Browse portable DAC and amplifier iFi Micro iDSD Black Label

Date:

2018-07-27 00:15:22

Views:

3725

Rating:

1Like 0Dislike

Share:

Browse portable DAC and amplifier iFi Micro iDSD Black Label Source:

Once in the company of iFi decided to release maximum heaped polupostelnyj DAC. They took their popular model Micro iDSD, he transformed her gain, modified a number of other things and got a solution, still not having analogues in a number of ways. They called the resulting device Micro iDSD Black Label.

Of course, to call this monster the portable, length is almost 18 inches and 300 grams of weight does not make it a hospital, but to carry this miracle in my pocket is obviously not going to work. Instead, the developers put in housing:

the
    the
  • incredible power amplifier, capable of delivering up to 4 Watts peak and 1 Watt constantly for the load at 64Ω
  • the
  • brand IEMatch attenuator that allows the device to work without problems with sensitive headphones
  • the
  • support resolutions up to 768 kHz and DSD512
  • the
  • battery that provides 6 to 12 hours
  • the
  • filtering technology USB iPurifier

Well, imbued with respect? Me too. The price tag is, of course, was visible, $ 600, but even the section called «Features» on the website makes it clear where it came from and why it is like this.

the

specifications

the
    the
  • DAC: BurrBrown DSD1793
  • the
  • Max resolution USB: 768 kHz/24 bit, DSD512
  • the
  • Max resolution S/PDIF: 192kHz/24bit
  • the
  • Dynamic range: > 115dB
  • the
  • output power: >1000 mW @ 64Ω
  • the
  • Total harmonic distortion+noise: <0.008%
  • the
  • Output impedance: 0.34 Ω when switched off IEMatch, 4.1 Ω at IEMatch High Sensitivity, 0.95 Ω Ultra Sensitivity
  • the
  • hours on a single charge: from 6 to 12 hours DAC
  • the
  • Dimensions: 177 mm × 67 mm × 28 mm
  • the
  • Weight: 310 grams.
the

Packing and delivery

In the case of the iDSD Black Label it is possible to say that his box is deep and full of accessories. Externally there is a standard elongated rectangular box made of cardboard with the simple printing on it. Inside the top is the device itself, but under it starts to get interesting, the kit laid out so much that one time when BL iDSD, it is very difficult gently pack back. In the box you will find:

the
    the
  • velvet pouch for storage DAC
  • the
  • USB cable for connecting to device
  • A couple of USB adapters made in different form factor the

  • 6.3 mm adapter
  • the
  • adapter for optical S/PDIF
  • the
  • one cable with two 3.5 mm plugs
  • the
  • elastic bands for attaching the source to the DAC
  • the
  • dual RCA cable to line-out

In my memory, is the most extensive package for DAC, and any other gadgets too.

the

Design and control

Overall, the appearance of iDSD remained almost untouched since the first models of the company: the same extruded aluminum case, but this time in black. The inscriptions of orange that looks good and improves readability. In the first revision of the processor, the text was black in color, but different shade, so they were difficult to see. In iFi listened to feedback and adjusted erognomic device. Overall build quality is just great, customized everything perfectly, not loose and not loose, when using the DAC there is always a sense of secure device.

The Dimensions of this processor superior to even some conventionally is a stationary device, so consider it in the classical sense, not the portable, in spite of the presence of battery just because the street is not diarrhea. On the other hand, in the bag much space it occupies, so to carry it, for example, to and from work — it is possible. Perhaps it is time to introduce the category of paupertatis (it is necessary where-that to carry the top models A&K).

Control from the iDSD BL much, so I placed them as best he could.

Let's Start with the front panel, there are:

the
    the
  • headphone output (6.3 mm only)
  • the
  • switches features Xbass+ and 3D+, I note that the toggle switches are very cool, they are nice to click
  • the
  • line-in 3.5 mm jacks
  • the
  • volume control combined with on / off switch. Using high-quality potentiometer, so the course is smooth, the imbalance of the channels is missing

On the rear panel is placed USB connector, as the novelty xDSD, it is made in the form of a recessed USB-A «the Pope». Such a solution is becoming increasingly popular as it allows you easier to use USB OTG adapters and other mobile adapters. This port is used for charging the device. There are two RCA line-out connector and S/PDIF.

The Side closest to the rear face, put a normal USB port that allows to use the processor as the most expensive in the history of powerbank. By the way, if you are already talking about the charge, the maximum turbo mode this megamonstr works up to 6 hours 15 minutes, with minimal «eco» — 12 hours and 10 minutes. Fully charging the battery takes just over 6 hours, if you do not use at this time, the combine.

For all display answers multicolor led placed on top, closer to the back of the device. It shows the battery status, and the resolution of the signal and various additional data, so that a future user will have to peruse the instructions.

On a side face placed three radio buttons:

the
    the
  • power mode (eco, normal and turbo), as you can guess — manages the capacity «exhaust» combine. However, in most cases it will be quite minimal «eco».
  • the
  • polarity
  • the
  • filter: bit-perfect, minimal phase and standard. Traditionally, the difference between the filters is very small and noticeable mainly for the RF range

But even this number of tumblers seemed to developers a little and scratched his head,they decided to give more toggle God toggle switches. As the place was over, a couple of switches placed directly on «bottom» device. Far switch allows you to choose whether to adjust the volume level on the linear output, the middle includes a built-in attenuator IEMatch. The latter, perhaps, is one of the best finds iFi Audio, transforms «Black mark» in just the same universal solution.

In General, summing up this section, iDSD BL was very beautiful, the color black instead of silver went to use, and the unusual proportions of the body immediately set it apart from other combines.

the

Sound

To listen To the device used the following headphones: iBasso IT04, , , , , , and others.

Unlike xDSD, slightly accented bass iDSD Black Label tuningova in a more neutral audiophile style. I think he would really fit the name of the iDSD Pro, but iFi decide that the prefix Pro will receive their stationary line.

The Bass is fast, good texture and perfectly separates the tools. It is perfectly controlled, which is not surprising with such power, is Lescott, drums and a very decent depth. In General, almost perfect bass for fans of their monitor feed without «navarivanija» (of course, artificial, when the bass is in the recording in considerable quantities, you BL him in the same amounts and issue). Function Xbass+ surprisingly works very carefully, she slightly emphasizes the deep bass that adds to the sound a bit «monumental», but it does so without undue emphasis, resulting in a smearing of the bass. In General, this is not the typical boost in style «included, all buzzed, woke up Satan».

Mid also serves in a neutral manner, but without excessive dry monotonnosti and unnatural accentuate micro-contrast. Combine perfectly conveys all the nuances and emotions inherent in the recording, but adds nothing, so quality tracks are almost a necessity. Gadget perfectly reproduces the character of the tools and all the features vocalists of both sexes. An imaginary scene more average in depth and width, not huge, but very good. The default width a little more depth, but the inclusion of 3D features+ adds a bit of depth, but the division of plans becomes a bit unnatural, so this opportunity I would advise to use only with old records with bad information.

The Upper frequency neutral, they have a normal resolution and a very decent length. Perhaps this is the only portion of the range to which you can stretch to complain about, iDSD BL quite a bit lacking «stratification», also partly simplified the attack and decay, but it is compared to the top segment of audio. Overall, the treble is very natural, with no plaque to the synthesis, so that with their problems they can cope at a good level.

And, of course, about the comparisons. I intentionally omit functionality because there iFi, perhaps, out of competition and will speak only about the sound.

iFi xDSD In General, two portable DAC from iFi are positioned quite differently, but the questions «how do they compare?» will still. xDSD has a more warm, slightly lower resolution, but with a little added weight on the midrange (especially lower part), so here we have a classic confrontation «monitormost VS heat».

Hidizs 'DH1000 Very interesting portable DAC from Hidizs', enchanting beautiful HF. The rest of the band is noticeable the dominance of the iDSD, and that's not to mention power. However, the price difference here is not even 2 times.

FiiO Q5 If you discard rates, wireless technology and power, the FiiO is slightly better defined treble (though still not quite ideal), low parity (but because of the power iDSD often get more confident to play this range, so the difference depends on the headphones). Midrange Black Label pulled ahead due to better weight and dynamics.

CEntrance BlueDAC of Course, these two devices are incomparable in terms of design and features, so purely about the sound. BlueDAC a little more detailed, but also more neutral and better to the quality of the recording. CEntrance have better treble, midrange they have about the parity, but the lower part of the range of tastier and more interesting sounds from iDSD.

the

Compatibility

In terms of working with a variety of load hero of today's review absolute confidently holds the palm in the portable. For tight and high-resistance models he had stashed turbo mode, issuing a prohibitive amount of power. Some users even listened to it with HiFiMan HE-6, noting not ideal, but is tolerable for disclosure, but of course this is a clinical case and most headphones still differ much more sensitivity. But what really deserves respect, is a built-in IEMatch to listen to even sensitive IEM without any problems like background noise. The main thing here is to look at the switches before enabling, as a drop of nicotine kills a horse, and hamster ripping. Similarly, the processor is able to behave with a sensitive IEM in turbo mode.

Stylistically, the device completely universal, provided that you like neutral flow leaving you alone with headphones and recording. The quality of the material the sensitivity is high, somewhere in the 8 out of 10 points.

traditionally, several tracks as example

Well, for starters just the track, demonstrating excellent control of all frequencies:the division of parties of guitars, a tight rhythm section, energetic vocals all that is necessary for an «Zaruba».

is a Beautiful example of a bit of pop rock, mixed with many related genres, showing strengths iDSD: powerful blows, ease midrange, excellent control of the entire range.

To extend the range take absolutely not an audiophile track, however, carefully remastering in 2005. Here the hero of today's review as well shows his best side, attacking the listener with shattering beats combined with a striking scratch.

the

Insights

Don't quite understand why this harvester mounted battery, except that you can carry it in your bag, but even in the role of a hospital iDSD Micro Black Label. Neutral supply, excellent power supply, support for high-resolution, seamlessly work with any headphones — what more could you ask for?

Recommended

That can headphones with hybrid noise reduction, and a Qualcomm chip

That can headphones with hybrid noise reduction, and a Qualcomm chip

When you meet the sound and advanced technology, it turns out something interesting. the Market for Bluetooth headphones with active noise cancellation at a price of about 20,000 rubles is developing rapidly. Bose may have been a pioneer in this segm...

What are the mystical sounds under water in the ocean and where they come from

What are the mystical sounds under water in the ocean and where they come from

Under water can be found anywhere. Even the sounds. Water generally is a very interesting element. Due to its properties, it very well conveys the sound. To understand this process it is enough to remember that sound — it's just a vibration env...

Overview Highscreen TrueSound Pro — in shelf portable DAC arrived

Overview Highscreen TrueSound Pro — in shelf portable DAC arrived

Among lovers of quality sound it is quite widely believed that listening to music you only need use a separate player and headphones, are specifically matched to him. However, the cost of such a set usually varies from about 30 thousand rubles to inf...

Comments (0)

This article has no comment, be the first!

Add comment

Related News

Review headphone Campfire Audio Atlas — new, great sound

Review headphone Campfire Audio Atlas — new, great sound

In Campfire Audio continue to systematically expand its product line in two directions. Along with a great budget was released and the dynamic flagship of the Atlas, which is a development of the ideas gained considerable populari...

Review DAC with headphone amplifier Yulong Daart Aquila

Review DAC with headphone amplifier Yulong Daart Aquila

Yulong Company for many years pleases fans of iron with a good ratio of price and quality, confidently offering products in a wide range from to . The company decided to make its best technology available, releasing a new model ca...

Review portable Bluetooth speakers Mini MiniRig — comedian

Review portable Bluetooth speakers Mini MiniRig — comedian

I don't often do reviews on Bluetooth speakers, but if I do, I try to find something unusual. It so happened that this time I got a great mini-model from the British company Minirigs, predictably enough named Mini Minirig. Compan...

Review portable Blueooth speakers MiniRig Mini — comedian

Review portable Blueooth speakers MiniRig Mini — comedian

I don't often do reviews on Bluetooth speakers, but if I do, I try to find something unusual. It so happened that this time I got a great mini-model from the British company Minirigs, predictably enough named Mini Minirig. Compan...

Review headphones Shozy Hibiki SE — development ideas

Review headphones Shozy Hibiki SE — development ideas

As usual, Shozy doing unusual things to them that I had once overlooked, is no exception: the low price and unusual sound made the fruit of cooperation Shozy and AAW a very interesting solution. The developers decided not to relax...

Dwayne

Dwayne "the Rock" Johnson, Under Armour, JBL made headphones

it Is necessary to carefully approach the choice of headphones, if they have to play music during workouts. On our website we often talk about everything that is connected with good sound but to headphones for workouts absolutely ...

The American company Taylor's

The American company Taylor's "reinvented" acoustic guitar

Once the Apple company «pereizobreli» phone. At least, she announced, presenting the world of the iPhone. The significance of the advent of the iPhone, there really is difficult to overestimate. And what else is possible...

Browse portable DAC and amplifier iFi xDSD — now without wires

Browse portable DAC and amplifier iFi xDSD — now without wires

the Company iFi — is not new in the market of portable audio. Once, long ago, I . Since then, it took a lot of time, but more recent developments in my hand did not fall. And now, more recently, in a review managed to get the late...

Overview headphone Audio Campfire Comet — there is one way up...

Overview headphone Audio Campfire Comet — there is one way up...

I Think the Campfire Audio company known to any more or less interested in portable audio person. Just recently, in one review I lamented the fact that in their lineup at the lack of low-end models and all of a sudden, a few weeks...

Review headphones KZ ZS10 — high emitters for the least money

Review headphones KZ ZS10 — high emitters for the least money

the Company KZ — is not new in Chinese models, but still they escaped my attention, mainly because their models were very much budget, both in price and sound. But with experience comes professionalism, and KZ pulled the quality, ...

Overview headphone Audio BR5 Mk2 Rose — Bed of Roses

Overview headphone Audio BR5 Mk2 Rose — Bed of Roses

Sometimes the Chinese manufacturers still know how to surprise. If not always a subject of wonder becomes the perfect sound, but it's much better than the faceless passing model. In General, the hero of today's review Rose BR5 the...

A review of the iBasso player DX150 — when it is cheaper does not mean worse

A review of the iBasso player DX150 — when it is cheaper does not mean worse

I do Not know whether iBasso does not understand the essence of modern marketing, whether, on the contrary, know all too well, but after the release of the youngest model was only a matter of time. Amazing also was the fact that a...

An overview of the amplification module AM4B FiiO and FiiO adapter BL44

An overview of the amplification module AM4B FiiO and FiiO adapter BL44

it Seems that the world is gradually sweeping wave of popularity of contact Pentaconn (aka 4.4 mm 5-pin plug). Initially it was used only Sony, but more and more manufacturers are turning their attention to it, recently , and now ...

Review headphones Unique Melody Mason v3 — severe price of perfection

Review headphones Unique Melody Mason v3 — severe price of perfection

so, are you ready to Express your opinion about the most expensive headphones in form factor IEM of the ones that was on my review? As for the cause this time came from one of the acknowledged leaders of this segment of the market...

Review headphones MEEAudio Matrix Cinema — digital technology

Review headphones MEEAudio Matrix Cinema — digital technology

don't need to be an advanced mobile analyst to see an increasing shift of portable audio in the area of wireless technologies (yeah, the good old Bluetooth), so I hope the market will delight all of us a lot of interesting wireles...

Overview of in-ear headphones Penon BS1 Official — a new experience

Overview of in-ear headphones Penon BS1 Official — a new experience

Not often to me to review get in-ear earphones (they «droplets», «tablets», «earbuds» and a bunch of other names), and I still believed that this is not my form factor. But sooner or later, appear mod...

Review headphones Alpha&Delta D6 — neutrality and durability

Review headphones Alpha&Delta D6 — neutrality and durability

What I'm attracted to Alpha&Delta as the company is willing to give as much as possible for the price of their headphones, and secondly, the ability to make a really unusual sound. After it is time to talk about the flagship ...

What surprised the Art Monitor headphones from Audio-Technica

What surprised the Art Monitor headphones from Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica needs no special introduction to most audiophiles. Their headphone always offer excellent quality at reasonable prices, that's why claim that every other headphones sold in Japan, made by this company. Therefore, we...

Overview FiiO M7 player with the manners of a smartphone

Overview FiiO M7 player with the manners of a smartphone

In may this year, FiiO has pleased his fans a new audiophile player — in stock portable music players began . The main difference of the novelties is the new chip Samsung Exynos 7270 — thus the manufacturer has decided to bring th...

Review headphones IMR Acoustics R1 — pressure, weight, and involvement

Review headphones IMR Acoustics R1 — pressure, weight, and involvement

Ceramic emitters in the role of high-frequency twitters in portable audio has not used them and the Japanese from the Radius, and the Chinese from 1More, while achieving very respectable results in the upper frequencies. But the m...