iFi xDSD Gryphon review

[@rolandlickert2904]

I have the unit since December 2021 .Before I had the Mojo which is pretty good.However the iFi is more advanced ,more connections ,more useable ,has more features .Use it as my desktop setup but sometimes use it with my Sennheiser 660S with balanced cables.Soundwise its very musical (not clinical) for me has a great soundstage.The screen is very helpful and easy to switch to various menu option if needed.The asking price is worth every penny.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback Roland

[@MrRahul820]

I’m planning to buy one but still confused between IFi Gryphon and A&K SR25 Mk2.

[@GavinsGadgets]

What are you confused about?

[@MrRahul820]

@@GavinsGadgets Which one should I buy ? I have IFI Zen Signature 6XX bundle for desktop; I love the Burr-Brown DAC chip on them but I really want some all-in-one mobile audio solution which A&K SR25 Mk2 is perfectly capable of providing, meanwhile I have no experience with cirrus Logic Chips.

[@GavinsGadgets]

I have not heard the A&K. I can only say that the Gryphon sounds superb..

[@kellycny65]

Fine review, as always, Gavin! Thanks.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Cheers Paul. Appreciate your feedback 👍

[@barry_dalive]

I just got mine in the post a couple of days ago, and will say your review is spot on. Far exceeded my expectations. and now probably the most well rounded offering from ifi to date. My IEM’s are in for repair so that’s the only thing I haven’t been able to hear yet. They run my Fostex TH900 mk2s with no effort whatsoever and actually sounds better than my SMSL SU-9 DAC along with my DROP AAA 769 amp. The bass features on the Gryphon is really next level for a Bluetooth portable. How does the IEM 4.4 do with the sb bass roll off? My UE 18+ IEMs should be repaired and back to me by the end of next week. I can’t wait to see how they sound with this unit. Worth every penny and more. Great review btw. Thanks for telling me a little more about the features. I could not be more happy 🤘

[@GavinsGadgets]

Hi Barry, thanks for your feedback. Glad you are enjoying yours as much as I am. Look forward to your thoughts with your IEMs too :) Bass roll off should be pretty good.

[@barry_dalive]

@@GavinsGadgets hey buddy I just got my UE 18+ IEM’s back in from repair, and just as I anticipated, this unit running the 4.4 balanced input with a 2.5 > 4.4 adapter Using the IEM 4.4 switch on the bottom of the gryphon is just phenomenal. The sub bass rumble I’ve been searching for from a portable so long really comes out in its the full expression. Along with the XSpace and the XBass options just offers so much versatility depending what you’re listening to. Even when you get up to the turbo level with the volume, I wasn’t getting any distortion from the low end. At question for you Gavin. Does the XBass and XSpace switch on the back work in conjunction with the button on the front, or do they have separate functions?? Just simply the best portable Bluetooth DAC/AMP combo at that this price point on the market right now. Huge question for you Gavin as I’m always looking for something better, what would you put next to this that would give it a run for it’s money? I do all kinds of extensive research before I buy anything but just don’t have the cash to do actual comparisons. Is there anything better for hi end IEM’s at the moment? Maybe something a little less bulky? I have the ES 100, The Qudelix 5K and the FiiO BTR5 where I give the slight edge to the 5K then the FiiO a close second. As far as I’m concerned it doesn’t get much better than the Gryphon right now, but would love your opinion. Thank you for all of your fantastic content. I think your opinion on most everything is spot on and keep up the excellent work!!!!

[@GavinsGadgets]

The bass switch on the rear just alters the type of bass boost for the front switch. Glad you're loving it with your IEMs too. I don't think there is something quite like it although I am testing something that will be reviewed for next weekend that might be a competitor. , The Xduoo XD05 Bal. As to something better, only the iFi diablo sounds better but it lacks the functions of the Gryphon.

[@monarakudumbiya957]

Hay , cheers for the review. You recon it can drive a Bayerdynamic 600ohms ?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Possibly yes. I wouldn't recommend though. Or double check with iFi. Those 600 ohm beyers really need high current tube amps.

[@RayCabrera1]

Great review thank you. I actually own it and love the sound, size and technology in unit. Traded in my Hip-dac 2 and got this Instead, much better sound in the Gryphon. Wanted to ask if you were able or are able to test it against the Idsd micro signature? I know it's $150 more, want to see how it compares to the Gryphon.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback Ray. I am pleased you like it too. I haven't got the micro signature to hand, but as I use the same audio tracks, I prefer the Gryphon sound quality.

[@boltvanderhuge8711]

Gryphon sounds more detailed imo and bass boost is miles better than the Signature. However with IEMatch turned off the Gryphon's noise floor is significantly higher and pretty much unlistenable with sensitive IEMs when you turn on the bluetooth connection

[@GavinsGadgets]

Why would you turn it off. It's meant to be on. The IE match is needed due to the Hugh volts and power that are available to drive harder to drive headphones.

[@boltvanderhuge8711]

@@GavinsGadgets What I meant was the noise floor of the Gryphon with IEMatch off is far higher than the noise floor the Signature at any power setting with IEMatch off. Like the go blu it’s just a really noisy device

[@matusjurcik6974]

Hi there :), woud it benefit from to be plugged in? (like some good linear power supply). Can it sound even better than just from the battery like in the case of the diablo (as you mentioned)?

[@GavinsGadgets]

No it wouldn't as far as I'm aware

[@leo_mas_922]

Hey i like your review and im seriously considering it. Do you think with HD800s would be a good match? I’m thinking about that or LCD-3

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks. Yes the Sennheiser are a good match

[@goldwerger]

I’m seriously debating getting the Gryphon to connect to my iPhone vs. getting a dedicated DAP. Do you have an opinion how this unit compares sound quality wise to DAPs in (roughly) this price bracket?

[@GavinsGadgets]

The iPhone can make a reasonable transport. So allocating the budget entirely to the DAC /amp is a better idea for sound quality.

[@goldwerger]

@@GavinsGadgets thank you!

[@beyondtheuniverse999]

Hey, does gryphon sound better than BTR7 and also as good as a desktop unit under or similar price?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Better than the Fiio. Too generic really to answer part two. Can a desktop fit in your pocket.

[@joelmunoz6218]

Hello... Thanks for the review. Do you think the Gryphon would make a good match with the Hifiman Edition XS on balanced output?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes, very much so.

[@joelmunoz6218]

@@GavinsGadgets Thanks!!

[@sebastien4773]

how the gryphon would compare to a xduoo xd05 bal ? and would it worth to invest twice the price? thx

[@GavinsGadgets]

I would be interested to know too. The xduoo is on my hit list.

[@Mr76Gus]

I have the same question:$ Im between both.

[@GavinsGadgets]

@@Mr76Gus I get my Xduoo XD05 Bad end of next week, so will compare and review it vs the Gryphon. Will take me a few weeks to get video done, but it will be up soon!

[@Mr76Gus]

@@GavinsGadgets thanks:) waiting for. Change opamps sounds very good.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes I've heard this. Looking at burson v5i. Don't suppose you know of a good place to buy them from?

[@alessandrotesser6841]

Hi can I ask you a favour please? Which one would you prefer for Sundara between this one and the Diablo? Is Diablo a good device for Hifiman Sundara or I will miss Xspace and Xbass features? Is Diablo "too much" for Sundara headphone? Will I miss some bass coming from Hifi zen bundle HFM and hip dac 2 (I own both with Xbass and Xspace)with the Diablo?. Please help me in the choice. Thanks. Alessandro

[@TF2ReplayMaker]

Great review, thank you! How does this compare to the Zen Dac V2? Marginally better? Also, will the 3.5mm output run DT770 Pro (250 Ohms) comfortably with headroom? Thanks!

[@GavinsGadgets]

I did mention the comparison between the zen dac in my review, and should do.

[@TF2ReplayMaker]

@@GavinsGadgets my bad, heard it at the end 😆 Thank you!

[@8AM_AU]

Trying to decide whether this is a worth upgrade from the ifi micro black label. I run a pair of Shure SE846s and SRH1840s from it - particularly keen on the wireless to make listening to the 846s on the move. Most of my HD music is through Tidal masters

[@GavinsGadgets]

You have a good amp DAC already. Tricky one.

[@usman99628]

Brilliant review Gavin, thank you. Does the lightning to USB-C cable included in the box work for a wired connection between an iPhone and the Gryphon?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes that's exactly what it's for.

[@usman99628]

@@GavinsGadgets Do you know if a 3rd-party Lightning to USB-C cable would work for a wired connection between an iPhone and the ifi Go Blu for example?

[@GavinsGadgets]

I don't. Some won't work.

[@sctajc]

I have been using the ifi xDSD with the Sennheiser 800s for the last six months. Normally I use Spotify from my phone over Bluetooth. I love my current setup. I enjoy mostly classical, jazz and rock. I don't consider myself an audiophile but love good recordings. I am tempted to get the Gryphon because of the good reviews (and having USB c and the screen). Do you think with using mostly Spotify/Bluetooth I would get a getter sound on the 800s? And thanks for the great review.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Hi Stephen. For those headphones, a wired setup will always sound better. Wireless will be good if the source is too.

[@BudgieFan101]

Would you bother using this with the Mark Levinson 9505 since they have a built in DAC is there any point? Thanks!

[@F20B]

Great review! I am considering either buying the ifi xdsd gryphon or the ifi Diablo for my Sennheiser HD660S and Campfire Andromeda. Which Dac/Amp system would you recommend? I am worried that the Diablo would simply be too powerful for these devices, but would not be wanting to lose out on the sound quality it provides.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Both are excellent. The Diablo is ahead on SQ. The Gryphon has Bluetooth.

[@SriRamaKrishnaD]

Hi Gavin, Thanks for the nice review. Is the AMP on xDSD Gryphon better than xCan? (I am using xCan with FiiO M11 Pro) If I am only going to use it as an AMP, is it worth the upgrade over xCan?

[@GavinsGadgets]

It is better but I would keep what you have.

[@SriRamaKrishnaD]

@@GavinsGadgets Thanks

[@barry_dalive]

I have the xcan as well and personally the gryphon blows it out of the water. If you’re looking to upgrade, you’ll be selling your xcan and never looking back with the gryphon. The electrical interference that you hear on the xcan is non existent on the gryphon. Only when you’re changing the x bass settings you might hear just the switch alone. Night and day improvement

[@st200ol]

Great review, Just to balance things a bit, mine has bugs with Tidal Masters and a nasty habit of automatically turning the volume up to full without warning, confirmed by iFi as a bug with a fix currently in testing.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback, appreciated 👍

[@JohnDavisMurderer]

COUNTER point, Tidal masters work flawlessly for me, absolutely loving the device

[@Shozimus]

If the issue was fixed? What about other potential software bugs, did You encouterd any ?

[@GavinsGadgets]

The new firmware that fixes the sound bug was released a few days ago. They're no other bugs reported as far as I'm aware

[@Shozimus]

Thanks for the answer. Im quite interested in one, thanks for the review also 🙂

[@astorbeijer9424]

How does it compare to the XDSD? I bought that in May, and I absolutely love it. I love the warm Burr-Brown sound. You compared the Gyphon to the Diablo. Does that mean IFI has moved away from the warm lush sound of rhe XDSD? Maybe gone more analytical?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Somewhere in between the two. The Diablo sounds incredible. If you're happy with what you have got, best keep it IMO

[@GavinsGadgets]

It sounds about 25-30% better.

[@kambizf]

Great review, thanks Gavin. I have read that installing the Bluetooth (BT) firmware package available on ifi's download page (dated October 24th) will break xDSD Gryphon's ability to enter pairing mode, the pairing mode indicator icon, the BT codec indicator and the ability to adjust my device's volume from a connected BT source. Since I have not yet received my device, I cannot access the download page to see whether a new version of the firmware has been uploaded or whether the issue has been resolved. Did you have the same problem or have heard/read about it, or whether there has been any update in this regard? I'm just wondering whether I should install any new firmware available on the ifi download page when I have my device at hand, or should I stay patient and wait a bit more until the issue is resolved?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback. I didn’t install any firmware on mine. just used out of the box, just fine.

[@kambizf]

@@GavinsGadgets I guess I'll do the same then. Looking forward to receiving the unit soon. Thanks again.

[@GavinsGadgets]

No problem. I hope you like it. Let me know what you think. 😀

[@theyruinedyoutubeagain]

Great review mate, looking forward to getting one

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks 👍

[@Shakil1009-ABC]

Thanks for your review Gavin. In your review you said that you are first going to review this on it’s wired mode and then on it’d wireless mode but you didn’t tell how it sounds wirelessly… so what are your impressions on using this on Bluetooth with an iPhone for example? have you had some pairing issues? Was the connection solid? How was the sound quality using this on Bluetooth? How does it compares to its competitors (especially with xcan and goblu) using it on Bluetooth mode? thanks in advance.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes I realized I didn't separate out the two options after I finished recording. Wireless paired fine with multitude devices and sounded great.

[@suntanglory]

Wireless pair fine and the sound is very close to wire just less dynamics and reduce highs l observed, which might be a reasonable compromise to stacking.

[@barry_dalive]

The pairing works beautifully on my iPhone and iPad Pro. No issues at all

[@philsosnovsky5232]

Hi Gavin, How would this new gryphon compare the listening experience to the 4 year old Sony wm1a DAP (selling for close to the same price now) and the Dragonfly Cobalt. I play a lot of Dance, Electronic, Pop, R&B tracks and after a combo more musical and energetic than clinical/analytical. Was thinking to pair with the Audeze LCD-XC or Sony Z1R headphones or open to suggestions around that price range (seeking portability). Thanks for your time.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Hi Phil. Not heard the Sony DAP but the Gryphon is better than the Cobalt. The Gryphon is musical. If you have decided on those headphones, give them a go 😃

[@fluffylambut]

Enjoyable review. I'm sure, wired, the resulting sound would be great. Can you comment on the sound quality out, with Bluetooth in? I watch a lot of music videos on KZbin. Thanks!

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback. Excellent on both aspects.

[@anthonyberryman3443]

Excellent review Gavin, definitely be purchasing one of these very soon. Will you be getting in the new Chord Mojo 2 to demo soon? Keep safe you and your family and enjoy your music.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks Anthony. I have already got the Mojo 2. My next video is the Mojo 2 review and comparison vs Gryphon and Xduoo.

[@BudgieFan101]

When I connect my Dan Clarks Aeon into the ifi Gryphon via 4.4 Balanced, I always get distortion. Whats going wrong. Also, is there any DAC / Amp better for those Headphones? Thanks

[@DerrenHodson]

Hi Gavin, thanks for the review. Just want to check something….can I turn the rear 3.5mm socket to a line out and connect it to some powered speakers? Cheers in advance!

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes you can.

[@axelfoley1768]

Retrieval, yes I concur - the detail is great, and it avoids pedantics in the sonic picture! Best DAC/Amp I've ever heard, better than Sabre DACs too🤸 From what I'm hearing the burr brown DAC puts in a superb performance. And the ifi amp stage is very competent. Some snobby desktop & planner magnetic reviewers downplay the ifi Gryphon in their review, but hey bc you were honest in your review I will add my 2 cents... Pair the ifi Gryphon with the Grado SR125X headphone and be prepared 💥 I didn't say the SR80X or the SR325X, I said the SR125X. BTW, the midrange on the Gryphon is phenomenal. Kudos to the ifi crew, they outdid themselves with this one🥧

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback 👍

[@Locksmiths-bristol]

Great review thx, do you have experience of the xdsd and if so is the xdsd Gryphon a big step up over it in sound quality.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback. Yes I have used most of them. This is better sound quality wise, more like the Diablo. As to a big step up , that is always subjective. If you're happy with what you have, then best to keep that. I would say it's about 25-30% improvement

[@adriangpuiu]

great review. Is it better then FIOO's Q3 THX ? own a q3 and was wondering if getting this new ifi dac will make a diffrence . how about it's battery life, how long dose it last ? thanks.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks Adrian. Yes it is IMO. Battery life is as per the technical specs. It can vary on how hard headphones are to drive and volume level too.

[@adriangpuiu]

@@GavinsGadgets I have the meze empyreans, they are not very hard to drive. ( 32 Ohm) i'm also using the wavelet app for auto eq ... the thx sound its a bit harsh for my ears ... so i guess i should wait for a while until the little q3 gets at his end of life cycle

[@suntanglory]

@@adriangpuiu The biggest strength of the gryphon is it smooth delivery of the sound while still able to deliver details compared to any other dac amp on the market.

[@john0416]

Please compare it to the signature thanks

[@GavinsGadgets]

👍

[@alialamri8525]

Hello Gavin, I already order it based on your review .. Thank you

[@GavinsGadgets]

You're welcome. Hope you enjoy it 👍

[@S.M.A.Batista]

Gaven I have a fiio q5S should I get the get this ifi device. I do own a ifi zen dac also. I use it at work and I do like it.

[@GavinsGadgets]

The q5s is a good piece of kit. If you're happy with it then stay with it. IMO the Gryphon is better though in terms of sound and functionality.

[@markrichmond6860]

Thanks gavin for an excellent review. I think If I could afford it I would prefer this to the diablo because its much more versatile

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks Mark for your feedback. I would agree too that the Gryphon makes a more compelling option than the Diablo.

[@brandonholloway8065]

Hello, I'm new to this but I have a pair of HiFiMAN Sundara headphones and a Hip-dac V2. I'm looking for a dac/amp with a little more power than the Hip-dac V2 to push my headphones. Would you say that this one has more power than the Hip-dac V2. Thanks for the help. Like I said I'm new to all this.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Get the zen can to work with the DAC and get some balanced cables for the headphones

[@deadline7610]

Nicely Done. If only Ifi included an app that had a pb eq. Is this a demo /gift from Ifi or are you keeping/paying for it ? Thanks

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback. An app would have been nice but with everything included I don't think it's necessary.

[@marcincz-design]

Great review! Vs Fiio Q5s?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks. This IMO

[@bhanu314]

Hi Gavin. Hope you are doing great. Thank you for such great reviews. I am planning to buy xdsd gryphon. Can you kindly share your experience with IEMs? , I am quite confused between this and xduoo bal 05. This one is available $700 compared to $430 xduoo bal. How would you compare gryphon SQ wise with flagship DAPs? Thank you.

[@GavinsGadgets]

My personal preference is the ifi. More dynamics. Punch. Musical sounding. I'm doing ok thanks too. Hope you are doing great.

[@bhanu314]

@@GavinsGadgets Thank you for your prompt reply brother.. How is SQ compared DAPs you owned? How it goes with IEMs? Thanks in advance

[@GavinsGadgets]

Better and excellent with my IEMs

[@bhanu314]

@@GavinsGadgets Dear Gavin..Hope you are doing well mate.. I am still waiting for gryphon stock to arrive , Still out of stock :( . Meanwhile I still have time please can you share your thoughts on gryphon vs ifi xdsd signature sound quality? Thanks in advance.. 🙂

[@GavinsGadgets]

Different. I prefer the Gryphon as whilst both are warm sounding the Gryphon is less so. That makes it sound better IMO

[@kostiskimis]

heard about an issue when xspace and xbass buttons pushed there is a crack sound ,,is this real?

[@sachindradangol]

Thanx for the review. What will happen to the device if power cable is inserted into usb type-c input? as both have same usb type-c port. will device malfunction?

[@GavinsGadgets]

I am not sure what you are asking. You can plug a power cable into there if you want to charge it. It's an option on the menu. Otherwise, I've no idea what would happen.

[@sachindradangol]

@@GavinsGadgets I mean both charging port and audio input port has same usb type -c. can the device be charged with both port? or will the device break if charging cable in inserted into audio usb port?

[@GavinsGadgets]

You can if you change the setting in the menu

[@mindhead1]

How does the Gryphon compare to the Mojo 2?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Hi Errol, you can watch my video review of the Mojo 2 tomorrow at 3pm UK time. It's also a 3 way comparison between the Mojo 2, Gryphon and Xduoo XD-05 Bal. I do pick a winner as well. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gau6g6ysgduZZqs

[@sickdead]

Sold my micro black label and wanted something smaller. Blu go or the onyx.... Basically if you want gaming, onyx is the only logical choice among most portable amp/dac. Its supports headset with mic. I think i would end up geting this instead and ignore the mic. One thing i read aboit the signature and hip dac 2, they do not charge via the usb data port unlike their older models like the blacklabel. U need to charge via the usb c. That is really a deal breaker. This however has that option via single cable.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your comment

[@sickdead]

@@GavinsGadgets thanks for review! Its the only one out on KZbin now. As always great review. Im pulling the trigger base on your review! Thanks

[@GavinsGadgets]

👍👍👍

[@adrianmorrish8494]

Hip dac never charged via it type a USB port though sickdead, for signature, I have the V1 signature DAC that came originally with their higher end power conditioner, while in use if you remove the external power and let it drive via usb power only the difference is not subtle, punch and dynamics move up or down about 3 seconds after inserting or removing I was quite shocked at the difference. So if you have a decent power supply use it with the signature circuitry, you won’t have to critical listen to hear the difference.

[@adrianmorrish8494]

Should mention I bought mine previously loved, my plan was to sell the power adapter as a snake oil, that’s until I a/b’d it, that conditioner isn’t going anywhere.

[@suntanglory]

Nice review, l own this too, received it yesterday. I do have a little complain though,if you connect your earphone into it and connect it to a phone the volume goes up on it's own. Blew up one of my earphones yesterday, so keep an eye on it.l think it needs a few days breaking in for me to really say how l feel about the sound. Because l was not that impressed the first day, wasn't any better than my old hip dac or current shanling m3x, but seems to have improved today, the dynamics are coming. So yes, l think l'll give it a week to truly say how l feel. But thank you very much for the review.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for your feedback. I think the volume is down to the device you connected it to. If you read the instructions or it might have been on their website, the volume is normally remembered by the device you connect to. Definitely give it more time. IMO it sounds better than those other dacs. Good luck and thanks for saying hello. 😀

[@deadline7610]

I wold be pretty upset to lose even a cheap pair of iem's. Imagine if it Blew up an expensive headphone :( Does the unit raise the volume if it is set to minimum ? Best of luck

[@suntanglory]

@@deadline7610 Yes, pretty much to 90 plus volume. It was my mele earphone by bggar, not terribly expensive but it was a good sounding earphone for the price.

[@michaelcorcoran8768]

Quite a few other people are reporting this volume bug. People need to be careful cuz you could injure your eardrums and your gear

[@GavinsGadgets]

I have asked iFi for info on this as well, so I can add something for everyone to see .As I have mentioned previously, I did not experience any problems myself and I used it for hours and hours.

[@some_developer]

Hi Gavin, how would you rate Gryphon's raw SQ in comparison with Zen Dac, in you case you heard the latter? In your opinion, is there a substantial difference?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Hi. I did cover this off in the video.

[@craigwarsaw3963]

Can I use the B&W pi7 transmitter case to use those earbuds with the gryphon? Will it still improve the sound? Is it worth buying Shure 5 iem to use with the gryphon or would that be overkill?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Not too familiar withe the B&W transmitter case. Using IEMs with the Gryphon isn't overkill if you want the best sound quality, but you would connect the Gryphon to the source directly.

[@bobcobb5645]

Great Review. Also watched the review of the Mojo 2. I currently have OPPO PM3 and Shure SE535 IEM and I use a Oppo HA2SE as amp. Have always been interested in the Mojo and liked the idea of the IFI XDSD for the bluetooth functionality Now they have upgraded the Mojo and the Ifi I am more confused! I like the Ifi Gryphon for the wide range of functionality, bluetooth, LED screen, balanced output etc. The Mojo 2 looks to me like a classic device with less functionality, less simplicity but maybe just better sound and will not be replaced in 12 months by another model (given how long it has taken to upgrade from the original). I like a warmer sound and want something that gives me all the detail of the music. I have Amazon unlimited as my music source and listen off my iPhone. What would you recommend? Is it like comparing Caviar and Lobster? Both are great and I will be happy with both. Or are they not enough of an upgrade from the Oppo HA2SE to justify it?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Based on your headphone and IEM, and warm sound preference, the Gryphon is a good fit.

[@johannnery6103]

How's the power? i've been meaning to get this as an upgrade to my zen dac v2. Planning to pair it with my DCA aeon noires. Do you think the gryphon would be able to drive it properly?

[@GavinsGadgets]

It has powered my 470 ohm headphones really easily.

[@jamesboxall9211]

I am trying to decide between: Mobile phone and unit such as the Gryphon, or a DAP. DAP wise, Shanling M8, Ibasso 300 - or similar level. Also, if using the mobile plus dad/amp combo, does a mobile send the correct high res audio file to dac/amp? Size / weight of units doesn't matter

[@GavinsGadgets]

If you use a mobile device, you will need an app like usb audio player pro on android. If using Bluetooth, you have LDAC on the Gryphon

[@ChanceRhudy]

VS iFi XCAN?? worth the upgrade? Yes no maybe?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes but what are you using with the Xcan?

[@ChanceRhudy]

@@GavinsGadgets a massive range of headphones and IEMs I am lucky enough to work in audio. Also can you control tracks on it? That is a big downside when using Bluetooth on the x can. Thanks for the reply and somthing cool for you to lookup is my gym bag bluetooth clip it's 15 bucks and sounds surprisingly good with iems. It's called Melodylab streamer. Crazy for 15 bucks! Cheers!

[@barry_dalive]

Hands down sell your xcan and upgrade to the gryphon. I promise you will not regret it

[@alialamri8525]

Would call the ifi xdsd Gryphon one of the best Bluetooth portable dac you ever experienced? If not what's the best as a Bluetooth portable DAC.. Thank you

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes I would.

[@korling99]

Does it sound better than the Chord Mojo?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Yes IMO it does. Also having the analogue bass boost is great for certain headphones too.

[@MrSouthvalley]

i got a question about this can this be used as a desktop dac with out draining the battery?

[@GavinsGadgets]

No it can't. You can charge independently but it's still battery powered.

[@barry_dalive]

Yes it does. In the settings it’s called the usb dual port charge and it lets you charge while running the sound directly through the usb data port. It’s just a slower charge which shouldn’t matter plugged in as a desktop dac/amp combo

[@oscarpina1038]

Hi there. Does gryphon sound better than the zen dac signature? Just dac. Thanks!

[@GavinsGadgets]

Too close to call tbh different sound slightly as well. And use cases. One is portable.

[@oscarpina1038]

@@GavinsGadgets do you think the zen signature dac v2 is a bit better than the mojo 2? I plan to use one of those (or the gryphon) primarily with my nad 326 amplifier. All wired.

[@GavinsGadgets]

The Zen dac is more appropriate to use as it's designed to be used fully wired.

[@nukert658]

I was considering selling my go blu and zen can signature to get this but I still would have to add more money! $600 is a bit too much IMO... will keep my eye out for it at $400--$500

[@GavinsGadgets]

Maybe you'll see a second hand one soon

[@Abelesque]

Hello, if i putchase it for my hifiman arya i do wrong or it can be a good choice?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Works fine with mine.

[@jacquesn8ir]

Is it possible to charge the ifi while listening without problems? Then I would use it as a desktop device.

[@GavinsGadgets]

It’s possible

[@malinyamato]

I ordered one to replace my go blu and my Zen Can Signature V2. This is going to be the last headphone amp I buy in my life unless I need to get one with BT AptX lossless.

[@GavinsGadgets]

You'll be fine for quite some time

[@adrianmorrish8494]

APTx Losless is built on top of APTx Adaptive and ifi have already hinted they will support it, it’s a firmware upgrade and probably on the go blue as well.

[@adrianmorrish8494]

Excellent review Gavin I have been waiting for you to take a Ganda at this. I have a ifi Signature V1 dac and a Zen Can, I also have a xduoo SE hybrid tube I line out into the zencan for my 6xx and Sundaras. I am ready to upgrade my stack I am aiming for a in this order a Jot2 and then the bifrost both from Schitt (I am in UK but think they are what I want). Problem is I spend as much time if not more listening away from my desk as at it. I am thinking of getting this and then the Jot2, leave Jot2 on desk and use this as dac, also it has variable which solves the overpower issue with bifrost. Then I can just take this around with me. What you think get the Schitt stack first and get this as another device later or get this now be able to enjoy higher quality all over and then a new desk stack. I will only be buying one piece at a time as I set myself a budget/buyers remorse/guilt recovery time between devices (well in theory 😁)

[@GavinsGadgets]

Hi Adrian, thanks for the feedback, much appreciated!! I would get the Gryphon first as you move around a lot, like me. If that is good enough, then there's no need for anything else, and you've saved a few quid too :) The Shitt gear is lovely though!

[@adrianmorrish8494]

@@GavinsGadgets thanks Gavin I appreciate the responce, that just leaves me with my latest problem, I got a set of the Deva Pro's last week and there is a lot to love. Problem is my Sundara 2020 build with xbass on sound 90% the same, wired of course 😳, Sundaras are slightly better resolution and of course sound stage is very different with the Deva Pro's using stealth magnets so now I am trying various mental techniques to justify owning both 🙄

[@GavinsGadgets]

I can't help you there 😀😀

[@adrianmorrish8494]

Gavin did you try on any low impedence say 16 or less and low sensitivity planars sub 100?

[@adrianmorrish8494]

Just concerned about its current output and that it's peak output is 1W

[@GavinsGadgets]

I've got a few HiFiMan. They seemed ok.

[@adrianmorrish8494]

@@GavinsGadgets Thanks Gavin, Susvara is fine then, just kidding 😁

[@GavinsGadgets]

🤣🤣

[@adrianmorrish8494]

@@GavinsGadgets Forgot to ask the 1W is that constant or peak, aka how many caps have they squeezed in there 😁

[@goodnightmoon]

will you also review the topping nx7?

[@GavinsGadgets]

Thanks for the suggestion. I’ll see what I can do

[@goodnightmoon]

@@GavinsGadgets looking forward!

[@jeremyabramson4343]

Ifi should combine the Go Blu with the Go Bar and call it the Gryphling.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Lol

[@Serbo905]

Am I able to update the firmware on this with my Mobile phone? Or do I need a Computer?

[@GavinsGadgets]

You’ll need a computer Steve.

[@Serbo905]

@@GavinsGadgets thanks so much

[@laurencerobinson1427]

I have to say I am so surprised by the review. I auditioned the gryphon v the ids signature, and was expecting great things from the gryphon. but to my surprise the signature COMPLETELY blows the gryphon out of the game completely in every way. if you want a lot of interesting features go the gryphon route . If you want a bold beautiful audiophile sound then the signature. There is an absolutely massive difference, trust me. im not going into a huge study on the differences, my advice to you is to audition the two and judge for yourself. I love IFI products but am really disappointed with the gryphon, but the ids signature is amazing.

[@GavinsGadgets]

Everyone has different ears Laurence. I would rate the Gryphon differently to you. If you thought the signature was more your cup of tea, have you heard the ifi diablo yet?

[@MisterChibs]

@@GavinsGadgets It's like you said, everyone has different ears. The Diablo is more powerful than the signature and more neutral / analytical sounding. I had them both at the same time for a demo and ended up keeping the Signature. It's got a warmer more laid back sound that I find more enjoyable. From my understanding, the Gryphon sounds closer to the Diablo than it does the Signature. Still thinking of demoing the Gryphon as an alternative to the BTR5 I use for TV in bed 💤 I love the design and having an oled screen that tells you which bitrate you're listening to is such a cool feature. Nice review!