Ifi zen dac air vs v2: features, specs, and price comparison
What To Know
- The Zen DAC V2, on the other hand, has a slightly larger footprint but features a more traditional design with a brushed aluminum finish.
- Both the Zen DAC Air and the Zen DAC V2 utilize the same Burr-Brown DAC chip, which is renowned for its high resolution and low distortion.
- The Zen DAC Air is a great choice for those seeking a budget-friendly and versatile option, while the Zen DAC V2 offers more advanced features and a more powerful headphone amplifier.
The world of audiophiles has been abuzz with excitement ever since iFi Audio unveiled their latest offerings: the iFi Zen DAC Air and the iFi Zen DAC V2. Both devices promise to deliver exceptional audio experiences, but which one is the better choice? To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put these two DACs head-to-head in this comprehensive comparison.
Design and Build
The iFi Zen DAC Air boasts a sleek and compact design, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. Its aluminum chassis exudes a premium feel and ensures durability. The Zen DAC V2, on the other hand, has a slightly larger footprint but features a more traditional design with a brushed aluminum finish.
Connectivity
The Zen DAC Air offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB, optical, and coaxial inputs. It also features a 4.4mm balanced headphone output and a 6.35mm single-ended headphone output. The Zen DAC V2 has a similar set of connections, but it lacks the 4.4mm balanced output.
Audio Performance
Both the Zen DAC Air and the Zen DAC V2 utilize the same Burr-Brown DAC chip, which is renowned for its high resolution and low distortion. However, the Zen DAC V2 also employs iFi‘s TrueBass and XBass+ technologies, which provide enhanced bass response.
Features
The Zen DAC Air comes equipped with a built-in Bluetooth receiver, enabling wireless streaming from your smartphone or tablet. It also supports MQA decoding for high-quality audio playback. The Zen DAC V2 lacks Bluetooth connectivity but offers a dedicated headphone amplifier with adjustable gain and impedance settings.
Power Consumption
The Zen DAC Air is powered via USB, making it easy to use with laptops and other portable devices. The Zen DAC V2 requires an external power supply, which may be a slight inconvenience for some users.
Price
The iFi Zen DAC Air is priced at $129, while the iFi Zen DAC V2 is slightly more expensive at $149. Both devices offer excellent value for money, but the Zen DAC Air may be a more budget-friendly option for some.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the iFi Zen DAC Air and the Zen DAC V2 ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and feature-packed DAC with Bluetooth connectivity, the Zen DAC Air is an excellent option. However, if you prioritize enhanced bass response and a dedicated headphone amplifier, the Zen DAC V2 is a better choice.
Final Thoughts
Both the iFi Zen DAC Air and the Zen DAC V2 are exceptional DACs that deliver impressive audio performance. The Zen DAC Air is a great choice for those seeking a budget-friendly and versatile option, while the Zen DAC V2 offers more advanced features and a more powerful headphone amplifier. Ultimately, the best DAC for you is the one that meets your individual requirements and budget.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which DAC has better sound quality?
A: Both DACs offer excellent sound quality, but the Zen DAC V2 may provide slightly better bass response due to its TrueBass and XBass+ technologies.
Q: Which DAC is more portable?
A: The Zen DAC Air is more portable as it can be powered via USB.
Q: Which DAC has more features?
A: The Zen DAC V2 has more features, including a dedicated headphone amplifier, adjustable gain and impedance settings, and a larger display.