iFi Audio Presents the iDSD Valkyrie: Redefining Portable DAC/Amp Technology
iFi Audio has unveiled the iDSD Valkyrie, its latest flagship portable DAC/Amp designed to offer unparalleled sonic control for discerning listeners. Priced at £1,699 / $1,699 / €1,699 (approximately AU$3,489), the Valkyrie integrates a robust quad-DAC architecture paired with a peak output of 5,700mW, ensuring compatibility with even the most demanding headphones.
At the heart of the Valkyrie lies a hybrid multi-bit configuration featuring four Burr-Brown DACs alongside the revered Philips TDA1541A. This setup is complemented by JVCKENWOOD’s K2HD technology, which aims to infuse digital audio with the warmth of analog recordings. Users can toggle between K2 and K2HD modes, the latter enhancing the audio by restoring rich harmonics typically lost in digital formats. Additionally, the bespoke DSD remastering algorithm, powered by a custom FPGA, offers remastering options up to DSD1024, significantly enhancing resolution and reducing distortion for a more detailed listening experience.
Customization is a cornerstone of the Valkyrie’s design. With six digital filters—including Apodising, GTO, Bit Perfect, Standard, Minimum, and Transient Aligned—and analogue processing features like XBassII, XPresence, and XSpace, users can fine-tune their audio profile to suit both open- and closed-back headphones as well as high-precision IEMs with xMEMS drivers. The inclusion of the latest Qualcomm Bluetooth chipset supports aptX Lossless and LDAC, ensuring high-fidelity wireless streaming.
Despite its formidable power, the Valkyrie maintains impressive portability with a battery setup comprising four 5,000mAh lithium-ion cells, totaling 20,000mAh. This configuration delivers up to 18 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, which can be replenished in just 2.5 hours via USB-C. The Valkyrie is available for purchase directly from iFi’s website and through its Elite dealer network.
With its combination of advanced DAC technology, extensive customization options, and robust power output, the iDSD Valkyrie stands out as a premier choice for audiophiles seeking both performance and portability in their audio setup.
