iFi-Uno
Hi-Res USB DAC / Headphone Amplifier
iFi Audio is a British company specializing in the production of high-quality portable audio devices and accessories. The company is a subsidiary of Abbingdon Music Research (AMR), a manufacturer of high-end audio equipment. iFi Audio was founded with the aim of transferring AMR's knowledge and experience in the field of audio to a wider audience who are looking for well-priced products with excellent sound quality, modern solutions and interesting style. iFi Uno is one of those devices that offers excellent value for money.
The iFi-Uno digital-to-analog converter (DAC) uses the Sabre ESS 9219MQ/Q chip, which supports high-resolution audio with PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD up to 256, and MQA. Its compact size and lack of an external power supply are advantages if the device is to be used portably. However, the downside of this design is likely the loss of power offered by the Sabre chip, increased noise, and reduced dynamics. The lack of external power also translates to a deterioration in the overall clarity of the device. This is especially noticeable when connecting the DAC to a dynamically performing stereo system. Returning to mobile applications, for which the DAC is primarily intended, it must be acknowledged that it earns high marks due to its good sound quality and, most importantly, its price. The iFi-Uno is capable of delivering well-balanced sound for a wide range of headphones. It is made of high-quality materials, is lightweight, and very easy to use.
In the test, the iFi-Uno was mainly used to drive KEF-MU7 headphones, with which it performed excellently. The tonal balance of both devices complemented each other well, creating a harmonious duo. Interestingly, the iFi-Uno provided a better-balanced sound for the KEF-MU7 headphones than the much more expensive and highly rated Chord-Mojo2 DAC with the Poly attachment.
SOUND
Pure, well-balanced tonal balance that does not protrude in any frequency range. The slightly recessed treble adds warmth and pairs excellently with bright-sounding headphones. The dynamics could be better, but considering the price, there isn't much to complain about.
BASS
The bass is rather lean but of good quality, not overly prominent, and it maintains the rhythmic foundation well, providing plenty of detail in the mid-bass range. The lowest frequencies are slightly muddled and lack the speed and rich, cohesive fullness. The bass in the lowest ranges lacks the speed and power to convey the detailed rumble known from more expensive devices.
MIDRANGE
The midrange is clean and well-integrated with the rest of the frequency spectrum, and although it lacks a bit more emotion, it's hard to say that anything is missing overall. The iFi-Uno is not a top-tier converter, so some compromises must be accepted. Electric guitars lack a bit of shimmer, and while violins, trumpets, and double basses have good contours, limitations in the lower registers deprive these instruments of body and warmth, which also applies to vocals.
TRABLE
The highest frequencies are clear, though slightly recessed, lacking that final touch of brilliance. However, the overall quality is still good. There is no harshness or excessive brightness, so it might seem satisfactory, and it indeed is when paired with bright-sounding headphones. However, when used with well-balanced headphone drivers, there might be a lack of detail and sparkle.
SOUNDSTAGE AND SPACE
The soundstage is neither flat nor exceptionally wide. There are some limitations in stereo imaging. Overall, it is decent, and instruments can be fairly well localized on the stage. However, when comparing the Uno to higher-end DACs, significant limitations in three-dimensionality are noticeable.
CONCLUSION
Looking primarily at the price, it is hard to find major shortcomings. The DAC should be considered for medium-quality headphones with a rather bright sound character, as it can be an excellent recipe for a well-balanced sound. The sound quality from the RCA outputs leaves a lot to be desired, which will be the Achilles' heel for good stereo systems. Connecting it from a computer to an amplifier, we can expect a reduction in dynamics and overall clarity. Therefore, the iFi-Uno should be considered as a mobile, affordable DAC for headphones, rather than for a stereo system.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
DAC: ESS Sabre-ES9219MQ/Q
Supported Formats: PCM 44.1-384 kHz, DSD 64-256, MQA
Resolution: 16-32 bits
Digital Output: USB-C
Features: 3 digital filters (Music/Film/Games)
Adjustable Gain: Dynamic Range Enhancement
Dynamic Range: RCA 115dB / Mini-jack 3.5mm 110dB
Harmonic Distortion: RCA THD+N <0.03% / Mini-jack THD+N <0.2%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: RCA >119dBA / Mini-Jack >113dBA
Power Supply: USB-C 5V/0.5A
Frequency Response: 10-80 kHz
Headphone Output: >2.6V / max 3.5V (at 32/300Ω)
Line Output: RCA (max 2V)
Dimensions: 88 x 81 x 26 mm
Weight: 92g
Compiled by: Łabędź Przemysław