iFi Shrinks Hi-Fi: New GO blu Air Packs Serious Sound into a Pocket-Size Bluetooth DAC

ducurguz
1 day ago
2 min read

The lighter, more affordable sibling to iFi’s cult-favorite GO blu brings high-end audio to your daily carry — without weighing you down.

Person holding a phone and a connected audio recorder outdoors. The scene includes a white shirt and gold ring, with a blurred background.

iFi Audio, known for turning audiophile-grade tech into pocket-friendly devices, has introduced its latest creation: the iFi GO blu Air. Weighing just 31 grams and standing under 5cm tall, the GO blu Air is designed as a slimmed-down, more accessible version of the beloved GO blu — keeping the performance pedigree while dialing up portability and ease of use.

Despite its featherweight build, the GO blu Air is packed with serious technology under the hood. A Qualcomm QCC5144 chipset handles Bluetooth 5.2 reception for rock-solid wireless streaming, while a Cirrus Logic MasterHIFI DAC ensures pristine digital-to-analogue conversion. Driving the output is iFi’s twin-mono amplifier architecture, pushing up to 256mW of power through both a 4.4mm balanced output and a 3.5mm S-Balanced jack for flexibility with everything from sensitive IEMs to full-size headphones.

For wireless codec support, iFi hasn’t cut corners: the GO blu Air plays nice with LDAC, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC — making it a universal companion for audiophiles on the go.

But hardware alone doesn’t make a great portable DAC/amp. The GO blu Air carries over two of iFi’s signature analogue sound-shaping tools: XBass (for richer low-end weight) and XSpace (to expand the soundstage with an almost “live room” feel). Users can engage these individually or together, tailoring playback to taste.

Transparent device with text "GO blu Air" on a light surface, showing internal electronics. Soft lighting creates a modern, techy mood.

Designed for Everyday Life

The GO blu Air isn’t just about performance — it’s engineered for seamless daily use. A detachable magnetic clip lets it snap securely onto a jacket, backpack, or belt, keeping it close at hand without clutter. The ChronoDial control wheel combines volume adjustment with tactile playback navigation, offering intuitive, one-handed control.

Meanwhile, a built-in MEMS microphone with noise suppression supports voice assistants and crystal-clear calls, making the GO blu Air as practical for commuting as it is for critical listening.

Battery life clocks in at 10 hours per charge thanks to its 450mAh lithium-polymer cell, ensuring it lasts through a full workday and beyond.

Specs at a Glance

Weight: 31g | Dimensions: 53.5 x 33.7 x 19.5mm
Battery: 450mAh, ~10 hours playback
Output Power: Up to 262mW (balanced 4.4mm)
SNR: 110dB
Connections: 4.4mm balanced, 3.5mm S-Balanced
Bluetooth 5.2 codecs: LDAC, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
Features: XBass, XSpace, ChronoDial, MEMS mic w/ noise suppression