IFI IDSD VALKYRIE PORTABLE DAC/AMP LAUNCHED

iFi Audio has unveiled the iFi iDSD Valkyrie Portable DAC/Amp, a high-performance portable DAC/Amp designed for audiophiles who want full control over their sound.

This feature-rich device integrates advanced digital processing, extensive filter options, and high-powered output in a compact chassis.

IFI IDSD VALKYRIE PORTABLE DAC/AMP

The iFi iDSD Valkyrie Portable DAC/Amp employs an FPGA-powered DSD Remastering feature, enabling users to remaster audio to DSD512 or DSD1024. Inspired by mastering studio techniques, this function enhances resolution, minimises distortion, and delivers a refined, immersive listening experience, says the British HiFi brand.

K2HD TECHNOLOGY FOR ANALOGUE WARMTH

A key feature of the iDSD Valkyrie is JVCKENWOOD’s K2HD Technology, which restores the warmth and harmonics lost in digital processing. Users can select between ‘K2’ mode, which preserves original resolution, and ‘K2HD’ mode, which enriches digital audio with natural analogue character.

MULTIPLE DIGITAL FILTERS AND ANALOGUE PROCESSING

To further refine the listening experience, the iDSD Valkyrie offers six digital filters, including Apodising, GTO, Bit Perfect, Standard, Minimum, and Transient Aligned. It also features iFi’s unique analogue processing tools: XBassII, XPresence, and XSpace. Unlike digital signal processing (DSP), these analogue adjustments maintain purity and minimise distortion.

QUAD-DAC ARCHITECTURE AND LOSSLESS BLUETOOTH

At its core, the iDSD Valkyrie houses a quad-DAC setup with four Burr-Brown DACs in a hybrid multi-bit configuration, inspired by the renowned Philips TDA1541A chipset. It also supports high-resolution wireless audio via Qualcomm’s flagship Bluetooth chipset, offering CD-quality streaming with aptX Lossless and Hi-Res playback via LDAC.

EXTREME POWER OUTPUT AND xMEMS SUPPORT

With a peak power output of 5,700mW (2,258mW RMS), the iDSD Valkyrie outperforms its predecessor, the iDSD Diablo 2, by approximately 44% when driving low-impedance headphones. Additionally, it supports xMEMS technology, a cutting-edge innovation that enables ultra-fast, phase-accurate sound reproduction for compatible IEMs.

IFI IDSD VALKYRIE BATTERY LIFE AND FAST CHARGING

The iDSD Valkyrie’s power-hungry features are backed by a substantial 20,000mAh battery, offering up to 18 hours of playback on a single charge. The device recharges rapidly via USB-C, taking approximately 2.5 hours to reach full capacity.

IFI IDSD VALKYRIE PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

The iFi iDSD Valkyrie is available for purchase priced at £1,699/$1,699/€1,699.

HiFi PiG Says: A very cool looking little DAC/Amp, packed wit tech and iFi’s favoured Burr Brown DAC chips.