Introduction
iFi impressed us earlier this year with its take on the portable Bluetooth DAC/amp formula in the form of the
iFi GO blu. The iFi GO blue was among the first such entries to feature a 4.4 mm balanced output, executing the basics very well in the form of a user-friendly multi-function knob with some of iFi's most popular tech via dedicated buttons too. The company takes this design philosophy to heart and prioritizes analog signal processing done well, over software/app-based customization. It's certainly worked well commercially too, based on how often iFi products get recommended, and I wanted to see whether the positive user experience DNA from the iFi GO blu continues, when moving up the product ladder.
The only other iFi product review on TechPowerUp before this one was over five years ago and for the
iFi nano iDSD LE—a larger form factor portable DAC/amplifier that, fittingly, is a direct predecessor to the subject of today's review. You see, iFi is known for its iDSD and micro iDSD line with the Signature and Black Label versions used only for those versions that take things up a few notches. The micro iDSD Signature is a statement made in the increasingly competitive world of portable DAC/amps, that it can hang with desktop setups in performance, while offering more features. Imagine getting over 4 W of power from a battery-operated device you can carry around, while enjoying a plethora of iFi-specific tech too! There is a lot to see here, and thanks to iFi for providing a review loaner to TechPowerUp, as we begin with looking at the product specifications below. Be sure to click the image twice to fully open it and go through all the details.
Specifications