The Nano iDSD Light Edition (LE) is the latest entry-level DAC from iFi audio. Based on the award-winning nano iDSD, the LE version does not include the SPDIF output and digital filter selection mode, but it still supports DSD128 / PCM384 formats. This pocket-sized DAC boasts the same high-quality features as its predecessor.
High-res
The Nano iDSD LE is capable of True Native® playback, which means there is no conversion; PCM remains PCM and DSD remains DSD. This ensures no signal degradation and guarantees perfect sound reproduction of music files. The Nano iDSD LE supports Hi-Resolution PCM formats up to 384kHz and DSD128.
Choosing the burr-brown DAC
At iFi, we are always asking ourselves "which format is best?". What does this mean? It means selecting the most advanced set of microchips and achieving an approximate implementation.
The Burr-Brown DAC chip used in the iDSD LE is designed by BB Japan (unlike the previous BB/TI chip). Although this chip was released after the merger of the companies, it is incredibly "musical" and, in our opinion, is the best converter technology available today.
Music enjoyment on the go
The latest advancements in smart devices such as iPhone/iPad/Android have transformed them from mobile phones into portable high-quality audio sources. Smart Devices are capable of encoding and transmitting high-quality sound in PCM/DSD/DXD formats. Since the iDSD LE can directly decode and operate in "Transport + DAC" mode, the sound quality is taken to a new level, and its pocket-sized design allows you to enjoy excellent music on the go or at home.
Below are some screenshots from iPhone music players Onkyo HF Player> and camera connector kit> iDSD LE. As you can see, each high-resolution format is played without any conversions, even DSD.
Precise clock for jitter elimination
The Nano iDSD LE pays special attention to signal path quality during production, including the use of Swiss precision clock crystals to ensure maximum sound quality.
The "clocks" used in the iDSD LE, supplied by AMR, are employed in the military industry. These crystals reduce overall digital noise and jitter. These clocks are developed in the telecommunications industry, where the standards are much more demanding than in the industrial sector (which is usually supplied to the audio industry).
Like other products in the range, the iDSD LE uses AMR's precise clock technology to eliminate jitter. The iDSD LE is suitable for asynchronous transmission via USB. To truly eliminate jitter, it also incorporates AMR's famous Zero Jitter® Lite technology from the renowned AMR DP-777, which enhances jitter elimination efficiency.
Battery-powered for performance and sound
The Nano iDSD LE features a built-in lithium-polymer battery that provides 8 hours of mobile music enjoyment.
To connect your smartphone or tablet, simply use the necessary Apple adapter: Lightning to USB/Android: OTG cable, to extract the digital signal and let the iDSD LE do the rest.
Even when using it at home in battery mode, the sound quality is higher than with a normal USB power connection. For the LE version, the ability to choose is as important as sound quality.
Analog volume control without dynamic range degradation
The iDSD LE uses a precision analog volume control, which ensures the highest quality comparable to more expensive devices. Its smooth control adjusts the volume seamlessly.
This attention to high-quality audio components for the end user is standard for iFi.
Directdrive® means the output signal remains clean and distortion-free
The key factor in why the nano iDSD LE sounds so "clean" is the DirectDrive® technology, which means there are no output capacitors in the signal path. This "direct signal" path is a fundamental feature of iFi DACs, including the iDSD LE, providing a clean and transparent sound.