iFi Audio ZEN DAC V2 - USB DAC / Headphone Amp

16 core = hardcore.

Thanks to the 16 core tech, the ZEN DAC V2 is now an MQA Decoder rather than a Renderer.

This enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording. The LED glows green or blue to indicate that the unit is decoding and playing an MQA stream or file, and denotes provenance to ensure that the sound is identical to that of the source material. It glows blue to indicate it is playing an MQA Studio file, which has either been approved in the studio by the artist/producer or has been verified by the copyright owner.

Flexible.

Switch effortlessly between ‘variable’ and ‘fixed’.

Set to ‘Variable,’ use the ZEN DAC V2 as a pre-amp to feed a power amp or active speakers.

On ‘Fixed’ to bypass the volume control. Connect to an external pre-amp or integrated amp.

Ace of Bass.

The ZEN DAC V2 boasts TrueBass. This proprietary tech is a switchable ‘bass boost’ operating in the analogue domain. There’s no DSP with iFi gear.

TrueBass enhances the bass but does not muddy the mid-range. Perfect for use with IEMs or open-back headphones which often lack bass.

The ZEN DAC V2 is the ultimate chilling machine. Tune in and ZEN out.

The XMOS 16-Core chip processes the audio data received via the USB* digital input.

This new low-latency XMOS microcontroller has greatly enhanced processing power. Compared to the current generation of eight-core chips, this new 16-core IC delivers double the clock speed (2000MIPS) and four times the memory (512KB), as well as the latest SuperSpeed USB standard.

iFi’s in-house digital development team has programmed the XMOS firmware to optimise sound quality and ensure a perfect partnership with the Burr-Brown DAC.

The Burr-Brown True Native® chipset means file formats remain unchanged or ‘bit-perfect’. This means you are listening to music as the artist intended in the format in which it was recorded.

At iFi they use Burr Brown extensively in products having selected it for its natural-sounding ‘musicality’ and True Native architecture. ifis experience with this IC means we know how to make the most of it.

Hi-Res True Native® playback of all music formats from MP3 to DSD256, PCM384 and DXD384.

MQA is an award-winning audio technology that enables music fans to stream the original master recording into their home, car or on their mobile. In the words of Gilbert O’Sullivan, iconic Irish-born singer-songwriter, “The great thing about MQA is that it delivers the finesse that was there in the desk sound. It’s tremendous, it sounds really good.”

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is supported through the USB with full decoding of MQA files up to 384kHz thanks to the processing power of the new 16-core XMOS chip.

This means that the full ‘three unfold’ decoding process is performed internally, as opposed to only the final unfold in the manner of an MQA ‘renderer’.

Globally, MQA has become an important consideration for any comprehensively equipped DAC. It is available through for Tidal Masters, Audirvana and Roon.

Extensive jitter-eradication technologies are applied to the digital stage, including our GMT (Global Master Timing) femto-precision clock and the intelligent memory buffer.

The low-jitter crystal clock has been updated to provide >20dB better performance

It is a superior method to the traditional single-ended circuit approach. Balanced circuits reduce noise and crosstalk. Less Interference – clearer sound.

You normally find this set-up in products at the higher end of the price spectrum such as the Pro iCAN but iFi is now using this across its range to produce the best quality audio for all our customers.

TrueBass® – delivers genuine bass with realistic depth and definition.

Everything from timpani to a bass guitar, to an electronic bassline, is conveyed with power and poise.