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iFi Audio Launches GO blu Air, a $129 Ultra-Portable Bluetooth DAC/Amp

The lighter GO blu variant uses a three-stage design that separates reception, conversion, amplification to boost fidelity.

Overview

  • On sale now via iFi and selected retailers at $129, £129, €149, with an Australian price of AU$229 reported by TechRadar.
  • The signal chain splits duties across a Qualcomm QCC5144 for Bluetooth 5.2, a Cirrus Logic MasterHiFi DAC, and a dual‑mono amplifier built with discrete components including TDK C0G and muRata capacitors and custom OV Series op‑amps.
  • Wireless support covers LDAC, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC for high‑resolution streaming from compatible devices.
  • The unit provides 3.5mm S‑Balanced and 4.4mm balanced outputs with up to 256mW of power and low output impedance for driving IEMs and full‑size headphones.
  • Designed for travel at roughly 5cm tall and about 30g, it adds a 10‑hour 450mAh battery, a MEMS mic with noise reduction, a tactile ChronoDial, XBass and XSpace modes, and a detachable magnetic clip.