1. Introduction
The iFi GO bar Kensei is a high-performance portable Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to enhance your audio experience. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.
2. Key Features
- IEMatch: Built-in feature to reduce hiss from high-sensitivity headphones.
- XBass+ and XSpace: Analogue processing technologies for enhanced bass and soundstage.
- K2HD Technology: Restores high-frequency signals lost during digital conversion for improved audio quality.
- Digital Filters: Four selectable digital filters for PCM playback (Bit-Perfect, GTO, Standard, Minimum Phase).
- Balanced Output: 4.4mm balanced output with a symmetrical twin-mono output stage and 475mW maximum output power.
- Hi-Res Audio: Supports PCM up to 384kHz and DSD up to DSD256.
3. Package Contents
- iFi GO bar Kensei unit
- USB-C to USB-C cable
- USB-C to Lightning cable
- USB-C to USB-A adapter
- Leather travel case
- Quick Start Guide
- Instruction Card
4. Product Overview
The iFi GO bar Kensei is a compact and robust device, crafted from Japanese stainless steel for durability and enhanced EMI shielding.
4.1. Front Panel (LED Indicators)
Figure 1: Front view of the iFi GO bar Kensei with LED indicators for various settings and audio formats.
- PCM Sample Rate Indicators: LEDs indicate the current PCM sample rate (e.g., 44/48kHz, 88/96kHz, 176/192kHz, 352/384kHz).
- DSD Sample Rate Indicators: LEDs indicate the current DSD sample rate (e.g., DSD64/128, DSD256).
- K2HD Indicator: Illuminates when K2HD processing is active.
- MQA Indicator: Illuminates when playing MQA content.
- XSpace Indicator: Illuminates when XSpace is active.
- XBass+ Indicator: Illuminates when XBass+ is active.
4.2. Side Panel (Controls)
Figure 2: Side view of the iFi GO bar Kensei displaying the volume controls, settings button, and IEMatch switch.
- Volume Buttons (+/-): Adjust the audio output volume.
- Settings Button: Short press to toggle XBass+ and XSpace. Long press to cycle through digital filters.
- IEMatch Switch: Selects impedance matching for 4.4mm, Off, or 3.5mm outputs to optimize for sensitive headphones or power-hungry headphones.
4.3. Connectivity (Input/Output)
Figure 3: Connection diagram for the iFi GO bar Kensei, illustrating USB-C input and headphone output options.
- USB-C Input: Connects to your audio source (PC, phone, HDD).
- 4.4mm Balanced Output: For balanced headphones.
- 3.5mm S-Balanced Output: For single-ended headphones.
5. Setup
Follow these steps to connect your iFi GO bar Kensei to your audio source and headphones.
5.1. Connecting to a Source Device
Use the provided USB-C to USB-C cable to connect the GO bar Kensei to your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. If your device uses a Lightning port, use the USB-C to Lightning cable. For USB-A ports, use the USB-C to USB-A adapter with the USB-C to USB-C cable.
Video 1: Demonstrates the various connection options for the iFi GO bar Kensei with different source devices.
5.2. Connecting Headphones
Plug your headphones into either the 4.4mm balanced output or the 3.5mm S-Balanced output on the GO bar Kensei.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Power On/Off
The iFi GO bar Kensei powers on automatically when connected to a compatible USB audio source. There is no dedicated power button.
6.2. Volume Control
Use the physical '+' and '-' buttons on the side of the device to adjust the audio output volume. The volume cannot be controlled via the connected source device.
6.3. XBass+ and XSpace
Short press the settings button to toggle XBass+ (analog bass boost) and XSpace (holographic soundstage) features. The corresponding LEDs on the front panel will illuminate when active.
6.4. Digital Filters
Long press the settings button to cycle through the four digital filters for PCM playback: Bit-Perfect, GTO, Standard, and Minimum Phase. The LED indicators will change to reflect the selected filter.
6.5. IEMatch Switch
Use the IEMatch switch on the side to optimize output for sensitive in-ear monitors (IEMs) or power-hungry headphones. Options include 4.4mm, Off, and 3.5mm. This helps reduce background noise and optimize gain.
6.6. Turbo Mode
The device features a Turbo mode which ramps up the gain by 6dB for more power when needed, suitable for demanding headphones.
Video 2: Provides a detailed overview of the iFi GO bar Kensei's features and controls, including XBass+, XSpace, and digital filters.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Hi-Res Support | PCM 384kHz, DSD256 (12.3MHz), full MQA decoding |
| DAC | Bit-Perfect DSD & DXD DAC by Cirrus Logic |
| Headphone Outputs | Balanced 4.4mm, S-Balanced 3.5mm |
| Output Power (RMS) | 475mW @ 32Ω; 7.2V @ 600Ω (Balanced) / 300mW @ 32Ω; 3.8V @ 600Ω (S-Balanced) |
| Output Impedance | <1Ω (Balanced) / <1.2Ω (S-Balanced) |
| SNR | 132dB(A) (Balanced) / 109dB(A) (S-Balanced) |
| THD+N | <0.0025% (Balanced @ 600Ω 2V) / <0.0016% (S-Balanced @ 32Ω 1.27V) |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz - 80kHz (-3dB) |
| Power Consumption | <4W max. |
| Dimensions | 65 x 22 x 13.2 mm (2.6" x 0.87" x 0.52") |
| Net Weight | 12.7 ounces (36g) |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1. Warranty
The iFi GO bar Kensei comes with a standard 12-month limited warranty.
8.2. Support
For technical support or further assistance, please visit the official iFi website or contact their customer service.
