With the release of the iFi iDSD Valkyrie, audiophiles are eager to see how it compares to its predecessor, the iFi xDSD Gryphon. How does it sound? What features set it apart? Most importantly, is it worth upgrading? This comparison breaks down their design, features, and performance to help you decide.
What’s in the Box?
| Item | iDSD Valkyrie ($1,699) | xDSD Gryphon ($599) |
|---|---|---|
| Power Supply | iPower Power Supply | None |
| Cables | USB-C to USB-B, USB OTG, USB-C to USB-A, DC to USB-C, Toslink Optical Adapter | USB OTG, USB-C to USB-A, USB-C to Lightning |
| Carrying Case | Custom Travel Case | Felt Travel Pouch |
| Additional Packaging | Nordic Engraved Presentation Box | Standard |
Design & Build Quality
Both devices feature sleek, premium designs, but their form factors differ significantly:
- xDSD Gryphon: Compact and lightweight, roughly phone-sized. Available in grey or stainless steel.
- iDSD Valkyrie: Larger and heavier with a gold-accented aesthetic, a bigger screen, and a more robust chassis.
While both are marketed as portable, the Gryphon is truly portable, fitting easily into a pocket. The Valkyrie is more “transportable”, suited for stationary setups or convention travel rather than everyday commuting.
Connectivity
Both models share core connectivity options, including:
- Headphone Outputs: 3.5mm unbalanced, 4.4mm balanced
- Line Outputs: 3.5mm, 4.4mm (Valkyrie adds RCA outputs)
- Bluetooth: Gryphon (5.1), Valkyrie (5.4 with aptX Lossless support)
- USB: USB-C for digital input
- Additional Feature: Valkyrie supports xMEMS technology, enhancing clarity across the frequency range.
Features
While the Gryphon remains a strong contender in its price range, the Valkyrie expands upon its foundation with notable enhancements:
Filters
- Gryphon: Three digital filters (Standard, GTO, Bit Perfect) + two analog filters (XSpace, XBass II)
- Valkyrie: Six digital filters (adds Minimum Phase, Transient Aligned, Apodising) + XPresence for midrange boost
Power & Gain
- Gryphon: 1,000mW output power, fixed gain level
- Valkyrie: 2,258mW output power, three gain levels for better adaptability with demanding headphones
Battery Life
- Gryphon: 10-hour playback
- Valkyrie: 18-hour playback, quick charging, and direct power operation via iPowerX
Technical Specifications
| Spec | iDSD Valkyrie ($1,699) | xDSD Gryphon ($599) |
| Output Power | 2,258mW | 1,000mW |
| DAC Stage | 4x Interleaved DSD1793 | 1x DSD1793 |
| Bluetooth | BT 5.4, aptX Lossless | BT 5.1 |
| Digital Inputs | USB-C, S/PDIF | USB-C, S/PDIF |
| xMEMS Support | Yes | No |
| K2/K2HD Support | Yes | No |
| Battery | 20,000mAh, quick charge | 10 hours |
Listening Comparison
Using demanding headphones like the Sennheiser HD 600 and Dan Clark E3, both amps delivered clean and undistorted sound:
- xDSD Gryphon: Maintains an accurate, relaxed sound signature, preserving the headphone’s original tonality.
- iDSD Valkyrie: Adds more dynamics, with richer lows and brighter highs, and delivers greater headroom thanks to its increased power output.
While both offer excellent sound quality, the Valkyrie provides more energy and control, especially at higher volumes. The Gryphon can max out at higher impedance loads, while the Valkyrie maintains effortless power delivery.
Should You Upgrade?
If you already own the Gryphon, upgrading depends on your needs:
- Upgrade if you need more power, enhanced sound shaping, and premium features.
- Stick with the Gryphon if portability and affordability matter most.
For new buyers, the decision comes down to priorities:
- xDSD Gryphon: Best for compact portability and budget-conscious users.
- iDSD Valkyrie: Ideal for audiophiles seeking top-tier performance in a transportable form.
Both models are available at Audio46 for purchase.
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