iFi Audio Uno black
Specifications and features
Overview
The black iFi Audio Uno distills a decade of British expertise into a pocket-sized device. This digital-to-analog converter features sophisticated circuitry inherited from Abbingdon Music Research, radically transforming the sound output of any computer or smartphone thanks to its ESS Sabre chip and three analog listening modes.
A British Design with Prestigious Roots
iFi Audio was founded in 2012 as a subsidiary of Abbingdon Music Research, a London-based manufacturer established in 2000 and specialized in ultra high-end systems. The Uno brings this expertise into an accessible format: reinforced polymer casing, aluminum front panel, TDK C0G and muRata capacitors usually reserved for expensive electronics. This “trickle-down” approach democratizes components typically found in devices costing ten times more.
Technical Architecture and Proprietary Innovations
The ESS Sabre ES9219MQ chip marks an evolution in the iFi range, accompanied by HyperStream III 32-bit architecture and the Time Domain Jitter Eliminator. The converter decodes native PCM 384 kHz/32-bit, DSD256, and MQA.
The major innovation: S-Balanced technology on the 3.5 mm headphone output delivers the benefits of a balanced connection while maintaining universal compatibility. The result: channel separation exceeding 110 dB, signal-to-noise ratio of 113 dBA.
Analog volume control preserves the integrity of the signal, unlike digital attenuators. Coupled with Dynamic Range Enhancement, it extends the dynamic range by an additional 6 dB.
Three Sound Profiles Tailored to Every Use
Four selectable signatures: neutral mode plus three analog presets. Music prioritizes linearity and depth with a slight emphasis on the lower midrange. Movie boosts vocal frequencies (1–4 kHz) for clearer dialogue. Game enhances bass and upper mids for improved spatial awareness.
PowerMatch adds 6 dB of gain (211 mW @ 32Ω, 39 mW @ 300Ω), comfortably driving most headphones, including demanding models. A multicolor indicator shows the format: green for PCM, blue for high resolution, magenta for MQA.
Everyday Versatility and Ergonomics
USB-C power supply—no AC adapter required. RCA output transforms the Uno into a preamplifier for active speakers. 120 cm cable allows flexible positioning. Windows drivers optimize native frequencies and latency. Automatic recognition for Mac/mobile.
This versatility makes the Uno a central audio hub, instantly switching between headphones and speaker systems, with precise control from your listening position.
What the press says
The iFi Audio Uno borrows part of its architecture from its bigger siblings. The most obvious borrowing is the use of high-end components well known to the brand's users: TDK C0G multilayer ceramic capacitors, as well as coils from Taiyo Yuden and Murata.
Automatically translated — Show original (French)
Documentation
Technical Specifications
Audio Performance
- High-resolution audio compatibility: supports 32-bit / 384 kHz PCM formats, native DSD256, and MQA
- Custom audio modes: three listening modes (music, movie, and gaming) for optimized sound tailored to each use
- Dynamic optimization: adjustable analog gain with enhanced dynamics (DRE)
- Analog volume control: maintains sound quality even at low volume, unlike standard digital controls
- S-Balanced headphone output: reduces noise and interference for precise headphone listening
Connectivity and Interfaces
- All-in-one USB-C DAC: power supply and audio transmission via USB-C, no power adapter required
- Universal connection: works with Windows PCs, Macs, and active speakers via RCA output
- Input: 1 x USB-C (power + audio)
- Outputs: 1 x stereo RCA / 1 x 3.5 mm S-Balanced jack
Detailed Specifications
- DAC: ESS bit-perfect DAC (DSD and DXD)
- Supported audio formats: PCM up to 384 kHz / DSD256 / DXD / MQA
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 80 kHz (-0.5 dB)
- Headphone output power: ≥ 211 mW @ 32 Ω / 39 mW @ 300 Ω
- Total harmonic distortion + noise (THD+N): ≤ 0.02% (headphone) / ≤ 0.03% (line)
- Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR): ≥ 113 dBA (headphone) / ≥ 119 dBA (line)
- Dynamic range: ≥ 110 dB (headphone) / ≥ 115 dB (line)
- Power consumption: 0.8 W (idle) / 1.5 W (playback)
Physical Characteristics
- Build quality: compact, reinforced polymer case, ultra-portable
- Dimensions: 88 x 81 x 26 mm
- Net weight: 92 g
Box Contents
- 1 x iFi Uno
- 1 x USB-A to USB-C cable
- 1 x quick start guide
- 1 x iFi warranty card
Frequently Asked Questions
What concrete difference does S-Balanced technology make on a standard jack?
The S-Balanced configuration uses a separate ground for each channel instead of a shared ground. This topology reduces interference between left and right channels by about 20 dB compared to traditional wiring. The improvement results in a wider soundstage and more precise instrument placement.
Does PowerMatch mode risk damaging sensitive in-ear monitors?
No, PowerMatch only increases the available gain without forcing amplification. The volume control remains fully operational, allowing fine adjustment of the level. With very sensitive IEMs, a slight hiss may appear at high settings, but listening levels will remain well below any dangerous threshold.
How does the ESS Sabre chip compare to iFi’s traditional Burr-Brown chips?
The ES9219MQ offers superior technical specifications in terms of distortion and signal-to-noise ratio. Its signature is nonetheless slightly different: greater treble precision, but mids sometimes perceived as less full-bodied than Burr-Brown. The Uno’s analog circuits skillfully compensate for this characteristic.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: IFI0019
- GTIN / EAN: 5060738787234
