iFi Audio NEO iDSD Review

Introduction

Southport-based iFi Audio continues to expand its digital product line with the introduction of the NEO iDSD. Positioned below the flagship Pro iDSD, the £699 NEO iDSD offers a compelling blend of features for both desktop and hi-fi system use. It combines a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamp with balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs in a compact, high-quality aluminium chassis.

The unit's thoughtful design includes an aluminium stand that allows it to be positioned vertically, with the OLED display automatically rotating 90° for optimal viewing. This display provides information on file format, sample rate, input selection, and volume.

Connectivity and Features

The NEO iDSD offers versatile input options, including coaxial, optical, and a USB-B port for computer connection. It supports a wide range of Bluetooth codecs, leveraging the Qualcomm QCC5100 module for advanced wireless audio, including AAC, SBC, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX LL, LDAC, and HWA/LHDC. This ensures compatibility with most portable devices capable of high-resolution wireless audio transmission.

For wired connections, the USB-B port supports up to 768kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD512, powered by a Burr-Brown DSD1793 DAC. The unit also features MQA decoding. While it omits some of the advanced digital filters and output stage options found in the Pro iDSD, this simplification contributes to its ease of use and more accessible price point.

Audio Performance

The NEO iDSD delivers a powerful, weighty, and controlled sound. It excels in driving demanding headphones, offering excellent clarity, grip, and dynamics, particularly when using the balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn output. The headphone amplifier provides a good voltage/current balance, capable of driving low-impedance loads effectively. Its low source impedance minimizes signal loss and ensures consistent performance across various headphone loads.

In system use, the NEO iDSD performs admirably, whether connected to a conventional amplifier or directly to power amplification. It provides a glorious balance between vocals and accompaniment in classical recordings, and the right mix of control and snarl for rock music.

Ease of Use

The NEO iDSD is designed for straightforward operation, embodying a 'plug and play' philosophy. It eschews complex setup procedures, allowing users to enjoy high-quality audio with minimal fuss. The included remote control manages input selection, volume, mute, and display brightness, further enhancing user experience.

Lab Report Summary

The lab report highlights the NEO iDSD's strong performance, noting a maximum balanced output of 5.6V and a wide dynamic range. The DAC achieves excellent low-level linearity, with distortion figures that are impressive, particularly at lower signal levels. While the jitter tests revealed some low-level sidebands, the overall performance is robust, with a high A-wtd S/N ratio contributing to low residual noise.

Key Specifications:

• Max output/Imp. (DAC): 5.60Vrms / 50ohm (balanced)
• Headphone Output: 3.25V/600ohm / 269mW/32ohm
• Headphone Output Imp.: 0.24-0.75ohm (single-ended)
• A-wtd S/N ratio: 109.5dB (DAC) / 107.5dB (headphone)
• Distortion: 0.0012-0.0045% (DAC) / 0.005-0.048% (headphone)
• Freq. resp.: +0.0 to -0.14dB/20kHz, -0.8dB/45kHz, -2.6dB/90kHz
• Digital jitter: 550psec/555psec (48kHz / 96kHz)
• Power consumption: 3W
• Dimensions (WHD) / Weight: 214x41x146mm / 1kg

Conclusion

The iFi Audio NEO iDSD is a highly commendable device, suitable for those seeking a high-quality desktop audio solution or a compact DAC for their main system. Its combination of powerful, refined sound, broad file format compatibility, and user-friendly design makes it a standout product in its category. While it simplifies some aspects compared to higher-end models, it focuses on delivering an excellent listening experience.