iFi Audio Neo iDSD, Bluetooth DAC & Amplifier: High-Resolution DAC/AMP (Neo iDSD)

iFi Audio's NEO iDSD sits between the brand's flagship Pro series and the more cost-conscious but excellent ZEN range. Designed for maximum flexibility, the NEO iDSD's sleek aluminium casework that can be positioned horizontally or vertically with its OLED display rotating automatically to suit the unit's orientation. A multifunction rotary control ensures the NEO iDSD is simple to use, despite its sophistication and versatility, says iFi.

The NEO iDSD has three operational modes. Firstly, it can be used as a pure DAC with a fixed-level analogue output to connect to a separate integrated amp or preamp in an audio system. Alternatively, it can operate as a DAC/preamp with a variable output, ideal for connecting directly to a power amp or active speakers. Finally, it can, of course, be used as a self-contained head-fi system.

The NEO iDSD provides three digital inputs – asynchronous USB Type B, as well as both optical and coaxial flavours of S/PDIF. Three devices may be connected simultaneously via these inputs, plus a fourth via Bluetooth.

Balanced outputs are supplied, to make the most of the NEO iDSD's fully balanced circuitry. At the front, alongside a standard 6.3mm single-ended headphone socket, resides a 4.4mm Pentaconn output for headphones offering balanced connection.

Around the back, to connect the NEO iDSD to an amp and speakers (or active speakers), single-ended RCA outputs are accompanied by a pair of XLR sockets.