forum.hifiguides.com/t/ifi-zen-dac-v1-v2/7612 HIFIGUIDES POST - - - - - - - - - - ⚔️www.SubscribeStar.com/Zeos -- Subscribe Star 🥇www.Patreon.com/Zeos -- Check out the Patreon
@sechssarius27463 жыл бұрын
Would you pick the Zen DAC or the Fiio k5 pro ?
@DonutsReview3 жыл бұрын
Woohooo! Bought the ZEN DAC V2 when it came out and was wondering what your thoughts would be. Personally I think it's amazing too. 😇 And without access to FLAC or higher, full MQA is GREAT.
@saamo14233 жыл бұрын
@@DonutsReview Wtf do you mean, "no access to flac"
@iFiaudiochannel3 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much, Z! Glad you loved it, and great review.
@SPDTDL3 жыл бұрын
I’ve spent thousands over the years on audio but the zen dac and amp combo plays my library beautifully. Wish it had been available 10 years ago, it’s all I need.
@joshualee69323 жыл бұрын
Thanks for pricing this affordably!
@d0nj033 жыл бұрын
Still no headphones-to-speakers switch. You crowd-designed the Micro iDSD and you still didn't include a headphones-to-speakers switch, I can't even believe it. (P.S.: Did you ever reach out to Zeos to clarify to him once and for all how to pronounce "iFi"? :D )
@tazeru3 жыл бұрын
Hey iFi, is DAC chipset in v2 better than one in DAC Signature version?
@joshualee69323 жыл бұрын
@@tazeru I believe that DAC chip is the same. It's possible that they updated the circuitry routing though.
@Postmanz3 жыл бұрын
great review Zeos! FYI the green led changes depending on the format and sampling frequency it's receiving. Yellow PCM 44.1/48kHz White PCM 88.2 kHz - 384kHz Cyan DSD 64/128 Red DSD 256 Green MQA Blue MQA Studio Magenta MQB Very handy imo
@iFiaudiochannel3 жыл бұрын
Thanks! Hopefully Z can pin this!
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
@@iFiaudiochannel I can but I will heart instead.
@adamdanial94203 жыл бұрын
What a mad lad
@93hostang3 жыл бұрын
I thought purple was MQA?
@93hostang3 жыл бұрын
@@iFiaudiochannel Personally I feel MQA sounds quite good, and it gives Tidal users an affordable DAC option. I have Qobuz now, but they both sound equally impressive in different ways. I love my Zen DAC. Money well spent!
@ConnorHammond2 жыл бұрын
Here's my review after buying one after watching this: I wanted to upgrade to a balanced setup to replace my Modi/Magni combo which was fine, albeit underwhelming. Rather than spending $1k+ I saw some glowing reviews of the ZEN DAC 2 and was sold by the very low price. I paired it with a second-hand CAN to give them the best chance at powering my GL2000's which recommend 2W+. The rich, warm tone and variety of power level options were more than enough to bring full life to my GL2000's. The really impressive feature is the Truebass function which sounds like someone's turned on a 15" sub. It's perfect for making it feel like you're standing next to the the bass drum and bass guitar at the recording. It's fun to play around with it and I find myself using it mostly with pre-2000's recordings where mastering had less emphasis on sub-frequencies. Concert-like power at the push of a button! I just bought another one for my office, no need for the additional CAN as I don't push the volume that much there.
@boo637352 жыл бұрын
Does the Truebass function work when you plug it into a CAN?
@ConnorHammond2 жыл бұрын
@@boo63735 Sure does! And combined with the xbass and 3D FX on the CAN, you can get every balance of bass and space that you need. I'd say Truebass is about 2x as powerful (more bassy) as the xbass effect. In fact I'm adding the CAN to my office as I love the additional versatility.
@boo637352 жыл бұрын
@@ConnorHammond Thanks for answering so fast! Right now I have a Modi 2 paired with a Zen Can. (My Magni 2 broke) I'm using HD 600. I have HD 660s and Sundaras as well. Just ordered the K712 Pro. Will arrive next week. :)
@ConnorHammond2 жыл бұрын
@@boo63735 No problem! Nice, I'm hoping to upgrade to the Arya Stealth's. Still more demoing to be done though. Enjoy your new cans!
@boo637352 жыл бұрын
@@ConnorHammond Thank you! Always the constant search for audio greatness! :D Btw if I set the Zen DAC to fixed the volume knob turns off, but the Truebass will still work? I'm thinking if I should buy a Zen DAC to replace my Modi 2.
@KentBurgess3 жыл бұрын
There is a new 16 core XMOS processor in the V2, which is an upgrade over the 8 core in the original. Beside inflation, that is probably the single largest driver behind the price increase.
@stevebritt73693 жыл бұрын
How can I use the Dac on my iPad. I do not have a computer. Is there a way?
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
But can it run Crysis?
@Chromatomic3 жыл бұрын
@@stevebritt7369 I have an adapter with power and usb for my iPad, I just plug it in and it works.
@stevebritt73693 жыл бұрын
@@Chromatomic can you provide a link. I have no idea what I’m doing here. Please😃
@rexbk093 жыл бұрын
@@stevebritt7369 Just google = ipad to usb - type b. Also, use an adapter to power the dac, again google = 5v (2a(or what is recommended on device)) power supply.
@oren14193 жыл бұрын
I totally agree! I have the V1 and I bought it because it's just has EVERYTHING!. You don't need an external power supply, the fixed-variable switch is much needed, the true bass.. just a perfect piece of equipment.
@Chillehhhh3 жыл бұрын
SERIOUSLY!!! talk about a swiss army knife of audio
@evergreenalba2 жыл бұрын
So I finally gave In and bought the iFi Zen Dac V2 and holy shit! My headphones aren't hard to drive and yet I feel like I've finally unlocked their true potential with the bass boosts for some extra oomph. I absolutely love it! ☺️
@leg__47312 жыл бұрын
Bad product. Can't connect to computer, keeps disconnecting. I have to reboot 10 times a day.
@guiT39 Жыл бұрын
@@leg__4731 maybe it's just your unit.
@bogdanadzic9305 Жыл бұрын
@@leg__4731 drivers mate
@shynagua78033 жыл бұрын
Purchased the Sundaras and the Zen Dac V2 because of your reviews - my first step into the audio world. Love your reviews!
@gamingandmusic92172 жыл бұрын
Hi, i also bought sundara recently and thinking to buy zen dac v2. What openion will you give ?
@bukko2 жыл бұрын
Same. I bought the Schiit Hel 2, and while loud and clear I’m a bit let down by not being able to boost the bass which imo would make the Sundaras a bit more bass forward. How do you find the true bass improve the Sundaras sound? Does it actually make it seem more closed back or does it muddy up the mids?
@artureff30464 ай бұрын
@@gamingandmusic9217 go 4 it, I use v2/can stack (balanced) w. Sundara, 990pro, mdr-7550, and mdr-mv1...waiting for delivery of mdr-900st and 770proX [centennial edition] + AQ cobalt for mobile....
@davdidit63 жыл бұрын
Because of your review of the V1 and the Hip Dac, I own oneHip Dac and two Zen Dacs. My first Dac. Apple lossless music into the V1, out to my new Anandas and I am so happy. Thank you Zeos, thank you
@Silky_boi3 жыл бұрын
I got mine with the zen can and just love it! Compact, can feed my speakers, and now converted all headphones to balanced.
@markayres69133 жыл бұрын
I have my Zen DAC V1 hooked up to a gaming PC with a speaker amp connected through the RCAs on the Zen. I've found that when the PC is under load the power going to the Zen DAC can be quite noisy through the RCAs even though it's clean through headphones. Adding a power plug (even just a cheap one) cleans it up completely through both outputs as it's not relying on noisy USB power. I can definitely recommend a power plug if you intend to use this as a hub for other audio devices, especially for the RCA outputs.
@s3curityfr34k3 жыл бұрын
I have that problem with mine too (I have the V2 though) I had to switch to a different motherboard and now it's really noisy whenever I do mouse movements and keyboard presses Do you know what size the power plug is?
@pinoyxbox3 жыл бұрын
Are you guys using the supplied rca? The supplied rca’s sucks lol.
@LorenzoFrausto3 жыл бұрын
@@s3curityfr34k 5v my dude
@s3curityfr34k3 жыл бұрын
@@LorenzoFrausto I meant the size of the connector Like 2,1mm or 5,5mm I know it's 5V, they just never mention the dimensions Support answered me! It's 5.5 x 2.1mm so pretty much standard size
@redleather4202 жыл бұрын
@@s3curityfr34k buy an IFI power brick 5v or any 5v barrel supply will work just check the marking on the back that shows if its postitive on the outside of the barrel or negative although the IFI power comes with adapter to change polarity. will improve sound as well. they are very good performing can check measurements and sound reviews for the power supply i use them for everything i have in different voltages.
@endody95192 жыл бұрын
Recently got a entry level audiophile combo with the HD560S and the Zen Dac V2 which set me back €310 and i am honestly blown away. Can recommend it to anyone. And that truebass button needs an addiction warning ;)
@activechez2 жыл бұрын
same here! it's incredible for the value
@jauyn862 жыл бұрын
I'm planning to get this combo too so i guess it's loud and decent enough?
@activechez2 жыл бұрын
@@jauyn86 absolutely plenty
@spamcan92082 жыл бұрын
I've had the HD560s for about two weeks and either running it directly from my Note 9 or from Note 9 into my decade old Yamaha home theater receiver. I actually prefer the sound using my receiver (now I get what "fatigue" is) as an amp but I get the feeling I'm leaving detail on the table by not using a better DAC. I'm tempted to pick this up but I mainly use my phone to listen to the free trial of Qobuz.
@reaguurder1285 Жыл бұрын
I want this exact same setup is it still as good today?
@REALKiwis3 жыл бұрын
I have this exact v2 myself and absolutely love it!!!! I run my dt990pros and I haven't had a "bad" listening experiences so far and don't think I ever will. Also love you content and reviews because they are brutally honest which is what a review should f****n be!!!
@Caribano3 жыл бұрын
Are you using the 250 ohm version of it? How high do you have to crank the dial for good volume on it?
@REALKiwis3 жыл бұрын
@@Caribano I have the 250ohm and only have dial half way. Slightly a little more if I really want to listen to music loud. But generally never over half way on the dial 👌👍
@Caribano3 жыл бұрын
@@REALKiwis wow awesome, thank you!
@REALKiwis3 жыл бұрын
@@Caribano no probs! 👌 hope you find the right headphones/dac/amp 🤣🙏🤙
@ThunderForce12992 жыл бұрын
Good to hear - I was afraid a little bit if this zen dac can drive 250 ohm dt well :) Does it tame the highs of dt990 a little bit or make the mids more pronounced? I'd really like to know because I was planning to buy the aune t1 se tube dac that is 2x the price of zen dac...
@jimtekkit2 жыл бұрын
I got the Zen V2 six months ago as my first USB DAC and I love it to death. It's exactly what I wanted. The build quality is stunning, in fact you can hear the metallic ring it makes in this video when you connect or disconnect a cable. That hints at how little plastic is used in it's construction. With my Sennheiser HD599's the richness and clarity of the mids and highs is spot-on to my liking. Especially with the open soundstage and gentle treble (no fatiguing brightness to speak of). I'm happy that they didn't put thumping bass in by default to impress the young audiences and instead the TruBass switch is there to add a more meaty low-end if desired. I'll probably upgrade headphones eventually but the V2 is here to stay.
@leg__47312 жыл бұрын
Bad product. Can't connect to computer, keeps disconnecting. I have to reboot 10 times a day.👎👎👎
@driftwize2 жыл бұрын
@@leg__4731 that’s your pc bud, not the Zen
@ricsim78 Жыл бұрын
@@leg__4731 Then it's something wrong with what you are doing. I have never had an issue with mine, or any other DAC. You may have an older motherboard with bad USB ports.
@jimtekkit10 ай бұрын
@@leg__4731 Not sure exactly why that would be. However I did find that with all AMD Ryzen PC's there is a USB sync issue where the Zen DAC will sometimes disconnect when resuming from Sleep mode. After troubleshooting for countless hours the only solution I found was to stop using Sleep mode on the PC. The oxygen-wasting Ifi customer service rep didn't want anything to do with it, he just totally lied multiple times about an upcoming firmware update that never came and stonewalled me after I provided as much troubleshooting information as possible. Shoutout to "Nick" at Ifi for being a useless gaslighting prick. On Intel computers however, no such problem exists and it's 100% reliable. But yes, the Ifi customer service experience eroded away a lot of respect that I previously had for the brand.
@FabioRigokimbaorso3 жыл бұрын
IFI Zen DAC v1 and the Can are the best purchases I never took out of a Zeos video.. I retaired my Sanscrit and my Shiit Modi and never looked back..
@rainingman3383 жыл бұрын
So why did you get the Zen Dac and not the ifi zen Blue? Do the dacs sound the same? Which one should I get if i already have a zen can?
@FabioRigokimbaorso3 жыл бұрын
@@rainingman338 I have several amps on my desktop... 2 tubes hybrid, a THX one, the SP200 , a FIIO K5 and finally a SMSL SA300 for my Jamo S803... everything is cabled so I did not have any need for a bluetooth unit (which is the main point of the Blue). I have both the DAC and the CAN so that I can have a fully balanced line of listening for my Sundara and Verum 1 that I can use with the 4.4 mm pentacon cable (2,5 mm into 4,4 mm bought on ALIEXPRESS). If you are looking for a single unit the DAC is a perfect solution as Zeos said .. for myself I wanted a little bit more. As for the DAC , I have the Truebass permanently going, but I cannot say it makes such a huge quality wise difference from the Sankrit...
@FabioRigokimbaorso3 жыл бұрын
@@rainingman338 So to make it short , I do not use Bluetooth on my desktop and the ZEN DAC and CAN were quite cheaper than the BLU... still I think the quality of that should be on par with the other two.. I trust IFI quite a bit ..
@justins.12833 жыл бұрын
I'd be more sold on that if it had an optical input.
@franksam86103 жыл бұрын
I’m new to headphone amps why would that matter?
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
@@franksam8610 USB locks you to a computer and SPDIF works with everything from TV's to Game Consoles and you can use optical splitters for multiple devices etc.
@sapphiro3 жыл бұрын
@@franksam8610 Some TV's, consoles and CD players (even my Sony Discman) usually have optical out as the best or the only digital audio output for the best sound.
@vladrogonja20122 жыл бұрын
@@ZReviews With the latest firmware it can be used on a playstation throu the usb.
@L1ven3 жыл бұрын
It is amazing. With DT-1770 Pro and this, damn that bass. So crisp and clean and vibrates like crazy. Never ever felt anything like that from headphones haha
@iNasteable2 жыл бұрын
im about the same setup to buy. Ifi Zen v2 or K5 Pro? what would you say?
@L1ven2 жыл бұрын
@@iNasteable Dont have experience from K5 but Zen V2 and DT-1770 Pro sound really aggressive. Great bass production and if you like to listen to classic rock or metal or anything that usually have fairly low bass it is a way to go. Truebass makes older music or cinematic music sound really nice. Cant really tell anything about K5. It should be great DAC as well. But as a bass head Zen v2 just drives them really clean and crisp but yet bass af.
@tedtimmis81353 жыл бұрын
“MQA and Al Qaeda”…hilarious.
@joshp7418 Жыл бұрын
Answered all my questions. Thank you sir! Just bought one for my first set of headphones hd6xx. Hopefully not a bad all round setup for a first timer.
@ianmcsherry5254 Жыл бұрын
One year on from getting one of these. With a pair of Sennheiser 560s'. Amongst the best purchases I have ever made, and I am officially ancient. Their presence in my home is as essential as fresh air.
@MichaelHarrisWales3 жыл бұрын
Love my original Zen Dac (so you must have schilled a little bit). Now attached to the Zen Stream and they are a great team for Roon, Tidal connect and Spotify connect. Another great and entertaining review👍
@AmeRusso2 жыл бұрын
Z, thank you, thank you, thank you so much for the recommendation, truly an awesome piece of kit for those, like me, who don't want to put large stacks on their desk. For anyone wandering, it DEFINITELY powers Hifiman Arya Stealth (V3). Currently listening at no more than 1 o'clock, unbalanced. Rarely have to go to three o'clock for some low-volume track, and with the balanced cable (on its way) it will surely be even better!
@SandsOfArrakis Жыл бұрын
I've just bought the iFi Zen DAC V2 this week. It arrived yesterday and it's my first DAC. I totally love this little device. It sounds awesome and the price of it is perfect as well. 199 Euro. I was looking for an affordable DAC to replace the USB sound card that I've used so far to connect my M1 MBP to my PreSonus Eris E4.5 BT monitor speakers. And I believe I've hit the jackpot with the iFi. This one should keep me listening happily to music for, hopefully, many years to come.
@The-Foreigner2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Z! Another satisfied customer. This is my 1st dac. I have it paired with a drop & hifiman he 4xx, which is also my 1st open back headphones. I also have it paired to my peachtree M24 speakers. This combo just comes alive. It has a beautiful warm sound. Looking forward to hearing the balanced side.
@biteme2633 жыл бұрын
The only real downside I see to this for me is a lack of inputs. It looks like the only input is usb and I would have to buy an extra cable because that thing is way too short. I don't do all of my listening from a computer. I would like to see an analog input and maybe a few digital inputs so I could use my tv (netflix) and a transport of some type like a blue ray or cd player. Or a digital out on a reciever or some sort of switcher. This basically does the same thing my 2i2 mic interface does except I am sure it sounds way better with hard to drive headphones. So at the very least I need an optical, coax and a bonus would be if it had HDMI and RCA. For many I am sure this would be all they need, but not for me. It looks like an awesome desktop dac/amp if you use a laptop or a tower with a computer desk set up and mostly listen via your computer. That isn't me. My computer is part of my home theater set up.
@amirshayanmoghtaderi58403 жыл бұрын
first hated the camera movement and skipped your videos, but as I keep watching more and more reviews from your channel, I realized that I watched 30 min video without any crazy editing and stuff, and I'm not bored at all; oh man, that's crazy, your honesty is what I can trust 100% on everything you said and make my decisions based on your words,
@primeshmohanty77013 жыл бұрын
Zeos is literally just putting the reviews of the gear I'm eyeing for lately. First, the HE-400SE and now the zen DAC V2.
@LorenzoFrausto3 жыл бұрын
Got both, without watching his reviews lol just coincidence haha
@primeshmohanty77013 жыл бұрын
@@LorenzoFrausto How's your verdict?
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
@@LorenzoFrausto So you think...
@NadimC1373 жыл бұрын
listening to this review using HE-400SE and ifi hip dac, both because of zeos
@RogueShadowTCN3 жыл бұрын
Well, we are good at providing the master with the proper intel for the proper time. I mean, it's random.
@shoot2ill3 жыл бұрын
Bought this dac two weeks ago. If anything it’s the best built piece of gear in my studio.
@tonymallory69783 жыл бұрын
Got the Meze 99 Classics immediately ordered the 4.4 Balanced cable and this Dac. Jesus the bass earwobbling bass with amazing clarity. I feel like i miss nothing. First purchases in my audio journey. Might look into some open backs Sennheiser's . Thank you for this excellent review and I made my purchase with confidence an was not disappointed
@harackmw3 жыл бұрын
nice!
@tonymallory69782 жыл бұрын
@@edd7 honestly no I cannot tell the difference between them the stock cable is good enough. I guess maybe higher quality headphones or maybe I’m not listening at a high enough volume. But I really don’t feel like I’m missing anything using the stock cable
@tonymallory69782 жыл бұрын
@@edd7 I do run it off the ac power adapter. I don’t move it around and use it with my iPhone from time to time.
@tonymallory69782 жыл бұрын
@@edd7 I got a generic one. Still don’t hear any noise
@matre72172 жыл бұрын
Zeos, thank you for making me spend another 159€ on audio gear. That Dac and little bass bump just brought my mini autographs to life.. N'uf said. Merci !! :)
@SlayingPrince973 жыл бұрын
Your first ifi zen dac video convinced me to get it as my first dac/amp and I love it! Have have speakers in the back and headphones in the front and I couldn’t be happier!
@trevorluff84492 ай бұрын
Thanks for your dry humour and honesty, just pulled the trigger on this in Australia for $229 AU. Cheers
@conniggit3 жыл бұрын
I got the zen dac2 last week. Instantly sold my schitt stack This thing is like a sore schlong..you can't beat it.
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
.... wow
@Tisirfall3 жыл бұрын
I'll add as well. I got the zendacv2 first, then got a heresy to see what the single performance was all about.. Well let's try a topping e300 along with that.. And I hooked up the ZEN dac V2 after a month of little use.. And now I feel disappointed shelling double the money for that the topping set
@RayCabrera13 жыл бұрын
I own the similar, IFI ZEN Signature stack that I use for my 6xx and Sundaras as my main setup all balanced. I truly love the sound of this stack. I also have the IFI ZEN DAC V2 and use as a more mobile solution in other rooms with almost the same sound quality as the stack. You are correct, the quality of Dac is the best in class for the money.
@stevy23 жыл бұрын
I love what truebass does to my sundara's. It's basically a toggle switch between analytical and fun. I run the DAC v2 with the Signature Can because the signature set lacks a bass boost button. Plus my dac will run fine off my phones so as you said the portability of the dac is amazing.
@RayCabrera13 жыл бұрын
@@stevy2 the Signature Can actually does have a bass boost, its the HD6xx button. It's actually a more refined bass boost than the ZenDac.
@adrianmorrish84943 жыл бұрын
@Stevy it's the zencan bass overlay/boost button
@trixniisama3 жыл бұрын
You mean you also bought balanced cables for the 6xx and sundaras ? I also have those two headphones, how does the Hd6xx and Xspace switches affect the sound of both to you ?
@RayCabrera13 жыл бұрын
@@trixniisama I don't really use the 3D function, but the HD6xx button which is actually a a nice bass boost actually gives it a nice full sound with just enough bass.
@mugenoesis3 жыл бұрын
I hope it does like the original does, when you have it set to variable the truebass also works through the outputs on the back. No-one ever mentions that
@SPDTDL3 жыл бұрын
Yes it does, true bass is indeed passed through with the switch set to variable.
@dr_serious3 жыл бұрын
I bought the ZEN DAC V2 with the DT770 80 Ohm and did a balanced cable mod and been very happy with it, the bass is fing amazing.
@rauldiaz8472 жыл бұрын
you see im using this set up without the MOD and im not happy with it bass the voice starts getting distorted ummm i had ordered a ifi idsd micro signature with dt 770 250 ohm and it sound wayy bettter GOT IT sounded lush and i saw this im like i can save hella money but i been trying to convince myself this is good enough but No im wondering if the zen DAC signiture stack is good enough to match the idsd micro signature
@Ray-bn7hr2 жыл бұрын
Have you ever felt you needed more power to drive your beyers? I have the same exact pair of headphone and planning to buy this. Fiio k5 is also in my consideration. Can you please help me sort this out?
@dr_serious2 жыл бұрын
@@Ray-bn7hr the zen dac has too much power, i already had to replace one speaker because i put the volume too loud a few times. I'm still very happy with the setup! I chose the ZEN over the k5 because of the truebass button. Both are good amps
@error41593 жыл бұрын
The only "issue" you'll hear about the Zen Dac (and other IFI dac's) is the Burr Brown dac doesn't measure well. I haven't heard of anyone complaining about the sound or build quality it's always it's measurements. I like ASR but it's measurements equals quality mantra is shortsighted and dumb.
@no-man_baugh3 жыл бұрын
It's like what GoldenSound said about measurements in his review of the Schiit Magnius: "measurements can absolutely tell you when something is bad, I stand by that, but they can't always tell you when something is good."
@MrAhuraMazda3 жыл бұрын
If measurements mattered the tube amps wouldn't be a thing, tubes literally distort
@fooschnickens3 жыл бұрын
He can take his pink panther and shove it.
@error41593 жыл бұрын
@@fooschnickens Why? His measurements are valid and worthwhile, it's using them as the only evaluation of a product that wrong.
@fooschnickens3 жыл бұрын
@@error4159 Even his measurements are suspect. His methodology is inconsistent at best (missing tests, random new tests, different equipment used for tests, etc) and when he does get something wrong (such as the measurements for the Emotiva RMC-1 Monolith HTP-1) he doesn't go back and change his original post, only adding to the confusion and misinformation. Someone researching a product shouldn't have to wade a dozen or more pages into a forum thread to get to correct info. While I cannot argue that some of his info is useful, most of the data that he bases his 'score' on is usually in the 'splitting-hair' realm. But hey, at least he isn't Shane 'looks and price trump performance' Sparechange.
@njc99112 жыл бұрын
One interesting thing I noticed about my V1 is that when the rear output is set to variable, the bass boost is applied there too.
@LorenzoFrausto2 жыл бұрын
v2 does the same.
@samuelviden74122 жыл бұрын
I recently got the ZDV2 to go along with my Focal Clear MG Pros I got at the same time, and I agree with everything you said. Amazing piece of gear, and best of all? It’s plug and play on the PS5 as well! I’m in sonic nirvana. ❤️💕
@mrkvomiltato871 Жыл бұрын
Did you try it with a linux system? Thanks
@aries10101010102 жыл бұрын
my ifi zen arrived 30min ago and i am very happy with the product and the sound. you describe the products very vividly and thank you for that, because of your description I knew exactly that I wanted ifi Zen. giggity
@s3curityfr34k3 жыл бұрын
Hell yeah, I bought this before the review and now I feel good about myself!
@JoeNokers3 жыл бұрын
Are you really human If you don't watch KZfaq after spending money to feel good about a purchase?
@BillyKueekSG3 жыл бұрын
I just received this 3 days ago.
@_hector__2 жыл бұрын
Does your v2 still work after 5 months?
@s3curityfr34k2 жыл бұрын
@@_hector__ Yeah it still works just fine Haven't had any issues with it either (At least none that were actually caused by it)
@_hector__2 жыл бұрын
@@s3curityfr34k I decided to buy the jds labs element 3 instead, I got really put off by the countless reviews where their amps channel becomes quieter on one side or stops working/has massive static. I appreciate the reply
@Armbrust2103 жыл бұрын
Ok this time in the thumbnail, his mousepad literally is just the german flag
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
Its the Mauzpads pad. It is kinda German.. Well expect about 8 more of those.
@samir2zk135 Жыл бұрын
Topping Dx1 very good alternative as well, I am thinking of pairing it with the Ifi zan air/normal can. Just for the features it has of Xspace or Xbass, or at least wait more time for a new product just to have those magic buttons for cheaper or something.
@hmmob3956 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for the review. Have been looking at a few DACs with headphone amps built-in around the 200-dollar price point, and you sold me on the ifi Zen Dac V2. I am a bit dizzy, though, because of your unique style of recording.
@hxsm80902 жыл бұрын
"I go on stranger's home and i feel their knob." Such honesty.
@pushyoch.82522 жыл бұрын
Hey Twitter boi
@cliffordmckeachnie69312 жыл бұрын
lol
@glenzenaf3 жыл бұрын
I've had the iFi Zen DAC v2 for about a month now, and I can say that I'm not disappointed, but then it was my first external DAC so I don't have much of a reference point for comparison. I can tell you that with my DT 770s (250 ohm), it did get loud enough at around the 1:00 to 2:00 position in high gain mode, but after adding the iFi Zen CAN a couple of weeks ago I can definitely hear the difference. The same tracks at the same level now sound more full and alive with the DAC+CAN combo, so the satisfaction level just went up.
@Anomalyn13 жыл бұрын
Do you need a 4,4 mm cable to connect the Can with the Dac for balanced mode? Or can I use rca connect?
@glenzenaf3 жыл бұрын
@@Anomalyn1 For full balanced mode, yes. I spent the extra to get the iFi 4.4mm balanced interconnect, but I couldn't tell you what (if any) difference it makes since I don't (yet) have any balanced cans for a full balanced signal all the way through.
@dxb5263 жыл бұрын
See.. this is why I won't buy the Zen DAC. While it's a great entry offering for the price if even just a Zen CAN improves the performance why bother? I'd love to get something like a Zen Enso, as slighty improved DAC with an actual AMP build in for say $ 299-399, with some crazy Ifi design. Would fit really nicely in Ifi's portfolio right between entry Zen DAC and the advanced stack.
@glenzenaf3 жыл бұрын
@@dxb526 Yep, I can understand that. I often have the same feeling about having to purchase separate components, but then I remember how I built my stereo setup when I was younger. Having separates makes upgrades less expensive later on, so if you like the HP amp but want to upgrade the DAC, you can. If you like the DAC but need more power from an amp (or want a valve sound), you can do that too. But I do agree that for a lot of people a higher tier all-in-one would be fairly easy to market.
@dxb5263 жыл бұрын
@@glenzenaf Yeah, imo AIOs in the 500-600 USD/EUR range are the sweet spot. Cheap stuff you'll likely replace anyways and above that it's already audiofoolery teritory for most users. Honestly, I'd love to buy something like the Asgard with proper build in DAC but from what I've read the built in solution is god awful, runs hot and apart from that good luck getting Schiit stuff in EU. It's a shame.
@paxpaxman44233 жыл бұрын
ifi for the win! I have a few of their products and i am always absolutely satisfied.
@masterkent17 ай бұрын
im really liking the zen dac v2 and the can signature combo with hd800s. the true bass is just too good
@bierba3 жыл бұрын
Haven't watched the video yet but I literally bought this yesterday and it arrived this afternoon :0 what are the odds
@kook71473 жыл бұрын
Zeos knows
@tetrisgoat3 жыл бұрын
The odds? 6. Exactly 6.
@profilename13373 жыл бұрын
I have the first one I was using it with the kph30i for the longest time and it's amazing.
@raygetson54362 жыл бұрын
Z thank you for ruining my life in a good way! The first review I watched was your review of the Kanto YU4 speakers. I took a leap of faith and asked my wife if she would get them for my birthday. She obviously loves me and purchased them for my office. All I can say is NICE! That review got me started. Next - my stereo system. Until a few weeks ago I had no idea what a DAC was or what it did. For that matter I didn't know how great music could really sound. Because of your reviews I am loving music in a way that was not even on my radar. Here is what I have learned from Z reviews. Get my damn speakers up off the floor (I have bookshelf). Buy a middle speaker. Now movies and music are far better. Purchase a quality headphone - yeah I splurged. Such a difference - Audeze closed-back are amazing. I hear instruments and all kinds of shit I didn't know existed. And finally, after watching this video I immediately ordered this recommended DAC. Holy shit, my system grew up and came to life. I am loving it. Again, thank you Z.
@GregorMima3 жыл бұрын
Got v1 (after your review) for my desk/workstation. My knob is sometimes noisy/scratchy when turning. Prob gonna disassamble and spray it with contact spray and drill the spot/point on the knob so the green LED can shine trough.
@DaPunkNdFunk3 жыл бұрын
Been using it for months, confident that it would be good.. I was amazed how good it actually is. Love it!
@Dudebrush4pwood3 жыл бұрын
Dude, your shilling of the V1 was super effective, as well as that fixed output switch and always-on analog outs. Exactly what I wanted for my PC headphones/speakers setup, plus it sounds great, PLUS it was cheap. done
@dimitris4705 ай бұрын
It really needs separate volume knobs for the headphones and the line out. If your monitors are always on, the options variable/fixed are inadequate if you want to isolate your monitors for late night listening for example. I had the same issue with the scarlett solo. But at least they added a headphones knob on v4
@airrick102 жыл бұрын
Love my Zen Dac V1. I have it connected to my monitor's usb port and it turns the dac off when I turn off the monitor. Perfect for when I go to sleep! I also use Dolby Atmos for headphones (settings are Music + Balanced) on my pc and it's just audio Bliss!!!
@Fremmy3 жыл бұрын
Bought this a month ago :) Am very happy with it, also using the iFi ZEN CAN amp with it.
@cricket4life2493 жыл бұрын
Same here
@calop0023 жыл бұрын
Is the Zen CAN worth buying if you already own the Zen Dac V2? I love my zen dac and wonder if a CAN would improve anything? I use DT 1990s
@sapphiro3 жыл бұрын
@@calop002 Zen Can has better sounding Amp section for your headphones, so yes it is good combo having both.
@jcmdimayuga3 жыл бұрын
@@calop002 Another yes from me. Worth it.
@calop0023 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the answer guys, will give the CAN a try!
@willfjeld19073 жыл бұрын
Love the review! Love the Zen Dac (bought v1 because..ZEOS) but...PEACOCKS? What are these??? How did I miss these??? When did Zeos review these? I am subscribed with notifications since 2019 but I don't remember these. Because Zeos, I own the Aiva's, the Sivga Phoenix & 006, and the ESS 422's with the Zeos mods, among other things. Does anyone know if Captain Comfy-pants has reviewed these?
@ronnysiri29349 ай бұрын
Purchased the cable and Zen Dac V2 while listening to the 21:43 mark... thanks Zeos
@jettigger777 ай бұрын
Thank you for the review! I've been using the fiio btr 7 as my to go and pc DAC for over a year now, but I always hate how the sound is cut off in first few second if there is no sound/noise. This is going to be my dedicated DAC for now on. Love your review gave me a piece of mind when I ordered this.
@gussusman50933 жыл бұрын
You made me get the original zen dac and I’ve never regretted it, thank you Good sir
@adamsarkin84543 жыл бұрын
I have the v2 paired with the zen can and I can tell you that my Sundaras sing! Just got into dacs and amps and I’m so glad I picked this hardware to start with. Also, Zeos is the best. He really knows his fuck shit and shit fuck. Keep it up!!
@silentKeys202 жыл бұрын
Hey sorry to bother you 6 months later. I also have the Sundara and looking for an AMP/DAC combo. Is the v2 Amp enough for the Sundara, or does it benefit from a more powerful amp (eg, Zen CAN, etc)?
@TylerStraub2 жыл бұрын
YOU WERE NOT WRONG I just impulse bought this immediately after catching up on some of the channel's most recent videos with Amazon return policy because why the hell not for $160. Holy f*** batman. I have now been radicalized to ifi. Reading over the papers on the Gibbs Transient Optimized filter optional firmware. I'm wondering what Z's opinion on the optional 7.20c variant is. It seems like there could be some advantages but idk if I can really tell the difference between digital filters with my budget tier HiFi setup and listening room. Thank u for this video btw I'm so friggin happy with this unit.
@SubashSL3 ай бұрын
Loved the fucking review. You were the only one who explained how it sounds. Btw, try and reduce the movement on the video as it can cause some motion sickness. Defo, I am getting this unit. Thanks to your review. No wonder it was WhatHifi's winner for Best DACs in its price range. Love the fact you mentioned the long extended cable too.
@l00nacy523 жыл бұрын
I use a Zen Dac V1 + 58x Jubilee for my primarily gaming set up. Nearly everyone of my friends who have tried out my set up aren't ever nearly as impressed in the pc, or the fps, or the set up itself... They always come away talking about the sound.
@RoyalProtectorate3 жыл бұрын
I'm rocking the Zen Dav V1 + PCx38
@pc_decisions87643 жыл бұрын
Thats sounds really interesting, I do run my pc38x out of my qudelix 5k (since mic in-line support is so useful) and since the new firmware adds supports por all the harman eq objectives from places.like crinacle or oratori1999 (even for pc38x) is so useful and way more interesting the way of using aptx adaptive...and thats how I sold my atom amp and dac.
@wovrd18293 жыл бұрын
Sadly I can only listen to this channel. I can't watch it because I get motion sickness from the wobbly camera.
@harackmw3 жыл бұрын
I did as well, but making it smaller and/or minimizing and just listening is ok
@shawnpwatsons13 жыл бұрын
Zeos, they upgraded the XMOS to 16 core and also upgraded their global master clock for less jitter coming from the USB input.
@schrenk-d2 жыл бұрын
I just ordered mine.. I'll let you know how I go.. I'm awaiting my new AudioTechnica's though.. That is a Black Friday purchase.
@Goodmanperson553 жыл бұрын
I do appreciate the USB Type B, though. USB is supposed to have a lot of different form factors for different use-cases and seeing a chunky Type B cable for a heavy, stationary peripheral makes me smile. A Type C port would have been as appropriate for it as Type C for a printer (ie, it wouldn't really make sense). I do agree, though, that the cable is way too short for anything other than laptop/smartphone usage and trying to find an appropriate Type B cable that actually supports USB 3.0 can be difficult.
@koerel3 жыл бұрын
Type C would have been fine imo, it is supposed to replace all other USB connectors after all. As long as we don't have to deal with any more god d*mn micro-USB I'm happy!
@stevy23 жыл бұрын
I'm glad it's the thick connector. I feel confident that if I knocked my dac off my table the USB connector will be rigid enough to hold the weight of this unit.
@zues2873 жыл бұрын
Monoprice is where I get all my USB cables. Good quality and cheap as shit.
@mysticalchickennuggets94162 жыл бұрын
My only issue with usb is that my pc poets seem to be giving dirty signal as I get a crackle/noise when using my Fiio K5 pro with my dt 990 250ohm through usb, but don’t get the noise/crackle over spdif.
@phalanger12 жыл бұрын
@@mysticalchickennuggets9416 Are you sure its the signal thats dirty and not the power it gets from the usb? Try a separate power supply to see if it helps
@notedown10103 жыл бұрын
Why is there no mention of channel imbalance? I just my Zen Dac V2 last week, noticed it immediately on all 4 of my headphones, requested a replacement, received it two days ago, noticed the same thing, and am sending both back. On just above 0 volume the left earcup is completely quiet while the right is barely audible, on low volume the left earcup is 20-25% quieter than the right, and when you increase to about 9:00 the difference goes down to 10-15% but that was still too much for me. Why haven't I heard about this from you? I read it a lot on the amazon reviews and on reddit and experienced it myself with two units. I don't have this issue with my K5 Pro or my BTR5.
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
I had no imbalance at all in any of the headphones. Only time there is any difference is at the very bottom of the volume range but that is normal with analog pots.
@notedown10103 жыл бұрын
@@ZReviews Haha let's trade because both the units I had voiced some level of imbalance across the volume range that I tested. It's too bad because I loved the way the DAC/AMP sounded but the imbalance issue was just too much for me and wasn't something I noticed on either FiiO at the same volume levels.
@RayCabrera13 жыл бұрын
The sound imbalance at 0 to 1 on the knob is normal on all the IFI dacs, but once raised it balances out. It has never bothered me on both my IFI units, because i do not listen to music at that low a volume.
@notedown10103 жыл бұрын
@@RayCabrera1 I've noticed it on both of mine all the way up to about 11:00 - anything above that is way too loud for me. I prefer music with lower volumes as I'm young and want to keep my hearing going as long as possible.
@prasanths963 жыл бұрын
I have permanent imbalance with my v1 zen dac now. Resistance difference is about ~10ohms - barely noticeable with hd599, dt770 pro, much more noticeable with sundara. Not sure if it for there all along. Better to check with multimeter when someone buys.
@OverHaze3 жыл бұрын
It's not something ifi advertises but the the Zen Dac will work just fine with a standard USB 2.0 B cable. So if you have a longer one of those lying around you don't even need to buy a longer 3.0 tall boy.
@root90653 жыл бұрын
I had the Oppo HA2 SE before and it was great, but a bit too sterile/clinical sounding. I used it for three and a half years, and had to stop because the li-po battery inside it began to swell and expand to the point where the casing changed shape. Figured it wasn't safe to keep using, planning on taking the battery out and recycling it, and getting a new battery for using it only on portable situations with a laptop in the future. For desktop use, I just bought this ZEN V2 last week ^^ and yes it's awesome and everything I'll ever need. Like you, I also experienced withdrawal after turning off the truebass :D it is amazing to listen to. The only thing that sucked a lot was that super short blue cable. If you want to use it with anything but a laptop you need to find another cable... and I did. I've also ordered a balanced graphene cable from XINHS for my FH5, that's going to be awesome! Thanks for the review, even though the purchase was already made, it helped confirm that I made the right choice.
@zerotwo_.0023 жыл бұрын
actually there are a small differences between the og zen dac and he zen dac v2 (and actually the zen dac v1 later versions ) , for the line out opamp they switched to their own custom opamp , and made the power delivery better , and the usb controller is better and that is about it the amp is still the meh amp and its noise floor is not that great . so basically just get the V1 , all the V1 at the moment are just the v2 without MQA decoding so that means its actually better .
@zeospantera36643 жыл бұрын
see this is insight Id need to have documentation on
@BillyKueekSG3 жыл бұрын
Another difference is V2 is 16 core, V1 is 8 core
@zerotwo_.0023 жыл бұрын
@@BillyKueekSG not true , the v1 later models are literally just V2 without the bullshit license you need to give to MQA , but the older v1 does use an 8 core chip
@zerotwo_.0023 жыл бұрын
@@zeospantera3664 you can check forums and check ifi's own website , check ifi's own website to look at the circuit board of the V2 then if you just go to headfi and it's if Zen dac forum you will be able to see the large no of v1 later model DACs with the exact same layout as the v2
@BillyKueekSG3 жыл бұрын
@@zerotwo_.002, they sell for the same price here in Singapore so I bought the V2 for the 16 core and MQA
@terminalfx3 жыл бұрын
I'm still using an Xfi Titanium HD card from 2011 that I love dearly... this may get me to finally make the switch. (edit) 24h later, I pulled the trigger using your affiliate link. Dammit. lol
@bobsagits2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the reviews Z , I've using my m40x's for years now I'm going to be trying IEMS recently bought the moondrop arias I've had limited income for many years so I'm spoiling myself with nice decent tech and was thinking about buying a dac for ages and wouldn't mind picking there's up. Once again I always come to your reviews for cans ect so thanks for the amazing content and awesome reviews.
@TheeGrandPooBahh2 жыл бұрын
Yeah I just bought the arias, then my soundboard died. Would this be good for them? As well have dt 770's am in in the clear? One love
@driftwize2 жыл бұрын
Did any of you guys ever use your iems with the zen v2? If so hows the experience?
@cian.horgan2 жыл бұрын
On the wonky USB connector: USB has to two main properties we're interested in: speed class, and connector type. The two can be related, but are not the same thing, ie high speed classes might need a different connector. For about 20 years USB had 2 classes of connector, Type A and Type B. A is the standard wide short rectangle that we would just call USB, it's for host devices like a computer. B is for peripherals, it's that tall square connector with beveled corners that your printer uses. A and B exist to make it simplify the design process, and to an extent to make it easier to know what type of device you're dealing with. It's just a dumb peripheral? Cool, you don't need to give it fancy power capabilities and just stick a B port on it. Higher speeds are easier when you have more pins in your connector and wires in your cable, so USB 3.0 (a new speed class) came with modified A and B connectors. A got a blue plug, and they hid more pins right at the back so it still has the normal ones at the front and can work with a 2.0 port. B for some godforsaken reason got a two car garage bolted to the bottom for its extra pins. So that wonky thing you have is a USB 3.0 Type B connector. Maybe it's so you can't confuse a host device by using a high speed host port and cable on a low speed peripheral, but it feels like such a clunky solution. Type C does away with separate ports for host and peripheral. USB is now a mature tech and there are many easier ways of solving that so there are standardised negotiation protocols. If you connect two smart(ish) devices together over USB C they have a chat to see who's "host", and if it's a dumb device there's just a specific value resistor between two pins, so the host can read that and know what it's dealing with.
@brianm28503 жыл бұрын
At about the 20 minutes mark, pulls out a silver PS2 fat with vertical stand. 🔥Hot🔥 dang!
@m-zurowski2 жыл бұрын
Boom, subbed!- you bought me man (and made me buy this dac amp for my shp9500) I will get back here and thank you again when it arrives ;)
@-Rambi-3 жыл бұрын
Ah, gotta love that you support golden on this. I loved my Zen but I think my Monolith is better. For the money though, Zen is a beast.
@citylion13892 жыл бұрын
Which monolith?
@Edgar-su7qk3 жыл бұрын
Great review Zeros! Love the info!
@ryanbailey1123 жыл бұрын
Great review thank you. Just ordered can't wait till it gets here.
@calefladager71893 жыл бұрын
Another great video Zeos!
@harzival2 жыл бұрын
Man, I first came here looking for a review of the 1More Tridents, you solidified that purchase (I was already a 1more fanboy) their just so fkin good. I got the Zen dac coming today, and I again found your channel searching to see what I should expect. I love your reviews, your passion is great and is exactly what I look for trying to find extreme value budget products. Its also great to see you using the exact headphones i'm wearing to watch the video to test this thing!
@harzival2 жыл бұрын
P.S. what balanced cable replacement are you using for the tridents? :D
@DimIsHigh3 жыл бұрын
Man, I wish they made it only a DAC, it would have had more features/output and for the money it would have made me think of spicing up my D10s.. Even though I love that little rascal
@pathworks Жыл бұрын
Bought one recently for use in the bedroom. The light on the volume knob is very bright and there is no way to turn it off or turn it down - the only way is to pull the USB cable.
@mrnadra68432 жыл бұрын
thanks for this recommendation this thing is the only one in stock anywhere and its cheap and sounds great big up man
@Marthos012 жыл бұрын
I just got this today as I was curious and its freaking slamming!
@Chillehhhh3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for confirming my purchase :D
@robertopistolesi27352 жыл бұрын
Thank you very much for this review. I have a question from a music-production perspective. I'm looking at an headphone/monitor amp, and I bumped into your videos about dacs. Would you recommend this unit for someone who wants to be able to do critical listening, mixing and mastering? Would it be extremely annoying to use this unit (because of the one knob) to control a pair of monitors and headphones at the same time? I've been watching at radial monitor and phone amp, but that's a very different unit. Thanks for any help you could provide. Roberto
@g2h02 жыл бұрын
This is my first dac/amp. Thanks Z!
@LastSecBloomer3 жыл бұрын
I don't know, I'm seeing a bunch of complaints about channel imbalance...
@ZanderLexx3 жыл бұрын
Listening to this dude with my ifi ZEN DAC (v1) :) my speakers are Edifier R1800T III and my headphones Audio Technica MSR7 balanced 4.4 pentaconn :D
@StormInc14982 ай бұрын
That bass boost description. 😂
@mrsushi11923 жыл бұрын
Thank you for going back to the old thumbnails. I still prefer the red, but I’ll take this.
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
If you mean the font OK but there is nothing else old about these thumbnails.
@mrsushi11923 жыл бұрын
@@ZReviews I did mean the font. That old blocky ass font looked like garbage.
@ZReviews3 жыл бұрын
@@mrsushi1192 yeah I am playing around with it. Trying to catch more eyes.
@GonzoGaming222 жыл бұрын
Just ordered the Zen dac v2 with the ifi Zen Can Amp with 4.4mm outputs . I’m sporting a woody !!! Omg!!!!
@frustin2 жыл бұрын
love the video! love the way you present.
@Stromblast12 жыл бұрын
Hey audio gurus! Does this unit have enough juice to bring AKG K712 Pro to its fullest/best sound? I am ABSOLUTELY sold on the bass boost!
@Theofficialwaxcast2 жыл бұрын
Thanks a million time! Finally found my first dac
@q3aki2 жыл бұрын
i just got mine, reallllyyy enjoying it - sounds awesome - and I keep my bass at standard, dont need the additional punch.
@kevinnilsson7844 Жыл бұрын
Do the hifiman sundara match well with this dac/amp?