iFi Zen DAC V2 User Manual

1. Introducció

The iFi Zen DAC V2 is a high-resolution Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to significantly enhance your audio experience. Whether you are listening through headphones or active speakers, the Zen DAC V2 delivers exceptional sound quality with support for various high-resolution audio formats.

Característiques principals:

• Actualització del sistema: Transforms your home audio, office, or desktop setup with improved clarity and sound quality.
• Connectivitat versàtil: Features USB 3.0 (USB 2.0 compatible) input and multiple outputs including 6.3mm Unbalanced, 4.4mm Balanced, and RCA.
• Suport d'àudio d'alta resolució: Processes PCM up to 384kHz/24 bit, DSD256, DXD 384kHz, and provides full MQA decoding for authentic sound reproduction.
• Tecnologies avançades: Includes variable analogue volume control, PowerMatch gain adjustment for various headphones, and TrueBass for enhanced low frequencies without muddying the midrange.
• Rendiment millorat: Features a new and improved low jitter clock for smoother, cleaner playback.

2. Producte acabatview

Panell frontal

Figura 2.1: Frontal view of the iFi Zen DAC V2. From left to right: PowerMatch button, TrueBass button, main volume knob, 6.3mm unbalanced headphone output, and 4.4mm balanced headphone output.

Panell posterior

Figura 2.2: posterior view of the iFi Zen DAC V2. From left to right: 4.4mm balanced output, Balanced/Variable/Fixed switch, RCA outputs (left and right), USB 3.0 digital input, and DC 5V external power input.

Dimensions

Figure 2.3: The compact dimensions of the Zen DAC V2 make it suitable for desktop use, measuring approximately 117mm (length) x 100mm (width) x 30mm (height).

3. Configuració

Connecting Your Zen DAC V2

Figure 3.1: Connection diagram illustrating various input and output options for the Zen DAC V2.

1. Connexió d'alimentació: Connect the supplied USB cable to the USB 3.0 B input on the rear of the Zen DAC V2 and to your computer or Digital Audio Player (DAP). The Zen DAC V2 is USB powered. For optimal performance, especially with demanding headphones, an optional 5V external power supply can be connected to the DC 5V input.
2. Connexió font: Ensure your USB source (computer, laptop, smartphone, etc.) is connected to the USB 3.0 B input.
3. Connexió de sortida: Choose your desired output:
   • Auriculars: Plug your headphones into either the 6.3mm unbalanced output or the 4.4mm balanced output on the front panel.
   • Altaveus actius/Ampmés viu: Use the RCA outputs for unbalanced connections or the 4.4mm balanced output for balanced connections to your active speakers or ampmés viu.
4. Output Mode Selection: On the rear panel, select between 'VARIABLE' (volume controlled by the Zen DAC V2's knob) or 'FIXED' (full output level, volume controlled by your connected amplifier/active speakers).

Figure 3.2: A typical setup showing the Zen DAC V2 connected to a laptop and headphones.

4. Instruccions de funcionament

Control de volum

The large knob on the front panel controls the volume when the rear switch is set to 'VARIABLE'. Due to the analogue volume control used, there may be a slight channel imbalance when the volume dial is set below the 9 o'clock position. This is not a product fault. For the best sound quality, it is advised to listen to your music with the volume between the 11 and 1 o'clock positions.

PowerMatch (Gain Adjustment)

Figure 4.1: Visual explanation of PowerMatch and TrueBass functionalities.

The 'PowerMatch' button on the front panel allows you to adjust the gain to match the sensitivity of your headphones. Pressing this button toggles between two gain settings. Use the lower gain setting for sensitive In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) and the higher gain setting for more demanding on-ear or over-ear headphones.

TrueBass (Bass Enhancement)

The 'TrueBass' button provides a sophisticated, user-selectable bass boost. It subtly enhances low frequencies without muddying the midrange, operating entirely in the analogue domain. This feature is particularly useful for earphones and open-back headphones that may lack deep bass response.

Descodificació MQA

Figure 4.2: The Zen DAC V2 features a new 16-core XMOS chip for full MQA decoding and supports various high-resolution audio formats.

The Zen DAC V2 is a full MQA decoder, meaning it can unfold MQA files completely to deliver the highest possible sound quality, exactly as the artist intended. When playing MQA content, the LED indicator around the volume knob will change color to signify MQA playback.

Vídeo oficial del producte

5. Manteniment

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your iFi Zen DAC V2, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Neteja: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Avoid using liquid cleaners, aerosols, or abrasive materials.
• Col·locació: Col·loqueu el dispositiu sobre una superfície estable i plana, allunyada de la llum solar directa, fonts de calor i humitat excessiva. Assegureu-vos que hi hagi una ventilació adequada al voltant de la unitat.
• Manipulació: Manipuleu el dispositiu amb cura. Eviteu deixar-lo caure ni sotmetre'l a impactes forts.
• Emmagatzematge: Si guardeu el dispositiu durant un període prolongat, desconnecteu-lo de l'alimentació i guardeu-lo en un lloc fresc i sec.

6. Solució De Problemes

If you encounter issues with your Zen DAC V2, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Sense so:
  • Ensure all cables (USB, audio outputs) are securely connected.
  • Verify that the Zen DAC V2 is selected as the audio output device on your computer or source.
  • Check the volume level on both the Zen DAC V2 and your source device.
  • If using an external power supply, ensure it is properly connected and functioning.
• So distorsionat:
  • Check if the audio source file és de bona qualitat.
  • Ensure the PowerMatch setting is appropriate for your headphones (e.g., lower gain for sensitive IEMs).
  • Reduce the volume level from your source or the Zen DAC V2.
  • Ensure the USB cable is not damaged and is properly connected.
• Channel Imbalance at Low Volume:
  • As noted in the Operating Instructions, a slight channel imbalance may occur below the 9 o'clock position on the volume dial due to the analogue volume control. This is normal behavior.
  • For optimal performance, adjust your source volume to allow the Zen DAC V2's volume knob to be set between 11 and 1 o'clock.
• Dispositiu no reconegut per l'ordinador:
  • Proveu un port USB diferent a l'ordinador.
  • Restart your computer and the Zen DAC V2.
  • Ensure you have the latest drivers installed for the Zen DAC V2 (if required by your operating system).

7. Especificacions

8. Garantia i Suport

iFi products are designed for reliability and performance. This product comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official iFi Audio weblloc.

For technical support, product registration, or further inquiries, please visit the official iFi Audio store or support page:

Visit the iFi Audio Store on Amazon

You may also find helpful resources and FAQs on the iFi Audio weblloc.