iBasso

iBasso continues to strengthen its position in the high-end portable audio market with a growing lineup of DAPs and DAC/Amps, including notable releases like the DX340, DX260, DC07PRO, PB5, D16, and DC Elite. The brand has also earned recognition in the IEM segment with well-received, budget-friendly models such as the IT04, AM05, and 3T-154, the latter of which we previously reviewed and found exceptionally impressive.

Now, iBasso advances its flagship DAP line with the introduction of the DX260 MK2, a refined evolution of the original DX260. This latest model brings meaningful upgrades tailored for audiophiles seeking premium portable performance, featuring an 11nm octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC for improved efficiency and responsiveness, 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM, and 128GB of UFS storage, double the capacity and speed of its predecessor. Designed to deliver a smoother, faster, and more capable user experience, the DX260 MK2 represents a confident step forward in iBasso’s pursuit of portable audio excellence.

At its core, the DX260 MK2 retains the acclaimed octa-DAC configuration featuring eight Cirrus Logic CS43198 chips, driven by iBasso’s FPGA-Master 2.0 audio controller. This refined architecture supports up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512 playback, ensuring a transparent, detailed, and natural listening experience. Complementing its sonic precision, the MK2 includes a 5.0-inch Sharp IPS display, dual-band 2.4G/5G Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and a flexible dual-OS system with Android 13 and Mango OS, offering both open-app versatility and a pure audio mode.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Screen: Sharp 5.0" | 1080 x 1920

Audio Format Support: APE, FLAC, WAV, WMA, ACC, ALAC, AIFF, OGG, MP3, DFF, DSF, DXD, DST

USB: Type C (3.0)

Output Ports: 4.4mm balanced phone out, 3.5mm single-ended phone out, 4.4mm line out, 3.5mm line out, 3.5mm coaxial output, USB OTG output

WiFi: 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4Ghz/5Ghz)

Bluetooth: v5.0 - SBC, AAC, aptX HD, LDAC

Receiver Codecs (DAC Mode): AAC, SBC

Memory: RAM: 4G / ROM: 128G

Battery: 4400mAh 3.8V li-polymer

Charge Time: 2.5 hours

Average Play Time: 14 hours

Size: 4.8" x 2.9" x 0.7"

Weight: 8 oz / 229g.

Warranty: iBasso 1-Year Product Warranty

DX260 MK2

The DX260 MK2 is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm 665 SoC, ensuring smooth and efficient performance. A standout feature of the DX260 is its unique removable back cover, which allows for easy battery replacement, a rarity among DAPs.

For audiophiles, the MK2 incorporates top-tier components, including the FPGA-Master 2.0 audio system controller paired with the Cirrus Logic 8x CS43198 Octa DAC. This setup is a first in the industry, as most other devices, such as the DX300, typically use only two or four of these DAC chips. The use of eight DAC chips significantly reduces distortion when converting digital files to analog signals, resulting in a higher-quality audio output that meets the demands of discerning audiophiles.

The FPGA-Master 2.0 algorithm in the DX260 takes full advantage of the DAC chips, constructing FiR filters that offer superior auditory precision compared to its predecessor. Users can select between two filter settings, 2x and 4x, or choose to disable the filter by switching to NOR mode. This flexibility, combined with five distinct digital filters (D1~5), empowers users to tailor their audio output, creating a unique and personalized listening experience.

DESIGN & BUILD QUALITY

The DX260 MK2 significantly departs from the company's previous design vision. The MK2 features a modern and industrial aesthetic, though its pointed and sharp edges may feel less comfortable in hand. However, this issue is mitigated when the device is placed in its carrying case. The chassis, crafted from CNC-machined aluminum alloy, is available in silver and black. The device is compact and lightweight at approximately 229g. The front of the iBasso DX260 features an impressive 5-inch in-cell capacitive touch screen with a crisp 1080 x 1920 resolution. Its vibrant colors and sharp clarity enhance the experience of browsing through your music library and appreciating album artwork.

The included silicone case feels somewhat cheap and is best suited for short-term use. Within a week or two, it tends to attract dust and lose its appeal, much like it did with the original DX260. In contrast, the optional leather case, priced at $59 and fully compatible with the DX260 MK2 due to their identical dimensions, offers a premium upgrade. It not only provides a more comfortable grip but also prevents discomfort from the DX260 MK2’s sharp corner edges. This leather case adds both elegance and practicality, making it a highly recommended accessory for MK2 users.

PACKAGING & ACCESSORIES

• DX260 MK2 Player
• USB-C cable
• Coaxial cable
• TPU case
• Screen protector
• Warranty card
• Quick start guide

Ensuring comprehensive connectivity right out of the box, the package incorporates a USB-C to full-size USB Type-A adapter, providing versatility for various devices. Alongside this connectivity solution, the box encompasses a quick guide for swift setup and an after-sales booklet, which impressively caters to a multitude of languages. This inclusive approach not only enhances the user experience but also reflects a commitment to clear communication and support for a diverse user base.

BATTERY & POWER

The iBasso DX260 MK2 boasts a 4400mAh battery, supporting quick charging to reach full capacity in about 2.5 hours. iBasso claims an average playtime of 14 hours, but this is based on using the single-ended headphone output at low gain. If you switch to high gain and balanced headphone output, expect the battery life to drop to around 9 hours. Notably, the battery doesn’t drain when the DX260 is used as a USB DAC, though it doesn’t charge either, no matter how long it remains plugged in.

For optimal battery longevity, use low-impedance IEMs or headphones at medium volumes, and stick to MP3 or FLAC files. Hi-Res files, high gain settings, and extremely low or high impedance will deplete the battery faster. The device's performance and features make it a solid choice for audiophiles who value sound quality and versatility.

SOUND

The iBasso DX260 MK2 elevates the standard for balance and neutrality in portable audio players, refining what its predecessor already achieved with excellence. Staying true to iBasso’s reputation for producing linear and neutral-sounding DAPs, the MK2 pushes performance even further, standing out as one of the most accurate and natural-sounding players in its class, especially under the $1000 range. It delivers exceptional clarity and resolution, revealing micro-details and textures with remarkable precision. The soundstage feels expansive and three-dimensional, creating an immersive, holographic experience ideal for genres like jazz, blues, and acoustic music.

As with all of iBasso’s designs, the DX260 MK2 maintains a neutral timbre without ever sounding sterile or analytical. It achieves a perfect equilibrium, offering technical precision and transparency while preserving a touch of warmth and musicality. The result is a highly engaging and emotionally expressive sound that appeals to both analytical and casual listeners alike.

BASS

The DX260 MK2 delivers impressive bass performance with exceptional depth and body, outperforming many DAPs in its class. Its low-end response is lush, tight, and well-extended, bringing out subtle textures while maintaining excellent control and balance. Whether paired with IEMs or full-sized headphones, the MK2 handles low frequencies with authority, offering a deep and dynamic presentation without veering toward excessive warmth or chill. Its ample driving power ensures consistent performance across various headphone types.

Overall, the DX260 MK2 produces a rich, smooth, and articulate bass response. While it remains on the neutral side rather than overtly warm, it strikes a satisfying balance that will please listeners who appreciate precision and clarity. In bass-driven genres such as hip-hop, techno, and Drum & Bass, the MK2 impresses with its clean layering, impactful low-end, and natural vocal presentation, delivering a highly immersive and engaging listening experience.

MID

The DX260 MK2’s midrange stands out for its natural, clean, and open presentation, delivering vocals and instruments with remarkable clarity and separation. It maintains a smoothly neutral tonality while revealing impressive detail and texture. One of the MK2’s key strengths is its superb coherence, resulting in a well-balanced and lifelike soundstage that feels both expansive and intimate.

In testing with the BQEYZ Wind, the DX260 MK2 showcased excellent timbral accuracy and articulation, enhancing micro-detail and spatial realism. Every instrument and vocal line is distinctly positioned yet harmoniously integrated, creating an engaging and authentic listening experience that highlights the MK2’s refinement and musicality.

HIGH

The iBasso DX260 MK2 delivers a lively, articulate, and finely extended treble that enhances clarity without introducing fatigue. Its high frequencies are smooth yet detailed, offering excellent air and sparkle that open up the soundstage beautifully. The result is a crisp and natural presentation where instruments like acoustic guitars and cymbals are rendered with precision and texture, free from harshness or sibilance.

When listening to genres such as jazz or acoustic recordings, the DX260 MK2 demonstrates remarkable transparency and dynamic energy. While its tuning leans toward a neutral and accurate signature rather than warmth, this approach preserves the authenticity of each recording, allowing listeners to experience music exactly as the artist intended.

In short, the DX260 MK2’s treble is refined, open, and natural, balancing detail and smoothness perfectly. It offers an engaging yet fatigue-free presentation, making it a superb choice for those who value tonal accuracy and high-end resolution in a portable DAP.

SOUNDSTAGE & IMAGING

The DX260 MK2 excels in separation and imaging, setting a new benchmark for its class. Even when compared to several higher-priced DAPs, its spatial precision and layering stand out impressively. Instruments are rendered with pinpoint accuracy, maintaining the intended depth and width of each recording while preserving a natural and cohesive soundstage.

What truly distinguishes the DX260 MK2 is its ability to present an expansive, holographic stage without artificially enlarging or compressing it. Every element, from background vocals to subtle synth effects, is clearly defined, creating an immersive sense of space reminiscent of a live performance. The result is a remarkably three-dimensional and engaging listening experience that captures the full atmosphere and nuance of the music.

The MK2 delivers a bass performance that truly stands out, offering greater depth and solidity than most players in its class. Its low-end response is tight, powerful, and well-controlled, adapting effortlessly to the character of each track. For listeners who prefer a heavier bass presentation, the built-in EQ provides excellent flexibility for fine-tuning to personal preference.

Another highlight of the MK2 is its exceptionally clean and silent background. With a near-zero noise floor, it ensures a pitch-black backdrop that allows every subtle detail and microdynamic to shine through. This purity enhances the realism and precision of the soundstage, letting the music unfold with absolute clarity.

Overall, the DX260 MK2 creates a front-row concert experience, immersive, dynamic, and crystal-clear, with bass that strikes the perfect balance between power and finesse.

DX260 MK2 VS DX340

While the DX260 earned widespread acclaim as one of the least “digital-sounding” DAPs under $1000, the iBasso DX340 transcends its predecessor entirely, evolving into a far more organic and emotionally engaging listening experience. It doesn’t just refine the DX260’s strengths - it redefines them.

Tonally, the DX340 embraces a warm-neutral signature that balances technical precision with musicality. Rather than adhering to strict reference neutrality, it prioritizes natural timbre and depth. The inclusion of hardware-level harmonic filters is a remarkable innovation: H1 maintains a clean, neutral, and linear profile ideal for analytical listening, while H2 adds body and texture, enriching the sub-bass and extending the treble air for a more expressive, immersive presentation. This duality allows listeners to tailor the tonality to their taste — a rare flexibility even among flagship DAPs.

The soundstage is where the DX340 makes its most profound statement. Compared to the DX260’s already impressive spatial performance, the DX340 unveils a stage that is dramatically more open, expansive, and holographic. Instruments occupy tangible spaces with convincing depth and air, while imaging precision delivers a layered three-dimensionality that evokes the sensation of being at a live performance. It captures the space between sounds — the subtle reverberations and microdynamics that transform music from merely accurate reproduction to a living, breathing experience.

While both players excel in resolution and microdetail, their approaches diverge. The DX260 presents a more clinical and precise articulation, every transient carved with exacting clarity. The DX340, on the other hand, imbues its detail with warmth and fluidity, yielding a sound that feels analog in spirit yet modern in execution. Its vast, enveloping presentation doesn’t just reveal the music - it immerses the listener within it.

In essence, the DX340 doesn’t aim to replace the DX260 - it surpasses it as a statement piece in portable audio design. The DX260 appeals to the purist who seeks balance and accuracy; the DX340 captivates the listener who desires emotion, scale, and the kind of realism that makes you forget you’re listening to a recording at all.

CONCLUSION

The iBasso DX260 MK2 refines the original in every meaningful way, evolving into a faster, smoother, and more future-ready DAP without altering the sonic signature that made the DX260 so loved. It now runs on the Snapdragon 665 (11 nm) chipset for greater efficiency, cooler operation, and noticeably snappier performance. Internal storage has been doubled to 128 GB with faster UFS memory, complemented by a new Android 13 + Mango OS dual-system, ensuring improved app support, stability, and responsiveness.

Aesthetically, the DX260 MK2 retains its robust aluminum chassis and 5-inch display but introduces an elegant White Silver finish alongside the classic Blue Silver. The removable back cover for easy battery replacement remains an excellent touch - practical, durable, and user-friendly.

At its heart, the player preserves the celebrated octa-DAC array of eight CS43198 chips controlled by FPGA-Master 2.0, now enhanced with refined algorithms that further polish its already superb sound. Output power remains strong - 1015 mW @ 32 Ω balanced - delivering ample headroom for even demanding IEMs.

Sonically, it continues to impress with its balanced and natural tonality, expansive stage, and superb clarity. The MK2 isn’t a reinvention - it’s a thoughtful evolution that perfects the experience. With faster hardware, a newer OS, and refined internals, the DX260 MK2 solidifies itself as one of the most compelling DAPs under $1000, offering true flagship performance in a compact, elegantly engineered design.