The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a premium portable DAC aiming to deliver a top-tier audio experience. This review delves into the Gryphon's performance, features, and build quality, ultimately assessing whether its hefty $600 price tag is justified. We examine its impressive specifications, including its flagship Burr Brown DAC chip, powerful amplification, and extensive codec support via Bluetooth 5.1. The Gryphon boasts a robust 19,100mAh battery and offers both 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs, along with a line output for added versatility. Its metallic build and intuitive controls contribute to a premium feel, while features like iFi's XBass and XSpace add further customization.Beyond the technical details, we explore the Gryphon's sonic performance, comparing it to other iFi products like the Hipdac 3 and Go Blu. We analyze its sound signature, examining its neutrality and detail retrieval across various musical genres. The review also addresses some potential drawbacks, including the lack of simultaneous charging and data transfer with the included cables, the absence of a high-quality carrying case, and the initial limitation of the USB-C port for charging. Ultimately, we determine whether the Gryphon's advanced features and superior audio quality warrant its considerable price for the discerning audiophile.
Pros And Cons
- High-quality Burr Brown DAC chip
- Powerful amplification (1 watt at 32 ohms on 4.4mm output)
- Low output impedance (less than 1 ohm)
- Supports various Bluetooth codecs (aptX Adaptive, AAC, LDAC, LHDC)
- XBass feature (hardware-based bass and presence enhancement)
- Silent Line technology to reduce noise
- All-metal build quality
- Multiple output options (3.5mm, 4.4mm, line out)
- Can be used as a desktop DAC and portable DAC
- Good battery life (19100mAh)
- Neutral and natural sound signature
- Expensive ($599)
- Included cables don't support charging
- No included carrying case (sold separately)
- A 'pop' sound when switching XBass modes, especially at higher volumes
- Non-replaceable battery
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
Unboxing and First Impressions
The iFi xDSD Gryphon arrives in a box containing a USB-C to USB-C cable, a USB-C to Lightning cable, and a USB-C to USB-A cable. Unfortunately, the included cables don't support charging, requiring a third-party cable for simultaneous charging and data transfer. The included suede velour pouch offers some protection but feels underwhelming for a $600 device; a higher-quality case should have been included.
The package also includes the instruction manual, some paperwork, and an iFi sticker. While the accessories are basic, the Gryphon's metallic build quality immediately conveys its premium price point. The dual-tone finish enhances its sleek appearance.
Key Features and Specifications
The Gryphon boasts a flagship Burr Brown DAC chip, also found in much more expensive DACs. It utilizes a multi-stage amplification process using I5 op-amps, delivering impressive power output. The headphone output provides 320mW from single-ended output at 32 ohms, and a substantial 1000mW (1 watt) from balanced (4.4mm) output at 32 ohms.
Its 19,100mAh battery supports Bluetooth 5.1 and various codecs including aptX Adaptive, AAC, LDAC, LHDC, and SBC. A small, informative screen displays various settings and audio information. The inclusion of iFi's Silent Line technology minimizes power-on noise.
Physical Design and Controls
The Gryphon features a well-designed layout with easily accessible controls. The volume knob is similar to iFi's other products and can be used for play/pause functionality when connected wirelessly. On the back, a slider toggles through XBass and XSpace settings, enabling customization of the sound profile.
The device also has 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs, a line output, and USB-C port (data only by default, but configurable for charging). The Gryphon includes a convenient stand for desktop use, enhancing its usability as a desktop DAC.
Settings and Easter Egg
Accessing settings involves a long-press of the settings button. Navigating through the various settings, including digital filter selection, bit-perfect mode, screen brightness, and volume limiter, is done via the volume knob.
A hidden 'Easter egg' animation is activated by pressing the settings button in a specific sequence (detailed in the video's comments). This activates a cool visual display on the screen and enables additional features.
Sound Quality and Comparisons
The Gryphon offers a neutral and natural sound signature, a departure from iFi's other products with more pronounced character. It handles various genres well, bringing out details with precision. Vocals, particularly those of Chris Connor and Bill Withers, are exceptionally well-represented; clear and natural with a good sense of texture and timbre.
Compared to iFi's Hipdac 3 and Go Blu, the Gryphon sounds better. However, its significant price jump might not justify the upgrade for everyone. The added features, such as the line out, SPDIF output, high power output, and the hardware-based XBass and XSpace features, justify the higher cost for those who need them.
Conclusion and Verdict
The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a powerful and versatile portable DAC with a neutral and natural sound. Its high-quality construction, powerful output, and diverse features make it a compelling option for serious audiophiles. However, its high price point of $600 is a major barrier for many.
The inability to replace the battery and the non-functional USB charging port during initial use (requiring a PC connection for charging to be enabled) are shortcomings. Overall, while the Gryphon delivers a superior listening experience compared to iFi's other offerings, its high price makes it a niche product—one for those who need the advanced functionality and the ability to use it both portably and as a desktop device.