iFi has made a name for themselves with their line of price-effective source devices and accessories. The xDSD was one of their most popular releases, a feature-packed model that blended convenience, versatility and performance. Following up on their hit release, the xDSD Gryphon is their next-generation x-series device that replaces both the xDSD and xCAN by combining the functionality of both alongside featuring redesigned circuitry for improved performance.
Though retaining the base design of the xDSD, the Gryphon has been slightly enlarged and now has a new gunmetal finish that better resists fingerprints. Flexibility was once again prioritised, with a slew of IO options including USB/S/PDIF and both single-ended 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm outputs. High-resolution BT codecs are also supported for optimal wireless sound quality. Furthermore, it has an OLED strip display built-in to simplify usability.
The xDSD Gryphon’s “digital engine” is built around a Burr-Brown DAC selected for its musicality and True Native Architecture. As iFi has utilised this chip before, the company reasons that they are able to extract the maximum performance from it. Extensive jitter-eradication is also applied to the digital stage including the latest generation of iFi’s GMT (Global Master Timing) Femto-precision clock and intelligent memory buffer.
On the amplifier side, PureWave refers to iFi’s fully-balanced circuit design. It involves high-quality components throughout such as ultra-low distortion op-amps, multilayer ceramic TDK CoG capacitors, MELF thin-film resistors and inductors from Murata and Taiyo Yuden. iFi reasons this allows the Gryphon to drive both sensitive IEMs and power-hungry planar headphones.
Other features complete the experience. OpimaLoop involves multiple feedback paths over one global loop, each being optimised for a particular function to deliver ideal performance. Cybersync is iFi’s analogue volume control that adapts to each device the source is connected to offer different volume curves. iFi also spent heaps of time on properly shielding each component. Finally, their signature sonic tuning features make a return to taylor the sound to every listener’s preference.
The xDSD Gryphon will be available in mid-November exclusively in Australia via Busisoft AV and its dealers for $699 AUD.
