CONCLUSION

    Not having the chance to review the first Diablo DAC means that I can't compare the Diablo 2 with it and well, that would be the best possible scenario. Also prior to starting my tests I went online to read what people had to say about the iDSD Diablo 2 and even though I saw quite a few people complaining about it not being able to output the advertised power of 5,180mW at the end of the day I had no issue with any of the headphones a threw at it (FiiO FT3/FT5, Meze 109 Pro, Thinksound OV21). I do realize that my headphone collection pales in comparison to what some of my colleagues (even some consumers) may have but I can only test a product with what I have here in the lab. With that out of the way in terms of audio reproduction the Diablo 2 actually did better than what I had hopped. It delivers neutral and natural tonal balance with crisp and detailed mids and highs while at the same time its soundstage is wide and accurate (not that far off compared to the FiiO R9). Lows are also very deep and detailed, but I have to admit that the Diablo 2 lacks the punch I was expecting from it, something which for some people will certainly not be a bad thing. In regards to battery life I was able to squeeze anything between 4 and 1/2 hours and up to 6 hours from the iDSD Diablo 2, depending largely on the gain mode selected and of course volume levels. Also worth pointing out is that iFi audio has placed a very convenient auto-shut off feature which activates after roughly 30 minutes of inactivity (great for when using the built-in battery pack). Enclosure quality is also superb and even though the iDSD Diablo 2 lacks an LCD screen (which would obviously boost its looks – and its cost) it’s still amongst the best looking "portable" DACs I’ve used (and seen) to date. Typically if I had to nitpick I'd point out that the exterior of the iPower 2 adapter is rubberized and well, it will probably start sticking before long (just like with most rubberized devices such as remote controls, action cameras and even headphones). Tiny detail I know but I've had far too many devices with that issue over the years so it stands out for me.

    With a price tag currently set at USD1299 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and at 1299 inside the EU (iFi audio) the iDSD Diablo 2 is certainly aimed towards demanding audiophiles. The issue with this is that many own headphones that may require more juice than what the Diablo 2 can output. At the same time however judging by all the headphones I have here and what most of my friends own the iDSD Diablo 2 should be more than enough for most demanding consumers and since it delivered as advertised during my tests it clearly deserves the Platinum Award.

PROS

- Near Excellent Build Quality
- Impressive Audio Performance
- Bluetooth v5.4(Lossless)
- Supported Bluetooth Codecs (aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC and SBC)
- 16 Core XMOS Processor
- Dual Core Burr Brown DAC
- Available Inputs / Outputs (6.35mm/2x4.4mm Balanced/3.5mm Optical/2xUSB C)
- 4800mAh Lithium Polymer Battery Pack
- 4 Wing Feet (Desktop Placement)
- Product Support

CONS

- Price (For Some)
- Maximum Power Output?