iFi Audio Zen Blue V2 High-resolution Bluetooth DAC OVERVIEW

[@zzezzobike]

I owe V2 for 2 months now, paired with zen can. The real beauty of the pairing comes when you use 4.4 mini pentacon balanced interconnect. Another level of quality. A must buy. Thanx

[@jcjc4164]

Sounds like the balanced out could be used with a sub that has XLR input. I'd like to also see a standard sub out added to version 3 of the Ifi Blue.

[@borys2767]

Just bought the V2 because of your review gonna fire up my 35 year old Harman Kardon amp this weekend!!! Damn it hasn't seen power in 20 years!!! I am excited!!!!

[@breakerbroke23]

Comments like this make my day! I am so glad that you will get to revisit your "old" HK. I hope you get much pleasure from updating your old friend. Thanks for watching, Cheers...... :)

[@JackycClark]

Watching to be able to do the same thing . Pretty cool not to be the only one .

[@miclinda256]

Event THE same way with My Roksan caspian MK I, 15 Yeats in a box! And it sounds great..... Just ordered THE ifi One Signature ,need some more options. Maybe THE bluetooth Will sound better 🙂 to.

[@Shaken_AND_Stirred]

I have been using the Audioengine B1 for years. I actually have two of them and they work really well, especially in the range distance. When I first saw these new iFi Zen Blu's, I just couldn't get used to the 1960's vibe. However, I decided to try one (V1) as I needed yet another Bluetooth receiver and the Audioengine is almost $200. All that I can say is, "Wow!" Yes, it's a little larger than the Audioengine, but I really see how "long in the tooth" the Audioengine unit is now relative to the new codecs, etc. As I understand it, the V2 version has a new clock in it, in addition to the longer range antenna. Personally, I cannot hear all of the differences in the "Hi Res" audio wars. Standard redbook CD still sounds fantastic to me and I can't hear a difference in Bluetooth. The build quality of the iFi is very very good also. If I need another one, I'll be buying the iFi unit again. I actually power mine with a Topping P50 PSU (power supply unit) also. Yes, it's not real cheap, but it will power two other devices at the same time. Take a look at the separate PSU. Very good review of this product! I'm 58, so I appreciate your review even more. Thanks

[@Shaken_AND_Stirred]

I forgot to mention that I actually run my iFi unit into a separate DAC as well.

[@keith12311]

Can I connect the ifi amp to this

[@Shaken_AND_Stirred]

@@keith12311 Which amp are you referring to? If your amp has RCA inputs for source material on the back, then yes.

[@robertkramer41]

I was set on an AURIS BlueMe HD but after watching your previous stuff on the Zen Blue and some other presenters I changed my mind, just discovered this video and glad for it. I wondered if I had made the right choice and this video has jacked, my v2 should be here in a couple days.

[@breakerbroke23]

I think you will be pleased. Thanks for watching..

[@AudioElectronicsChicago]

I love the look of these! A like from me as always!

[@breakerbroke23]

Thanks a ton!

[@rajivgoes6]

Great video. I noticed recently that the front two lights of my V2 go to sleep within 5 seconds even while the music plays, is there a problem with it? Is there a way I can set it back to lights on while the music plays?

[@breakerbroke23]

I need to check this out.

[@rockzombie_raul]

me too, it was get resolved

[@mistercool3421]

I like you review very much. It gives many information, which you wan‘t finde somewhere else (behavior of pairing, range, inside view, issue with brightness,…) well done 👍

[@breakerbroke23]

Thank you very much!

[@ivanteo1973]

i have this. is coaxial or optical connection better on this for apple lossless music? or it doesn't matter because they are digital?

[@artfuldodger5707]

let me get this clear if you use the analog output you use the internal DAC but if you use the digital output you can use it with an external DAC so it becomes a streamer? (please excuse my bad english)

[@adaboy4z]

Best review on this product!!

[@breakerbroke23]

Thank you :) Cheers

[@Chazzza]

Just bought a V1 for £73 on eBay, planning to buy the V2's upgraded antenna (found one that looks identical but black in colour, which is nicer IMHO, for £3.75 delivered). Hopefully after upgrading the firmware it'll pretty much be a V2 (only without the upgraded clock). Thanks for the review, made me decide to get one!

[@royd7984]

Thanks for your work on this video. Very good job and very jelpful. In your opinion, is there any sound difference that you could hear between the original and the v2? I'm thinking about getting one of these.

[@breakerbroke23]

Sound difference is hardly noticeable, the way it goes to sleep after use and how it wakes-up when you comeback to your bluetooth setting on your device is very cool and useful. The extended range is also a plus. Well worth the extra 30 bucks. This is a mid $200 unit IMHO. Cheers

[@markmk4803]

Thanks for a great review. Greetings from the uk.

[@breakerbroke23]

Thanks for watching!

[@artyzulawski6091]

Thanks for yet another great review. Wanted to upgrade from my Audio Engine B1 and SMLT receivers. Just placed my order for the V2. P.S. the price of V2 is now up to $189 and your link to Amazon (for which you get a slight kick) no longer works. Sorry, but I tried. Regards.

[@breakerbroke23]

Thanks for the heads up.. I really think you will like the Zen better Cheers EDIT... Link fixed, again Thanks.

[@deezsquuezeorg]

Can I combine this with my older pioneer elite sc-07 to give it blue tooth and a svs sound path to 4 powered sub woofers for wire less capability?

[@royd7984]

Have you tried the Andover Songbird? I'm curious how the two compare. Thanks for your video.

[@breakerbroke23]

I know nothing about the B-Fi or the Songbird, I can tell you the new Zen V2 is the best device in this category I have used to date. I will look into the other units and may review later on.

[@d0kim835]

I'm using naim muso2. I'm curious because it's connected to LDAC. If I buy it, I'll connect it to Muso2 with an optical cable. Is there any difference in ldac compared to Chromecast? Technically, I know that chromecast has the upper hand, but if you know how it feels when comparing Chromecast?

[@bentobox3140]

Just wanted to drop in as someone with both the FiiO BTA30 pro and the ifi zen blue. Pick the ifi. The FiiO is riddled with bugs. You do loose Bluetooth transfer mode and only get receiver mode however. But it's practically idiot proof and sound great. During a sale it's about 60 bucks

[@breakerbroke23]

I do agree the iFi is a better device however the BTA-30 is still a good performing device. I have not had any issues with that device at all. I have found over the years that 2 in one and 3 in one devices do not always sound as good as a stand alone receiver. IMO Thanks for your input. Cheers

[@scottg.4044]

The original ifi zen blue version 1 firmware can be updated with an android tablet or phone. With the update you get better sound quality, bugs fixed, and the lights will also turn off like version 2. The firmware can be found on the ifi website by entering the QR code number on the sticker in the back.

[@breakerbroke23]

Very good information, Thank you.... Cheers

[@jordison1drumr]

Will it work with the antenna removed? Also, do you recommend the "better" power supply that ifi sells, or is that just unnecessary? Thanks for the awesome videos!

[@breakerbroke23]

With the Antenna removed you will only get a few feet of distance. I have used a 5v DC Source (5v battery) as to replace the OEM AC Adapter. No difference to my old ears. Thanks for watching. Cheers

[@miclinda256]

Better RCA cable ???? 🤔

[@bugdozer]

V2 has one less cap on the top side near the oscillator chip and the oscillator was upgraded. The added range if from a better antenna, tuned for Bluetooth. Ver 1 had a generic WiFi antenna.

[@breakerbroke23]

Thanks for the information. Cheers

[@scottmarshall6766]

Going to give it a try, on my system - it's a JVC A-X9 Super-A and a pair of Altec 604s. It's going up against an old Rotel manual tt loaded with a Sumiko Blue #2 thru a Mac preamp. The ultimate vinyl vs digital shootout. I really don't expect much of a contest, my Denon CD drive gets stomped by the vinyl setup, but I, like you, am about the music, and it's not practical to DJ while working around the house. I figure if I'm going to go modern, I may as well get the best I can that's not "audiophile bait". Sounds like the IFI V2 Blue is well worth the $189. When I sit down in the evening to have a cigar and listen, you can bet the old record player will be switched on, but this will let me listen casually, and less than perfect music is MUCH better than no music. FM isn't what it was 40 years ago, so cellphone music is worth a try. I have a pair of synced W-King D9-1's for working outside (surprising little boxes), and have adjusted to that "system", as I said - much better than no music. It's got me thinking "sure would be nice to have this on the big system" I'm going on Amazon, there's currently no deals to be had for the V2, may as well get the customer service and toss you a couple of bucks. I'm needing a couple of 100AH LiFePo4 batteries for my solar backup, putting it on the same order. I'd rather you have the commission than Amazon... Thanks for your great reviews, watched your comparison as well. Nice work, you have a new sub.

[@breakerbroke23]

I had to go over to Audio Electronics and take a look at your Amp as I'm not familiar with the JVC, Looks pretty sweet. IMHO you will like the V2, it has been my main BT receiver since dethroning V1 :) I am sure it will sound great on your system. I agree 100% with your comment, like I say, Just Enjoy the Music! Thank you very much for your support ... Mike

[@breakerbroke23]

I saw items your ordered on Amazon. Thank you, your support added about $45 to this channel. I will use that for up and coming products to review. Thank you. Cheers.

[@scottmarshall6766]

@@breakerbroke23 Terrific. I didn't know that you guys got such a nice hit. I'll keep that in mind in the future. It's not often I spend like that all at once, but next time I do, I'll try to share. I received the V2 yesterday, hope to get it in service in a few days.

[@breakerbroke23]

@@scottmarshall6766 Yes that wasn't bad comish, they don't pay all that well for electronics and auto parts. The real $ is in fashion, clothing, makeup. I'm not going down that road:) I only do videos on product I like and use, all other goes to Goodwill or giveaway to people I know. I honestly think you will like your V2. I like my V1 and 2. Thanks for your support.... Cheers

[@MrRichymil]

The update improved the sound, but I find I can barely go out the room without horrible distortion of the music. Like the device though.

[@breakerbroke23]

try another device or two and pair up, also try a different RCA. if you still get noise send your unit back for replacement. Getting a defective unit is rare but it does happen.. Cheers

[@MrRichymil]

@@breakerbroke23 Thanks I'll try it.

[@MrRichymil]

@@breakerbroke23 Hi I found using the old antenna you get with it, ( it's the same antenna you got with the V1 I think) sounds much better. There's possibly interference in the V2 antenna, although giving you longer range it could pick up things you don't want.

[@breakerbroke23]

@@MrRichymil At one time I was getting interference from a printer, After I turned off the wireless mode the interference went away. Good work my friend:)

[@MrRichymil]

@@breakerbroke23 I'm listening to the Blue V2 now it sounds very good but I'm not leaving the room with the source.

[@stringer5385]

Can this unit be used with an extension cable for the antenna. How long a cable is feasable? Thanks

[@breakerbroke23]

I have used extensions that are about 12" in length and did not see any loss in signals. I have not tried and longer cable. SMA female to SMA male right angle 12'' amzn.to/3xo2tKo My guess is that you would start to see a loss around 2-3 ft.

[@stringer5385]

@@breakerbroke23 thank you

[@lancepattinson4790]

i'm thinking of adding it to a traditional club setup pioneer djm 900 nx2 going to a symetrix solus 8 digital processor.,8quest amps etc......being a dj I know the importance of playing .wav files and wouldnt normally play anything mp3 below 320..will the quality be acceptable over an amplified system?.so if i'm playing remotely from the garden or the beach ...what would be cool would be a secondary bluetooth sender plugged into the mains out of a second mixer or my traktor S4(otherwise i''l only be able to play by streaming from a laptop) airplay is usually has better latency than bluetooth- what do you think is best for this kind of set up?

[@breakerbroke23]

Sorry for late reply. The unbalanced output on the iFi Zen will work just fine on the mixer, I use the Fiio bt30 to transmit music from my computer room to the Zen out in my front room. (I will do a video on this setup ASAP) As far as latency... not an issue for music, unless you are projecting video. However the Zen shows no noticeable latency from my TV to Home Stereo fed with the Zen. BTW.... V2 has very good receive range.

[@lancepattinson4790]

@@breakerbroke23 that's great news about latency..on that basis i will order both and give it a go

[@lancepattinson4790]

@@breakerbroke23 i think we got our wire crossed- just received my unit,but the rca connectors are for out only.i wanted to take a line out from one mixer using rca and bluetooth(bta 30) over to ifi zen...How do i take the signal from my mixer (rca) into BTA 30?

[@steventsimtsos4029]

How would v2 version compare to the Smsl Su 6 for sound quality using the RCA connections ? I have an analog integrated amplifier , so no digital inputs to use. Thank you

[@breakerbroke23]

IDK, as I have not used the SMSL. I can say that in using other SMSL gear that I like the build quality of the ZEN (iFi Audio) better. IMO.

[@steventsimtsos4029]

@@breakerbroke23 Thank you for your quick reply! Did you compare the analog to digital connections from the Zen and notice any appreciable variances in sound quality?

[@fritzkabeano1969]

You might add that it also supports aptX adaptive which is important for future proofing

[@breakerbroke23]

@1:47

[@andrestrat]

Excellent! Thanks

[@aliaqeeli3632]

I watched all the videos of the bluetooth devices and it made me confused so I want you to give me the best bluetooth device so that I can be convinced to buy the product, I have an old classic hi-fi device and I hope to find the solution and have a high quality bluetooth stereo, thank you

[@breakerbroke23]

Get this device. Best one for the money.

[@aliaqeeli3632]

Thank you 😊

[@lanx0003]

What does it mean that V2 "featuring an updated Jitter Clock with over 20dB performance"? Do you hear 20 dB volume difference between them with all setting controlled equally?

[@breakerbroke23]

At this point I can't hear the difference between the units. Time will tell as I use these devices quite a lot.

[@lanx0003]

@@breakerbroke23 Thank you. I just get the V1 and I am delightful to point out that the unit I got now has auto off (at least display off) after a few munites of idling.

[@minislot1]

Hi, I've been looking for something between this and the ubiquitous Logitech/Esinkin Bluetooth receiver price-wise and can't really find anything I'd trust. Would you have any recommendations? (Thanks in advance)

[@breakerbroke23]

Maybe take a look at the FiiO BTA 30. It is in the middle price point wise and is very flexible and sounds great IMHO. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bn2pkIx6g8R9h68 I use this device in my Vehicle (with a power adapter) and it has survived some very nasty interior temps and still works flawless. Thanks for watching, Cheers.

[@nature_sweet_vibes]

Hi, can I use the ifi zen blue directly with active speakers without another amp or stereo receiver ?

[@breakerbroke23]

The zen will work with active speakers. Edit….. as long as the amp unit has RCA or XLR inputs

[@nature_sweet_vibes]

@@breakerbroke23 thx for the reply

[@stiven_ph8656]

is this compatible on mixer using 4.4mm to trs cable?

[@breakerbroke23]

Yes

[@theanalyst2076]

Can this V2 unit be used with an older non Bluetooth Onkyo amplifier

[@breakerbroke23]

Yes, absolutely

[@pierre-yvesdubreuil9315]

8 leg IC beside BT IC is a flash memory module not a regulator.

[@andrebradley1924]

Can you recommend the ifi power supply for me thank you

[@breakerbroke23]

Not sure I could recommend a particular PS. I used the Zen on the OEM AC Adapter, then used on a Battery for power source. No audible difference ... IMHO.

[@breakerbroke23]

BTW... a battery would be the very cleanest source of power .

[@degreesdegrees-jr4eg]

@@breakerbroke23 where do you get a 5v battery

[@tonyjedioftheforest1364]

Does v2 actually sound any better than the original one?

[@breakerbroke23]

IMHO, they sound the same. Absolutely terrific.

[@philipnunn1816]

I take it the difference is not enough to upgrade to V2 if you already own V1.......and don't have any signal range issues?

[@breakerbroke23]

IMHO, The sound of V1 is almost exact as V2 and the V1s range is great. So no upgrade necessary unless you have another Stereo system that need BT :)

[@philipnunn1816]

@@breakerbroke23 thanks for the advice!

[@dddd8800]

Does it give a high or low sound?

[@breakerbroke23]

It has full 2v RMS output.

[@edwardosborne2427]

Would like this but my Samsung fold 2 only supports sbc not apex, I can get the options up on my phone but it won't let me change them!

[@breakerbroke23]

Not familiar with that phone, but it Bluetooth should work just fine with any of these receivers.

[@terohann]

Not sure how you do it, but I selected LDAC for the Ifi in the Bluetooth settings, not in developer options. Go to Settings -> Connections -> Bluetooth, then select audio device specific settings. There is LDAC option if the codec is supported. And in Zen Blue it is.

[@Gary_M]

You have to connect to a device that supports the higher codec first.

[@DarkIris007]

LOL, Zen Blue V2 caught up with B1 price wise! Amazon $189

[@breakerbroke23]

The B1 is a great unit but I much prefer the Zen. I think the B1 is over priced. IMO the V1 was under priced (and yes that is a good thing for consumers) performance, build wise however I'm much happier with the V1 and V2.

[@crypto6866]

So the IFI Zen blue doesn’t work with my iPhone or iPad

[@dancluck6091]

If you are in the front of the device the left and right connectors are in the correct orientation.

[@nukert658]

so the only way you can input is with bluetooth?

[@breakerbroke23]

correct, Bluetooth in only. The ifi outputs RCA, Coaxial, optical

[@Lobo243]

If i buy that ..Do i need a DAC ??. i have a McIntosh MA6100 very old 1970s receiver

[@breakerbroke23]

No you do not need a external DAC, the Zen has a DAC and outputs that to your receiver VIA RCAs. This will sound great on your 6100.

[@Lobo243]

@breakerbroke23 Oh nice thank you very much 😊 👍

[@Lobo243]

@breakerbroke23 Sorry another question..Is that one superior to Bose bluetooth adapter....Thanks in advance

[@breakerbroke23]

The Bose is an outdated device, it runs BT 4.0 if I remember correctly and it does not have the proper line level output. Years ago I tested one and I sent it back, sound was terrible. The iFi is my favorite ( I own two. And yes I had to buy them they were not given to me for review), I also like the BluDento BLT-HD. That being said, IMHO the iFi Zen V2 for the win.

[@Lobo243]

@@breakerbroke23 Thanks 😊 🙏 i will get the IFi zen blue

[@adamlicker4316]

I just got this and it doesn't seem like you can have two devices paired to it at the same exact time...its one or the other....annoying,

[@breakerbroke23]

You can send a BT signal to two BT receivers, (two speakers, headphones) but you can not receive two BT transmitters at the same time. You can pair two transmitters ( 2 cPhones) to one receiver but you can only listen to one at a time. Check out this video @ the : 50 mark...... kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJLCn41mYst7qpY

[@steven2809]

Bluetooth is NOT hi-res…it’s lossy. Not even close to CD quality…..☹️

[@breakerbroke23]

The new BT receivers are very close to CD, it depends on many factors, your transmitter CODEC and music source. I have heard many CDs that sound bad, so I think it is 6s. Most normal people (ie not "audiophiles" ) have just average stereo setups, and would and could not hear any kind of difference anyway. BT is mostly a convenience anyway:) IMHO.. I don't fret the small stuff, I just enjoy the music.

[@steven2809]

@@breakerbroke23 I agree. It’s all about the music. I’m not saying Bluetooth cannot be very enjoyable but it annoys me when I see marketing about ‘hi-res Bluetooth’ or even ‘lossless’ Bluetooth from companies and even some HiFi magazines! Hopefully when Qualcomm release their new ‘lossless’ Bluetooth chip next year we will actually get CD quality Bluetooth! 🙂 But of course all existing Bluetooth equipment will then have to be replaced/upgraded……!

[@hvskyline1368]

@@steven2809 actually they just released lossless bluetooth coming sometime next year its already a thing but it's probably gonna come with next gen phones and stuff

[@steven2809]

@@hvskyline1368 They haven’t released it yet….they announced it was coming a couple of weeks ago. But I am looking forward to it as it will finally make Bluetooth an option for those that care about audio quality. I just hope they don’t try to charge a premium on those new devices that will process it…..🤞🙂

[@narikaba439]

For home system go with wifi for lossless audio.