[LuckyPantsu]

199£ and it’s a bit high. Don’t you think so?

I’m ok with the price but the fact that there is no clip and no app to control volume/codecs, and other settings from a smartphone are quite sad and stop me from the pre-order.

 

[mainguy]

199£ and it’s a bit high. Don’t you think so?

if it sounds better than a dragonfly red then il be a steal at that price

 

[537778]

Can it be plugged into Diablo to feed Diablo with a Bluetooth source?

is it future proofed to enable AptX Loosless via firmware update as that is expected next year.

I believe when Qualcomm announced aptX Lossless it was mentioned that the devices will start shipping with Lossless late 2021 which says it all that the new devices with compatible hardware only offer this feature. Also, Qualcomm being a hardware manufacturer, I do not think they will simply give away their technology free via software algorithm. Even devices launched with first gen of aptX couldn't be upgraded to aptX HD or Adaptive or Low Latency unless they already had that supported hardware when they were shipped which I believe happened in the case of Tronsmart Apollo Bold but when I purchased it only had aptX and no HD - I returned it before I could test if aptX HD was enabled. In a nutshell the chances of getting Lossless over the air are very slim.

 

[someyoungguy]

Super small. Super light. Super Sound.

iFi’s uniquely specified mobile Bluetooth DAC/headphone amp – the GO blu – delivers heavenly headphone sound on the go

Southport, England – iFi’s acclaimed DAC/headphone amps have formed a cornerstone of the company’s product range since its formation in 2012, delivering brilliant sound from smartphones, tablets, PCs, Macs and more. Some of these devices include rechargeable batteries and are sized to make them conveniently portable. None, however, are as eminently pocketable as the GO blu – iFi’s most diminutive DAC/headphone amp yet. But, while it may be delightfully small (55x34x13mm, similar in size to a matchbox or Zippo lighter) and weigh just 26g (less than an AA battery), this pocket rocket delivers a performance that is remarkably mighty.

To maximise mobile convenience, the GO blu pairs wirelessly with the user’s source device via Bluetooth. No more messing around with restrictive USB cables and dongles, worrying about whether you’ve got the right OTG cable for your Android device, or Lightning to USB Camera Adapter for your Apple iOS device. Just pair… and GO!

iFi GO blu, front and back – small yet impeccably formed, complete with ChronoDial watch crown-style control​

But while the GO blu majors on convenience, there’s not a hint of compromise when it comes to sound quality. Most pocket-size Bluetooth DAC/headphone amps incorporate all-in-one ‘system on a chip’ solutions to deliver input processing, digital-to-analogue signal conversion and amplification. These are simple to implement, compact and cost-effective, but they cannot compare with expertly designed, individually optimised circuit stages when it comes to sound quality. Uniquely for a device of this type and size, the GO blu’s clever design packs in separate Bluetooth, DAC and amp stages, each engineered in distinct blocks to deliver the ideal combination of cutting-edge specification and superb sound.


Bluetooth and DAC stages

The way iFi implements Bluetooth is anything but ‘run of the mill’ and despite its diminutive size the GO blu is no exception. Making full use of Qualcomm’s latest four-core QCC5100 Bluetooth processing chip, every current high-definition Bluetooth audio format is supported, including aptX Adaptive and aptX HD, LDAC and HWA/LHDC. Other codecs covered include regular aptX and aptX Low Latency, AAC and SBC (the ‘plain vanilla’ Bluetooth codec).

This means that every possible source device is handled at the highest audio resolution its Bluetooth specification allows – no other pocket-size DAC/amp delivers such comprehensive codec support, or such high-quality sound over Bluetooth. The GO blu is Bluetooth v5.1-compliant, ensuring the best possible range, stability and performance, and its ‘Bluetooth engine’ can be updated over the air.

The Bluetooth stage feeds the DAC stage, with a Cirrus Logic 32-bit DAC chip at its heart. This is coupled with a customised digital filter to minimise pre-echoes and ringing artefacts, and a precision clock system to ensure ultra-low jitter, thus reducing errors and distortion in the digital audio signal.


Amplifier stage

The analogue circuitry in many of iFi’s recently launched audio devices has focused on balanced design, traditionally a high-end concept; remarkably, the GO blu is no exception, despite its diminutive size. The amp circuitry benefits from symmetrical twin-mono signal paths and utilises iFi’s Direct Drive design concept – direct-coupled to ensure a clean signal path without distortion-inducing output coupling capacitors.

In true iFi fashion, the GO blu incorporates circuit components of a quality not commonly found in a device of this kind, including TDK C0G multilayer ceramic capacitors and inductors from Taiyo Yuden and Murata. The net result is ultra-low distortion across the entire signal bandwidth, delivering sound that is purer, clearer and more naturally expressive.

The amp stage delivers up to 5.6V – considerably more power than other similarly sized devices – handling even relatively tough headphone loads with ease. To ensure signal strength suits the sensitivity of the connected headphones or earphones, auto-gain adjusts output up or down by 6dB.

3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs viewed from the top, along with the ChronoDial multifunction control ​

Further sonic tailoring is provided by two user-selectable features familiar to users of other portable headphone amps from iFi. The first is XBass, a sophisticated form of ‘bass boost’ that enhances low frequencies without muddying the midrange, particularly useful with earphones and open-back headphones that may lack deep bass. The second is XSpace, a setting designed to compensate for the ‘in-head localisation’ effect that can occur when using headphones to listen to music that was mixed using a pair of speakers, effectively widening the headphone soundstage to deliver a more spacious and speaker-like experience. Both these optional settings operate entirely in the analogue domain rather than messing with the digital signal via DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and may be switched in or out of the signal path.

At the other end reside a USB-C port for charging (also doubles as an audio input) and a built-in mic​

A pair of headphone outputs are provided – a 3.5mm socket for headphones with a single-ended cable/connector, and a gold-plated 4.4mm Pentaconn output enabling headphones equipped with balanced connectivity to take full advantage of the GO blu’s balanced amp design. In addition, the 3.5mm output benefits from iFi’s S-Balanced circuitry, cutting crosstalk and related distortion in half when used with regular, single-ended headphone connections.


Why not just use Bluetooth headphones or earbuds instead?

A fair question. After all, there’s nothing more convenient than popping a couple of wireless earbuds in your ears and pairing them directly with your source device. It all comes down to sound quality – wireless headphones or earphones of any kind integrate Bluetooth processing, D/A conversion and amplification into a tiny space and there is a ceiling to the sound quality that can be achieved. Choose a good pair of corded headphones or in-ear monitors, and team them with a separate, high-quality portable DAC/headphone amp, and the sound quality you will achieve will beat any pair of wireless headphone or earphones hands down.

With the GO blu, you get the convenience of a powerful, pocketable DAC/headphone amp with Bluetooth connectivity, married to exceptional sound quality to sate the sonic appetite of even the most demanding music lover. A perfect combination!


All systems GO!

With its lightweight, soft-touch polymer enclosure (great for Bluetooth reception, unlike signal-blocking metal), copper-coloured trim and ChronoDial watch crown-style control, the GO blu is a pleasure to use wherever you go. iFi has even incorporated a high-quality chip-based (CMOS-MEMS) microphone, enabling hands-free calls, voice chat for gaming and access to voice assistants such as Apple Siri and Google Assistant.

Further flexibility is provided by the USB-C charging port, which doubles as an audio input enabling USB connection from source devices that don’t offer Bluetooth connectivity. Hi-res PCM audio data up to
24-bit/96kHz is supported when the GO blu is connected in this way.

Similar in size to a matchbox or Zippo lighter, the iFi GO blu is a real pocket rocket​

Small, convenient, uniquely specified and great sounding, the iFi GO blu is the ultimate go-anywhere upgrade to elevate your headphone experience – available from selected retailers from 10 September at an RRP of £199.


iFi audio GO blu - summary

• Pocket-size DAC/amp delivers heavenly headphone sound on the go
• Connect wirelessly to phones, tablets and computers via high-definition Bluetooth
• Separate Bluetooth, DAC and amp stages – individually optimised for maximum performance
• Balanced analogue circuit design delivers captivating sonic power and finesse
• Fully balanced and S-Balanced outputs make the most of all headphone and earphone types
• Whatever the source device – Android, iOS, PC or Mac – GO blu delivers maximum sound quality over Bluetooth

iFi audio GO blu - key features

• Advanced Bluetooth module with QCC5100 handles every HD format
• Supported codecs include: aptX, aptX HD, aptX LL, aptX Adaptive, LDAC, HWA/LHDC, AAC, SBC
• Hi-res DAC stage with ultra-low jitter and customised digital filter
• Amp stage with twin-mono signal paths and Direct Drive technology ensures ultra-low distortion
• Precision rotary volume control with auto-gain – adjusts output to match your headphones
• Delivers up to 5.6V of power – drives even tough headphone loads with ease
• Two headphone outputs: 4.4mm Pentaconn fully balanced and 3.5mm S-Balanced
• S-Balanced output cuts distortion by 50% with single-ended headphone connections
• XBass and XSpace – tailor sound to suit your headphones and personal sonic taste
• Built-in mic for hands-free calls when paired with your smartphone
• Can also be used as a Bluetooth receiver in a speaker-based audio system (via the 3.5mm output) or as a USB DAC/headphone amp (via the USB-C charging port)
• Battery life – approximately eight hours (varies according to volume level and the power demands of the connected headphones/earphones)

Website: https://ifi-audio.com/products/go-blu/

I was just wondering about the SNR. 106 unbalanced and 111 balanced seems quite low? Does that refer to Bluetooth input or USB input (or is it the same SNR for both)?

 

[Soundizer]

I’m ok with the price but the fact that there is no clip and no app to control volume/codecs, and other settings from a smartphone are quite sad and stop me from the pre-order.

I would have liked EQ functionality to turn down that horrible Bluetooth harshness for certain audio. Either on physical controls or via App.

 

[Soundizer]

I believe when Qualcomm announced aptX Lossless it was mentioned that the devices will start shipping with Lossless late 2021 which tells it all that the new devices with compatible hardware only offer this feature. Also, Qualcomm being a hardware manufacturer, I do no think they will simply give away their technology free via software algorithm. Even devices launched with first gen of aptX couldn't be upgraded to aptX HD or Adaptive or Low Latency unless they already had that supported hardware when they were shipped which I believe happened in the case of Tronsmart Apollo Bold but when I purchased it only had aptX and no HD - I returned it before I could test if aptX HD was enabled. In a nutshell the chances of getting Lossless over the air are very slim.

Yes well put. I realise they have business model of selling chips as upgrade and not via software. Fair enough.

 

[Soundizer]

As a device with a clear function of Bluetooth I really like this concept.

Too many other devices are trying to do too much and end up compromising on all aspects.

This is built as Bluetooth only with a nice 4.4 output and i like the design.

 

[H T T]

I like the fact that you can go fully wired if you want.

maybe I missed it but is there a volume lock on the volume dial? Analog dials and pockets and movement can be troublesome.

 

[Another Audiophile]

if it sounds better than a dragonfly red then il be a steal at that price

I mean it’s preliminary a Bluetooth amp. So convenience and features are more important, at least for me. Can’t see how this unit can compete with units such as the Fiio BTR5 for example.

 

[Hanesu]

That’s — sound characteristic comparisons — are largely what reviews are for. There really isn’t a “good” official answer if they are not identical.

True, of course I will wait for reviews. But I was not expecting a "better" or "worse" reply from iFi....I was simply interested to learn a bit more about its type of signature in advance. Let`s say something like: "XDSD sounds a little warmer..." etc.

 

[ehjie]

Personally I'd like the signature of these - (realatively) Neutral.
I see a 3d switch and x-bass switch is all good, good enough. They're subtle, but very audible.
I plan (If i'd decide to plunge) to use them in my medium efficient full size and in ear headphones...

 

[Hanesu]

199£ and it’s a bit high. Don’t you think so?

I think this always depends on how you put value into perspective. I know there are people here who say "it is just a bluetooth dongle". But the same people think that 4000 Euros for a DAP is ok. If you ask me, I rather spend 200 Euros on a BT dongle that has let`s say 85% of the SQ of a middle class DAP... than 4000 Euros on a DAP that is only 10% better than a middle class DAP.

Generally I feel BT devices are often underrated in this forum. They have improved so much over the last years and I am convinced that many people would be very surprised if they really would have to try them out in a blind test (in comparison to a DAP).

So in the end, at least to me, I see some of them as a very convenient and really good sounding device to listen to my music - and this is a value I am willing to pay for!

 

[ehjie]

I think this always depends on how you put value into perspective. I know there are people here who say "it is just a bluetooth dongle". But the same people think that 4000 Euros for a DAP is ok. If you ask me, I rather spend 200 Euros on a BT dongle that has let`s say 80% of the SQ of a middle class DAP than 4000 Euros on a DAP that is only 10% better than a middle class DAP.

Generally I feel, BT devices are often underrated in this forum. They have improved so much over the last years and I am convinced that many people would be surprised if they really would have to try them out in a blind test (in comparison to a DAP).

So in the end, at least to me, I see them as a very convenient and good sounding device to listen to my music - and this is a value I am willing to pay for!

I wouldn't join that challenge. lol
I auditioned a top class usd.1,299 dap. When I tried pairing it w/ a European made dac amp, the pair sounded way better, sound field wider, etc...

 

[jeffri]

My impression for iFi GO blu.

Build quality is solid and is certainly the best looking Bluetooth dongle I ever have. It's also very small and light, you can see the comparison in size with other Bluetooth dongle I had (BTR5, Qudelix, UP5).

Sound-wise, the first thing that comes to mind is that it is pretty warm and full bodied. The easiest way to explain is that it feels like it has a tube-like sound. The vocal is sweet and smooth with the GO blu. Enjoyable.

However, compared to the UP5, it wasn't as clean sounding. A slight hiss is audible in a silent passage if your music have it, which isn't much of an issue once the music start blending, but noticable nonetheless.

Bass in the UP5 is faster and snappier, while GO blu is a little bit boomy, but still pretty much competent. I never feel like it is slow, but just not as snappy as UP5 is. The Xbass feature is a nice addition though, adding a subtle boost in bass response, while not affecting other frequency.

Mid is warmer and thicker than the UP5. Doesn't mean the UP5 is cold, I think it still has warmth in it, but certainly not as warm as GO blu. Personally, I really like the mid of GO blu, however, if we are talking about technicality, I had to give the upper hand to UP5.

Going to the treble, the UP5 is certainly more prominent and sharp. The GO blu is a bit more relaxed. If your headphones have sibilance or you want to reduce it a bit, the GO blu can do that. The UP5 will just render everything as it is.

Staging-wise, I feel the GO blu is a bit more intimate, however the Xspace feature could expand it a bit. UP5 soundstage is probably more in line with GO blu + Xspace feature turned on.

Feature-wise, the GO blu is more barebone. Unlike other manufacturer, iFi doesn't include a companion app and there is no display. This means some features from the competitor isn't there, i.e the ability to select DAC filter, selecting just specific codec, EQ or even just turning the charging on and off when using as wired DAC.

Overall, I like the GO blu. It certainly has it appeals, the build quality is solid, it is small and very light. The sound has a tube-like quality which can works really well in some pairing. However, I would still say the technicality of the UP5 is better and also pack more features.

Still, audio is subjective and I found the GO blu to be a better pairing to my FW1500, which for the longest time, I wanted to fix the harshness in the upper mid region and the GO blu delivers. So I'm happy.

 

[Hanesu]

My impression for iFi GO blu.

Build quality is solid and is certainly the best looking Bluetooth dongle I ever have. It's also very small and light, you can see the comparison in size with other Bluetooth dongle I had (BTR5, Qudelix, UP5).

Sound-wise, the first thing that comes to mind is that it is pretty warm and full bodied. The easiest way to explain is that it feels like it has a tube-like sound. The vocal is sweet and smooth with the GO blu. Enjoyable.

However, compared to the UP5, it wasn't as clean sounding. A slight hiss is audible in a silent passage if your music have it, which isn't much of an issue once the music start blending, but noticable nonetheless.

Bass in the UP5 is faster and snappier, while GO blu is a little bit boomy, but still pretty much competent. I never feel like it is slow, but just not as snappy as UP5 is. The Xbass feature is a nice addition though, adding a subtle boost in bass response, while not affecting other frequency.

Mid is warmer and thicker than the UP5. Doesn't mean the UP5 is cold, I think it still has warmth in it, but certainly not as warm as GO blu. Personally, I really like the mid of GO blu, however, if we are talking about technicality, I had to give the upper hand to UP5.

Going to the treble, the UP5 is certainly more prominent and sharp. The GO blu is a bit more relaxed. If your headphones have sibilance or you want to reduce it a bit, the GO blu can do that. The UP5 will just render everything as it is.

Staging-wise, I feel the GO blu is a bit more intimate, however the Xspace feature could expand it a bit. UP5 soundstage is probably more in line with GO blu + Xspace feature turned on.

Feature-wise, the GO blu is more barebone. Unlike other manufacturer, iFi doesn't include a companion app and there is no display. This means some features from the competitor isn't there, i.e the ability to select DAC filter, selecting just specific codec, EQ or even just turning the charging on and off when using as wired DAC.

Overall, I like the GO blu. It certainly has it appeals, the build quality is solid, it is small and very light. The sound has a tube-like quality which can works really well in some pairing. However, I would still say the technicality of the UP5 is better and also pack more features.

Still, audio is subjective and I found the GO blu to be a better pairing to my FW1500, which for the longest time, I wanted to fix the harshness in the upper mid region and the GO blu delivers. So I'm happy.

Cool! Thanks so much for this comparison in sound and pictures!