iFi Audio GO Link Portable DAC and Amp

I was compelled to write this in the hopes it helps others. This comes with a lightening adapter for Apple iPhones. Yes. Look at my picture. Shockingly this isn’t brought up as a selling feature or it isn’t obvious in the reviews I’ve read. This has been a game changer. Older reviews recommend you to get the Apple media adapter dongle for like $60CAD - money I did not want to spend just to connect to my iPhone. Well problem solved. The minute I opened the package I plugged the Go Link into my phone. It. Just. Works. Extremely satisfied

I bought a set of Meze 99 Classic headphones and bought the iFi Go Link to tie me into my iPad Air 5 USB C port. The sound is great and i have no complaints so far. Some said the cable is a bit flimsy and might get damaged easily but all of my listening is done in my house and i am not hard or abusive with my devices so i should do fine in this regard. This is my first venture into the audiophile realm and its a quite good beginning for me … very pleased. For the price it gave me a look in the door with a small out lay of cash. I am a senior but love to keep learning and enjoying my Apple Music streaming.

I recently acquired the iFi Audio GO Link Portable DAC and Amp, and it has been an absolute revelation for my music listening experience. This compact device has breathed new life into my audio setup, making me realize what I've been missing out on all these years.Firstly, the compatibility of the GO Link is outstanding. With both lightning and USB connectors included, I've seamlessly integrated it into my iPhone, Lenovo Laptop, and Desktop Computer setups. This flexibility alone sets it apart, as it caters to a wide range of devices, making it a versatile solution for any audiophile.The impact on the audio quality is nothing short of remarkable. I've noticed a remarkable improvement while streaming from platforms like Amazon HD and YouTube Music. It's like discovering a hidden layer of detail that was previously obscured. The music now feels immersive, alive, and incredibly enjoyable. The difference in sound quality is staggering, to say the least.What truly surprised me was how the GO Link bridged the gap between mid-tier audio setups and those high-end, expensive options. It's like taking a significant step closer to that elite league of audio equipment without breaking the bank. The way it enhances the sound quality, revealing nuances and subtleties, is a testament to the engineering prowess behind this device.From the moment I received the GO Link, I was captivated. I remember losing track of time as I kept indulging in my music library. The fact that I found myself listening for hours on end speaks volumes about the impact it had on me. It's not just a gadget; it's a gateway to a richer, more fulfilling sonic experience.In conclusion, the iFi Audio GO Link Portable DAC and Amp is a game changer for anyone who takes their music seriously. It's not just an accessory; it's a necessity. If you're looking to elevate your music listening to a whole new level, this device is your ticket. Kudos to the team behind this marvel for delivering an affordable solution that punches way above its weight. This is one purchase that I can confidently say is a keeper in my setup.Pros:Incredible compatibility with various devices.Immersive and detailed sound quality upgrade.Bridges the gap between mid-tier and high-end audio setups.Captivating and engaging listening experience.Great value for the price.Cons:Does not support the mic function on the headphoneI wish there was a small carry/storage bag for the USB and lightning connectors, even the box could have been designed for this purpose.If you're seeking to unlock the full potential of your music library and headphones, the iFi Audio GO Link Portable DAC and Amp is a must-have addition to your setup. Prepare to be amazed by the enhanced sonic journey it offers.

You’d think at this price point that the product would under performe. Not so, not by a long shot. This does everything and more than I need from a DAC. Very well constructed. And the fact you get a lightning adapter included, like I said, perfect.

Very happy with this dac from iFi, below you can see my review on head-fi.org:Pros:- Clear sound!!!- Well balanced sound output with a good soundstage and instruments separation.- High built quality, metal case and good quality components.- Decent price - $89 cad + tax, on Amazon Canada.- Very small and light, really feels like a dongle and not an actual DAC + AMP.- Powerful enough to drive all my headphones: Shure SE535, Audiofly AF180 Mk2, and the large Audeze LCD 3.- Comes with all adapters you need - including Lighting and the full size USB-A.- Firmware that can be updated - very important to improve over time.- Despite of having a large USB-C plug, it fits well all my phone cases - I was worried about this until it arrived today.- Large USB-C makes it easy to plug or un-plug it.- Cool ifi logo sticker - Thank you! :darthsmile:Cons:- The cable between the usb-c plug and the actual dac/amp is very thin, and feel very low quality - see photos compared with my headphones cables.- The USB-C plug is huge, it better have a small board in it for that size :p- The LED Light is too bright - can I turn it off? :thinking:- The included manual has a font so small that I had a hard time reading it even with a magnifier - in fact I looked for the pdf version which I couldn't find online :ok_woman: .- In the box there's a paper "Note for Charging - where applicable" - Does this device has a battery? Is it applicable for the Go Link or not? - I'm confused!- The Volume Control is not the same across apps, devices, platforms. On my Pixel 7 Pro, on YouTube, a decent volume is at about 60% of the volume bar. Same phone, the Neutron Music Player has the same audio output at about 10% of the volume bar. But on Windows 10 the same volume I get at about 30%. On top of everything the first start had the volume at about 70% - which I found way too loud, luckily headphones were on the table and didn't burn. :scream:- Updating the firmware is somehow confusing. The attached pdf, doesn't guide you how to install the firmware, or how to find what firmware is your device at, but how to install apps if the system doesn't allow 3rd party apps to be installed.- No mobile App, to easily adjust a Master Volume, set a safe maximum as well to update firmware or check device current fw version.- Firmware Update PDF document doesn't include what's new in the update.- Firmware Updates are available only for Windows users, even if this device is built with Mobile users in mind.Recommendations for ifi Go Link 2:- Detachable cable - so it can be replaced if the usb-c plug goes bad.- If not detachable, the cable should be thick, even wire breaded to make it last longer - it will be sad to throw it away because of a broken cable or usb c plug, it feels flimsy and cheap made.- Make the LED turn off after 5 seconds. Turn it on again for another 5 sec if the user change the volume. It doesn't have to stay lit in my pocket for 7h- The included manual to have a QR Code link for the Digital PDF manual - easy to zoom in without glasses on my phone :wink:- Update the manual, on the box or in the included pamphlet the LED color meaning and how to change them.- Move the Firmware Update through a Mobile App - you build this device for Smartphone users, not the Windows users!- The same Mobile App to offer some settings like an option to set an output safe limit, apply filters, an Eq may be nice, or other cool stats and options.-------