Granted, it’s still slightly larger than Apple’s tiny USB-C DAC dongle — but the compact iFi Go link 2 also has considerably more to offer.
Small is beautiful, but when it comes to portable devices, shrinking the size can sometimes mean compromising performance. That doesn’t appear to be the case with the new ultra-portable iFi Go link 2 DAC. It’s compact enough to leave permanently attached to your headphones. This second-generation model portable DAC is even smaller than its predecessor — 8% more compact and no less than 29% lighter.
Inside, an ESS Sabre DAC handles digital-to-analog conversion. Maximum supported resolution reaches up to 32-bit / 384 kHz PCM and DSD256. In other words: proper hi-res capability. The Go link 2 also includes features such as Dynamic Range Enhancement, designed to add contrast and impact to the sound. Thanks to THD compensation, maximum distortion is said to be 62% lower than that of its predecessor, according to the manufacturer.
A practical advantage is that this is the first model in the Go series to be fully supported by the iFi Nexis app. The app allows users to perform firmware updates quickly and select between two available filters (hybrid or digital). One drawback: the app is currently available for Android only.
The iFi Go link 2 is attractively priced at just €69.