The iFi Audio ZEN Air DAC 2 is a hi-res USB DAC and headphone amplifier with Cirrus Logic DAC, PCM 384kHz, DSD256, 4.4mm balanced output, 484mW, XBass+ and PowerMatch. Read more.
The iFi Audio ZEN Air DAC 2 is a compact USB DAC, headphone amplifier and line preamplifier for music enthusiasts who want a clear improvement over the standard audio output of a computer, laptop, tablet or phone. It converts digital music into a clean and powerful analogue signal for headphones, active speakers or an existing hi-fi system.
Within the range of iFi Audio, the ZEN Air DAC 2 provides an affordable and easy-to-use desktop audio solution. This second generation combines a new Cirrus Logic DAC with a balanced 4.4mm headphone output, increased output power and the analogue XBass+ and PowerMatch functions.
At the heart of the ZEN Air DAC 2 is a carefully selected Cirrus Logic DAC. It processes DSD and DXD bit-perfect and was chosen for the way it presents detail naturally without making music sound forced or excessively analytical. Compared with the original ZEN Air DAC, the second generation offers measurable improvements in clarity, dynamics and distortion.
Support for PCM up to 384kHz and DSD256 makes the unit suitable for high-resolution music files, streaming services and locally stored digital music. Standard CD-quality recordings also benefit from the dedicated digital conversion and analogue amplification.
The ZEN Air DAC 2 provides two headphone connections. A conventional 6.3mm output supplies up to 286mW RMS at 32 ohms. Headphones fitted with a balanced cable can be connected to the 4.4mm Pentaconn output, which supplies up to 484mW RMS at 64 ohms.
The balanced circuit can help reduce noise and crosstalk while supporting a more spacious and clearly separated presentation. Its increased output power also gives the ZEN Air DAC 2 improved control over many full-size headphones compared with its predecessor.
XBass+ and PowerMatch are fully analogue features that can be activated from the front panel. XBass+ increases low-frequency energy and is particularly useful with headphones that provide a lighter bass response. Because the adjustment takes place in the analogue domain, the digital music signal is left untouched.
PowerMatch adjusts gain for less sensitive or harder-to-drive headphones. The normal setting is recommended for sensitive headphones and in-ear monitors. PowerMatch can provide additional headroom when using models that require more voltage or power.
The digital source connects through USB-C. A computer or laptop is the most obvious source, although a compatible tablet or phone can also be used when it supports USB audio. A suitable USB cable or adapter may be required for mobile devices.
The stereo RCA line output allows the ZEN Air DAC 2 to be connected to active speakers, an integrated amplifier or another analogue audio component. This model is designed primarily for USB audio and does not include Bluetooth, optical or coaxial digital inputs.
The iFi Audio ZEN Air DAC 2 is an excellent choice when a computer or laptop is your main music source and you need one compact component for headphones and active speakers. The combination of straightforward USB-C connectivity, two headphone outputs, an RCA output and practical analogue sound functions makes it particularly suitable for a desk, home office or compact music system.
For systems requiring several digital sources or optical, coaxial or wireless connectivity, explore our complete range of DACs and headphone amplifiers.
| Product type | USB DAC, headphone amplifier and line preamplifier |
| DAC | Bit-perfect DSD and DXD DAC by Cirrus Logic |
| Digital input | USB-C |
| Hi-res support | PCM up to 384kHz and DSD256 |
| Headphone outputs | 4.4mm balanced and 6.3mm single-ended |
| Analogue line output | Stereo RCA |
| Line output voltage | 2V; maximum 3.4V with variable gain |
| 4.4mm output power | At least 5.57V / 484mW RMS at 64 ohms |
| 6.3mm output power | At least 3.02V / 286mW RMS at 32 ohms |
| Output impedance | Line section maximum 50 ohms; headphone section below 1 ohm |
| Dynamic range | 118dBA through both outputs |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 118dBA through both outputs |
| Frequency response | 20Hz – 90kHz (-3dB) |
| THD+N 6.3mm | Maximum 0.0011% at 1.27V / 16 ohms |
| THD+N 4.4mm | Maximum 0.0015% at 2.4V / 32 ohms |
| Sound functions | XBass+ and PowerMatch |
| Power consumption | Approximately 0.55W without signal; approximately 3.55W maximum |
| Dimensions | 158 × 100 × 35mm |
| Weight | 315g |
| Colour | Midnight blue with metal front panel |
| Warranty | 24 months within the European Union |
Can I connect the ZEN Air DAC 2 to active speakers?
Yes. The stereo RCA line output can be connected to active speakers or an analogue input on an amplifier.
Which headphone connections does the ZEN Air DAC 2 provide?
It provides a 6.3mm single-ended output and a balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn output.
Does the ZEN Air DAC 2 support hi-res audio?
Yes. The DAC supports PCM files up to 384kHz and DSD up to DSD256.
Does the ZEN Air DAC 2 include Bluetooth, optical or coaxial inputs?
No. This model is specifically designed as a USB DAC and uses USB-C as its digital input.
How does it differ from the original ZEN Air DAC?
The second generation uses a Cirrus Logic DAC, adds a balanced 4.4mm output, provides greater headphone power and features a new midnight-blue finish, metal front panel and dedicated power button.
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