Comparison: iFi audio xCAN and xDSD go head-to-head

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Hey there guys,

We often get asked what the differences are between the xDSD and the xCAN.

Now, the X-series products may look alike and both have Bluetooth functionality but their primary uses are very different.

xCAN

We see the xCAN as more of a mainstream product to be used with DAPs (Digital Audio Players) where you are happy with the digital to analogue conversion, but fancy ramping up amplification. It also has analogue connections which have an incredible 18 hours of battery life.

xDSD

The xDSD is both a DAC and an amp which makes it perfect for streaming hi-res formats. Its SPDIF and USB inputs make it a fearless beast unafraid of flexing its muscle. And with MQA available on Android, and hopefully soon for iOS, the xDSD is revolutionising the hi-res format.

Take a look at the comparison chart below.

xCANxDSD
Balanced Headphone Amplifier (with BT input)Hi-Res DAC Amp (with BT input)
Main UserPortablePortable
Mainstream/DAPHighest Hi-Res formats

Connections (in)

DigitalBluetooth (aptX/aptx LL/AAC)
USB
SPDIF in
Analogue3.5mm (TRS or TRRS S-Balanced)
2.5mm (TRRS) Bal

Connections (out)

3.5mm TRS S-Balanced
2.5mm TRR S-Balanced

DAC

Formats44.1/48k 16-Bit (AAC, aptX) (on Bluetooth)PCM768 / DSD 512 / 2xDSD with MQA
DAC chipsetESS SabreBurr-Brown

Features

3D+ and XBass
Max. power1,000 mW @ 32 Ohm500mW @ 18 Ohm
Output impedanceS – Bal <1 Ohm
Balanced <2 Ohm
<1 Ohm
Battery playback
Up to 18 hours (Analogue input)
Up to 12 hours (Bluetooth)
Up to 8 hours
USB connectors – does one size fit all?
xDSD – The EISA Award Winning DAC!
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