The landscape of portable audio has shifted dramatically over the past few years. As smartphone manufacturers continue to abandon the 3.5mm headphone jack, the demand for compact, high-fidelity digital-to-analog converters (DACs) has surged. Enter the iFi audio GO link 2, a $59.00 USD successor to the original GO link, designed to bridge the gap between convenience and high-resolution sound for the modern mobile listener.
In this review, we dissect the performance, engineering choices, and market positioning of this new entry-level offering, evaluating whether iFi’s latest iteration maintains the company’s reputation for sonic excellence in an increasingly crowded segment.
Main Facts: The Evolution of the GO link Series
The iFi audio GO link 2 enters a saturated market dominated by budget-conscious powerhouses like the Shanling UA1 Plus and the SMSL D10. Priced at a competitive $59.00/£59.00, the device is marketed as a compact, high-performance solution for smartphone users.
Key Specifications:
- DAC Architecture: Dual ESS Sabre configuration (specific chip model unconfirmed).
- Output Power: 79mW @ 32Ω; 14mW @ 300Ω.
- Connectivity: USB-C native, with included Lightning and USB-A adapters.
- File Support: PCM up to 384kHz, DSD256, and DXD.
- Build: Precision-milled aluminum alloy with a non-removable, silver-plated braided cable.
- Additional Features: iFi S-Balanced topology, Nexis App integration for filter selection.
Compared to its predecessor, the GO link 2 represents a marginal power increase—moving from 70mW to 79mW at 32Ω—and a departure from MQA support, signaling a shift in industry trends toward broader native format support.
Chronology: From Concept to Consumer
The development of the GO link 2 follows iFi’s philosophy of iterative refinement. While the original GO link established a baseline for affordable, "plug-and-play" audiophile audio, the second generation seeks to refine the technical floor.
The device was released to address the modern requirement for universal compatibility. By bundling Lightning and full-size USB adapters, iFi ensures the device is "ready-to-go" for iPhone and laptop users alike. Throughout our testing phase, the device’s compatibility remained flawless, though it became clear that the hardware is optimized primarily for high-efficiency in-ear monitors (IEMs) rather than power-hungry planar magnetic headphones.
Supporting Data: Technical Performance and Analysis
The Sound Signature
The GO link 2 presents a remarkably clean and dynamic sonic profile. It avoids the temptation of coloring the sound, opting instead for a neutral, balanced approach.
- Bass Response: The device offers excellent note distinction. However, in our laboratory tests, we observed a potential "brick wall" at 20Hz. While most music is adequately served, those using sub-bass-heavy IEMs might notice a lack of weight compared to higher-end, more powerful desktop solutions.
- Midrange: The midrange is the device’s centerpiece. It is assertive and expansive, providing a "bold" presentation that avoids the muddying effects often found in cheaper, onboard smartphone DACs.
- Treble and Dynamics: The highs are crisp, though they can occasionally sound strained during complex, high-energy passages. This is likely an indicator of the device’s power ceiling; when the GO link 2 is pushed, the lack of headroom becomes audible in the high-frequency register.
Staging and Technicalities
The standout achievement of the GO link 2 is its soundstage. Despite its diminutive size, it provides a surprisingly wide and layered image. The noise floor is exceptionally low, allowing for a "black background" that permits listeners to isolate individual instruments and subtle nuances in the mix. This level of technical performance at a $59 price point is impressive, effectively justifying the upgrade over integrated headphone jacks.
Official Responses and Engineering Choices
One of the most debated aspects of the GO link 2 is the exclusion of iFi’s proprietary Burr-Brown DAC chips in favor of a dual ESS Sabre configuration. While iFi has not specified the exact model, the choice of an ESS-based architecture suggests a focus on measurements and efficiency.
Regarding the S-Balanced topology, iFi’s decision to utilize a 3.5mm TRRS output remains controversial. While it effectively reduces crosstalk by 50% even with standard TRS plugs, it is an uncommon standard in the modern market. Many enthusiasts expressed that a 4.4mm balanced output or a dedicated microphone-enabled TRRS pin would have provided greater utility.
The iFi Nexis App also presents a mixed bag. While it offers firmware updates and filter toggling, it lacks persistent settings. When the device is disconnected, the volume and filter settings revert to default. This design choice is a potential point of frustration, as the device defaults to a high-volume state that requires caution from the user to prevent accidental hearing damage.
Implications: The Market Landscape
Strengths
- Sonic Purity: It provides a significantly cleaner output than standard smartphone hardware.
- Form Factor: The lightweight, precision-milled aluminum construction is durable and unobtrusive.
- Efficiency: The device is highly power-efficient, making it an excellent companion for mobile devices where battery preservation is paramount.
- Value: The inclusion of adapters makes it an "all-in-one" solution for the price.
Weaknesses
- Build Concerns: The strain reliefs at the cable junctions appear undersized, raising questions about long-term durability for a non-removable cable.
- Power Limitations: It is strictly an entry-level device; it will struggle to drive high-impedance, low-sensitivity headphones.
- Packaging: As noted in our unboxing, the thin cardboard packaging lacks the necessary structural integrity for international shipping, leading to potential damage of the included accessories.
Final Verdict
The iFi audio GO link 2 is a commendable, if imperfect, entry into the dongle DAC market. It excels in delivering a clean, neutral, and spacious sound that highlights the deficiencies of standard mobile outputs. While it suffers from minor software quirks and a lack of raw driving power, it fulfills its core promise: providing an accessible, high-fidelity audio experience for the everyday listener.
For those looking to pair an efficient set of IEMs with a smartphone for a daily commute or office listening, the GO link 2 is a strong contender. However, users seeking to power demanding full-sized headphones should look toward higher-output models in the iFi lineup. Ultimately, the GO link 2 is a successful refinement of the entry-level concept, prioritizing sonic balance and technical clarity above all else.
Disclaimer: This unit was provided for review purposes. Headfonics maintains complete editorial independence. For more information on our scoring guidelines, please visit our website.
