I heard iFi's new portable DAC and its bespoke I/V, added K2HD tech and
bigger touchscreen display make it a clear step up on the original Gryphon

Date:
Thu, 11 Jun 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Description:
I went hands on with iFis new GR 2 DAC, and its exceptional specs and user friendly design make it feel like a worthy follow-up to its legendary predecessor.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter At this years High End Vienna show, iFi unveiled its latest and greatest portable DAC, the iFi iDSD GR 2 and I was there to see the big reveal.

This portable and decidedly hip flask-shaped DAC / amp is endeavouring to build on the extremely strong foundations laid by its predecessor, the iFi xDSD Gryphon , which we rated five stars under intense review. This model delivers even more amplification power, and aims for even more detailed audio alongside a more intuitive interface pretty promising stuff right? Not only did I see the product at its unveiling event, but Ive also tried it out for myself. I got to listen to a few tracks with the GR 2, play around with its new interface and also hear from the iFi team about some all-new features.
Its safe to say were feeling pretty positive about the GR 2 so far, having given it one of our Best In Show awards at High End Vienna , so heres everything you need to know about iFis latest creation. Latest Videos From Watch full video here: iFi crams in even more tech (Image credit: Future) Although the GR 2 may look similar to its predecessor on the outside, it has plenty of big improvements on the inside so to begin with, lets run through some of the main ones.

iFi told me that this model delivers around 50% more output power than its predecessor (up to 1,513mW RMS), but at the same time, supplies greater dynamic range and less distortion. This is largely enabled by the DACs new current-output Burr Brown PCM1795 chipset, which can also serve up true
32-bit resolution audio. You may like iFi's second generation Gryphon
portable DAC offers 50% more power iFi GO Link 2 review: this little DAC delivers an enormous audio upgrade at a great price iFi and AMR showcase DACs at hugely different price-points, only at High End Vienna

iFi was also keen to highlight how this new chipset retains the warm, analog house sound it is known for. The team were also keen to impress on us that because the GR 2 is a current-output DAC, (its circuitry outputs an
electrical current proportional to the digital input value, rather than a voltage) the company had freedom to engineer a bespoke analog output stage.

One major difference is that the GR 2 features a color OLED touchscreen, adding a new level of intuitiveness that we felt was missing from the
original Gryphon (which had a functional but un-colorful black and white display). This OLED screen enables you to swiftly cycle between core settings and different connectivity methods, making the user experience incredibly slick. Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

But despite adding this touchscreen, battery life has been significantly boosted. Nath Chinn, Product Marketing & Technical Enablement Consultant at iFi, told me that the new model has a capacity of 4,900mAh, which is about a third more than the original Gryphon.

Perhaps the best feature thats been added to the GR 2 from an iFi fan's perspective is K2HD tech (also found in the much pricier and really quite
huge iDSD Phantom desktop DAC) which Chinn emphasised is still exclusively licensed by JVC Kenwood to iFi products. K2HD is intended to restore harmonic detail, and bring a track closer to its intended sound. Chinn revealed a bit about the licensing process to me, stating that we had to basically spend 18 months doing a dance, sending them [JVC] products, and then evaluating them
in their master recording studios with engineers to see whether were worthy enough. Its a labor of love, but were honored to have that privilege. (Image credit: Future) Chinn described the GR 2 as a Swiss army knife and the inclusion of K2HD only boosts the product's versatility. Speaking of which, there are a number of connectivity methods on board to suit just about any situation. Theres Bluetooth 5.4, with aptX codecs including Lossless and Adaptive as well as Sony s LDAC. But theres also a 4.4mm and 3.5mm input and output, a USB-C port, and more. What to read next This innovative DAC offers super-clean sound using a unique processing tech Khadas Tea Pro Magnetic Headphone Amplifier review: a slim, stylish and punchy audio upgrade for phones and more Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000 review: truly exceptional open-backs for affluent audiophiles

But just how good is the GR 2 in use? Well, I headed on over to iFis demo space, which was equipped with the new DAC/amp, a music streamer, and a pair of the Sennheiser HD 820. I tuned into Grace by Jeff Buckley in
24-bit/192kHz, and it sounded spectacular. This combination served up a phenomenally balanced presentation, with intricately textured vocals and expertly separated instruments.

I also found the GR 2 incredibly easy to use. It was so simple to activate settings like K2HD, cycle between USB-C and Bluetooth connectivity modes, and make any subtle adjustments I needed. This combination of high-end specs and seamless usability really does make it feel like an excellent mobile/desktop solution for hi-res audio fans.

All of this is even more impressive when you consider that the GR 2 has a lower launch price than its predecessor. It comes in at $529 / 529 / AU$849, which is by no means cheap, but pretty competitive given the device's specifications. Is it worth the cost? Youll have to wait for our full review to find out Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds. The best
headphone DACs for all budgets Our top picks, based on real-world testing and comparisons

Read our full guide to the best headphone DACs 1. Best budget USB-C portable DAC: iFi GO Link Max 2. Best budget desktop DAC: iFi Uno 3. Best premium portable DAC: iFi xDSD Gryphon 4. Best wireless DAC: Fiio BTR17



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Link to news story:
https://www.techradar.com/audio/dacs/ifi-idsd-gr-2-hands-on


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