iFi
xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC
$599.00 USDTake your portable audio game to the next level with the iFi Audio xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC, an award-winning hi-fi system delivering exceptional sound quality and versatility in a compact, pocket-sized design. As one of iFi's most popular portable DAC/Headphone Amps, it's packed with features like Bluetooth 5.1, multiple headphone jacks, and digital filters that contribute to the xDSD Gryphon's reputation as a supremely capable device. The xDSD Gryphon sports a robust headphone amplifier that can effortlessly drive a variety of headphones, from sensitive in-ear monitors and earphones to power-hungry planar magnetic headphones. Listeners will be delighted with a clear, neutral sound that accurately reproduces their favorite recordings.
Whether you're a discerning audiophile or a casual music lover, the iFi xDSD Gryphon is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality, portable DAC/Amp that delivers exceptional performance and versatility. With its advanced features, premium build quality, and outstanding sound, the xDSD Gryphon sets a new standard for portable audio devices in its class.
Dragon Cable Recommendation: We recommend pairing the iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC with our Silver Dragon USB Cable for data transmission. Our Silver Dragon USB Cable will deliver seamless digital transmission between your source device and the xDSD Gryphon. Made with UP-OCC silver conductors and high-quality materials, the Silver Dragon USB Cable features reinforced connectors designed to maintain a secure, stable connection at all times.
Features:
- Advanced 96kHz Bluetooth 5.1 with HD support
- State-of-the-art ultra-res digital technology
- PureWave analog technology
- Separate Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages optimized for maximum performance
- Digital sources via USB, S/PDIF, or Bluetooth
- Analog sources via 4.4mm or 3.5mm inputs
A hi-fi system in your pocket
With its pocket-sized design, it's easy to take this little powerhouse wherever you go. Throw it in your bag or stash it away in your back pocket, the xDSD Gryphon is designed to be portable, not overly hefty. It's got a lightweight yet robust alloy enclosure with a gunmetal grey finish that makes it less prone to visible fingerprints.
The flexibility of this unit makes it the ultimate 'Swiss army knife' of portable DAC/Amps. A power on/off button, analog volume control, mute/unmute button, and menu settings button adorn the top of the xDSD Gryphon. You'll also find the 3.5mm single-ended headphone output, 4.4mm balanced headphone output, and five LED buttons for audio format, input, XSpace, XBass, and volume level. Built into the top surface is an OLED display strip, showing a range of useful information including input selection, volume level, battery level, digital audio format and sample rate, and more.
Equally as adorned, the bottom of the xDSD Gryphon features a host of digital audio inputs and outputs including a USB-C input, USB-C charging input, balanced 4.4mm line input/output, single-ended 3.5mm input/output, and S/PDIF 3.5mm coaxial/optical input. There is also an XBass mode adjustment switch, LED status for the battery, and iEMatch switch that reduces the output level based on the headphones used. The wide range of connectors on the xDSD Gryphon adds to its appeal as a versatile, portable audio DAC & Headphone Amplifier.
Fantastic Power for Portable Headphones.
Experience pure, lossless audio with the iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC. In terms of wired connectivity, the xDSD Gryphon handles all audio formats using a hybrid Burr-Brown DAC chipset, which is the same as used in iFi's flagship the Pro iDSD Signature. Enjoy PCM, DSD, DXD, and MQA through the USB-C input, and PCM and DoP with the S/PDIF input. The xDSD Gryphon uses a low-latency, 16-core XMOS microcontroller delivering enhanced processing power for a perfect partnership with the Burr-Brown DAC.
The xDSD Gryphon uses iFi's PureWave amplification circuitry to deliver 1,000mW of power at 32 Ohms—enough to drive even the most demanding headphones. With a max output of 6.7V, the xDSD Gryphon can handle high-impedance headphones with ease, reducing jitter and noise. For those premium highly-sensitive IEMs, iEMatch technology eliminates hiss for a truly immersive listening experience
High-Quality Componentry
High-quality components are used throughout the xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC including custom ultra-low distortion op-amps, multilayer ceramic TDK C0G capacitors, MELF thin-film resistors, and inductors from Murata and Taiyo Yuden. OptimaLoop, a negative feedback system incorporates multiple feedback paths instead of one global loop to deliver optimal overall performance. The xDSD Gryphon's advanced circuitry and components work together to provide a clean, transparent, and dynamic sound signature that brings out the best in your music. The bass is tight and well-defined, the midrange is clear and detailed, and the treble is extended and smooth, without any harshness or sibilance.
High-Quality Sound Tailored to your Ears
For the ultimate hi-res listening experience, the xDSD Gryphon is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity so you can enjoy your favorite music hands-free anytime. Using the latest Qualcomm QCC5100 series Bluetooth 5.1, the xDSD Gryphon Bluetooth DAC Headphone Amp supports the latest audio file formats—aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, LDAC, HWA/LHDC, aptX Low Latency, AAC, and SBC. Of the 24-bit-capable codecs, aptX Adaptive and aptX HD support 48kHz, while LDAC and LHDC reach 96kHz. iFi Exclusive S-balanced technology maximizes the performance of both single-ended and balanced headphones for the best possible sound quality. The xDSD Gryphon adopts MQA decoder technology to receive and decode MQA audio and provide master-level sound.
Two sound enhancements, XSpace and XBass, offer Gryphon users the ability to tailor the sound to their liking. XSpace adds back the cavernous sound stage of recordings. XBass II reinstates the missing bass from open-backed headphones or for recordings that you hanker for bass slam. Under XBass II you can select ‘Bass’ and/or ‘Presence’ so that the upper midrange frequencies are correctly added back into your favorite recording.With digital sources, users can choose between three bespoke digital filters via the on-screen menu: Bit-Perfect, Standard, and GTO (Gibbs Transient Optimised), each having a fine-tuning effect on the sound.
iFi Audio: Make Your Music Better
Manufacturer of the award-winning xDSD Gryphon DAC, GO Blu, and iFi Audio GO Bar Amp, iFi Audio creates hi-fi audio solutions for the passionate audiophile who never compromises sound quality. From streamers to USB DACs, Hip-DACs, adapters, headphone amplifiers, and more, iFi Audio produces home audio and portable audiophile-grade gear at affordable prices, ranging from entry-level to mid-tiered music lovers and discerning audiophiles. Check out our entire collection of iFi Audio products and dedicated reviews for more.
What's in the Box?
- xDSD Gryphon
- Felt Pouch
- USB-A to USB-C Cable
- USB-C to USB-C Cable
- USB-C to Lightning Cable
- User Manual
- Warranty Card
FAQ
What is the maximum resolution supported by the xDSD Gryphon?
The iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD up to DSD51, and MQA file formats.
Can the xDSD Gryphon be used as a preamp?
No, the iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC does not have a dedicated line-out and cannot be used as preamplifier.
What is the battery life of the xDSD Gryphon?
The iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC offers up to 8 hours of audio playback time on a single charge.
How do I connect my iPhone to my iFi Gryphon?
Connecting your Apple iPhone to the iFi xDSD Gryphon Headphone Amp DAC has two ways: Bluetooth and USB-C. Using a USB Cable, you can connect your iPhone for data transfer only. Press and hold the Bluetooth pairing button on the top of the Gryphon to connect a new Bluetooth device.
How does the iFi Gryphon compare to the Chord Mojo 2?
The iFi Audio Gryphon and Chord Electronics Mojo 2 are two of the most popular high-end portable DAC amps on the market offering excellent sound quality, but with different strengths. The iFi xDSD Gryphon has more features than the Mojo 2 with Bluetooth, a display window, a balanced headphone jack, more output power, and sound enhancement options. In terms of sound, the Mojo 2 is the more analytical and detailed device, whereas the Gryphon is more musical with a natural low-end. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize wireless connectivity and a balanced output, the xDSD Gryphon might be the better choice. If you're looking for the ultimate in detail and resolution, the Chord Mojo 2 could be the way to go.
| Inputs | Wireless -Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX LL, LDAC, HWA, AAC and SBC Codec) |
|---|---|
| Wired (digital) -USB-C / S/PDIF co-axial | |
| Wired (analogue) - Balanced 4.4mm Single-Ended 3.5mm | |
| Formats | DSD - DSD512/256/128/64, Octa/Quad/Double/Single-Speed |
| PCM - 768/705.6/384/352.8/192/176.4/ 96/88.2/48/44.1kHz | |
| DXD - 768/705.6/384/352.8kHz, Double/Single-Speed DXD | |
| MQA (Decoder) - 384/352.8kHz | |
| Bluetooth -Up to 96kHz | |
| DAC | Burr-Brown |
| Battery | USB-C charging. BC1.2 compliant up to 1900mA charging current |
| Dimensions | 123x75x19 mm |
| 4.8"x3.0"x0.7" | |
| Weight | 215 grams |
| 0.5 Ibs | |
| Line Section | |
| Outputs | Balanced - 6.7V max. (variable) |
| S-Bal (SE) -3.5V max. (variable) | |
| Output Impedance | Balanced - ≤200Ω |
| S-Bal (SE) -≤100Ω | |
| Balanced - <110dB(A) @ 0dBFS | |
| S-Bal (SE) - <110dB(A) @ 0dBFS | |
| Balanced - <0.007% @ 0dBFS | |
| S-Bal (SE) - <0.015% @ 0dBFS | |
| Headphone Section | |
| Outputs | Balanced - 4.4mm Pentaconn |
| S-Bal (SE) -3.5mm SE | |
| Output Power | Balanced - >1000mW @ 32Ω / >74mW @ 600Ω / >6.7V max. @ 600Ω |
| S-Bal (SE) - >320mW @ 32Ω / >40mW @ 300Ω / >3.5V max. @ 600Ω | |
| Output Impedance | Balanced - <1Ω |
| S-Bal (SE) - <1Ω | |
| SNR | Balanced - <116dB(A) @ 0dBFS |
| S-Bal (SE) - <115dB(A) @ 0dBFS | |
| THD+N | <0.005% (1V @ 16Ω) |