iFi Audio unveiled two devices aimed at making hi‑fi audio fully mobile: the GO Pod Air, a compact module turning any wired IEMs into true wireless earbuds, and the UP Travel, a Bluetooth transmitter/receiver for inflight and in‑car systems.
GO Pod Air: flagship sound, now wireless
The GO Pod Air preserves a three‑stage Hi‑Fi architecture (Bluetooth reception, DAC conversion, balanced amplification) using the Qualcomm QCC514x chipset and Cirrus Logic MasterHIFI DAC. With up to 24 bit/96 kHz wireless audio, auto‑impedance matching (16, 32, 64 Ω), and a full codec suite (SBC, AAC, aptX Classic/HD/Adaptive, LDAC, LHDC/HWA), it challenges high‑end TWS models without compromising sound. Battery life is 7 h per charge (15 h with case), and each earbud weighs just 10 g, housed in a case 40 % lighter than its predecessor.
UP Travel: Bluetooth for planes, cars, and beyond
Weighing 25 g with a 10 h battery, the UP Travel switches to TX mode to stream to wireless headphones from inflight entertainment and to RX mode to upgrade a car’s AUX input to Hi‑Res Bluetooth. It supports dual headphone pairing and features Qualcomm cVc noise‑cancellation for clear calls. Like the GO Pod Air, it employs the Cirrus Logic DAC and Qualcomm QCC51xx, upholding the brand’s philosophy of separate audio stages for maximized fidelity and efficiency.
Market outlook and assessment
In a crowded field of all‑in‑one Bluetooth adapters that cut corners to hit low prices, iFi doubles down on quality. Its multi‑stage processing echoes a commitment to discerning audiophiles but comes at a premium: €249 (GO Pod Air) and €99 (UP Travel). Nevertheless, iFi’s proposition is straightforward—deliver a genuine sound upgrade for users invested in high‑end IEMs or underwhelming onboard audio.