iFi Audio iDSD GR 2: portable DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier

The iFi Audio iDSD GR 2 is a high-quality portable DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier for music enthusiasts who want convincing sound quality while travelling, at a desk and as part of a permanent hi-fi system. As the successor to the popular xDSD Gryphon, the GR 2 combines a redesigned DAC architecture with increased output power, Bluetooth 5.4, K2HD technology and a capacitive colour OLED touchscreen.

Its compact enclosure makes the iDSD GR 2 suitable for smartphones, tablets and laptops. It can also be used as a standalone DAC or preamplifier between a digital source and active loudspeakers or an integrated amplifier. Explore the complete range on our iFi Audio brand page.

Burr-Brown PCM1795 and a fully balanced architecture

The digital heart of the iFi Audio iDSD GR 2 is its Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC chip. This current-output DAC is integrated into a refined, fully balanced signal path with high-quality Class A operational amplifiers. The architecture has been developed to deliver natural, detailed and dynamic music reproduction.

Through USB-C, the iDSD GR 2 supports PCM files at resolutions up to 768kHz and DSD up to DSD512. This makes the unit suitable for almost every commonly used and high-resolution digital audio format.

Up to 1,513mW for headphones and sensitive in-ear monitors

The balanced 4.4mm headphone output delivers up to 1,513mW RMS at 32 ohms. This gives the GR 2 up to 50% more headphone drive than the original xDSD Gryphon. Higher-impedance headphones can also be driven, with the balanced output delivering up to 119mW at 600 ohms.

In addition to its balanced 4.4mm connection, the GR 2 provides a 3.5mm S-Balanced output. The improved iEMatch function helps match the output level and background noise to sensitive in-ear monitors. The GR 2 can therefore be combined with both efficient IEMs and more demanding over-ear headphones.

Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, LDAC and LHDC

For wireless listening, the iFi Audio iDSD GR 2 features Bluetooth 5.4. Supported codecs include aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC and SBC. With a compatible source and favourable wireless conditions, aptX Lossless can transmit music at 16-bit/44.1kHz CD quality.

LDAC supports transmission rates of up to 990kbps and provides a high-quality option for compatible Android devices. Its extensive codec support allows the GR 2 to be used with a wide selection of smartphones, tablets and computers.

K2HD technology for richer music reproduction

Integrated K2HD technology from JVCKENWOOD is designed to approximate harmonic information that may have been lost during digital production and compression. This can give digital music a more natural, spacious and engaging presentation. The dedicated K2 mode applies this processing without first upsampling the original audio signal.

K2HD can be enabled or disabled according to personal preference, allowing the listener to choose between the original signal presentation and additional K2HD processing.

Capacitive colour OLED touchscreen and iFi Nexis

The integrated capacitive colour OLED touchscreen displays information including the active input, volume level, audio format, sample rate, Bluetooth codec and battery status. Settings can be adjusted directly on the unit, while the physical volume control allows precise operation.

The iFi Nexis platform can be used to manage advanced settings and install wireless firmware updates. Additional USB-based Nexis functions require a compatible Android device.

Flexible connection options

The iDSD GR 2 can be connected to a digital source through USB-C, Bluetooth or its combined optical/coaxial S/PDIF input. A balanced 4.4mm input and a single-ended 3.5mm input are available for analogue sources.

The balanced 4.4mm and single-ended 3.5mm connections can also operate as line outputs. This allows the GR 2 to serve as a DAC or preamplifier for active loudspeakers, a power amplifier or an existing hi-fi system.

Hybrid Power Mode and approximately seven hours of battery life

The internal lithium-polymer battery has a capacity of 4,900mAh and offers approximately seven hours of use, depending on volume, connection type and the connected headphones. Charging through USB-C takes approximately 3.5 hours with a suitable 5V power supply rated above 1.8A.

When an external power supply is connected, Hybrid Power Mode gives priority to external power. The battery supplements the external supply only when additional power is required, making the GR 2 suitable for extended desktop listening sessions.

iFi Audio iDSD GR 2 versus the xDSD Gryphon

Compared with the original xDSD Gryphon, the iDSD GR 2 introduces several important improvements. Its maximum headphone output is approximately 50% higher at up to 1,513mW. The GR 2 also adds the Burr-Brown PCM1795, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, K2HD technology, a capacitive colour OLED touchscreen and support for iFi Nexis.

The GR 2 is therefore not only a logical successor, but also an interesting upgrade for users seeking greater output power, more extensive wireless connectivity and a more modern interface.

What can the iDSD GR 2 be used for?

• As a portable DAC and headphone amplifier for a smartphone or tablet
• As a compact USB DAC for a Windows computer, Mac or laptop
• For wireless listening through Bluetooth 5.4 and aptX Lossless
• With sensitive in-ear monitors thanks to the improved iEMatch function
• With balanced headphones fitted with a 4.4mm connection
• As a DAC or preamplifier for active loudspeakers and hi-fi amplifiers
• For PCM playback up to 768kHz and DSD up to DSD512

Discover more iFi Audio products and accessories

Compare the iDSD GR 2 with other digital-to-analogue converters or explore our complete selection of headphone amplifiers.

For more information about its main features and applications, read our article about the iFi Audio iDSD GR 2 portable DAC and headphone amplifier. Protect the unit while travelling with the purpose-designed iFi Audio iDSD GR 2 Case.

Technical specifications iFi Audio iDSD GR 2

Contents of the box

• iFi Audio iDSD GR 2
• USB Type-A to USB-C cable
• USB-C to USB-C cable
• Microfibre protective pouch
• User manual

Frequently asked questions about the iFi Audio iDSD GR 2

Can I use the iDSD GR 2 with a smartphone or tablet?

Yes. The GR 2 can be connected to a compatible smartphone or tablet through USB-C or Bluetooth 5.4. For a wired connection, the mobile device must support digital audio output through USB.

Is the iDSD GR 2 suitable for demanding headphones?

The balanced 4.4mm output delivers up to 1,513mW at 32 ohms and 119mW at 600 ohms. This allows the GR 2 to drive a broad selection of headphones. Actual suitability also depends on the impedance and sensitivity of the headphones being used.

Is aptX Lossless always completely lossless?

aptX Lossless can transmit 16-bit/44.1kHz CD quality when both the source and receiver support the codec and wireless conditions are sufficiently stable. Under less favourable conditions, the codec may automatically adjust its data rate.

Can the GR 2 be connected to an amplifier or active loudspeakers?

Yes. The balanced 4.4mm and single-ended 3.5mm connections can be used as line outputs. This allows the GR 2 to operate as a DAC or preamplifier for active loudspeakers, a power amplifier or an integrated amplifier.

What is the main difference compared with the xDSD Gryphon?

The iDSD GR 2 offers up to 50% more headphone output and adds features including the PCM1795 DAC chip, Bluetooth 5.4, aptX Lossless, K2HD, a capacitive colour OLED touchscreen and iFi Nexis support.

Order the iFi Audio iDSD GR 2 from Hi-Stands and enjoy high-quality headphone reproduction both on the move and as part of your permanent listening system.