Introducing iBasso's Latest Portable Dongle DAC and Amp, Nunchaku, Featuring Dual New Old Stock Vacuum Tubes Portable DAC and headphone amplifier Features 2x CS43198 Flagship DAC chipsets and 2x Raytheon JAN6418 vacuum tubes Dual output modes: Tube and Class AB Balanced 4.4mm + single-ended 3.5mm outputs Currently not compatible with iPhone 17 due to power output limitations Bloom's Take The iBasso Nunchaku delivers the unmistakable warmth of tubes in a sleek, pocket-friendly design. This compact amplifier infuses your music with rich harmonics, a spacious soundstage, and a natural, organic tonality. Its hybrid architecture ensures a smooth yet detailed presentation, making it a perfect match for IEMs and headphones alike. With its innovative approach to portable tube amplification, the Nunchaku strikes a perfect balance between vintage character and modern precision. Read the full review here. Nunchaku: A World Class Portable Tube DAC/Amp The iBasso Nunchaku is a premium portable DAC and amplifier that combines cutting-edge technology with the charm of analog sound. Powered by two Raytheon JAN6418 directly heated vacuum tubes, it delivers a rich, warm, and engaging “tube flavor” in TUBE mode, while Class AB mode provides a clean, distortion-free experience. A dedicated 22.5V anode power supply ensures superior headroom and peak performance, enhancing audio fidelity. At its core, the Nunchaku features a high-performance Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chip, a benchmark in conversion and renowned for its exceptional resolution, accurate sound reproduction, wide dynamic range, and exceptionally low noise floor. To minimize microphonic effects, the tubes are suspended using PORON material, reducing vibrations for pristine audio quality. Each unit undergoes APX555 testing to ensure meticulously matched tube pairs, with only 50 pairs completed daily, guaranteeing consistent, exceptional performance. The Nunchaku offers audiophiles a versatile, portable solution with the perfect blend of modern precision and analog warmth. Dual JAN6418 Tubes The Nunchaku features x2 Raytheon JAN6418 directly heated vacuum tubes, valued for their compact size, low power use, and reliability. Unlike typical portable devices with 5V or 12V power supplies, it uses a 22.5V anode power supply, ensuring superior headroom and optimal tube performance. These tubes deliver a warm, smooth “tube sound” for an authentic analog listening experience. To reduce microphonic effects, iBasso suspends the tubes with PORON material, effectively minimizing vibrations and ensuring pristine audio quality. For consistent sound, iBasso carefully matches the tubes using advanced APX555 testing, a meticulous process limited to 50 pairs daily, guaranteeing outstanding performance in every Nunchaku. *NOTE: Microphonic Effect TUBE Mode: The Nunchaku’s sensitive tube design can produce a slight microphonic effect. If you tap the device’s chassis while music is paused, you may hear a ringing sound—this is normal. Additionally, there may occasionally be interference from nearby phones. However, when music is playing, these sounds are typically masked and do not impact the listening experience.Class AB Mode: In Class AB mode, there is no microphonic effect, interference, background noise, or similar issues. Unleashing Power + Audio Excellence Departing from the typical all-in-one chip approach found in most dongles, the Nunchaku adopts a sophisticated OPAMP+BUF634 flagship architecture. This design integrates x2 Raytheon vacuum tubes, x4 TI high-performance dual operational amplifiers (OPAMPs), and x4 BUF634A buffers into a compact footprint. Nunchaku delivers up to 525mW+525mW@320Ω in TUBE mode, effortlessly powering flagship IEMs and most headphones. Despite its power, the Nunchaku remains energy-efficient, consuming just 120mA/5V in TUBE mode and under 100mA/5V in Class AB mode. JRC Hardware Volume Control In TUBE mode, the Nunchaku incorporates a precise JRC hardware volume control. This innovative approach ensures the DAC operates at its MAX output level, followed by a tube amp stage and then volume control. This unique architecture effectively reduces noise as the volume is lowered, significantly enhancing the SNR and delivering a more refined listening experience.
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