iFi GO Cable: A Powerful DAC/Amp Hidden in a USB-C Cable

iFi audio has launched the GO cable, a USB-C cable for in-ear monitors with a complete hi-res DAC and headphone amp built into its housing. The iFi GO cable is derived from the architecture of the brand’s award-winning GO link dongle DAC, but instead of sitting between a phone and a pair of headphones as a separate accessory, the electronics are hidden inside the cable itself, terminating directly in 0.78mm 2-pin IEM connectors.

The idea is straightforward: bypass a phone or laptop’s built-in audio output entirely and let a proper DAC and amp handle the signal instead, without adding another box to carry around. For anyone who already owns 2-pin IEMs, the iFi GO cable effectively turns any USB-C source into a genuine hi-res audio player, without the fuss of pairing a separate dongle and cable, or worrying about losing one on the way out the door. It also means one less accessory to pack for travel, since the cable itself is the entire signal chain.

Hi-Fi Hidden in Plain Sight

iFi audio GO cable product shot — The iFi GO cable’s inline modules house a complete ESS Sabre DAC and headphone amplifier.

At the heart of the iFi GO cable is an ESS Sabre DAC chipset, supporting Hi-Res PCM up to 384kHz and DSD256, well beyond what most streaming services or phone outputs can deliver natively. iFi has also unlocked two features usually reserved for its larger desktop and portable DACs: Dynamic Range Enhancement, which widens the contrast between loud and quiet passages, and THD compensation, which reduces distortion for a cleaner overall sound. Both are the kind of processing tricks iFi typically reserves for its higher-tier portable and desktop products, so seeing them included in a cable this compact is a notable step for the category.

Built for IEMs, Ready for Hi-Res

iFi audio GO cable in use with a laptop — A USB-C connection lets the iFi GO cable draw a hi-res signal straight from a laptop or phone.

The GO cable terminates in 0.78mm 2-Pin analogue outputs, giving a direct, secure connection to compatible IEMs without an adapter. iFi also sells a GO cable Starter Kit that bundles the cable with a pair of AIRO Astra earphones for anyone new to the 2-pin IEM format. Custom silver-plated cabling made from OFHC copper carries the audio signal, and iFi has built in transport controls and an echo-cancelling microphone, so calls, volume and playback can all be handled without reaching for the connected device.

Control and Durability on the Go

iFi audio GO cable angled view — A water-resistant chassis and in-line controls are built for daily use, not just desk duty.

Beyond phones, tablets and laptops, iFi says the GO cable also pairs well with handheld consoles including the Nintendo Switch 2, supporting GameChat so players can stay connected while gaming. The whole assembly is housed in a premium, water-resistant chassis intended for everyday durability rather than careful desk-only use. For listeners who already own iFi’s GO link 2 dongle DAC, the GO cable offers a more integrated alternative built specifically around 2-pin IEMs.

Pricing and availability

The iFi GO cable is available now, priced at €79. A GO cable ASTRA Hi-Res Starter Kit, bundling the cable with AIRO Astra IEMs, is also available. The GO cable is compatible with any device offering a USB-C output, including current-generation smartphones, laptops and tablets. Full details are available via ifi-audio.com.