HIFIMAN EF2C USB-DAC Headphone Tube Amplifier Review

HiFiMan EF2C Introduction

The HiFiMan EF2C combines the beautiful, warm sound signature of vacuum tubes with the advantages of low distortion and high S/N rate from the solid-state amplifier. Its hybrid design employs two 6J1 tubes for its input stage and incorporates the OPA2604 along with discrete components for its output.

The EF2C is meticulously designed for the most discriminating music listeners who demand the best performance and value.

A compact desktop design with an integrated USB-DAC inherits the power and performance from the EF2A. The EF2C is the perfect match for most PC-driven headphones.

Introduction:

The HiFiMan EF2A is a hybrid USB-DAC amplifier that promises to give you warm sound and melodies offered by vacuum tubes and solid-state amplifiers. Its small hybrid design enables it to be the perfect companion for audiophiles that can easily blend with any computer or music player. Let’s go have a look.

Manufacturer’s Specification:

  • Input Impendence: 47k Ohms
  • Maximum Power Output: 600 mW @ 35 Ohms
  • Line-in Maximum Output: 4.6 V; Distortion: 2%
  • USB DAC Maximum Output: 3.2 V; Distortion 0.46%
  • Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
  • S/N: 90dB
  • Power Supply: 110v/220v
  • Dimensions: 144 x 110 x 78 mm (WDH)
  • Weight: 1.36 kilograms

Design and Specifications:

The EF2A’s design is straightforward, you’ll get a metal exterior with a see through glass so you can see the insides of the amplifier. The controls are located on the front, with only control for the power and the volume present. Beside that is a small switch that lets you change the input from USB or CD player – corresponding to the connections supported by the amplifier.

At the back, you will find the port that connects it to a huge and heavy power adaptor – probably the only thing we didn’t like about the EF2A. Next to that is the USB port connection along with RCA stereo inputs for connecting external audio sources like a CD player or any audio device.

The EF2A uses dual 6N1 tubes along with an integrated DAC that is capable of delivering 2×320 mW at 32 Ohms on most high-sensitivity headphones.

Setup:

I’ve tested the EF2A using the included USB cable and connected it to both a Mac and a Windows device. Additionally, I used the amplifier with a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7 headphones. I’ve also used an adaptor to connect my smartphone to the RCA input of the EF2A.

Performance:

I’ve been playing with the EF2A continuously or a little about two weeks to let the amplifier break-in and perform as expected – and the result? Warm tones with a hint of melodic pureness that only a decent amp can provide.

Voices are clear on the mids, while bass was excellent and gave enough LFE on my entire music library. Trebles are smooth and detailed, and I did not notice any sort of distortion even on higher volumes. Sound is perfectly balanced and well-textured, made even better by the headphones I was using.

Supplied Accessories:

  • HiFiMan EF2C
  • AC adaptor
  • USB cable
  • Tubes
  • Owner’s Guide

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Excellent sound levels
  • Simple design

Cons

  • Heavy power supply

Conclusion:

The HiFiMan EF2A offers a great and warm tonal output made better by the power tubes that should satisfy every seasoned audiophile.

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