iFi iDSD Diablo Headphone DAC Amplifier: Split Architecture, MQA Support and iPower Included
The British company ifi audio has released iDSD Diablo-DAC-amplifier for headphones. The dimensions of the novelty in the already traditional form factor of the pocket flask are quite consistent with the current models of smartphones with which it should cooperate. iDSD models do not have any player functions. Diablo is quite ready to work in both portable and stationary versions.
Traditionally for ifi, the Diablo iDSD is assembled around the Burr-Brown dac. An XMOS microcontroller with low latency, double the number of cores (there are now 16) and double the clock speed has been added to it. It processes data from the USB and S/PDIF inputs.
The True Native architecture provides separate processing of PCM and DSD. Femtoprecision timer ifi GMT (Global Master Timing) has received a new quartz oscillator — and this is only part of the circuit innovations aimed at eliminating jitter. The product supports the decoding of MQA, as well as working with DSD512 and PCM 768 kHz.
The Diablo iDSD is assembled in a balanced circuit on the entire signal path shortened by ifi PureWave technology. In the analog section, the proprietary optimaloop multi-loop feedback method works — according to ifi, the system sounds more accurate with it. Power up to half a watt in the channel will allow you to “pump” almost any headphones. Both balanced and unbalanced connections are provided for them.
Inside, the power supply of the new product is divided between the analog and digital parts. The operating time of the 4,800 mAh lithium-polymer battery can be changed by selecting one of three operating modes: Turbo, Normal or Eco.
The kit includes a proprietary IPower power adapter with a reduced self-noise indicator. Do not forget the USB cables (type A and C), a headphone adapter and a travel case, which together with the kit will fit a smartphone-a source of music for iDSD Diablo.
In the UK, ifi’s iDSD Diablo is already available for £ 900. At the beginning of sales, a proprietary USB noise filter ipurifier3 was added to the kit, which costs 130 pounds separately.
