iFi Audio has introduced the GO Pod Air. As TWS (True Wireless Stereo) earbuds have become a staple in modern lifestyles, many audiophiles find themselves grappling with the steep costs associated with subpar audio quality compared to their wired in-ear headphones. The iFi GO Pod Air offers a solution: connect your high-performance earbuds to one of several earhooks and enhance them with Hi-Res Bluetooth capabilities, user-friendly touch controls, and clear, noise-free calls.
Despite their compact design, each Pod of the iFi GO Pod Air is outfitted with HiFi-inspired circuitry, balanced amplification, and smart impedance matching. Historically, Bluetooth audio has required a trade-off between sound quality and convenience, but the GO Pod Air eliminates this trade-off, incorporating iFi’s award-winning Bluetooth technology to provide the outstanding audio experience that discerning music enthusiasts desire.
The GO Pod series distinguishes itself from conventional wireless earbuds, which typically utilize a single chip for connectivity, digital-to-analog conversion, and amplification, by incorporating a genuine Hi-Fi architecture. Drawing inspiration from premium Hi-Fi systems, iFi meticulously crafted and refined each stage, employing high-quality components throughout. Each pod features a high-performance Qualcomm QCC514x series chip dedicated exclusively to Bluetooth reception. This chip transmits data to a Cirrus Logic Master DAC chip, handpicked by iFi for its rich, immersive sound and efficient battery usage. The signal is then directed to a balanced amplification stage, equipped with a dedicated clock that ensures seamless synchronization among all components.
The GO Pod Air offers the same exceptional audio experience in a lighter design, with each Pod weighing only 10 grams. This model is over 40% lighter and nearly 20% more compact than its predecessor. iFi Audio provides a variety of interchangeable earhooks to accommodate nearly any IEM, including standard 2-pin and MMCX options, as well as T2, A2DP, and Pentaconn earhooks. Furthermore, the GO Pod Air features intelligent impedance matching that adapts to three levels: 16, 32, and 64 ohms. Simply connect your IEMs, place the Pods in their charging case briefly, and the system will automatically recognize the IEMs’ impedance and adjust for optimal compatibility, eliminating the need for manual configuration.
The GO Pod Air features a comprehensive range of codecs including SBC, AAC, aptX (Classic, HD, Adaptive), LDAC, and LHDC/HWA, ensuring compatibility with any phone, tablet, or transmitter you select. Additionally, the GO Pod Air boasts an IPX5 rating, guaranteeing reliable performance in rainy conditions or during workouts. Designed for extended use, it offers up to seven hours of playback on a single charge and up to 15 hours when used with the lightweight travel case. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or on a long flight, there’s no need for chargers or batteries—just take the case and enjoy your day.
The iFi GO Pod Air retails for just under $250.
