iFi Audio ZEN DAC Signature V2 and ZEN CAN Signature

It had been a while since I’d done any serious, critical listening through headphones. That changed when Editor Jim Austin asked if I wanted to review the iFi Audio ZEN Signature Set ($599). Figuring I could use more Zen in my life, I agreed.

UK-based iFi Audio, which operates under the auspices of the Abbington Global Group, has released several compact products in its ZEN series: DACs, headphone amps, a Bluetooth receiver, and a network streamer.

Available in two iterations, the iFi Audio ZEN Signature Set consists of two boxes in a single cardboard sleeve: the ZEN DAC Signature (upgraded to V2 status mere weeks after the V1 release) and one of two versions of the ZEN CAN Signature headphone amplifier: either the ZEN CAN Signature 6XX, or the ZEN CAN Signature HFM. Each has a custom EQ curve optimized for a different pair of headphones. “6XX” designates the Sennheiser x Drop HD 6XX and HD 650 headphones; the newer (though both are quite new) CAN Signature HFM is optimized for the HiFiMan x Drop HE4XX ’phones. Apart from the optimized EQ curves, the two versions contain identical circuitry. I auditioned both.

Owners of headphones from other brands, fret not: The ZEN CAN Signature amplifiers are intended to be used with a wide range of headphones; everything but the custom EQ curve is still applicable.

Design and setup

I’m told that smooth, river-flattened stones inspired the ZEN components’ design. Despite their quasi-ovoid shape, they’re built to stack, with tiny rubber feet offering assistance. The ZEN units’ gentle curves and black, textured, slightly recessed faceplates contrast with their deep-blue matte finish. Their form is retro-modern, slightly Space Age—although they’re too trapezoidal to resemble flying saucers.

The ZEN DAC Signature V2’s front panel is minimal, with just a single (defeatable) volume knob in the center. Behind the dial, a discreet LED changes color