DX270

The Ultimate Evolution of R2R Decoding – R2R Ultra
The DX270 is not a typical R2R player, but a deep reconstruction of R2R decoding by iBasso. It adopts a hybrid architecture of 20-bit R2R + 4-bit String DAC, combined with an 8-channel fully differential discrete R2R design, FPGA-Master 3.0 and in-house developed algorithms, alongside a hardware resistor compensation network. This results in a 130dB dynamic range and THD+N better than -97dB, overcoming common zero-crossing distortion issues in R2R devices and delivering near-perfect linearity. iBasso calls this system R2R Ultra.

8-Channel Fully Differential R2R
The DX270 utilises a fully balanced architecture with L+, L-, R+, R-, each containing two internal R2R DACs, forming an 8-channel R2R configuration. This differential dual-DAC design helps address zero-crossing distortion, which occurs when audio signals switch between positive and negative voltages. Traditional single-channel decoding can introduce signal gaps, whereas differential output compensates for these transitions, maintaining stable linearity even at low signal levels. This approach enables a dynamic range of 130dB and highly detailed audio reproduction.

20-bit R2R + 4-bit String DAC | Advanced Hybrid Architecture
The DX270 employs a hybrid architecture combining 20-bit R2R with a 4-bit String DAC. For high-bit MSB processing, a String DAC is used, which approximates target voltage using resistor ladders and switching networks. It offers a wide dynamic range, low spurious energy and excellent THD+N. iBasso uses 344 high-precision resistors in total, nearly doubling the typical count in conventional R2R DAC designs, resulting in a more natural and refined sound.

FPGA-Master 3.0 Inside | In-House Audio Evolution Engine
The DX270 features FPGA-Master 3.0, developed over years of algorithm research, with LUT capacity 7.5 times greater than version 2.0. Acting as the main audio controller, it fetches data directly from the SoC using synchronised system clocks driven by dual ultra-low-noise Accusilicon femtosecond oscillators.

FPGA-Master 3.0 also functions as a hardware calibration engine, detecting and compensating for parameter variations in real time. This reduces non-linear behaviour in components and improves resistor network accuracy. Through the combination of software and hardware optimisation, THD+N and dynamic range are further improved, delivering more stable decoding performance.

The DX270 also supports NOS mode and four digital filter types for different listening preferences.

Hardware Resistor Compensation Network | Extended Performance Limits
Combined with FPGA algorithms, the hardware resistor compensation network uses 76 precision resistors working together to improve decoding accuracy, expand dynamic range and reduce distortion. This software and hardware synergy allows the R2R Ultra DAC to surpass traditional performance limits. Equivalent resistance accuracy reaches 1.4 parts per 100,000.

Eliminating Zero-Crossing Distortion | Verified by Measurement and Listening
Zero-crossing distortion at near-zero signal levels can result in lost detail and low-frequency muddiness in traditional R2R DACs. The DX270 uses a fully differential architecture and precise calibration to achieve ultra-low -120dB zero-crossing distortion, ensuring subtle instrument harmonics and vocal nuances are accurately preserved.

Outstanding Linearity | Quieter Background, Greater Airiness
Musical waveforms consist of multiple frequency components. When DAC output is non-linear, harmonic and intermodulation distortion can occur. The DX270 achieves improved linearity through ultra-high resistor matching, precise switching and optimised circuit design. The output curve closely follows the ideal response, delivering a low-noise background and natural, realistic sound presentation.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC | 4GB RAM + 128GB Storage | 5.5-inch Display
The DX270 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC with 4GB RAM and 128GB UFS 2.1 storage for smooth system performance. It supports up to 2TB microSD expansion for additional storage. The 5.5-inch 1080 × 2160 display provides rich colours and precise touch response for improved usability.

12V DC External Power Support | Enhanced Output Performance
When connected to a 12V DC power supply, the amplifier section increases from 8V to 12V, enabling Super Gain Mode with output power up to 1575mW + 1575mW at 32 ohms. This additional power allows the DX270 to drive demanding headphones and complex musical passages with ease.

Dual JRC Analogue Volume Chips | Clean Signal Attenuation
The DX270 uses two dual-channel JRC analogue volume ICs, forming a 4-channel volume control system. At low volumes, noise is synchronously attenuated. At typical listening levels (50mV), it achieves over 91dB DINAD, ensuring a clean and natural sound.

Non-SRC Android 13 & Linux-Based Mango OS
The DX270 runs Android 13, allowing installation of streaming apps with a refined user interface. It bypasses SRC at system level, enabling applications such as Mango Player to operate without resampling. It also includes Mango OS, a Linux-based system dedicated to audio playback, offering reduced SoC load, no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth interference and lower EMI for a purer sound experience.

4.4mm PO + 4.4mm LO + 3.5mm PO | Low-Latency USB DAC
The DX270 features both 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs for balanced and single-ended headphones and IEMs. The 4.4mm balanced line-out supports external amplification, while the 3.5mm output also provides coaxial digital output up to 384kHz. USB DAC mode allows the DX270 to function as a high-end R2R DAC for PCs and smartphones.