFi PiG Says: A fantastic looking new Diabolo from iFi, sure to be on many Christmas lists.