Audiophile’s choice: ifi hip dac 2 vs zen dac 2 – the ultimate guide to hi-res listening
What To Know
- The choice between the iFi Hip DAC 2 and the iFi Zen DAC 2 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
- If you prefer a more stationary setup with a wider range of connectivity options and a more refined sound quality, the Zen DAC 2 is the better choice.
- The Hip DAC 2 excels in portability and value, while the Zen DAC 2 offers a more comprehensive feature set and a slightly superior sound quality.
In the realm of portable and desktop audio, iFi Audio has established itself as a leading innovator. Two of their most popular products, the iFi Hip DAC 2 and the iFi Zen DAC 2, represent the pinnacle of audiophile sound quality and functionality. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these extraordinary devices to determine which one reigns supreme.
Design and Portability
iFi Hip DAC 2: The Hip DAC 2 boasts a sleek and compact design, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go listening. Its lightweight aluminum chassis ensures durability without compromising portability.
iFi Zen DAC 2: The Zen DAC 2, on the other hand, is designed for desktop use. Its larger form factor accommodates a more comprehensive feature set, including a dedicated power supply and a wider range of connectivity options.
Audio Performance
Digital-to-Analog Conversion (DAC): Both the Hip DAC 2 and the Zen DAC 2 utilize high-performance DACs, ensuring pristine audio reproduction. The Hip DAC 2 features a Burr-Brown True Native DAC, while the Zen DAC 2 employs a Texas Instruments PCM5142 DAC.
Amplification: The Hip DAC 2 is equipped with a built-in amplifier, providing up to 400mW of power. This allows it to drive a wide range of headphones, including high-impedance models. The Zen DAC 2 does not have a built-in amplifier, requiring the use of an external amplifier for headphone listening.
Sound Quality: In terms of sound quality, both devices offer exceptional performance. The Hip DAC 2 delivers a balanced and detailed sound with excellent dynamics and imaging. The Zen DAC 2 takes it a step further, providing an even more refined and spacious soundstage with a wider frequency response.
Connectivity
Inputs: The Hip DAC 2 offers a wide range of inputs, including USB-C, Lightning, and S/PDIF. The Zen DAC 2 expands on this with additional inputs such as AES/EBU, I2S, and Bluetooth.
Outputs: The Hip DAC 2 features a 3.5mm headphone output and a 2.5mm balanced output. The Zen DAC 2 adds a 4.4mm balanced output and a pair of RCA analog outputs.
Features
XBass+ and 3D+: The Hip DAC 2 incorporates iFi’s proprietary XBass+ and 3D+ technologies, enhancing bass response and creating a wider soundstage. The Zen DAC 2 does not have these features.
PowerMatch: The Hip DAC 2 features PowerMatch, which optimizes the output impedance to match the impedance of your headphones, ensuring optimal power delivery. The Zen DAC 2 does not have this feature.
Remote Control: The Zen DAC 2 comes with a dedicated remote control for convenient volume adjustment and input selection. The Hip DAC 2 does not have a remote control.
Price and Value
iFi Hip DAC 2: Priced at around $149, the Hip DAC 2 offers exceptional value for a portable DAC/amplifier combination.
iFi Zen DAC 2: The Zen DAC 2 is priced at around $249, making it a more expensive option but providing a more comprehensive feature set and higher sound quality.
Which One to Choose?
The choice between the iFi Hip DAC 2 and the iFi Zen DAC 2 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
For Portability: If portability is a priority, the Hip DAC 2 is the clear choice. Its compact design and built-in amplifier make it an ideal companion for on-the-go listening.
For Desktop Use: If you prefer a more stationary setup with a wider range of connectivity options and a more refined sound quality, the Zen DAC 2 is the better choice.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Verdict
Both the iFi Hip DAC 2 and the iFi Zen DAC 2 are outstanding audiophile devices that deliver exceptional sound quality and functionality. The Hip DAC 2 excels in portability and value, while the Zen DAC 2 offers a more comprehensive feature set and a slightly superior sound quality. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.
Questions You May Have
1. Which device has a higher output power?
The iFi Hip DAC 2 has a built-in amplifier with an output power of up to 400mW.
2. Does the iFi Zen DAC 2 have a remote control?
Yes, the iFi Zen DAC 2 comes with a dedicated remote control for convenient volume adjustment and input selection.
3. Which device is better for driving high-impedance headphones?
The iFi Hip DAC 2 has a built-in amplifier that is capable of driving high-impedance headphones. The iFi Zen DAC 2 does not have a built-in amplifier, so an external amplifier would be required for high-impedance headphones.
4. Which device has a wider range of inputs?
The iFi Zen DAC 2 has a wider range of inputs, including AES/EBU, I2S, and Bluetooth, in addition to the USB-C, Lightning, and S/PDIF inputs found on the iFi Hip DAC 2.
5. Which device is more expensive?
The iFi Zen DAC 2 is more expensive than the iFi Hip DAC 2, with a price of around $249 compared to $149.