iFi GO bar Kensei Portable DAC/amp

The world’s first ultraportable DAC with K2HD Technology

Merging artistry and Japanese swordsmanship with cutting-edge audio technology, the GO Bar Kensei is the world’s first ultraportable DAC with K2HD technology to bring listeners closer to the original recordings of their favourite music.

Key Features at a Glance

• Featuring JVC’s ‘K2 HD Technology,’ it enhances audio by extending bits, expanding bandwidth, and correcting waveforms, ultimately enhancing audio quality approaching master recordings
• Hi-res audio: 32-bit/384kHz PCM, native DSD, and full MQA decoding
• 4.4mm balanced output with the symmetrical twin-mono output stage
• Four digital filters, XBass+, and XSpace analog processing modes – tailor the sound to suit your music and headphone type
• iEMatch and Turbo mode – perfect output matching for sensitive or power-hungry headphones
• With enhanced power and clock circuitry, it surpasses the original GO bar in audio quality
• Precision-made stainless-steel enclosure for enhanced EMI shielding
• Wooden presentation box

K2HD Technology

At the heart of the iFi GO Bar Kensei lies the revolutionary K2HD Technology, a hallmark of audio perfection. Developed by JVCKENWOOD’s sound engineers, K2HD Technology works to restore music to the same quality as the original master, reviving it with the rich, natural harmonics lost during digitalisation. This advanced processing, coupled with the GO Bar Kensei’s dedication to perfection, ensures that every note resonates with depth and clarity.

Enhanced Circuitry & Connections

The GO Bar Kensei offers a tailored, personal experience for the listener thanks to four digital filter options as well as XBass+ and XSpace options to create a more accurate bass response and spacious sound field. An enhanced power and clock circuitry produces a wider soundstage, more detail and a more robust bass to appease the pickiest of audiophiles. Equipped with a 4.4mm balanced output, a symmetrical twin-mono output stage, and a formidable 477mW maximum output power, the GO Bar Kensei delivers audio performance that exceeds expectations. Additionally, iEMatch fine tunes the output levels for sensitive IEMs while Turbo Mode adds 6dB for hungrier headphones. 

Design steeped in Japanese history

Crafted from Japanese Stainless Steel for maximum rigidity, the GO Bar Kensei draws upon inspiration from the craftsmanship of a Kensei’s legendary blade. With meticulous attention to detail, each component of this ultraportable DAC embodies the essence of excellence, delivering music in its purest form.

Comparison 

	GO bar Kensei	GOld bar – 10th Anniversary	GO bar
Material	Japanese Stainless Steel for maximum rigidity	Copper	Aluminium Alloy
K2HD Technology	Yes	No	No
Clock	Ultra-Low Jitter	Standard Low Jitter	Standard Low Jitter
Power supply	Enhanced	Enhanced	Standard
Presentation	Engraved Wooden Box	Eco-Packaging	Eco-Packaging
XBass+ & XSpace	Yes
Digital filters	Yes
iEMatch	Yes
Turbo mode	Yes
Headphone outputs	4.4mm Balanced, 3.5mm S-Bal
Power (4.4mm)	475mW @ 32Ω; 7.2V @ 600Ω
Power (3.5mm)	300mW @ 32Ω; 3.8V @ 600Ω
Formats supported	DSD256, PCM 384kHz, MQA Decoder
Input	USB-C

IN THE BOX

• GO bar Kensei
• Lightning to USB-C Cable
• USB-C OTG Cable
• USB-C to USB-A Adapter
• Quick Start Guide
• Instruction Card
• Leather Travel Case

Specifications

Headphone Specifications

• Number of Headphone Channels: 2-Channel
• Recommended Headphone Impedance: 1 Ohm (Minimum)
• Headphone Output Power:
  • 4.4 mm Balanced: 477 mW RMS into 32 Ohms
  • 1/8″ / 3.5 mm Unbalanced: 300 mW RMS into 32 Ohms

Audio Inputs/Outputs

• Analog Audio I/O:
  • 1x 1/8″ / 3.5 mm TRS Unbalanced Stereo Headphone Output
  • 1x 4.4 mm TRRRS Balanced Stereo Headphone Output
• Digital Audio I/O: No
• USB I/O: 1x USB-C (Digital Input)
• Wireless: No

Performance

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 70 kHz -3 dB
• Gain/Trim Range: Headphone Outputs: 6 dB
• Maximum Output Level:
  • 4.4 mm Balanced Headphone: 7.2 V (600-Ohm Load)
  • 1/8″ / 3.5 mm Headphone: 3.8 V (600-Ohm Load)
• Dynamic Range:
  • 109 dBA (Balanced)
  • 108 dBA (Unbalanced)
• Impedance: 1 Ohm (Balanced or Unbalanced)
• THD+N:
  • Balanced Headphone Outputs: ≤ 0.0025% (600-Ohm Load)
  • Headphone Outputs: 0.009% (16-Ohm Load)
• SNR:
  • Balanced Headphone: 132 dBA
  • Unbalanced Headphone: 121 dBA

Digital Audio Specifications

• Sample Rates: 44.1 to 384 kHz (PCM), 12.4 MHz (DSD), Up to 384 kHz
• Bit Depths: Up to 32-Bit (PCM)

Chipset

• DAC: Cirrus Logic Master HIFI
• USB: XMOS

Power Specifications

• Power Requirements: USB Bus Power
• Power Consumption: 4 W (Maximum)
• AC/DC Power Adapter: No

Physical Dimensions

• Dimensions: 0.3 x 0.1 x 0.05″ / 6.5 x 2.2 x 1.32 mm
• Weight: 2.3 oz / 64.0 g

FAQ

1. What is K2HD Technology in the iFi GO Bar Kensei?
K2HD Technology, developed by JVCKENWOOD, restores music quality to the same level as the original master recording. This revolutionary technology enhances audio by extending bits, expanding bandwidth, and correcting waveforms, resulting in a richer, more natural sound.

2. What makes the GO Bar Kensei different from other GO Bar models?
The GO Bar Kensei is the world’s first ultraportable DAC featuring K2HD technology for audio restoration. It also has a stainless steel casing for maximum rigidity, enhanced power and clock circuitry, and comes in an engraved wooden box for a luxurious presentation.

3. What is the output power of the iFi GO Bar Kensei?
The GO Bar Kensei delivers 477mW of output power from its 4.4mm balanced output and 300mW from its 3.5mm unbalanced output, ensuring excellent performance for both balanced and unbalanced headphones.

4. How does the iEMatch and Turbo Mode work?
iEMatch fine-tunes the output for sensitive IEMs, while Turbo Mode provides an additional 6dB of gain for headphones that require more power.

5. What audio formats does the GO Bar Kensei support?
The GO Bar Kensei supports high-resolution audio formats, including DSD256, PCM up to 384kHz, and full MQA decoding for master-quality sound.

6. Can I use the GO Bar Kensei with my mobile device?
Yes, the GO Bar Kensei includes a USB-C input for easy connection to mobile devices. It also comes with a USB-C to USB-A adapter and a Lightning to USB-C cable, ensuring compatibility with various devices, including iPhones.

7. What are XBass+ and XSpace?
XBass+ enhances low-frequency response, providing a more robust bass. XSpace expands the soundstage, offering a more spacious and immersive audio experience. Both features are adjustable to tailor the sound to your preference.

8. Does the iFi GO Bar Kensei come with a case?
Yes, the GO Bar Kensei includes a leather travel case for protection, making it convenient for carrying on the go.

9. What’s included in the box with the iFi GO Bar Kensei?
The package includes the iFi GO Bar Kensei, a Lightning to USB-C cable, a USB-C OTG cable, a USB-C to USB-A adapter, a leather travel case, a quick start guide, and an instruction card.

10. How does the iFi GO Bar Kensei improve audio quality?
With its enhanced power and clock circuitry, the GO Bar Kensei produces a wider soundstage, more detail, and stronger bass. It also features four digital filter options for personalized sound tuning.

11. What is the weight and size of the iFi GO Bar Kensei?
The iFi GO Bar Kensei weighs 64 grams and measures 6.5 x 2.2 x 1.32 mm, making it compact and lightweight for ultraportable use.