Purchased this couple of days ago to see if it could improve my Ollo S4X and MY GOD, this is ASTONISHING. Ive been going over my favourite tracks that know are mixed well and lord god jesus christ, what a difference this little device makes. I thought OLLOs were simply amazing (and they are) but this adds just the icing on the cake. Top end clarity, instruments separation (this is really really noticiable), image, the reverb tails...is all amazing. For sure there are better things if you move upstairs into more expensive gear, but this is truly a great tool. Ive been listening to my favourite music non stop since I purchased it and I heard things like nothing before. Really thank you!
I bought this after your recommendation and use it with a presonus studio 24c along with akg701 headphones using your fabfilter eq correction preset, it has improved my monitoring immensely, so thank you so much for your advice!
great review, I have an Apogee Symphony desktop and I was bummed when it couldn't deliver enough power to my new set of Hedd Headphones. After extensive research and this video I purchased the Zen can, it's sounds pretty good with the unbalanced cable but the gain is all the way up to +18db, after watching this video again I purchased the balanced cable (same as yours from Amazon ? lol), the balanced Pentacon cable made such difference, now I have plenty of headroom to power up the Heddphones. thx for this great video
Great enthusiasm and product knowledge! Do some more reviews please. I subscribed after watching this vid from you only. Thank you for no BS and all introspect. Excellent job, really! I also am in the process, right now, of making the purchase to stack with my ZEN DAC. GREAT JOB AGAIN!
MOTU M4 has balanced output with TRS so I think the best option is to use two TRS to one pentacon to connect Motu to Zen. I got MOtu recently and that was my idea to select M4 over M2 because of the extra symetrical output - it is symetrical starting from the DAC
@@ScanProAudioTV That is an incredibly fair assessment and in line with my expectations! With all that being said, thank you for your thorough review and an excellent explanation of headroom!
An observation : When I plug my zen Can into my Zen Dac AIR (via rca cables,) and connect my Beyerdynamic 250 ohms headphones into my Zen Can, I have to choose the 2nd volume level (12db) on the GAIN button of the Zen Can to get a satisfactory sound volume. But when I plug the same headphones into my zen dac AIR (without using the CAN) the sound volume is already very satisfactory by default. Yet my zen dac AIR is powered only by the usb of my MacBook Air M2 (the zen Can is powered by a power adapter). Even if I plug my headphones directly into my macbook (without any external dac and amp), the sound volume is also very sufficient (I don’t need to increase the volume much). A question : with the exception of material (metal instead of plastic), what is the advantage of Zen CAN over the AIR version of the same Zen CAN ? (because the price difference is important).
Fantastic lecture on the benefits of balanced output! Bravo! Every youtube reviewer should listen to this as in their poor knowledge, balanced drive means just little more power, how sad and disappointing. Luckily youtube has you. Thank you.
Seriously man. I so agree with you and this video 100%! People have tried to convince me that balanced was just = gain and I dont need to waste my money on this "marketing gimmick" as a sundara (headphones that I own) sounds so good on normal phones/DAPs . I have come to realise that a good headphone does sound good irrespective of the hardware most of the time, but to find its true potential you need balanced and you need a good amp! Its a pity that people pay $100s for audiophile products but then use them at sub par performance levels. My Sundara sounds amazing on Samsung S8 and direct via the iFI DAC (it even reaches loudness levels on these devices that go beyond what I listen to normally), but the quality of music doesnt even come close to what is when I am listening to it on an amp like Zen Can running balanced. Separation and sound fidelity is very noticeable.
I've been really taking in your advice as I'm considering a mix phone, and I'm thankful for your time and expertise but its a real shame you don't have a video dedicated to the LCD-X. You reference it so much but with no actual video and detailed comparision I feel a little peckish. With such a lavish and detailed review of the HEDDPHONE and lcd -1 and Aeon 2 I would love to know why the lcdx is your headphone of choice and how you incorporate it into your workflow. ie morphit sonarworks canopener etc. Thanks! and happy quarantine mixing!
Yes, we’d recommend using a balanced input cable especially as it’s such a long run, combine one of these adapters with a pair of 10m Stereo Jack to XLR M cables, probably driven by the second set of line outputs. www.scan.co.uk/products/scan-44mm-pentaconn-to-2x-xlr-female-1-metre
@@ScanProAudioTV thank you so much for your reply! The run is so long because my Audio Interface is in a closet with my MacBook to make sure you can’t hear it in the studio. I was hoping to be able to place this on my desk, so the headphone cables can be shorter when tracking and/or producing. So the big question is now: won’t there be any latency in my headphones when tracking and/or producing with this distance? My PMC’s don’t have latency on 15 meters with the same cables.
Hello sir! Thank you for this video! I am just trying to get my first home studio setup going and this are all new to me. I have just got the solid state ssl2 interface and some byerdynamic dt770 250 ohm headphones in the mail. I have been wondering about the necessety of an headphone amp and the ifi zen can seems to be an great option. After watching I also have checked out the Motu M2 and have desided to return the ssl2 and buy a Motu instead. This seems like the best combo, and the Motu also a better interface on its own. My question is if my dt770 headphones will benefit much from the zen can? I dont know if my dt770 are in the same category of headphones you mentioned in the video. Or if they are in another category wich the Motu M2 will be able to drive just vell on their own? Any opinions on this would be much appreciated! Have a great day!
If we use this iFi zen Air CAN, BUT without adding a DAC, with the hope of improving the sound of our headphones (in my case the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X), is it worth it? For example, increase the subbass. I read somewhere that this amplifier contained himself a DAC, is that true ? Is it better to have the iFi Zen AIR Dac which sells for exactly the same price and which is him also made of plastic ? Does this amplifier iFi zen AirCAN convert digital to analog as do other iFi Zen models ? I specify that I only use my headphones with my MacBook Air M2 whose jack input is already designed to be compatible with high impedance headphones. Anyway, the DT 900 Pro X have an impedance of only 48 ohms.
Hello mate. Love the video. I just bought some Beyerdynamic 990 pros (250 ohms) and I’m finding my Focusrite Scarlet 4i4 doesn’t have the juice to power them. They sound ok, but a bit low. Can I connect the Zen to the Scarlet and the headphones and if so, what cable do I need (in stereo if possible). Thanks mate and happy new year!
Exceptional content and very informative. Thanks for taking the time to educate us. I have bought the Ifi Can and use my red dragonfly sticks Dac. They are pushing my Focal Radiance and Elegias very nicely. I’ve downloaded Boom 3D EQ to tune. Would I benefit upgrading to the Motu m2/m4 for dac purposes only or is the red dragonfly good enough? I’m new to the Dac world 😊. Or is there a EQ software you recommend?
Thank you so much for this video! I came across it after finding the ifi Go Link. Do you know if you can use the iFi Go Link in a DAW? Does the DAW recognise it as a driver?
Thanks for this video. Does the CAN only increase power or is it able to add bass, sub-base, etc.? In other words: can it improve the sound (for example make it less flat) or does him ONLY increase power ?
@@ScanProAudioTV hey thanks for replying!! You helped me choose the right Amp💪...By the way, would recommend the IFI Zen DAC version?...It is cheaper than the CAN version 🤔
@@kevinantomusic Although it’s good value, it’s not in the same league as zen can. Try pairing zen can with an audient id14mk2 or a motu m2 , they are both incredible combos for the money.
I just found out that this is just an amp without a DAC so this means that your audio interface DAC will be used to run IFI CAN, correct ? And there is this IFI Zen Dac V2 that is a combo. Do you think this combo would be a better option over the IFI CAN. I am planning on getting one of them but can't decide which one to choose from. I would like to connect it to my Scarlett 6i6 2nd Gen. Would appreciate to have some suggestions.
Outstanding! I just bought one last week. I also ordered a balanced HP cable that I'm waiting on. I'm thinking about adding the Zen Dac but then I saw your idea M4, curious, how much do they cost and is it worth it over the Zen Dac?
You could also try the motu M2 if you can find one, the converter is the same sabre chip used in many top end interfaces, £150-200. It’s worth pairing with a decent dac so you don’t limit the potential of the amp, which in balanced mode is really fantastic.
I've just ordered Zen CAN with my Sundara's. Should I get Zen DAC aswell, leave it as it is, or get something else? Will be using it to connect to my desktop (highend, if that matters). Nice video!
@@ScanProAudioTV I've just ordered one! Not as preety as the CAN/DAC combo.. but with additional mic inputs Motu (as an interface) is way more practical :) Will take your advice for the "stock" cable aswell and let you know how it feels, when I recieve the package. Tnx again
Hello there! Very informative video. Subscribing for sure! I have a bit amateurish question. I own Audient ID14 MKii sound card and iFi Zen Air Dac device. The iFi thingy has only unbalanced RCA output. Is it worthy enough for me to try routing oudio through Audient to Zen Air? Or should I only aim for balanced signal flow? Thank you!
So I got the hip dac/amp and actually like the bass boost for referencing a track as if I’m in a car with a sub. Does a pretty great job at that. I use sennheiser 600s. Thing is I wanted to compare a schiit modi dac with the magni amp to ifi stuff. I feel the bass boost is hard to beat for that low end subbass feel. Would you say the schiit dac in the modi 3 is better than the zen dac? Iv thought about the schiit stuff but I’d like the bass boost and figure maybe a schiit modi dac with a zen can and the bass boost feature would be good. Do you find schiit overall better at the price point? Also are you saying a rme baby face pro connected to my monitors won’t have as good of a sound reproduction as if the speakers were somehow connected to this? This is just an amp and not a dac so that’s confusing, even if it was a dac that would still confuse me lol. Could this in fact be connected to a baby face pro?
I noticed at Scan Pro Audio you do not carry HifiMan headphones. Is there a reason for that? I was recommended by a friend to check out the Sundara headphones and I wondered what you thought of them.
Great balanced review as always! Really enjoying this channel. I'm currently using an Audeze LCD-X with an Allen & Heath Xone 96 as my DAC and amp - would I benefit from the ifi Zen Can at all? Many thanks in advance!
Yes, absolutely! The DAC on the Xone isn’t at all bad, but the headphone amp is absolutely limiting the quality of your Audezes. You should feel everything “de-gluing”, with individual elements having more definition and slightly tighter dynamics, use a balanced 4.4mm cable to the lcd-x and its another level of detail unlocked again.
Many thanks for the quick response! What balanced cable is being used in the video? Do you guys have any recommendations regarding balanced cables for the LCD - X? Do you sell balanced cables as I don't think I have saw any on your site. Cheers!
Thank you for this video. I have a motu 12A, and I'm looking to up my game with a "straight wire" kind of monitoring/headphone amp. What would you suggest? I was actually looking into the radial mc3, but I don't know how good is the heahpone amp there. I use Sony Mdr and Beyerdynamic 770 80 ohms. Thanks for any help!!!
Okay, rant here, why does your microphone have so much noise? It does hurt my soul that in that video you're using the sm7b on a circuit with that much noise....
Awese video. Do you by any chance have any 600ohm cans to try out the balanced output. Interested if the voltage will be enough for my hd 540 reference gold. Also as im getting slowly into music making/recording is there a interface with sabre 9028pro dac or the sabre 9038pro? Thank you and best regatds Darth
It pushes like 1.6 watts into 32ohm so I’m sure it’ll do 600 ohm just fine. They come close to pushing t50s which is no easy task so it’s say it’ll handle most of what you throw at it.
Would it be worth my while getting these for the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 Ohms - a local dealer recommended the exact same piece. My other option would be to get the Beyer 32 Ohms instead. I have a Focusrite Saffire 2nd Gen and am feeling the exact need for headroom that you mentioned in the video. Do advise. Thanks!
Looking to buy an amp for hifiman sundara and ifi zen dac. Now I'm confused between ifi zen can and schiit magni3+. Should I just get the cheaper magni3+?
Hi, I’m planning to buy this and pair up with my Apollo twin for headphone mixing / monitoring / home mastering. I’m currently using Ollo S4x’ headphones 2.5 mm L R connectors. I’m picking up some verum one’s as I feel they are worth a punt at £258! For planar style hand made headphones. These take 3.5mm L R. My plan is to go out of my Apollo into the zen can via Jack to phono ( are you able to recommend a balanced 4.4mm cable? That would be 1/4’ Jack L R out of my Apollo into the zen can via the balanced 4.4) i can’t seam to find one. Also the plan is to go out of the zen can via the balanced 4.4mm out Into my speakers ( I’m using the ifi 4.4mm to L R male xlr for this ). Does this sound correct? am i connecting it correctly and I’f a L R 1/4 jack to 4.4mm balanced is used from my Apollo Into the z can, will this be the best way to connect to it? Rather than the jack to phono. Many thanks . I hope that makes seance.
Hello Camera Ramblings ! :) I've got the same problem ... How to correctly connect Apollo Twin Duo + Zen + LCDX. For shure I must buy cable 4.4 mm balanced ( but which model will be the best ? What model was presented in this video ? ) If You or anyone have a knowledge about it please help ! Regards !!!
BUT, can it drive the HEDDPhones with only a usb audio interface and the Zen Can? 🤔 not a lot of wattage on that unit. Im sceptical. Please respond if you know. Is it enough amplification for the HEDD?
We would recommend to use the balanced mode for the HEDDphones, which seems to do rather well with them we got a decent volume and some headroom to spare. There's over a Watt per channel in single ended mode for the 42ohm load of the heddphones and about half as much again in balanced mode, plus you get the joy of the high slew rate operation excelling on the transients.
@@INeedsMoneys Half as much again = 1W + 500mw... In the real world, It works out a bit less than double in balanced mode on zen can, somewhere around 1.5WPC from what we can make out.
Thanks for the great review and explanation! I just got a Drop THX-789 and hooked it up to the monitor outs on my Antelope Zen Tour Synergy Core. Although I am noticing a greater soundstage and dynamic capability from my Focal Clear (Pro), there is a noticeable reduction in the low-end slam. Is there something I'm doing wrong? I'm using TRS from the ZTSC into the XLR in on the THX-789. Thanks in advance!!
That does surprise me slightly as I do have an antelope pure 2 (with the same headphone amp circuit) and the thx at home and not noticed the difference with any audezes I’ve got here. I’d definitely try a balanced cable from the thx to the headphones, as it will only improve dynamics due to the doubled slew rate. I think the clear pro uses 3.5mm jack plugs on the cups, so you should be able to find a cable with the 4 pin XLR a pretty easily, I think there’s an ablet one on Amazon for about £35 that’s a cheap (and returnable) way of trying it.
Hello, can you give more Info about Aptx-HD codec tws earbuds please (24-bit Audio resolution)? In the market, most of all earbuds are 16-bit resolution. Do you know any 24-bit model tws earbuds? Many thanks...
We have commissioned our own one now. www.scan.co.uk/products/scan-pro-audio-2-metre-black-braided-balanced-cable-4-4mm-pentaconn-to-dual-mini-xlr-for-audeze-lcd
Zen Can is an analogue amp without DAC, so can’t be directly compared, but it’s substantially higher output, by a factor of between 2 and 10 dependent on headphone impedance, so will have a lot more headroom.
Question? I have Beyer DT770 pro 250 ohm, volume is lower using my UA arrow headphone jack and I turn up more. Forums recommend Schiit Magni 2. Is the ifi zen can as good or a better recommendatio?
Great video! How would you go about pairing this to a Focusrite scarlett 2i2? I'd like to use a set of HD650's together with my 2i2, along with this amp if possible. Any ideas?
@@Mustis1524 yes, you really shouldn't notice any difference with an unbalanced connection, just try and make sure the cable is as short as possible and the PSU is connected to the same power outlet as your computer. Yes, the balanced connection would always be preferable, but as the cables are very hard to come by (and expensive) still, its definitely one to try first that's nice and cheap, just keep the cable short. Sonically, from a 2i2 there won't any noticeable difference as long as you don't have a ground loop with the power connections.
Thanks. I have exacly the same question. I am just struggling with the fact that the jack outputs on my 2i2 are driving my active monitors. Is splitting the output on the 2i2 an option and controling the sound for the monitors on the monitors themselves? Another thing I am wondering about is if one could connect the Zen Can to the headphone output on the 2i2. My mic is mostly not in use and if I should want to monitor the mic input I could then disconnect the Zen Can and connect a headphone directly into the 2i2. BTW I am about to order an couple of 4.4 Pentagon plugs to make the cables myself.
Hello ! That is looking like exactly what I was missing to pair with my LCD-X. However, i'm wondering how to get out of my Rme Fireface UCX to get into this Zen can. You're mentioning to output in line, would that mean I'd just need to find a TRS to pentaconn adapter and let myself be blown away by the sound? Eventually even dance naked to it when my blinders are on?
TRS to pentaconn seem a bit thin on the ground, but you should be able to find pentaconn to Male XLR this week through us, or via the chinese marketplaces, then just use a TRS to XLRF cable to connect. Alternatively, the RCA input is great if you have no ground issues, you'd definitely hear the benefit just from a pair of TS 1/4" to RCA cables for pocket change.
I went to use my zin can the other day and it's not working when I turn it on is all it does is all the lights blink over and over again and won't respond or play music does anyone know what is wrong with it?
one question can I use the zen can and connect it as you say to a Topping D10s DAC with RCA cables and then I want to connect my headphones to the zen can with a balanced cable, will it work? and this zen can give me enough power in volume at 100% to my hifiman he400se with balanced cable? with the configuration I just mentioned.
Yes, balanced input and balanced headphone output are two completely different things, they work independently of each other. You can have balanced headphones and an unbalanced input together. The only difference between balanced and unbalanced input is a slightly lower noise floor, but you probably won’t notice much (if any) difference, unless you have an issue with ground noise on your system.
hi, great review and passion ;-) I am using Sundara with ifi zen DAC on balanced cable. Do you think adding CAN would improve more or DAC is powerful enough so no need for CAN? thank you
@@drnafis I bought CAN - it is ANOTHER level - first: more power, clean power. Second: xbass makes a difference. Third: 3D - in some applications it works wonders. Well spent 120 GBP for CAN. Of course both DAC and CAN connected balanced and Sundara as well. Worth
@@zyghom i just order my CAN. now im using sundara with the zen DAC. So u think the xbass on CAN is better than truebass on DAC? What is the application that work with the 3D mode ? Do tidal works with that ? Thanks for the reply man
@@asture yes. And should i buy zen dac or zencan with zendac or an ifi idsd black label? Or any other options like schiit stacks? Do they pair well with he 4xx?
@@murshid.k7339 zen dac doesnt have enough power for bringing out best of planar headphones like he400. Ifi can is better option, detailed open slightly warm. If you want clinical analytical get schiit magni 3 or jds labs. If you want best of both worlds Arcam rhead. All of them are great choices you cant go wrong.
I want to use it through my smart phone. Can any one suggest me do i need any power adapter? And if is it where can I get it and what is the model? I am from India.
the power adaptor is called ipower. it provides clean power. but you can use any matching cable from matching usb power source. it has seperate power and audio input connectors. 5v 2.5 A. center pin +
going to buy this amp. does anyone know what sampling rate i should choose in windows? 24 bit 48000 or 32 bit 48000? does it even support 32 bit? cant find info on it anywhere
You must always power an amp from line outputs, never a headphone out, you don't want to double amp. As it doesn't have a DAC built in, the SP/Dif wouldn't work.
@@ScanProAudioTV Thank you. Yeah I noticed that it doesnt have a DAC built in after I made the comment. Was just wondering as in the Babyface manual it says that the headphone outs also double up as line outs
how does this compared when im using a steinberg ur22c to power my beyer dt 770 pro 80 ohms? will i hear a difference? Im using it for watching movies/gaming
Yes, ENORMOUSLY (could i make that any bigger?) unfortunately the C series interfaces have an extremely low output circuit. it will be a massive difference. You don't need to drive it very much to be into saturation.
@@ScanProAudioTV heyy man just came back, just wanted to know is there any difference running the zen via usb vs usb + ac in terms of sound quality and performance?
JOnnie Zen Can hasn’t got USB, it’s just analogue ZEN DAC does have USB, but you connect that from another interface (unless you mac an aggregate interface on MacOS)
Absolutely. Drop just released their version (customized for their headphones) of this Zen Dac/Zen CAN combo and it's just that - a Zen DAC and CAN paired as a stack.
Of course I’m always think of the best way to do something, completely forgot that you can of course use a phono cable as well between the two, you even get one in the box with it.
What's the advantage (for regular consumer) of this ifi Zen CAN over ifi Zen DAC? Zen DAC has digital inputs so it's better to use it if you want headphone amp for laptop or phone, right? Zen CAN only amplifies analogue signal that comes out from laptop/phone that usually have poor DAC. In that case Zen DAC is going to have much better sound quality from laptop/phone source, right? Zen DAC has headphone amp built in.
Zen Can's amp circuit is Amazing We think its about 95% + of possible sound quality of any solid state amp. Although Zen DAC also has a fairly good HP amp, its not as good as driving Zen Can from it's line output. Zen DAC's DAC is excellent value, but it's a good DAC chip, not a great DAC chip. iFi's other DAC/AMP's are better quality, as you would expect. So Zen DAC is a GOOD all in one unit for £130 , but Zen Can is a GREAT amp if you already have a great DAC or interface.
@@ScanProAudioTV Do you have information about possible release of separate ifi DAC to go along this CAN similarly like their US Drop exclusive combo for HD6XX headphones? Also they really need to release 4.4mm balanced interconnect cable for these systems.
@@ScanProAudioTV the zen dacs dac is actually really good it just needs to be paired well, zen dac and zen can stack sounds better than schitt stack and jds stack, also jds stack would be better for studio, because its far more flat and accurate, the zen can is coloured
@@heythere6983 Modi midi, I got the JD's atom stack too they are probs better if U want flat and clean but if U want fun and warm or pairing with speakers, use ifi
Doubt it, we've spoken to many of them. RME have one interface (technically a converter) that has a top grade amp, the ADI-2 Pro and one DAC (ADI-2 DAC). SPL have only ever released the Crimson and Creon interfaces, both of which did not feature the powerful phonitor (X,1,2 Mini) circuit, even the new low end phonitor range of controllers and headphone amps lack the power for the likes of LCD-4 or Heddphones.
Are there any options for DAC and Headphone amp combinations? I'd like to have everything in the same unit. Doesn't even need speaker outputs. So a headphone amp that directly goes to the computer
@@shoot2ill zen Dac? It’s an much inferior amp circuit to zen can and whilst the dac is okay for the money, it’s way off the units I mentioned. It’s actually value for a £130 unit, but it’s not close to the units I mentioned. Zen can + Audient ID4 mk2 / motu m2 - now that’s a killer combo for a bargain price.
Purchased this couple of days ago to see if it could improve my Ollo S4X and MY GOD, this is ASTONISHING. Ive been going over my favourite tracks that know are mixed well and lord god jesus christ, what a difference this little device makes. I thought OLLOs were simply amazing (and they are) but this adds just the icing on the cake. Top end clarity, instruments separation (this is really really noticiable), image, the reverb tails...is all amazing. For sure there are better things if you move upstairs into more expensive gear, but this is truly a great tool. Ive been listening to my favourite music non stop since I purchased it and I heard things like nothing before. Really thank you!
I bought this after your recommendation and use it with a presonus studio 24c along with akg701 headphones using your fabfilter eq correction preset, it has improved my monitoring immensely, so thank you so much for your advice!
The moral of the story is that audio interfaces and mixers usually don't have a very good headphone amplifier built into them.
Could you please share the make and model of the cable going to the LCDX? Also would SPL Monitor one D or Marc one generate better results? Thank you
great review, I have an Apogee Symphony desktop and I was bummed when it couldn't deliver enough power to my new set of Hedd Headphones. After extensive research and this video I purchased the Zen can, it's sounds pretty good with the unbalanced cable but the gain is all the way up to +18db, after watching this video again I purchased the balanced cable (same as yours from Amazon ? lol), the balanced Pentacon cable made such difference, now I have plenty of headroom to power up the Heddphones. thx for this great video
Thanks! Great, entertaining and informative! All the best for 2022!
You just made my day! Thank you so much!
Great enthusiasm and product knowledge! Do some more reviews please. I subscribed after watching this vid from you only. Thank you for no BS and all introspect. Excellent job, really! I also am in the process, right now, of making the purchase to stack with my ZEN DAC. GREAT JOB AGAIN!
MOTU M4 has balanced output with TRS so I think the best option is to use two TRS to one pentacon to connect Motu to Zen. I got MOtu recently and that was my idea to select M4 over M2 because of the extra symetrical output - it is symetrical starting from the DAC
Do you have any suggestions for such a cable?
When can you have a follow up for 2022 ? This seems to be out of market now
just ordered one. my first proper headphone amp
In all honesty, it might well do you for a fair few years unless you get something incredibly demanding.
@@ScanProAudioTV That is an incredibly fair assessment and in line with my expectations! With all that being said, thank you for your thorough review and an excellent explanation of headroom!
An observation :
When I plug my zen Can into my Zen Dac AIR (via rca cables,) and connect my Beyerdynamic 250 ohms headphones into my Zen Can, I have to choose the 2nd volume level (12db) on the GAIN button of the Zen Can to get a satisfactory sound volume. But when I plug the same headphones into my zen dac AIR (without using the CAN) the sound volume is already very satisfactory by default. Yet my zen dac AIR is powered only by the usb of my MacBook Air M2 (the zen Can is powered by a power adapter). Even if I plug my headphones directly into my macbook (without any external dac and amp), the sound volume is also very sufficient (I don’t need to increase the volume much).
A question : with the exception of material (metal instead of plastic), what is the advantage of Zen CAN over the AIR version of the same Zen CAN ? (because the price difference is important).
Great video, very very well exsplained and sold me on the Zen Can.
I will go for this one. thank you very much for this vid :)
Great review - I'm going to buy one ! thanks man.
Bang on review, thanks. Keep em comin
Fantastic lecture on the benefits of balanced output! Bravo! Every youtube reviewer should listen to this as in their poor knowledge, balanced drive means just little more power, how sad and disappointing. Luckily youtube has you. Thank you.
Seriously man. I so agree with you and this video 100%! People have tried to convince me that balanced was just = gain and I dont need to waste my money on this "marketing gimmick" as a sundara (headphones that I own) sounds so good on normal phones/DAPs . I have come to realise that a good headphone does sound good irrespective of the hardware most of the time, but to find its true potential you need balanced and you need a good amp! Its a pity that people pay $100s for audiophile products but then use them at sub par performance levels. My Sundara sounds amazing on Samsung S8 and direct via the iFI DAC (it even reaches loudness levels on these devices that go beyond what I listen to normally), but the quality of music doesnt even come close to what is when I am listening to it on an amp like Zen Can running balanced. Separation and sound fidelity is very noticeable.
@@AuH78 thx
can I use iFi Zen Can with computer please ?????
I've been really taking in your advice as I'm considering a mix phone,
and I'm thankful for your time and expertise but its a real shame you
don't have a video dedicated to the LCD-X. You reference it so much but
with no actual video and detailed comparision I feel a little peckish.
With such a lavish and detailed review of the HEDDPHONE and lcd -1 and
Aeon 2 I would love to know why the lcdx is your headphone of choice and
how you incorporate it into your workflow. ie morphit sonarworks
canopener etc. Thanks! and happy quarantine mixing!
Next video is actually “Which Audeze for the studio?” :-)
@@ScanProAudioTV *is genuinely excited*
Could you please answer the following questions:
1: Can I connect this to a Apollo twin x quad?
2: Can I do this with 10 meter long cables?
Yes, we’d recommend using a balanced input cable especially as it’s such a long run, combine one of these adapters with a pair of 10m Stereo Jack to XLR M cables, probably driven by the second set of line outputs.
www.scan.co.uk/products/scan-44mm-pentaconn-to-2x-xlr-female-1-metre
@@ScanProAudioTV thank you so much for your reply! The run is so long because my Audio Interface is in a closet with my MacBook to make sure you can’t hear it in the studio.
I was hoping to be able to place this on my desk, so the headphone cables can be shorter when tracking and/or producing. So the big question is now: won’t there be any latency in my headphones when tracking and/or producing with this distance? My PMC’s don’t have latency on 15 meters with the same cables.
Hi, can you recommend any portable dac/amp for mixing? Thanks
is it good for gaming? to increase soundstage for fps game cs go.
connection via 3.5to3.5 mm cable.
Yes, especially the pubg akm gun sound so Explosive from my Sony 1Am2 headphone.
Hello sir! Thank you for this video!
I am just trying to get my first home studio setup going and this are all new to me. I have just got the solid state ssl2 interface and some byerdynamic dt770 250 ohm headphones in the mail. I have been wondering about the necessety of an headphone amp and the ifi zen can seems to be an great option. After watching I also have checked out the Motu M2 and have desided to return the ssl2 and buy a Motu instead. This seems like the best combo, and the Motu also a better interface on its own. My question is if my dt770 headphones will benefit much from the zen can? I dont know if my dt770 are in the same category of headphones you mentioned in the video. Or if they are in another category wich the Motu M2 will be able to drive just vell on their own?
Any opinions on this would be much appreciated!
Have a great day!
If we use this iFi zen Air CAN, BUT without adding a DAC, with the hope of improving the sound of our headphones (in my case the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X), is it worth it? For example, increase the subbass. I read somewhere that this amplifier contained himself a DAC, is that true ? Is it better to have the iFi Zen AIR Dac which sells for exactly the same price and which is him also made of plastic ? Does this amplifier iFi zen AirCAN convert digital to analog as do other iFi Zen models ? I specify that I only use my headphones with my MacBook Air M2 whose jack input is already designed to be compatible with high impedance headphones. Anyway, the DT 900 Pro X have an impedance of only 48 ohms.
Why do I keep seeing two DAC's stacked together, I thought you only needed one?
Hello mate. Love the video. I just bought some Beyerdynamic 990 pros (250 ohms) and I’m finding my Focusrite Scarlet 4i4 doesn’t have the juice to power them. They sound ok, but a bit low. Can I connect the Zen to the Scarlet and the headphones and if so, what cable do I need (in stereo if possible). Thanks mate and happy new year!
Exceptional content and very informative. Thanks for taking the time to educate us. I have bought the Ifi Can and use my red dragonfly sticks Dac. They are pushing my Focal Radiance and Elegias very nicely. I’ve downloaded Boom 3D EQ to tune. Would I benefit upgrading to the Motu m2/m4 for dac purposes only or is the red dragonfly good enough? I’m new to the Dac world 😊. Or is there a EQ software you recommend?
Thank you so much for this video! I came across it after finding the ifi Go Link. Do you know if you can use the iFi Go Link in a DAW? Does the DAW recognise it as a driver?
Thanks for this video. Does the CAN only increase power or is it able to add bass, sub-base, etc.? In other words: can it improve the sound (for example make it less flat) or does him ONLY increase power ?
Good for 250ohm headphones? 🤔
Yes, it’s great with even the hardest to drive headphones, 250 ohm is a walk in the park for it.
@@ScanProAudioTV hey thanks for replying!! You helped me choose the right Amp💪...By the way, would recommend the IFI Zen DAC version?...It is cheaper than the CAN version 🤔
@@kevinantomusic
Although it’s good value, it’s not in the same league as zen can.
Try pairing zen can with an audient id14mk2 or a motu m2 , they are both incredible combos for the money.
Hey, thanks for the video. Do you also recommend the Zen Air Can for mixing with S5X / Neumann NDH30?
I just found out that this is just an amp without a DAC so this means that your audio interface DAC will be used to run IFI CAN, correct ?
And there is this IFI Zen Dac V2 that is a combo. Do you think this combo would be a better option over the IFI CAN. I am planning on getting one of them but can't decide which one to choose from. I would like to connect it to my Scarlett 6i6 2nd Gen. Would appreciate to have some suggestions.
How is the Focusrite 2i2 (gen3) for this purpose?
Outstanding! I just bought one last week. I also ordered a balanced HP cable that I'm waiting on.
I'm thinking about adding the Zen Dac but then I saw your idea M4, curious, how much do they cost and is it worth it over the Zen Dac?
You could also try the motu M2 if you can find one, the converter is the same sabre chip used in many top end interfaces, £150-200.
It’s worth pairing with a decent dac so you don’t limit the potential of the amp, which in balanced mode is really fantastic.
@@ScanProAudioTV Great, thanks very much I'll look into that :-)
I've just ordered Zen CAN with my Sundara's.
Should I get Zen DAC aswell, leave it as it is, or get something else?
Will be using it to connect to my desktop (highend, if that matters).
Nice video!
We're massive fan on the MOTU M2 with it's sabre DAC chip to pair up with the Zen Can.
@@ScanProAudioTV Tnx man. Appreciate it :)
Than all I need is to find an inexpensive balanced cable (in EU) for the setup and I am set
@@aljaztrdina142 ...if you need to... We've got it wired here on phonos and on balanced connection and honestly struggle to tell the difference.
@@ScanProAudioTV I've just ordered one! Not as preety as the CAN/DAC combo.. but with additional mic inputs Motu (as an interface) is way more practical :)
Will take your advice for the "stock" cable aswell and let you know how it feels, when I recieve the package. Tnx again
Would this pair well with Zen Dac V2? Thanks
Hello there! Very informative video. Subscribing for sure! I have a bit amateurish question. I own Audient ID14 MKii sound card and iFi Zen Air Dac device. The iFi thingy has only unbalanced RCA output. Is it worthy enough for me to try routing oudio through Audient to Zen Air? Or should I only aim for balanced signal flow? Thank you!
So I got the hip dac/amp and actually like the bass boost for referencing a track as if I’m in a car with a sub. Does a pretty great job at that. I use sennheiser 600s.
Thing is I wanted to compare a schiit modi dac with the magni amp to ifi stuff. I feel the bass boost is hard to beat for that low end subbass feel.
Would you say the schiit dac in the modi 3 is better than the zen dac? Iv thought about the schiit stuff but I’d like the bass boost and figure maybe a schiit modi dac with a zen can and the bass boost feature would be good.
Do you find schiit overall better at the price point? Also are you saying a rme baby face pro connected to my monitors won’t have as good of a sound reproduction as if the speakers were somehow connected to this? This is just an amp and not a dac so that’s confusing, even if it was a dac that would still confuse me lol.
Could this in fact be connected to a baby face pro?
I noticed at Scan Pro Audio you do not carry HifiMan headphones. Is there a reason for that? I was recommended by a friend to check out the Sundara headphones and I wondered what you thought of them.
Great balanced review as always! Really enjoying this channel. I'm currently using an Audeze LCD-X with an Allen & Heath Xone 96 as my DAC and amp - would I benefit from the ifi Zen Can at all? Many thanks in advance!
Yes, absolutely! The DAC on the Xone isn’t at all bad, but the headphone amp is absolutely limiting the quality of your Audezes. You should feel everything “de-gluing”, with individual elements having more definition and slightly tighter dynamics, use a balanced 4.4mm cable to the lcd-x and its another level of detail unlocked again.
Many thanks for the quick response! What balanced cable is being used in the video? Do you guys have any recommendations regarding balanced cables for the LCD - X? Do you sell balanced cables as I don't think I have saw any on your site. Cheers!
@@davebbeats
We’re still waiting for our custom cables to arrive, but this is the one I used in the video.
www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07MLYQF1V
@@ScanProAudioTV Thanks Tom. Very much appreciated. Buying both this weekend, can't wait to try the ifi Can, excellent reviews across the board.
Which cable do i need to connec it to apollo twin x?
Thank you for this video. I have a motu 12A, and I'm looking to up my game with a "straight wire" kind of monitoring/headphone amp. What would you suggest? I was actually looking into the radial mc3, but I don't know how good is the heahpone amp there. I use Sony Mdr and Beyerdynamic 770 80 ohms. Thanks for any help!!!
Hi. Could you please explain on what level the zen can operates in balanced mode? Is it +4db or -10? Thank you.
Hi, what about to use motu m4 with ifi zen dac v2?
Okay, rant here, why does your microphone have so much noise? It does hurt my soul that in that video you're using the sm7b on a circuit with that much noise....
How the heck I hook my phone to the amp to hear music, surprisingly no mention on audio connection sample, phone or mp3 ,? Nothing
Awese video. Do you by any chance have any 600ohm cans to try out the balanced output. Interested if the voltage will be enough for my hd 540 reference gold.
Also as im getting slowly into music making/recording is there a interface with sabre 9028pro dac or the sabre 9038pro?
Thank you and best regatds Darth
It pushes like 1.6 watts into 32ohm so I’m sure it’ll do 600 ohm just fine. They come close to pushing t50s which is no easy task so it’s say it’ll handle most of what you throw at it.
Why are you talking headphones rather than speakers?
Do you need an interface to mix? I mean can I use my ifi zen dac v2 with my amp connected to mix?
I have the zen DAC v2 would it be worth adding the zen can ?
Did you ever try the Zen Dac?
Would it be worth my while getting these for the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 Ohms - a local dealer recommended the exact same piece. My other option would be to get the Beyer 32 Ohms instead. I have a Focusrite Saffire 2nd Gen and am feeling the exact need for headroom that you mentioned in the video. Do advise. Thanks!
Looking to buy an amp for hifiman sundara and ifi zen dac. Now I'm confused between ifi zen can and schiit magni3+. Should I just get the cheaper magni3+?
Can you only take advantage of the balanced output if the Zen Can is being fed a balanced input?
No, you just need a balanced output cable, this can be fed by rca or pentaconn.
So, do I need a Zen Dac 2 or Zen Can?
Just the Ifi audio zen dac 2 it's ok ?
Hi, I’m planning to buy this and pair up with my Apollo twin for headphone mixing / monitoring / home mastering. I’m currently using Ollo S4x’ headphones 2.5 mm L R connectors. I’m picking up some verum one’s as I feel they are worth a punt at £258! For planar style hand made headphones. These take 3.5mm L R. My plan is to go out of my Apollo into the zen can via Jack to phono ( are you able to recommend a balanced 4.4mm cable? That would be 1/4’ Jack L R out of my Apollo into the zen can via the balanced 4.4) i can’t seam to find one. Also the plan is to go out of the zen can via the balanced 4.4mm out Into my speakers ( I’m using the ifi 4.4mm to L R male xlr for this ). Does this sound correct? am i connecting it correctly and I’f a L R 1/4 jack to 4.4mm balanced is used from my Apollo Into the z can, will this be the best way to connect to it? Rather than the jack to phono. Many thanks . I hope that makes seance.
Hello Camera Ramblings ! :) I've got the same problem ... How to correctly connect Apollo Twin Duo + Zen + LCDX. For shure I must buy cable 4.4 mm balanced ( but which model will be the best ? What model was presented in this video ? ) If You or anyone have a knowledge about it please help ! Regards !!!
BUT, can it drive the HEDDPhones with only a usb audio interface and the Zen Can? 🤔 not a lot of wattage on that unit. Im sceptical. Please respond if you know. Is it enough amplification for the HEDD?
We would recommend to use the balanced mode for the HEDDphones, which seems to do rather well with them we got a decent volume and some headroom to spare.
There's over a Watt per channel in single ended mode for the 42ohm load of the heddphones and about half as much again in balanced mode, plus you get the joy of the high slew rate operation excelling on the transients.
Scan Pro Audio thanks for the reply, you mean you get double the wattage with the pentaconn balanced output? Not half as you said, or am I confused? 🙃
@@INeedsMoneys Half as much again = 1W + 500mw... In the real world, It works out a bit less than double in balanced mode on zen can, somewhere around 1.5WPC from what we can make out.
Scan Pro Audio thats quite incredible if it’s clean gain. I guess I won’t have to buy me a Phonitor for $1700 then. Will definitely try the CAN first
Thanks for the great review and explanation!
I just got a Drop THX-789 and hooked it up to the monitor outs on my Antelope Zen Tour Synergy Core. Although I am noticing a greater soundstage and dynamic capability from my Focal Clear (Pro), there is a noticeable reduction in the low-end slam.
Is there something I'm doing wrong? I'm using TRS from the ZTSC into the XLR in on the THX-789.
Thanks in advance!!
That does surprise me slightly as I do have an antelope pure 2 (with the same headphone amp circuit) and the thx at home and not noticed the difference with any audezes I’ve got here.
I’d definitely try a balanced cable from the thx to the headphones, as it will only improve dynamics due to the doubled slew rate. I think the clear pro uses 3.5mm jack plugs on the cups, so you should be able to find a cable with the 4 pin XLR a pretty easily, I think there’s an ablet one on Amazon for about £35 that’s a cheap (and returnable) way of trying it.
@@ScanProAudioTV Thank you! I'll give that a go and see if it makes a difference :)
Will these drive the HiFiman Aryas with 94 dB sensitivity?
Hello, can you give more Info about Aptx-HD codec tws earbuds please (24-bit Audio resolution)? In the market, most of all earbuds are 16-bit resolution.
Do you know any 24-bit model tws earbuds? Many thanks...
were can I buy the balanced cable for the Audeze LCD-X. their hard to find here in Europe.
We have commissioned our own one now.
www.scan.co.uk/products/scan-pro-audio-2-metre-black-braided-balanced-cable-4-4mm-pentaconn-to-dual-mini-xlr-for-audeze-lcd
This seems to be discontinued 😢
I wonder if this is better than my Leckerton audio pre/dac?
Zen Can is an analogue amp without DAC, so can’t be directly compared, but it’s substantially higher output, by a factor of between 2 and 10 dependent on headphone impedance, so will have a lot more headroom.
How do I connect the dac to my workstation.? While using a sound card UA Apollo twin in my case already connected to my daw.?
There’s no dac, just use the second set of line outputs from the twin.
Question? I have Beyer DT770 pro 250 ohm, volume is lower using my UA arrow headphone jack and I turn up more. Forums recommend Schiit Magni 2. Is the ifi zen can as good or a better recommendatio?
It's more than powerful enough to run 250 ohm beyers. My DT1990 usually sits between 10-12 O clock on the second gain setting.
This or an topping l50? Any thoughts anybody?
Great video! How would you go about pairing this to a Focusrite scarlett 2i2? I'd like to use a set of HD650's together with my 2i2, along with this amp if possible. Any ideas?
We’d recommend a jack to phono cable from line outs on the focusrite to the phono in on the ifi, as the balanced cables are still hard to come by.
@@ScanProAudioTV Thank you! Just to clarify, you're suggesting I use two unbalanced TRS to RCA cables?
@@Mustis1524 yes, you really shouldn't notice any difference with an unbalanced connection, just try and make sure the cable is as short as possible and the PSU is connected to the same power outlet as your computer. Yes, the balanced connection would always be preferable, but as the cables are very hard to come by (and expensive) still, its definitely one to try first that's nice and cheap, just keep the cable short. Sonically, from a 2i2 there won't any noticeable difference as long as you don't have a ground loop with the power connections.
@@ScanProAudioTV Thank you very much, highly appreciated!
Thanks. I have exacly the same question. I am just struggling with the fact that the jack outputs on my 2i2 are driving my active monitors. Is splitting the output on the 2i2 an option and controling the sound for the monitors on the monitors themselves? Another thing I am wondering about is if one could connect the Zen Can to the headphone output on the 2i2. My mic is mostly not in use and if I should want to monitor the mic input I could then disconnect the Zen Can and connect a headphone directly into the 2i2. BTW I am about to order an couple of 4.4 Pentagon plugs to make the cables myself.
Yeah Topping 30 amp or Sabaj A10h all the way, more accurate and less coloured output.
Hello ! That is looking like exactly what I was missing to pair with my LCD-X. However, i'm wondering how to get out of my Rme Fireface UCX to get into this Zen can. You're mentioning to output in line, would that mean I'd just need to find a TRS to pentaconn adapter and let myself be blown away by the sound? Eventually even dance naked to it when my blinders are on?
TRS to pentaconn seem a bit thin on the ground, but you should be able to find pentaconn to Male XLR this week through us, or via the chinese marketplaces, then just use a TRS to XLRF cable to connect. Alternatively, the RCA input is great if you have no ground issues, you'd definitely hear the benefit just from a pair of TS 1/4" to RCA cables for pocket change.
@@ScanProAudioTV Thanks a mil! When you say ground issue, I do have one so I'll go for XLR :-)
I went to use my zin can the other day and it's not working when I turn it on is all it does is all the lights blink over and over again and won't respond or play music does anyone know what is wrong with it?
Can anyone confirm the polarity of the powersupply 5v
one question can I use the zen can and connect it as you say to a Topping D10s DAC with RCA cables and then I want to connect my headphones to the zen can with a balanced cable, will it work? and this zen can give me enough power in volume at 100% to my hifiman he400se with balanced cable? with the configuration I just mentioned.
yes, totally. balanced input and balanced headphone output are two different things and work independently.
is it true that some struggling to drive HD650 with this iFi Zen Can ?
Unless they are trying to replicate the volume of a plane taking off at a meter, then no.
With RCA connection source from the dac to ZenCan, do you still get the true full balanced output to your headphone?
Yes, balanced input and balanced headphone output are two completely different things, they work independently of each other. You can have balanced headphones and an unbalanced input together.
The only difference between balanced and unbalanced input is a slightly lower noise floor, but you probably won’t notice much (if any) difference, unless you have an issue with ground noise on your system.
@@ScanProAudioTV
Thanks for the information.
👍👍👍
hi, great review and passion ;-) I am using Sundara with ifi zen DAC on balanced cable. Do you think adding CAN would improve more or DAC is powerful enough so no need for CAN? thank you
I got the same question
@@drnafis I bought CAN - it is ANOTHER level - first: more power, clean power. Second: xbass makes a difference. Third: 3D - in some applications it works wonders. Well spent 120 GBP for CAN. Of course both DAC and CAN connected balanced and Sundara as well. Worth
@@zyghom i just order my CAN. now im using sundara with the zen DAC. So u think the xbass on CAN is better than truebass on DAC? What is the application that work with the 3D mode ? Do tidal works with that ? Thanks for the reply man
@@drnafis I meant: some songs work better with 3D some not.
I use Tidal only. The highest subscription.
@@drnafis invest in 2 cabls: balanced between DAC CAN and balanced for Sundara. It makes superb difference
I have a pair of LCD-2, would you recommend the Can for powering them?
Absolutely, works really well. Get a balanced headphone cable if you can.
@@ScanProAudioTV awesome thx for the help ! Saw Custom Cans sells the 4.4 trrrs cables, gonna order from them :)
Is this good for he4xx? Or should i go for zen dac?
If both of these are not a good choice then wjat is good for he4xx. In a budget.?
@@asture yes. And should i buy zen dac or zencan with zendac or an ifi idsd black label? Or any other options like schiit stacks?
Do they pair well with he 4xx?
@@murshid.k7339 zen dac doesnt have enough power for bringing out best of planar headphones like he400. Ifi can is better option, detailed open slightly warm. If you want clinical analytical get schiit magni 3 or jds labs. If you want best of both worlds Arcam rhead. All of them are great choices you cant go wrong.
I want to use it through my smart phone. Can any one suggest me do i need any power adapter?
And if is it where can I get it and what is the model?
I am from India.
If you want a more portable amplifier I'd suggest a FiiO Q3.
the power adaptor is called ipower. it provides clean power. but you can use any matching cable from matching usb power source. it has seperate power and audio input connectors. 5v 2.5 A. center pin +
going to buy this amp. does anyone know what sampling rate i should choose in windows? 24 bit 48000 or 32 bit 48000? does it even support 32 bit? cant find info on it anywhere
That’s because it is analogue, it has no digital connection.
@@ScanProAudioTV so can i choose sampling rate in windows or does it choose by itself ? should i run it at 24 bit 48000 kr 32 bit 48000 ?
How would I pair one of these with an RME Babyface? Just via the headphone out, or spdif?
You must always power an amp from line outputs, never a headphone out, you don't want to double amp. As it doesn't have a DAC built in, the SP/Dif wouldn't work.
@@ScanProAudioTV Thank you. Yeah I noticed that it doesnt have a DAC built in after I made the comment. Was just wondering as in the Babyface manual it says that the headphone outs also double up as line outs
@@ScanProAudioTV So XLR out on the RME Babyface Pro to RCA in on the iFi Zen Can?
Is it battery powered ?
No, its a 5v PSU
how does this compared when im using a steinberg ur22c to power my beyer dt 770 pro 80 ohms? will i hear a difference? Im using it for watching movies/gaming
Yes, ENORMOUSLY (could i make that any bigger?) unfortunately the C series interfaces have an extremely low output circuit. it will be a massive difference. You don't need to drive it very much to be into saturation.
@@ScanProAudioTV i see! thankss will check it out!
@@ScanProAudioTV heyy man just came back, just wanted to know is there any difference running the zen via usb vs usb + ac in terms of sound quality and performance?
JOnnie
Zen Can hasn’t got USB, it’s just analogue
ZEN DAC does have USB, but you connect that from another interface (unless you mac an aggregate interface on MacOS)
@@ScanProAudioTV ahh damn, ,i was excited to get the zan can, will the zen dac be sufficient for my use if i wanna get a 250ohms headphone?
Could you pair this with the Zen Dac?
Absolutely. Drop just released their version (customized for their headphones) of this Zen Dac/Zen CAN combo and it's just that - a Zen DAC and CAN paired as a stack.
Yes, you just need a 4.4mm to 4.4mm cable which admittedly are a little hard to come by at the minute.
@@ScanProAudioTV Don't I know it. Spent way too much time trying to find one online.
I’ve just commissioned some, but will be at least 2-3 weeks.
Of course I’m always think of the best way to do something, completely forgot that you can of course use a phono cable as well between the two, you even get one in the box with it.
its impossible to find any balanced wiring.
Ifi make a balanced cable for 4.4 pentaconn connections both ends.
What's the advantage (for regular consumer) of this ifi Zen CAN over ifi Zen DAC?
Zen DAC has digital inputs so it's better to use it if you want headphone amp for laptop or phone, right?
Zen CAN only amplifies analogue signal that comes out from laptop/phone that usually have poor DAC.
In that case Zen DAC is going to have much better sound quality from laptop/phone source, right? Zen DAC has headphone amp built in.
Zen Can's amp circuit is Amazing We think its about 95% + of possible sound quality of any solid state amp.
Although Zen DAC also has a fairly good HP amp, its not as good as driving Zen Can from it's line output.
Zen DAC's DAC is excellent value, but it's a good DAC chip, not a great DAC chip. iFi's other DAC/AMP's are better quality, as you would expect.
So Zen DAC is a GOOD all in one unit for £130 , but Zen Can is a GREAT amp if you already have a great DAC or interface.
@@ScanProAudioTV Do you have information about possible release of separate ifi DAC to go along this CAN similarly like their US Drop exclusive combo for HD6XX headphones?
Also they really need to release 4.4mm balanced interconnect cable for these systems.
@@ScanProAudioTV the zen dacs dac is actually really good it just needs to be paired well, zen dac and zen can stack sounds better than schitt stack and jds stack, also jds stack would be better for studio, because its far more flat and accurate, the zen can is coloured
What schiit stack are you comparing it to? Iv never heard someone say that before and it’s something I’m wondering
@@heythere6983 Modi midi, I got the JD's atom stack too they are probs better if U want flat and clean but if U want fun and warm or pairing with speakers, use ifi
Why do I feel there are quite a few RME and SPL engineers with that "wtf are you going on about idiot" look on their face?
Doubt it, we've spoken to many of them.
RME have one interface (technically a converter) that has a top grade amp, the ADI-2 Pro and one DAC (ADI-2 DAC).
SPL have only ever released the Crimson and Creon interfaces, both of which did not feature the powerful phonitor (X,1,2 Mini) circuit, even the new low end phonitor range of controllers and headphone amps lack the power for the likes of LCD-4 or Heddphones.
Your voice needs a bit of a deeper tone...
Are there any options for DAC and Headphone amp combinations? I'd like to have everything in the same unit. Doesn't even need speaker outputs. So a headphone amp that directly goes to the computer
Ifi Neo IDSD / RME ADI-2 DAC have both got excellent dac and amp circuits.
@@ScanProAudioTV I just found the zen in a usb option!
@@shoot2ill zen Dac?
It’s an much inferior amp circuit to zen can and whilst the dac is okay for the money, it’s way off the units I mentioned.
It’s actually value for a £130 unit, but it’s not close to the units I mentioned.
Zen can + Audient ID4 mk2 / motu m2 - now that’s a killer combo for a bargain price.
Can i use this with my interfac m audio 2x2? What cables do i need for connect to my interface, you recommend passing to the motu?