IFI ZEN AIR DAC 2

Digital-to-analogue converter with an integrated headphone amplifier, designed to handle high-resolution digital sources and provide a compact solution for headphone listening and connection to an audio system. The conversion section uses a bit-perfect Cirrus Logic DAC, selected for its ability to process the signal while preserving its information and supporting a natural and precise reproduction. High-resolution format compatibility includes PCM signals up to 384 kHz and DSD256, allowing it to handle content from computers, tablets and smartphones.

The conversion and analogue sections are designed to provide good signal clarity, adequate dynamic response and low distortion. This architecture is complemented by a 4.4 mm balanced headphone output, a feature introduced with this generation and previously associated with the standard ZEN series models. The balanced connection helps reduce noise and channel crosstalk, providing greater signal separation with compatible headphones.

The headphone amplifier features two outputs, one balanced 4.4 mm output and one single-ended 6.3 mm output. The former delivers up to 484 mW into 64 Ω, while the latter reaches 286 mW into 32 Ω. Gain can be adjusted using the PowerMatch function, which allows the output level to be adapted to the characteristics of the connected headphones and also accommodates models requiring higher power.

The front panel also features the XBass+ and PowerMatch analogue functions. XBass+ operates on the low-frequency range to increase its level and impact, while PowerMatch adjusts the amplifier gain according to the headphones being used. These controls allow the behaviour of the headphone section to be adapted to different requirements without changing the settings of the digital source.

The device features a midnight blue finish and a metal front panel. Another change introduced with this generation is a dedicated power button, which allows the unit to be switched off directly from the front panel without having to disconnect the cables or access the rear of the device.

Technical specifications:

• Line output voltage: 2 V; 3.4 V max. (variable gain)
• RMS headphone output power: ≥5.57 V / 484 mW at 64 Ω (4.4 mm); ≥3.02 V / 286 mW at 32 Ω (6.3 mm)
• Headphone output impedance: <0.7 Ω (3.5 mm); <1.4 Ω (4.4 mm)
• Output impedance: line section ≤50 Ω; headphone section <1 Ω
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 118 dBA (both outputs)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz-90 kHz (-3 dB)
• THD+N: ≤0.0011% (6.3 mm, 1.27 V at 16 Ω); ≤0.0015% (4.4 mm, 2.4 V at 32 Ω)
• Dimensions: 158 × 100 × 35 mm
• Net weight: 315 g