The Evolution from xDSD Gryphon to iDSD GR 2
Some products earn a reputation that’s difficult to live up to. The original xDSD Gryphon did exactly that, becoming a favourite among audiophile listeners who wanted reference-quality sound in a truly portable form. Now, its successor has arrived.
The new iDSD GR 2 builds on everything that made the Gryphon so popular, introducing a completely redesigned DAC architecture, more power, improved usability, and the latest digital audio technologies. The result is a portable DAC and headphone amplifier designed to deliver exceptional performance wherever you listen.
What Makes the Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC So Special?
One of the biggest advancements comes at the heart of the GR 2. For the first time in an iFi audio product, it features the Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC chipset. Rather than choosing components based purely on headline specifications, we selected the PCM1795 for its ability to preserve the natural, analogue character which has become synonymous with our house sound, while offering true 32-bit conversion, lower distortion, and improved dynamic range. The result is greater transparency, more detail, and a deeper connection to your music.
How Much More Powerful Is the iDSD GR 2?
Power has also taken a significant leap forward. The iDSD GR 2 delivers up to 1,513mW RMS into 32 ohms - around 50% more output than the original Gryphon. That extra headroom means it can confidently drive a wider range of headphones, from sensitive in-ear monitors to more demanding setups. With greater control comes tighter bass, cleaner transients, and a more effortless presentation, even during complex musical passages.
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A Smarter, More Intuitive Listening Experience |
Listening should be immersive, but using your device should be effortless too. That's why the GR 2 introduces a new capacitive OLED touchscreen, making everyday operation quicker and more intuitive. Essential settings are now available directly from the main interface, reducing the need to navigate through menus. Whether you're adjusting gain, selecting filters, or changing playback settings, everything feels immediate and responsive.
Restoring Musicality with K2HD Technology
The GR 2 is also the latest iFi product to incorporate JVCKENWOOD's K2HD Technology. Designed to restore subtle harmonic information often lost during the digital recording process, K2HD enhances depth, texture, and realism without fundamentally altering the original recording. The result is a richer, more engaging presentation that brings performances closer to their original intent. For listeners who prefer a lighter touch, K2 mode delivers many of the same benefits without upsampling.
Freedom Without Loss.
Wireless performance has evolved alongside its wired capabilities. Featuring Qualcomm's latest Bluetooth platform with support for high-resolution codecs including LDAC and aptX Lossless (where supported), the GR 2 functions as a true Bluetooth DAC/Amp, allowing you to enjoy high-quality wireless listening without sacrificing detail. Whether connected via USB or Bluetooth, it delivers the kind of Lossless audio experience discerning listeners expect from premium portable audio equipment.
A Legend, Perfected
The iDSD GR 2 isn't simply an update to an award-winning product. It's a complete revision, combining a new DAC architecture, significantly more power, intuitive touchscreen control, advanced digital processing, and premium wireless connectivity into one remarkably compact device.
The Gryphon earned its legendary status by proving portable audio didn't have to compromise on sound quality. The iDSD GR 2 takes that philosophy even further. A legend, perfected.
FAQ
Should I upgrade from the xDSD Gryphon to the iDSD GR 2?
If you already own the xDSD Gryphon, the iDSD GR 2 is more than an incremental update. It introduces a completely redesigned internal architecture, the first use of the Burr-Brown PCM1795 DAC in an iFi product, 50% more output power, a new capacitive OLED touchscreen, K2HD Technology, and upgraded Bluetooth performance. If you're looking for greater versatility and an even more refined listening experience, the GR 2 is a worthwhile step forward.
What makes the iDSD GR 2 different from other portable DACs?
The iDSD GR 2 combines a high-performance DAC, balanced headphone amplifier, Bluetooth receiver and preamplifier into a single portable device. With wired and wireless connectivity, intuitive touchscreen controls, premium components and support for high-resolution audio, it's designed to adapt to everything from desktop listening to listening on the move.
Does the iDSD GR 2 support Bluetooth audio?
Yes. The iDSD GR 2 supports high-resolution Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC, LHDC, aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive and more, making it easy to enjoy high-quality wireless listening without compromising on sound quality.
Can the iDSD GR 2 drive demanding headphones?
Yes. Delivering up to 1,513mW RMS into 32 ohms, the iDSD GR 2 offers 50% more output power than the original Gryphon. That additional headroom allows it to drive a wide range of headphones with greater control, improved dynamics and effortless detail.
