iFi, a renowned specialist in audio technology, has recently launched its latest innovation, the iDSD Valkyrie. This flagship portable DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) and headphone amplifier is designed for audiophiles who seek the utmost sound quality from their digital music files while on the move. The iDSD Valkyrie not only enhances audio fidelity but also allows users to shape and create their own unique sonic signature.
The iDSD Valkyrie is packed with cutting-edge technology in a compact form factor, offering extensive customization options. With its advanced K2HD Technology, DSD Remastering, and six digital filters, this device provides remarkable sonic control. Its quad-DAC architecture delivers an impressive 5,700mW peak output, ensuring that it stands out as one of the best portable DACs available today.
Designed for those who want to extract every bit of musicality and emotional depth from their digital music files, the Valkyrie employs tools that were previously exclusive to top-tier mastering studios. The device uses a bespoke DSD Remastering algorithm, powered by a custom-coded FPGA, allowing users to choose between two settings: ‘Normal’ for direct DSD signal processing or ‘Remastering’ for enhanced DSD512 or DSD1024 playback.
One of the standout features of the iDSD Valkyrie is its integration of JVCKENWOOD’s K2HD Technology. This innovative technology restores the warmth and emotion typically associated with analog recordings, ensuring that digital audio retains its rich and natural harmonics. Users can select between ‘K2’ mode, which preserves the original resolution, and ‘K2HD’ mode for enhanced audio quality.
The device also boasts six digital filters: Apodising, GTO, Bit Perfect, Standard, Minimum, and Transient Aligned. These filters provide users with a versatile range of options to tailor their listening experience, allowing them to discover what sounds best for their individual preferences.
In addition to its digital capabilities, the iDSD Valkyrie features advanced analog processing unique to iFi, including XBassII, XPresence, and XSpace. Unlike many other DACs that rely on Digital Signal Processing, the Valkyrie utilizes switchable analog circuitry for its EQ modes, preserving audio quality and enabling more natural frequency adjustments with minimal phase shift and distortion.
XBassII enhances lost bass frequencies, while XPresence boosts midrange presence for a more immersive listening experience. The XSpace feature, found across various iFi products, expands the audio soundstage, adding depth to the listening experience.
At the core of the iDSD Valkyrie are four Burr-Brown DACs configured in a hybrid multi-bit setup, inspired by the legendary Philips TDA1541A chipset. This design captures the magic and impact of analog sound while offering remarkable detail and clarity. Additionally, as pioneers of Lossless Bluetooth, iFi has equipped the Valkyrie with the latest Qualcomm chipset, ensuring CD-quality audio via the aptX Lossless codec and Hi-Res playback with LDAC.
The Valkyrie provides approximately 44% more power than iFi's previous flagship model, the multi-award-winning iDSD Diablo 2, delivering up to 5,700mW peak power or 2,258mW RMS. This capability allows it to effortlessly drive even the most power-hungry headphones while remaining portable.
Supporting IEMs (In-Ear Monitors) with xMEMS technology, the Valkyrie utilizes innovative speaker technology that combines actuation and diaphragm in a silicon chip, producing drivers that are up to 150 times faster than traditional mechanical drivers. This next-generation technology virtually eliminates phase shift, ensuring unparalleled audio precision.
To power all these features, the iDSD Valkyrie is equipped with four 5,000mAh lithium-ion batteries, providing a total of 20,000mAh. With this powerful battery setup, users can enjoy up to 18 hours of playback on a single charge. Additionally, fast charging via USB-C allows the Valkyrie to fully recharge in approximately 2.5 hours.
The iDSD Valkyrie is now available for purchase, offering audiophiles the chance to experience unparalleled sound quality and customization in a portable format. For those who demand the best from their digital music, the Valkyrie stands as a top choice in the realm of portable DACs and headphone amplifiers.
