iFi's dinky DAC is designed to be a lightweight, affordable way to get your smartphone sounding its best

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The iFi Go Link 2 may be small, but it has big shoes to fill

iFi Go Link 2 DAC connected to an iPhone and a pair of wired headphones on a wooden table
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)

iFi has revealed the sequel to one of its smallest and most affordable DACs. The new iFi Go Link 2 is the sophomore follow-up to the original Go Link model, a small but mighty marvel which we awarded five stars when we tested it back in 2023.

In order to outperform its predecessor, the second-gen model teases a more intense and engaging listen thanks to its 'Dynamic Range Enhancement' technology, promising a greater contrast between your music's loudest and quietest moments.

Internally, the new DAC incorporates iFi’s in-house ‘S-Balanced’ circuitry technology, aiming to reduce crosstalk and interference to preserve sonic purity.

iFi Go Link 2 portable DAC connected to a laptop

(Image credit: iFi)

The Go Link also employs ‘Total Harmonic Distortion’ tech for a “cleaner, purer sound”, while iFi’s ‘Time Domain Jitter Eliminator’ combines with the brand’s dedicated clock circuitry in pursuit of improved sonic clarity and better timing.

The Go Link 2 offers support for hi-res audio playback to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, as well as DSD256 files. MQA is off the menu, but considering that hi-res streaming service Tidal scrapped the use of MQA files as of mid-2024, that likely won’t be a huge issue for most users. As with previous compact iFi USB DACs, a colour-changing LED indicates the type and quality of the stream you're currently playing.

The Go Link 2 is also the first model in its range to offer full support from the iFi Nexis app, with the new platform granting access to new customisation options, two digital filters – linear and hybrid – as well as software updates and a volume control. It's bad news for iPhone fans, however, as the app is only available for Android users.

The iFi Go Link 2 is available now, priced at £59 / $59 / AU$87 (approx). Has the new boy lived up to the legacy of its predecessor? Read our exclusive iFi Go Link 2 review to find out.

MORE:

Read our step-up iFi Go Link Max review

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Harry McKerrell
Harry McKerrell
Senior staff writer

Harry McKerrell is a senior staff writer at What Hi-Fi?. During his time at the publication, he has written countless news stories alongside features, advice and reviews of products ranging from floorstanding speakers and music streamers to over-ear headphones, wireless earbuds and portable DACs. He has covered launches from hi-fi and consumer tech brands, and major industry events including IFA, High End Munich and, of course, the Bristol Hi-Fi Show. When not at work he can be found playing hockey, practising the piano or trying to pet strangers' dogs.

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