CES 2015: CEntrance unveils high-res DAC iPhone case

HiFi-Skÿn is billed as a "high-resolution" sound system that's built into an iPhone case, with the system promising to deliver the "ultimate on-the-go playback system" for iPhones 5, 5S, 6 and 6 Plus.

According to the company, HiFi-Skÿn processes the digital output of the iPhone through the on-board asynchronous digital-to-analogue converter, bypassing the iPhone's DAC. It will allow iPhones to support for files up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD files.

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The system comprises a USB DAC and "audiophile sound card" for iPhones – taking digital audio from the phone and internally converting it to analogue. It also has an auxiliary battery for on-the-go recharging.

Meanwhile, HiFi-Skÿn's headphone amplifier comes with a 3.5mm stereo jack. It's expected the system will cost $400, though an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign is offering an early bird price of $174.

CEntrance managing director Michael Goodman said: "We took our portable audio technology and miniaturised it to fit inside a phone case, creating an amazing on-the-go headphone experience with your phone."

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Pete was content editor on What Hi-Fi?, overseeing production and publication of digital content. In creating and curating feature articles for web and print consumption, he provided digital and editorial expertise and support to help reposition What Hi-Fi? as a ‘digital-first’ title; reflecting the contemporary media trends. He is now a senior content strategist.