In this article, I review the ifi GO link Max dongle DAC. The GO link Max is an upgraded version of the original GO link, adding dual DAC chips, a 4.4mm balanced output and more output power. It’s priced at $79.
Launched in 2012, iFi audio has “one aim in mind – to improve your music enjoyment.” Who could argue with that? Let’s see if this new dongle DAC is in line with the brand’s vision.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by iFi audio for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.
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iFi GO link Max
Digital
Hi-Res Support: PCM 384; DSD256
Headphone Outputs
Output Type: 4.4mm, 3.5mm
4.4mm (RMS) 24ImW @ 32Ω; 4V @ 300Ω
3.5mm (RMS) 100mW @ 32Ω; 2V @ 300Ω
Output Impedance: 0.35Ω via 4.4mm; 0.7Ω via 3.5mm
SNR 130dBA via 4.4mm; 125dBA via 3.5mm
DNR 130dBA via 4.4mm; 125dBA via 3.5mm
THD+N <0.0016% @ 32Ω 2.4V via 4.4mm; <0.0015% @ 32Ω 127V via 3.5mm
General
Power Consumption No Signal ~0.6W; Max Signal ~3.2W
Dimensions 150x15x10mm (5.9 x 0.59 x 0.39″)
Net Weight 14.59 (0.51 02)
Connectivity
Digital Inputs USB-C
Headphone Outputs 1x Balanced 4.4mm; 1x S-Balanced 3.5mm
Design
The GO link Max has a dark green Magnesium Alloy enclosure with a smooth matte finish. It has a fixed cable, just like the original GO link. There’s a small LED on the front of the device that cycles between green, yellow, cyan and blue, according to the current audio format.
GO link Max has a dual ES9219 DAC setup and supports up to PCM 384kHz and DSD 256. Interestingly, it seems that iFi has dropped MQA support with this model, which is probably a result of the recent controversy and the declining popularity of the format.
When it comes to output power, the iFi GO link Max can push 100mW from the single-ended (S-Balanced) output and 241mW from its balanced output. That’s enough for almost all IEMs and a wide variety of efficient full-size headphones.
Sound
Despite utilizing Sabre DACs in place of the usual Burr-Brown chips, the iFi GO link Max carries iFi’s classic house sound. The GO link Max elevates the sonic performance of the original with noticeable improvements across the board.
The bass hits with more authority and control, giving low-end frequencies extra weight while keeping the overall tonal balance intact. This also pairs well with warmer IEMs and headphones, adding depth without veiling the mids.
The midrange remains a highlight, offering clarity and natural tonality that feels lifelike, making vocals and instruments stand out with improved resolution and dynamic range. The treble is detailed and airy, yet smooth, avoiding any harshness, which helps maintain that delicate balance between warmth and transparency that iFi is known for.
Pairing/Power Output
I tested the iFi GO link Max with some of my regular IEMs, including the ArpegEar Hane and Simgot Supermix 4, as well as the Meze 99 Classics and FiiO FT1 Pro headphones. There was ample power for all of them, whether I used the 3.5mm or 4.4mm output, however, with the FT1 Pro, I was pushing 95% or even 100% volume and had 0 headroom. So long as you’re reasonable with your expectations and pair accordingly, you’ll be fine but I wouldn’t recommend the GO link Max for planar headphones.
Verdict
Well, I can add the iFi GO link Max to the growing list of products from the brand that I have approved. iFi consistently delivers high-performance affordable audio gear and for that, we’re grateful (although I do wish for longer RCA and USB cables with their DACs!)
The GO link Max stands out with its smooth presentation and outstanding resolution, a combination that makes it a pleasure to listen to on any occasion. If you’re looking for a solid dongle DAC without putting a strain on your wallet, I can confidently recommend this one.