HIFIMAN EF500 headphone amplifier and DAC

HIFIMAN EF500 DAC and headphone amplifier with media streaming support

The EF500 is an innovative DAC and headphone amplifier combination optimized for streaming content. The device is characterized by very low distortion values, minimal noise and excellent energy efficiency. At the heart of the EF500 is Hifiman’s Hymalaya R2R DAC, which won the prestigious VGP Gold Technology Award in Japan for its outstanding quality and performance.

With its powerful output of 4.5 watts in balanced and 1.32 watts in unbalanced operation, the EF500 opens up a wide range of possibilities for experiencing music. Users can play music directly from a NAS system, stream it via mobile devices or use the DAC and headphone amplifier in the classic way via coaxial or USB inputs. A user-friendly volume control and a 4-stage gain switch make operation easier, while versatile connection options such as a 6.3 mm unbalanced headphone output and a 4-pin XLR output for balanced headphones as well as RCA and XLR outputs ensure high compatibility.

With support for network streaming and various inputs such as USB-C, USB-B and coaxial, the EF500 offers excellent audio parameters: a THD+N of 0.0025%, a channel separation of over 130dB and an SNR of 117dB. Its maximum output of 4.5 WPC (symmetrical) or 1.32 WPC (unbalanced) and its weight of 3.37 kg underline the solid construction and high performance of the device.

The EF500 is a masterpiece of technological innovation and design for audio and technology lovers. With its award-winning D/A converter and combination of durable construction, elegant design and ease of use, it ushers in a new era of audio devices that push boundaries.

Connections

6.3 mm unbalanced headphone output
XLR 4-pin headphone output balanced
XLR output balanced (3-pin left/right)
RCA output unbalanced (RCA left/right)
USB-C Input
USB-B input
coaxial input
LAN connection
Power connection