iFi Audio, a company well-regarded for its portable audio solutions, has introduced the GO Link Max, a compact DAC designed for on-the-go listening. Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the GO Link, this upgraded device offers increased output power, balanced audio connectivity, and features aimed at delivering a cleaner and more immersive listening experience.

The GO Link Max maintains the portability of the original GO Link but adds substantial upgrades in performance. With 241mW of output power at 32 ohms, it delivers nearly five times the power of a MacBook Pro’s built-in headphone output. This improvement ensures the device can drive demanding headphones with ease, making it a versatile choice for audiophiles using larger, power-hungry headphone models.

One of the key highlights of the GO Link Max is its balanced audio design, incorporating a dual ES9219 DAC setup. This configuration physically and audibly separates the left and right audio channels, achieving greater channel separation at over 118 dB. The result is a more spacious and immersive soundstage, with minimal interference or distortion.

In addition to the 4.4mm balanced headphone output, which caters to listeners seeking precise, distortion-free audio, the GO Link Max includes a feature called "S-Balanced" connectivity. This allows the 3.5mm single-ended headphone output to simulate the benefits of balanced audio, reducing distortion and improving channel separation even for headphones without balanced wiring.

The GO Link Max introduces several refinements aimed at improving sound quality. Its THD Compensation technology minimizes harmonic distortion, ensuring a cleaner and purer representation of audio. Additionally, the Dynamic Range Enhancement (DRE) expands the gap between the loudest and quietest parts of a track, offering listeners a more dynamic and engaging experience.

For digital audio enthusiasts, the device supports high-resolution audio formats such as PCM up to 384kHz and DSD256, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of lossless music files. The inclusion of Jitter Elimination technology further ensures precise timing in audio playback, reducing digital noise and improving overall clarity.

In terms of build, the GO Link Max features a durable silver-plated copper cable with a helix design that minimizes interference and digital noise. The compact design, similar to its predecessor, ensures portability without sacrificing durability.

Unlike many competitors, the GO Link Max incorporates hardware-based volume control. This feature allows users to adjust volume levels without degrading sound quality—a common issue with software-based volume adjustments.

The iFi GO Link Max is available now for $79 through iFi Audio’s website and select retailers, including Amazon.