iFi iPower X - hifi bargain?


I am shocked by how much better the iFi iPower X power supply is compared to the stock power supply that comes with the iFi iPurifier 2 coax re-clocker.

I use the iPurifier 2 to connect a Bluesound Node streamer to a Chord QuteHD DAC. I was having difficulties getting the two devices to sync properly via coax, and someone online suggested using an iPurifier to solve the issue. Turns out I had a BNC adapter problem that was resolved with a replacement. Once the adapter problem was fixed I actually thought the the Chord DAC sounded better without the iPurifier inline.

I was about to return the iPurifier 2 when on a whim I bought a 5V iFi iPower X to try with the little re-clocker. I honestly didn’t expect to hear any difference between the stock iFi power supply and the iPower X, but the improvement in sound quality with the iPower X was significant. Faster transients, more contrast between quiet and loud passages, more detail, better pace and timing and better musical flow using the upgraded power supply. My system just sounds more like live music with the iPurifier inline powered by the iPower X than with the stock iFi power supply or the Chord DAC alone. While YMMV, the iPower X and iPurifier 2 combination is one of the best tweaks I’ve made to my sound system, and the iPower X made it all work. It’s staying put for now, very highly recommended. What’s your experience?

Ag insider logo xs@2xknownothing

So, I'm going to retract my previous statement.

I think now after 24 hours of usage, I am liking the iFi X power plug.

Good call knownothing! You know something!

ozzy

I used the IFI X on my modem/router and it improved things downstream and was well worth the cheap cost. 

In similar fashion I'm using the iFi iPower Elite on my streamer. Noticed a subtle difference, maybe a little bit darker background which seems to allow slightly more detail and accuracy for things off in the distance on certain audio tracks, fwiw.  

 

Hi @decooney ,

Is it worth investment to iPower Elite vs iPower X for my Chord Qutest DAC?  The difference is between 400CAD and 160CAD. Now I using a basic switched power supply from Chord.

Regards,

Alex.