iFi Zen DAC V2 Desktop DAC - Compact Hi-Res Upgrade

In this review the iFi Zen DAC V2 is presented as a compact desktop digital to analogue converter aimed at listeners who want a clear upgrade from typical onboard sound. It is best for desktop users who connect a computer or DAP over USB and want cleaner, warmer playback through headphones or active speakers. The single biggest reason to buy is the audibly improved fidelity from the Burr Brown True Native converter and built-in MQA decoding, which together deliver higher resolution detail and natural tone without extra boxes or conversion.

Key Features

• Burr Brown True Native DAC: preserves native PCM and DSD formats for transparent, warm playback up to PCM 384kHz/24 bit and DSD256 so familiar tracks reveal more detail.
• MQA decoding: decodes MQA content internally so users hear MQA files as intended without extra hardware.
• Flexible outputs: 6.3mm unbalanced, 4.4mm balanced and RCA outputs allow easy connection to headphones, active speakers or an amplifier.
• USB3.0 input: USB3.0 (USB2.0 compatible) connection provides straightforward plug-and-play use with computers and digital audio players.
• Analogue volume and tone controls: Variable analogue volume, PowerMatch and TrueBass let listeners tailor output level and low-end character for iEMs and full-size headphones.

Who It's For

The Zen DAC V2 is for desktop audiophiles, home office users and music fans who want a noticeable step up from integrated sound on a computer or basic DACs. Its combination of high-resolution decoding, MQA support and multiple outputs suits headphone enthusiasts and those feeding an amplifier or active speakers.

It is less appropriate for users needing full network streaming, optical/coaxial digital inputs, or a standalone amplifier with speaker binding posts. Also, if you require absolute perfect channel balance at very low volume settings, note the analogue volume control can show slight imbalance below 9 o'clock.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent sound quality for the price, with rich detail and low noise.
• Built-in MQA decoding and wide format support for hi-res playback.
• Multiple outputs and tonal controls make it flexible for headphones and speakers.

Cons

• The analogue volume control can exhibit slight channel imbalance under 9 o'clock, so very low listening levels may be imperfect.
• USB-B input only limits connectivity to USB sources; there are no optical or coaxial digital options.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The iFi Zen DAC V2 is a strong value for desktop listeners who want cleaner, more natural sound without a complex setup. Its Burr Brown DAC and internal MQA decoding bring clear improvements to computer audio and headphone listening, and the output options and tone controls make it versatile. Recommend for users seeking an affordable, compact hi-res upgrade; those needing multi-source digital inputs or perfect ultra-low-volume balance should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it support MQA?
Yes, the unit decodes MQA internally so MQA files play without extra converters.

What outputs are available?
It offers 6.3mm unbalanced, 4.4mm balanced headphone jacks and RCA line outputs for speakers or an amplifier.

Are there any known volume limitations?
Due to the analogue volume control, slight channel imbalance may be audible below about 9 o'clock, so listening between 11 and 1 o'clock is recommended for best balance.