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iFi Audio Go Link Max - Honest Audiophile Impressions

Writer's picture: dbstechtalkdbstechtalk

iFi Audio has a long-standing history in the audio industry, known for creating high-quality audiophile-grade products, including USB dongles at various price points. Recently, iFi Audio has updated their budget-friendly Go Link to the Max.


I want to thank iFi Audio for providing the Go Link Max for review, much appreciated.


The iFi Audio Go Link Max will set you back $80 from your bank account.



Specifications:

Box/Contents:

Regarding the box that the Go Link Max comes in, iFi Audio has opted for a compact and neat design. The front of the slim box features iFi Audio branding and an image of the Go Link Max....Ohhh, we have a Hi-Res sticker, it's got to sound good!

On the back of the box, you'll see a list of specifications.

Within the box, there's a small tray containing the Go Link Max and two adapters: one for USB and the other for Lightning.


Build/Design:

With any iFi Audio product, you can expect solid, high-quality construction, and the Go Link Max is no exception. Its slim design is just wide enough to accommodate two headphone outputs, 3.5mm and 4.4mm. The entire body of the Go Link Max is smaller than my pinky finger.

At the top, there's a short, thin braided cable that connects to the USB-C connector, sadly it isn't removable.


Overall, the Go Link Max is lightweight and compact, and I have no concerns about it breaking if handled carefully. The cable is the weak point and could be damaged if it's smashed, crushed, or frequently pulled.


The Go Link Max lacks physical buttons, so the hardware manages the volume. A small LED light displays the bit rate type.

Ohhh, we have a Hi-Res sticker, it's got to sound good!


Power Output:


iFi Audio has equipped the Go Link Max with two headphone outputs. The single-ended 3.5mm output delivers 100mW, while the balanced 4.4mm output provides 241mW.

Both outputs offer similar sound quality, except for the noticeable power difference that affects IEMs and headphones differently. Regarding IEMs, I encountered no issues with the Go Link Max driving any of them; headphones were another matter. I often opted for the balanced 4.4mm output over the 3.5mm because it consistently powered IEMs more effectively. However, when it came to headphones, I wasn't particularly impressed; it was suitable for short listening sessions, but if I were to be critical, the Go Link Max didn't quite meet the mark. I primarily used the Go Link Max for IEM listening.


Listening Impressions:


Some of the Gear Used to Test:


Westone Mach 60

ThieAudio Oracle mkiii

FatFreq Reference Pro

SoftEars Studio 4

Fiio FA19

DUNU DK3001 BD

Tangzu Nezha Kotori Zephyr

Kiwi Ears Division

Kiwi Ears Eclipse

Austrian Audio HI-X60

Rode NTH-100

Sennheiser HD660s2

Hifiman Arya Stealth


The iFi Audio Go Link Max delivers an enjoyable and lively sound. It offers a natural tone and timbre, accurately reproducing instruments and vocals. The presentation has a slight warmth and a fullness to the notes. There is sufficient air and space, allowing each instrument and vocalist to have their own space without feeling too distant or thin. The bass provides adequate rumble in the sub-bass range but could use a bit more at times. The lower mid and upper bass blend well without becoming bloated or overly thick. The upper mids are slightly forward and can occasionally be a bit too emphatic. The treble extends nicely but is somewhat soft and gentle, lacking a bit of crispness and edge. The stage width is accurately represented, highlighting variations in venue sizes. The depth and layering are well-captured, with each instrument and vocalist having a distinct position. Imaging is effective, enabling side-to-side tracking with precise placement, though it may not be the most pinpoint. Detail retrieval is typical for the price, and resolution is also good, neither being a disappointment nor a standout feature.


Comparison to Fosi Audio DS2:

The more affordable $60 Fosi Audio DS2 is slightly larger but weighs about the same. The DS2 features a somewhat longer cable. Both devices are well-constructed, and I have no concerns about their durability. In terms of power output, the Fosi Audio DS2 offers slightly more than the Go Link Max, with 120mW single-ended and 250mW balanced. Sound-wise, the DS2 leans towards a neutral, natural, analytical presentation, offering greater detail retrieval and resolution, along with slightly better imaging and layering. I personally favor the Fosi Audio DS2 and consider it a great value USB dongle.


Conclusion:


In summary, the iFi Audio Go Link Max is a strong contender in the competitive USB dongle DAC/Amp market. It delivers a warm, enjoyable musical experience but doesn't have the precision of more neutral, analytical dongles. I found the Go Link Max enjoyable during my review process and recommend it for casual listening. However, for more critical listening, I would suggest considering something like the Fosi Audio DS2.


I am Dave the Honest Audiophile. Thanks for reading, and I will catch you in the next one. Don't forget to enjoy the music and that honesty is the BEST policy! I am not a professional sound engineer, producer, musician, or vocalist, etc. I have not done any scientific research, measurements, or in-depth testing of any kind; just my own listening, comparing and internet reading/research.  I have limited, real-life experience with recording, mixing and mastering gear.  I have been involved since my teenage years with various churches as an amateur sound booth technician.

Please take these thoughts, opinions and reasonings as just that, my honest audiophile thoughts, opinions and reasonings.


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