xDSD, MQA-optimized DAC/amp from iFi

The new xDSD features aptX and AAC Bluetooth, high-resolution audio up to PCM768kHz and DSD512 at 500mW per channel to amplifiers, active speakers and headphones of all types

The xDSD sits within a lightweight magnesium-aluminium alloy case and can connect your phone, tablet, PC, Mac, DAP, TV, games console or any other digital audio device via cable or stream wirelessly via Bluetooth. It includes a Cyberdrive microprocessor-controlled analogue amp stage.

The unit can handle PCM and DXD audio data up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD up to 22.57MHz (DSD512). A customised Burr-Brown DAC chip handles PCM and DSD natively – the music signal stays in its original format throughout.

Features include Global Master Timing (GMT) femto-precision clock and “intelligent” memory buffer to handle jitter. Two digital filter setting are offered: ‘Listen’ (minimum-phase) and ‘Measure’ (linear-phase).

The xDSD comes loaded with iFi’s latest firmware v5.3, including playback of MQA. iFi’s in-house software development programme allows features to be added or optimised via firmware updates.

Personalised EQ is included. iFi’s proprietary 3D+ Matrix and XBass+ circuits may be switched in or out as preferred.

Asynchronous USB input is provided by a Type A interface. Coaxial and optical S/PDIF connections are enabled via a combined 3.5mm/mini-TOSLINK input (a full-size TOSLINK adapter is also supplied). The xDSD’s output can be switched between headphone and line-level mode, the latter delivering a fixed 2V output that bypasses the volume control. The fast-charge-compatible internal battery is charged via a dedicated micro USB input and supplies up to 10 hours playback time, depending on usage. Price is £399.

Paul Rigby talks to iFi’s Sarah Miller about the new xDSD DAC/headphone amplifier HERE.

To learn more, click www.ifi-audio.com or call 01900 601954

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