Have you got a Diablo 2 from iFi yet? Definitely interested in hearing your thoughts on that!
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Not yet but it would be cool to try it out. I was (am) a fan of the original, I just never found myself needing that much portable power to justify the size and price.
1 Like
I posted some pictures yesterday of the iFi Hipdac v3 in âwhatâs in the boxâ, saying how impressed I initially am with it.
This is too short and too preliminary to be called a âreviewâ, but I will go a lot further today and say I am really blown away by how good it sounds, particularly at $200! For what it is the sound quality is quite extraordinary. Iâve been using it a lot over the last 2 days.
It has made me realize I never had a proper setup for the few IEMs that I do own, my desktop rig is for full size over the ear headphones.
It has no hiss or noise, and easily drives everything (within reason) Iâve thrown at it. My previous IEM amp was a Questyle M12, which is very basic and frankly kind of sucks in comparison. Plus my laptop simply wouldnât recognize the M12, and itâs a pretty high end Windows 11 Pro machine. So it earns a 
The Campfire Mammoth sounds magnificent with the Hipdac 3, with a fullness and authority Iâve never thought it capable of. Also, a somewhat controversial Campfire IEM, the Io, also sounds far better than I ever thought possible.
The Io is a dual BA headset with a rather wonky tuning, which some found OK but many hated. It always sounded thin and weird to me, with basically no bass.
With the Hipdac it sounds pretty full and authoritative, not thin and irritating anymore. Even before any eq or bass boost, there is noticeable slam in the bass on it, on tracks like Fever Rayâs Coconut or Angel by Massive Attack. When I turn on Xbass, the Io sounds basically right, and slams pretty hard. The Mammoth already hits hard in the bass, and needs no eq to sound great.
My desktop setup obviously sounds better (Schiit Yggy OG/Nitsch DSHA-3FN), but it is literally 25X the cost! Yikes!
The little Hipdac 3 is very impressive in its performance, sound quality, and value. Plus it feels like a quality product. 
7 Likes
Hey guys, here is my diablo 2 review.
Hi Guys,
Today we are taking a look at a new product from iFi Audio, the iDSD Diablo 2. This is the most recent iteration in their Micro iDSD lineup, of which I am a long-term fan. The Micro iDSD lineup has always offered a great set of features and performance for their price point, making them a default recommendation for anyone looking for a great transportable headphone DAC/Amp combo unit. The new Diablo 2 has a couple of different features that are new for the Micro iDSD lineup, whilst it is lacking some of the features others have (similar to the original Diablo.)
The first thing I should talk about, which has been a point of contention on forums in recent times is the power rating for the Diablo 2. iFi has always advertised peak output power, versus continuous RMS. The Diablo 2 is advertised as having 5180mw of output very similar in amount to the previous Diablo 1. This is peak output so for very short peak transients it can manage this output, but for continuous power, it can only manage about 2000mw or just under (depending on the resistance.) This is similar to the Pro iCAN, which is advertised as having 14,000mw of output, but again this is peak output and probably managed somewhere about 8000mw in terms of continuous RMS power. In terms of real-world use, for a transportable device, this is totally acceptable and even impressive for a device of its size and general use case. I didnât have any trouble with the output power of the Diablo 2, as it is very similar to the Diablo 1. One thing to take note of is that the lower the resistance of the headphones (ohms) that you are using, the more it makes sense to use the Diablo 2âs single-ended output, as it delivers more power from the single-ended output into lower resistances than from the balanced output. The extreme case that I ran into this was with the Audeze LCD-5 which has an incredibly low resistance value of 14ohms. I ran into the current protection engaging with the LCD-5 with bass-heavy music at medium volumes using the highest gain setting on the 4.4mm output. Using the 6.35mm output with the LCD-5, I had no issues. Other than that pair of headphones with their unusually low resistance, the Diablo was totally usable in terms of power output.
Now that we have got that disclaimer out of the way, letâs talk about the product in general. The Diablo 2 adopts a new ridged metal case with a nice red anodized finish. Similar to the previous Diablo 2, it has a 6.35mm single-ended output and a 44mm balanced output. There are three gain modes, which have been renamed from the older Micro iDSDs. I donât like this decision, as the actual gain levels are the same, and it will just create confusion with past products. This means that the levels are 0dB, 9dB, and 18dB, but instead of being called Eco, Normal, and Turbo, they are called Normal, Turbo, and Nitro. Same thing, but it makes it sound like the new âNitroâ mode has a higher gain setting than the old Turbo mode, which it doesnât. New name, same thing. Another thing which can add confusion for newer users is that iFi is using the term âNOSâ (as in nitrous oxide â âNitroâ) to describe the highest gain setting. For someone who doesnât do a lot of reading about the product, this brings up an issue as NOS in âaudiophile speakâ could mean âNon Oversamplingâ with regards to the DAC portion of the Diablo 2, or it could even mean âNew Old Stockâ with regards to vacuum tubes (which the Diablo 2 most certainly doesnât have.) The old naming scheme for the gain levels wasnât broken, it didnât need to be fixed and seems almost dishonest in that iFi seem to be trying to get people to think the Diablo 2 has a new higher gain higher power output, which it doesnât.
The Diablo 2 comes with a neat plastic stand which is handy if you are going to be using it as a desktop unit, tilting the front panel upwards to allow for easy access to the front panel. The Diablo 2 also still has iFiâs IEMatch feature, which is selectable on the bottom of the unit. Also new for the Diablo 2 are the USB-C inputs on the rear of the device. This means a USB-C input for data and a USB input for charging. I do wish the Diablo 2 had the feature the Gryphon has to combine charging and data on one input as an option. You are able to charge and also bypass the battery of the Diablo 2, and use a 5v iFi wall wart which comes stock with the Diablo 2. This is handy for anyone who is going to be primarily using the Diablo 2 as a desktop unit. Also on the rear are a SPDIF 3.5mm coax/optical combo input, and a 4.4mm input/output for use as a DAC only, or an amp only. Also on the rear of the unit is the Bluetooth pairing button, a new feature for the Diablo 2 in comparison to the Diablo 1.
The most noticeable new feature on the Diablo 2 is support for any new âX-MEMSâ driver-equipped IEMs. X-MEMS is a new driver technology in the IEM space which requires a dedicated amplifier, and it is really only starting to be adopted by manufacturers as we speak. Whether or not it will be widely adopted in the future I donât know, nor have I heard any example of an X-MEMs driver IEM thus far. However, the feature is present on the Diablo 2, so if you happen to be an early adopter of the X-MEMS tech, the Diablo 2 has you covered.
The sound of the Diablo 2 is incredibly similar to that of its predecessor the Diablo 1, which I reviewed in the past. I would recommend popping over to that review if you are interested in more comments about the Diablo 2âs sound quality in addition to this review, due to how similar they are overall. It is slightly leaner and brighter than the older Micro iDSD models. The bass is quick and precise, and I would say very neutral in its overall level. The mids are less warm and have less presence, especially in the low midrange compared to the older Micro iDSD models. The treble is slightly brighter but also slightly more detailed than the older Micro iDSD models. The Diablo 2 follows suit with the Diablo 1 in that it doesnât feature any of the typical iFi â3Dâ or âXBASSâ tweaks, so if you would like to tweak the bass level or sound staging, it would need to be done via EQ or something similar from your source, not on the Diablo 2 itself.
The overall technical performance is again very similar to the Diablo 1. It is slightly more detailed, and slightly more refined sounding than the other Micro iDSD models, but also slightly less easygoing due to this. The dynamic performance of the Diablo 2 is again very similar to the Diablo 1, and slightly more refined and quick than than the other Micro iDSD models.
The build quality of the Diablo 2 is totally acceptable. The new metal case is nice in the hand and has a good, solid, well-built feeling to it. The new, larger volume knob is slightly easier to work with in comparison to the Diablo 2, and the channel matching of the volume pot was also totally ok, with no real imbalance at lower volumes. I also like the new red anodized finish, and think it looks much better than the previous slightly more garish red of the Diablo 1.
Overall, in terms of performance, the Diablo 2 is incredibly similar to its predecessor, the Diablo 1. Very similar sonically, with some nice improvements in terms of build quality, and implementation of features. My main issue is that the MSRP of the Diablo 2 has increased to $1299USD compared to $899USD for the Diablo 1. At $899 for the Diablo one, I felt it was a good product, but was even starting to wonder if it was increasing too much and moving away from iFiâs previous core tenents. Iâve always felt iFi was a brand that delivered very high performance for the asking price, combined with Swiss army knife-like feature sets. Their gear always sounded good, was affordable, and offered a lot of features for the money. The Diablo 2 sort of feels like a car crash with regards to all of those previous things I valued about the brand. The Diablo 2 sounds incredibly similar to the Diablo 1, it has a new feature in the X-MEMS support (but next to no one has X-MEMS IEMs at this point in time) and beyond a new look and slightly better-built case, doesnât really offer anything of note over the previous version, but costs $400USD more? I like iFi audio, I am a supporter of the brand, and I hope they can quickly course correct and move back to being focused on the things that brought them most of their success in the headphone space in the first place. A focus on quality, affordability, good feature sets, and if a new product is released, to make it a meaningful improvement over the previous version. When you combine this with the fact that Adorama in the USA had the Micro iDSD Signature (Finale) on sale for $350USD brand new, it becomes damn near impossible to recommend the Diablo 2. For me to recommend the Diablo 2, your use case would have to be incredibly specific.
If you
-Use XMEMS IEMâs
-Also use hard-to-drive headphones
-Do not want desktop-size equipment
-Need transportability
-Are not budget limited
then I could make a recommendation for the Diablo 2.
Comparison with the Neo iDSD 2
I donât dislike the Diablo 2 in terms of its strict sonic performance, it just feels like a missed opportunity for iFi Audio. It still sounds good like its predecessor did, it has great power output for a portable device (with the caveat of the peak vs continuous power taken into account,) and it feels sturdy and well-built. However, the Diablo 2 costs too much at its MSRP, to the point of making me feel that iFi is being opportunistic, and also seems to be a summation of iFiâs abandonment of the companyâs previous values and core beliefs. Those previous values and core beliefs about their product lineup and design direction were what made them great, and a fan favourite amongst the headphones enthusiast community. I do have the new Neo iDSD 2 here for review, and I do feel more positively about it than I do the Diablo 2, so I hope iFi is not a lost cause, and the ship can be turned around and get back to heading in a good direction.
7 Likes
I just got the ifi iCAN Pro and love it. Also got the ifi iPower Elite Power Supply to go with it. It really took my headphones to a new level. I have the Gustard R26 DAC coming Monday to go with it. I love the sound a R2R DAC makes. Going to get the Mod House Tungsten when its for sale again.
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Love the ifi iCAN Pro. Also the new DAC. I hit the 18db gain switch on the amp and my headphones went⌠We are AWAKE NOW LETS ROCK AND ROLL⌠LOL
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Hey Guys, just wanted to share my review on the Neo iDSD 2 in case anyone might be interested 
Introduction
Hi Guys,
Today we are taking a look at the fairly recently released DAC/Amp combo unit from iFi, the Neo iDSD 2. I reviewed the first Neo iDSD a couple of years ago, so I was looking forward to hearing how the second incarnation had changed and how it stacked up compared to its predecessor. For the rest of this review, Iâll refer to the unit as the Neo 2.
The Neo 2 has some big changes in comparison to the Neo 1, but in terms of looks, it is fairly similar. It can be used either horizontally or vertically, which is handy for tight spaces on desks, and has an upgraded display compared to the original model. The most notable feature change for the Neo 2 is a vastly more robust headphone amplifier section. I think this amplifier section must be very closely related to the amplifier section in the iDSD Diablo 2, with very similar output power and sonics. iFi lists the output power in a similar fashion to their other products in terms of peak output, and RMS output, and from the balanced output (4.4mm) you are looking at 5551mw at 32ohms peak and 2,832mw at 32ohms RMS. The Neo 2 also features aptX lossless Bluetooth, as well as iFi Xbass and 3D sound features, though these are now called XSpace and Xbass 2 on this unit. On the rear of the unit, you have RCA outputs and full-size XLR outputs. In terms of inputs, there is a 3.5mm analog input for using only the amplifier section, a SPDIF optical input, a SPDIF coaxial input, a USB input, a BNC clock sync input, and a DC 9V power input. On the front of the unit, there are a few more buttons than the Neo 1, allowing you to toggle gain, Xbass 2, XSpace, and Bluetooth features. There are also the 4.4mm headphones output and the 6.35mm headphone output.
Iâve done a ton of testing with this unit both as a headphone amplifier, as a DAC and as a DAC/Amp combo unit. I will do three sections following addressing the performance in each area.
DAC
As a DAC only, the Neo IDSD is a very capable unit. Although you donât have the tube section and all of the extra features of the Pro iDSD, the Neo 2 does nicely improve on other iFi units like the ZenDAC. As a DAC only, the Neo 2 does sound very slightly warm in the low mid-range, with good clarity across the entire frequency response. The treble has a small amount of sparkle to it, but I wouldnât describe it as bright or possessing spikes that can be grating over time. One thing that is nice about the Neo 2 as a DAC is it can also be used as a preamp with variable volume control. This allows slightly more freedom with the use case of the unit and can be used as a DAC/Pre into a standalone power amplifier if needed. Overall detail levels as a pure DAC are totally within what should be expected from a unit of this price point, and perhaps slightly beyond. In terms of overall performance as a DAC compared to the Neo 1, the Neo 2 is very similar. With that being said, I do still feel that the Neo series does make a better case for its use as a DAC/Amp combo unit, and this particularly applies to the Neo 2 given the improved head amp section with this incarnation. The DAC section of the Neo 2 features the standard filter options that most iFi DACs have â Standard, Bit Perfect, Minimum, and GTO. I prefer the GTO filter, which is short for Gibbs Transient-Optimised. Since I first heard this filter on the original Pro iDSD, it has been my favourite option of the iFi filter types. It seems to have the best balance between all the options and helps keep a clear incisive leading edge of all the notes, which helps things sound a bit cleaner and more detailed. I would recommend trying all the various filters, however, and going with the one that you feel works best for your ears.
Amp
As an amp only, the Neo 2 is incredibly similar to the iDSD Diablo 2, which I reviewed recently. Although I wasnât a huge fan of that unit in an overall sense, it didnât really have anything to do with the overall sonic performance of the Diablo 2, and due to that, Iâm very happy to see the Neo 2 utilizing what I am guessing is a very similar headamp section. It is much more powerful than the Neo 1. With the Diablo 2 in combination with the LCD-5, due to its uncharacteristically low impedance (14 ohms), I ran into the current protection of the Diablo 2 from the 4.4mm output. This never happened with the Neo 2 on the 4.4mm output, and I think this might have to do with the fact it is running from a 9v wallwart, vs a 5v wallwart/battery in the Diablo 2. The Neo 2 headamp section has a very neutral presentation verging on bright in the treble. It is very solid in terms of impact, drive, and detail levels. I definitely felt the amplifier section was slightly more detailed than the Neo 1âs headamp section. Another thing to mention is the variable gain levels. You can use iFiâs ieMatch (-12dB) with sensitive IEMs, and then there are regular gain levels of 0dB, 9dB, and 16dB. On the Neo 2, these settings are called Normal, Turbo, and Nitro. As with the Diablo 2 review, I am hoping iFi standardizes their gain naming conventions, perhaps returning to normal, high, and turbo. âNitroâ which used to be called Turbo, on the Diablo 2 is 18dB, but on the Neo 2, itâs 16 dB, so it can all get a bit confusing. The Neo 2âs headamp section will comfortably drive most headphones on the market, though if you want to push the volume high with something like the HE6, or Susvara, you might start running into its limits. Those are pretty unusual use-case scenarios for the Neo 2 however, and with pretty much all other headphones you will be totally fine in terms of power and gain. the Neo 2âs amplifier section is very solid in performance, and I could certainly see someone using it as their only source for headphones, especially if their desk space is limited.
DAC/Amp
In my opinion, this is the use case where the Neo 2 really shines. The very neutral, almost bright amplifier section combines with the slightly warm DAC section and ends up with a very pleasing balanced frequency response. There is a small amount of sparkle in the treble, and a little bit of warmth in the low end. Itâs a very easy-going sound signature, and it is incredibly easy to enjoy. I never found myself thinking it was overly analytical or boring, as some setups can be. The detail levels and technical performance are totally in line with a product of this price point, but the unit also has all of the typical features iFi products have, which helps make them real Swiss army knives in terms of usability. When you combine this with the much more powerful headamp section of the Neo 2 vs the Neo 1, there really isnât much this unit canât do, and it sounds good doing it!
Build Quality
The build quality of the Neo 2 is pretty much exactly the same as the Neo 1. A metal shell that feels well put together. I had zero problems over my time with the unit, and it doesnât feel flimsy or like it will break at any moment. I really do like the ability to use it either lying horizontally or vertically, and I think that vertical use will be especially helpful for those who have limited desktop real estate available.
Settings/Bluetooth
I am very much a fan of wired use of DACs and Amps, but the Neo 2 does have aptX Lossless Bluetooth. I did give this a try for a week and I thought it worked well. I didnât have any problems with pairing my devices, which was all fairly self-explanatory after the first time you do it. The sound quality was also really good for Bluetooth, though I do still think I heard some difference between a wired connection and the Bluetooth option. Perhaps that was in my head however, Iâm certainly open to that being true. I think for most people, this will be a personal preference, and for some, the lack of cables and clutter will outweigh any possible difference in sonic quality. It is certainly worth trying out, and seeing what you think of the feature. The XBass 2 feature has a couple different settings to try. There is Xbass, which is just a bass boost, great for those who enjoy a more than neutral bass response. There is Xbass Presence, which increases the upper midrange. It helps add more smack to snare drums, brings out vocals, but can also be too much and make things a bit shouty. This isnât a feature I particularly enjoy, but I know some people will absolutely love it, I would recommend trying it out and seeing what you think. Then there is Xbass + Presence, which enables both settings. There is also iFiâs 3D setting, which is called XSpace on the Neo2. This is a form of crossfeed, which can help with hard-panned recordings and old mono recordings. Iâm not a fan of it on more modern recordings, as I feel it does the opposite of expanding the sound, but I know that some people really enjoy this take on crossfeed, so again, Iâd recommend trying it out and seeing what you personally think.
Conclusion
Now, in my iDSD Diablo 2 review, I wasnât very complimentary and wasnât a huge fan of the unit. The Neo 2 is a much better piece of equipment in my opinion. It wasnât that the sonic performance of the Diablo 2 was poor, and I mentioned that in that review. I felt it cost too much at MSRP and did not offer a real tangible improvement over its predecessor. Thankfully, with the Neo 2, none of those concerns are present. The Neo 2 is retailing at $899USD, which whilst not cheap, is less of a jump than the Diablo 2 at its new $1399MSRP. Iâd have loved to see the Neo 2 priced at $799USD, but $899 is ok. The Neo 2 also offers refinements in terms of the features offered, the DAC performance being similar but slightly better than the Neo 1. Most importantly the headphone amplifier section of the Neo 2 is a massive improvement over the Neo 1, and that alone justifies its creation as a new product. If you are a user who simply wants a small, transportable, well-built, somewhat more affordable, desktop DAC/Amp unit for headphones, the Neo 2 is incredibly compelling. If you combine that with the fact it can be used as a DAC/Preamp into a pair of powered desktop monitors, it really makes a case for its use as an all-in-one sound center for a desktop setup that doesnât break the bank (too badly at least.) Overall, I think the Neo 2 is a good addition to iFiâs product range. Apart from the gain naming scheme, there isnât much I didnât like about the Neo 2. I hope iFi continues with this sort of improvements to their lineup, and that the Diablo 2 was a blip on the radar because pieces of gear like the Neo 2 are where iFi shines brightest, in my humble opinion. Good stuff iFi!
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