There are plenty of reviews available about this DAC, written by by reviewers with keener (younger) ears than mine and a wider knowledge of other comparable DACs.
My main reason for purchasing this DAC was to use in conjunction with Antipodes Audio support work, specifically its ability to support USB Audio at the latest level and also DSD up to DSD512. I was aware of iFi's evolution from AMR products and its excellent reputation. The Black had just been released when I started looking and I liked the colour, with the orange lettering, and so paid the premium for that version; however the iFi DSD Micro also has the same USB and DSD functionality at a lower price.
The iFi DSD comes in a an elegant package that is
loaded with goodies:
All the USB and analog cables you need to get started, headphone jack adapter, toslink mini adapter, rubber feet and rubber pad, black velvet carry-case, and a comprehensive user guide booklet.
It is extremely easy to setup .... input cable from source, output i/cs to preamp:
The things I really like about this DAC:
1. Compact size makes it very easy to accommodate.
2.
No need for external power when using USB
3. Well built, feels solid and dependable, not at all flimsy.
4. DSD to 512 (Octa), PCM to 768kHz
5. Up-to-date firmware that supports Windows/OSX/Linux
6. Worked straight out of the box, no hassles or confusion.
7. USB, SPDIF Coaxial/Toslink, analog 3.5mm inputs
8. Headphone input with 6.3mm adapter.
9. Preamp mode or direct to outboard system
10. Phase inversion.
11. Sticky rubber feet or rubber pad to allow it to be safely placed on another component.
12. Elegant,Innovative packaging with all the accessories you would need.
It also has these features which I have tested and seem effective but which I will probably not use as I seldom use headphones:
1. In-ear headphone matching adjustment.
2. X-_bass switch for bass extension.
3. Holographic mode switch
I also use an Audio Note 2.1X Signature DAC and the Border Patrol DAC. Both are excellent and SQ may be slightly preferable for me but both are restricted to 96/24, the Audio Note to SPDIF input only, so fall short of the iFi Black in several key respects when it comes to using hires playback from Roon through Antipodes servers.
To sum up,a thoroughly satisfactory audio acquisition and highly recommended!
