iBasso DX260 MK2 Review

 

Introduction:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 is a refined evolution of the original DX260, delivering significant upgrades tailored for audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking premium portable audio performance. This advanced Digital Audio Player (DAP) builds on its predecessor’s strengths with an 11nm Octa-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC, replacing the Snapdragon 660, for enhanced processing efficiency and multitasking. It features 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM and an upgraded 128GB UFS storage system, doubling the capacity of the original’s 64GB eMMC for faster file management and larger music libraries.

The audio architecture, centered on an octa-DAC matrix with eight CS43198 chips and the in-house FPGA-Master 2.0 controller, supports high-resolution formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512, ensuring pristine sound quality. A vibrant 5.0-inch Sharp IPS display, dual-band 2.4G/5G Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and a dual-OS platform featuring Android 13 and Mango OS offer versatile functionality. For existing DX260 owners, the MK2’s improved performance, modernized operating system, and expanded storage make it a compelling upgrade, while newcomers will find a robust and feature-rich DAP designed for exceptional audio and practical use.

 

Disclaimer:

I would like to thank iBasso for providing me the DX260 MK2 as review sample. I am not affiliated with iBasso beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered opinions about the product! 

 

Price & Availability:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 is priced at $949.00 USD, aligning with the original DX260. For more details or to purchase, visit the official iBasso website:

• iBasso DX260 MK2 Digital Audio Player

 

Package & Accessories:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 is presented in packaging that includes an iridescent cardboard sleeve. This sleeve displays the iBasso logo and essential device information. The box’s internal layout securely holds the device in a foam-lined compartment.

The package of the DX260 MK2 includes the following items:

• 1 x iBasso DX260 MK2 Digital Audio Player
• 1 x Silicone Case
• 1 x USB Type-C Charging/Data Cable
• 1 x Coaxial (SPDIF) Cable
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x Warranty Card

The silicone case offers basic protection for the hi-fi gadget. Its simple construction may not fully meet expectations for a device in this price range. The USB Type-C cable supports charging and data transfer, while the coaxial cable enables connection to external audio equipment. The overall packaging reflects a practical approach to delivering the device and its accessories, though some users might prefer a more durable or refined case to complement the audio player.

Additionally, a fine leather case is available for the DX260MK2 at the very reasonable price of about 60 USD. More infromation can be found under the link below;

• iBasso DX260/DX260 MK2 Leather Case

 

Design, Buttons and Build Quality:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 features an industrial design that is identical to the original DX260, both utilizing a straight-edged, angular chassis constructed from CNC-machined aluminum alloy.

This material is offered in Blue Silver and White Silver finishes, each presenting a solid and polished exterior that resists minor scratches. The dimensions, measuring 123mm in height, 74.5mm in width, and 17.5mm in thickness, combined with a weight of 229g, result in a device that feels substantial in hand. It remains portable for extended use. The weight is evenly distributed, reducing strain during prolonged holding, though some users might find it slightly heavy for pocket carry.

The front panel houses a 5.0-inch Sharp IPS display with a 1080×1920 resolution, delivering a screen that provides clear visibility of text and imagery, such as album artwork, under various lighting conditions. The on-cell capacitive touch panel responds to input with reasonable accuracy. It functions adequately with wet or gloved fingers, which could be useful in diverse environments. Surrounding the display, the bezels are moderately sized, offering a balance between screen real estate and structural support.

On the right side, a multifunctional volume and power wheel serves as the primary control mechanism. It features a metallic silver gear-like accent that provides tactile feedback. The wheel’s rotation has been adjusted from the original DX260 to feel smoother, though its responsiveness may vary depending on finger pressure. Next to the wheel, three physical playback button that are handling play/pause, previous track, and next track functions are arranged in a vertical alignment. Their placement allows access without requiring a significant grip adjustment. The buttons’ travel distance is short, which might lead to accidental presses for some users.

The rear design incorporates a matte glass panel that minimizes fingerprint smudges. It is paired with a polished metal plate that adds a reflective element reminiscent of professional audio gear. This combination contributes to a sophisticated appearance, though the glass surface may attract dust over time.

The removable back cover, secured by two Torx screws located near the volume wheel, allows access to the battery compartment with basic tools. This design choice supports long-term maintenance. It could appeal to users interested in replacing the battery themselves, though it requires careful handling to avoid damaging the seal.

The top edge includes a microSD card slot capable of accommodating cards up to 2TB, positioned conveniently for easy access. A USB 3.1 Type-C port on the same edge supports charging, data transfer, and USB DAC functionality. An S/PDIF digital output offers connectivity to external systems.

The bottom edge features 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs, both configurable for line-out modes via software. This caters to a variety of audio setups. The absence of swappable amplifier modules, present in the original DX260, might be a drawback for users who preferred that customization.

Overall, the DX260 MK2 is characterized by a modern industrial design and impressive physical resilience. Its compact form factor is highly convenient for portable use, easily slipping into a pocket.

The device’s sturdy build quality means it remains rigid and silent, even when subjected to pressure, indicating reliable long-term performance.

 

Some Technical Specifications:

• Model: DX260 MK2
• Operating System: Android 13 + Mango OS Dual System
• CPU: 11nm Octa-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC
• Color: Blue Silver, White Silver
• Screen: Sharp 5.0-inch, 1080×1920, on-cell capacitive touch panel
• Audio Formats: APE, FLAC, WAV, WMA, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, OGG, MP3, DFF, DSF, DXD
• USB: USB 3.1 Super speed transfer (charging, data transfer, USB DAC up to 32-bit/384kHz and native DSD256)
• Output Ports: 4.4mm balanced, 3.5mm single-ended, 4.4mm line out, 3.5mm line out, mini coaxial output (24-bit/384kHz and DoP DSD128), USB OTG output
• Wi-Fi: 2.4GHz and 5GHz
• Bluetooth: V5.0 (aptX, aptX-HD, LDAC, AAC, SBC as transmitter; AAC, SBC as Bluetooth DAC)
• RAM+ROM: 4GB LPDDR4X, 128GB UFS storage
• Battery: 3.8V 4400mAh Li-Polymer, user-replaceable
• Charging Time: Approximately 2.5 hours (QC3.0 and PD3.0 quick charge)
• Play Time: Up to 14 hours (PO low gain), 11.5 hours (PO high gain), 26 hours (Line Out); varies with resolution, volume, and headphone/IEM loads
• Size: 123mm x 74.5mm x 17.5mm
• Weight: 229g
• Additional Features: Support for SDHC and SDXC Micro SD cards up to 2TB, 3 gain settings (Low, Mid, High), 100-step volume control, removable back cover design, support for M3U playlists, hardware FIR output mode, 2 NDK ultra-low phase noise Femtosecond oscillators, bit-for-bit playback up to 32-bit/768kHz, native DSD up to 512x, USB digital output up to 32-bit/384kHz and native DSD256

 

3.5mm Single-Ended Phone Port:

• Maximum Output Level: 1Vrms (Low Gain), 2Vrms (Mid Gain), 3Vrms (High Gain)
• Output Power: 525mW @16ohm, THD+N <0.1%
• Frequency Response: 10Hz~75kHz (-1dB)
• S/N: 128dB
• Dynamic Range: 128dB
• THD+N: -115dB (0.00017%) @1kHz (600ohm load)
• Noise Floor: 1μV
• Crosstalk: 118dB
• Output Impedance: 0.6ohm

4.4mm Balanced Phone Port:

• Maximum Output Level: 2Vrms (Low Gain), 4Vrms (Mid Gain), 6Vrms (High Gain)
• Output Power: 1015mW @32ohm, THD+N <0.5%
• Frequency Response: 10Hz~75kHz (-1dB)
• S/N: 133dB
• Dynamic Range: 133dB
• THD+N: -121dB (0.000089%) @1kHz (600ohm load)
• Noise Floor: 1μV
• Crosstalk: -145dB
• Output Impedance: 1.1ohm

3.5mm Line Out:

• Maximum Output Level: 2Vrms
• Frequency Response: 10Hz~75kHz (-1dB)
• S/N: 128dB
• Dynamic Range: 128dB
• THD+N: -112dB (0.00025%) @1kHz
• Noise Floor: 760nV (0.76μV)
• Crosstalk: 115dB

4.4mm Line Out:

• Maximum Output Level: 4Vrms
• Frequency Response: 10Hz~75kHz (-1dB)
• S/N: 133dB
• Dynamic Range: 134dB
• THD+N: -123dB (0.00006%) @1kHz
• Noise Floor: 760nV (0.76μV)
• Crosstalk: -145dB

  

Hardware & Software Features:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 enhances the hardware foundation of the original DX260 with several significant upgrades. The 11nm Octa-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC replaces the previous Snapdragon 660. It offers improved power efficiency and slightly better multitasking capabilities. The system is supported by 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM. This memory ensures smooth operation when switching between applications or streaming services. The internal storage has been upgraded to 128GB UFS from the original’s 64GB eMMC. The switch to UFS technology boosts read and write speeds. This results in faster file transfers and quicker app launches. It is a significant advantage for users managing large music libraries. The microSD card slot retains its support for SDHC and SDXC cards up to 2TB. This offers expansive storage options for those with extensive collections.

The audio hardware remains a key strength of the DX260 MK2. It features an octa-DAC matrix composed of eight Cirrus Logic CS43198 chips. This configuration is precisely managed by the in-house developed FPGA-Master 2.0 audio system controller. It enables support for high-resolution audio formats. These include 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512.

The inclusion of hardware FIR output mode and 2 NDK ultra-low phase noise Femtosecond oscillators enhances signal precision. The mini coaxial output supports up to 24-bit/384kHz and DoP DSD128. This expands compatibility with external audio equipment compared to the original’s more limited specification. The device also supports USB digital output up to 32-bit/384kHz and native DSD256, alongside USB DAC functionality with the same specifications.

Output versatility is a notable advantage. The device includes 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone ports, both with 3 gain settings (Low, Mid, High) and 100-step volume control. These can switch to line-out modes for integration with external amplifiers. The internal amplifier delivers a robust 1015mW per channel at 32 ohms on the balanced output. This provides ample power to drive a wide range of headphones. These range from sensitive in-ear monitors to high-impedance over-ear models. Connectivity options are comprehensive. They include USB 3.1 Super speed transfer for high-speed data transfer and USB DAC functionality. Dual-band 2.4G/5G Wi-Fi supports seamless streaming. Bluetooth 5.0 offers support for aptX, aptX-HD, LDAC, AAC, and SBC codecs. AAC and SBC are available in Bluetooth DAC mode. This provides flexibility for wireless listening. The removable back cover design facilitates battery replacement, adding to the device’s longevity.

 

Dual OS for Flexibility and Pure Audio:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 operates on a dual-OS system, featuring Android 13 and Mango OS, marking a notable upgrade from the original DX260’s Android 11. This dual-platform approach provides a flexible and tailored user experience, catering to different listening preferences. Android 13 serves as the primary operating system, delivering a modernized interface with enhanced security protocols, including regular patch updates and improved app permissions management. Full access to the Google Play Store enables installation of popular streaming services such as Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, and Deezer, alongside music management apps like Foobar2000 or USB Audio Player Pro. The home screen is customizable, featuring a dedicated Mango Player widget that displays album artwork, track metadata, and playback controls, including play, pause, skip, and volume adjustment. A notification bar at the top provides quick access to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and battery status, while a settings menu offers granular control over audio output, screen brightness, and system updates.

The settings menu is particularly robust, housing an audio configuration section where users can adjust gain levels (low, medium, high) to match headphone sensitivity, select digital filter options (e.g., Slow, Sharp, Short Delay), and toggle between FIR 2x and FIR 4x modes to fine-tune sound characteristics. Output selection includes 3.5mm single-ended, 4.4mm balanced, and line-out modes, with the ability to set volume limits for safety. Additional features include a customizable equalizer with up to 10 bands, preset profiles for various genres, and a gapless playback option, which is essential for classical or live recordings.

The interface benefits from the Snapdragon 665’s processing power, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal lag, though the touch response could be slightly more responsive during heavy multitasking. A recent firmware update (version 2.03, released in June 2025) has improved Bluetooth pairing stability and reduced power consumption during idle states, based on user feedback.

Mango OS, accessible via a reboot triggered through the settings or a hardware button combination, is a Linux-based system optimized for audio purity. It eliminates background processes and reduces electromagnetic interference, creating an environment ideal for critical listening. The Mango Player app within this OS offers a streamlined interface with large album art, a progress bar, and basic controls, though it lacks the advanced customization of Android-based players. Users can still access audio settings such as gain and output selection, but the focus remains on minimalism to enhance sound quality. The OS supports offline playback of local files and includes a basic file browser, though it does not support app installations. Firmware updates are synchronized across both platforms, with the latest version addressing minor audio glitches reported in early MK2 units. This dual-OS setup appeals to users who value both the openness of Android and the dedicated audio focus of Mango OS, though the learning curve for switching between them may require adjustment.

 

Battery Life:

The DX260 MK2 is equipped with a 3.8V 4400mAh user-replaceable battery. It offers up to 14 hours of playback on low gain, 11.5 hours on high gain, and 26 hours via line out, consistent with the original DX260 based on manufacturer claims. Real-world testing at moderate volume levels with the 4.4mm balanced output and FIR 4x mode yielded approximately 10-12 hours. This depends on screen brightness, streaming usage, and headphone impedance. The device supports Quick Charge 3.0 and PD3.0. It achieves a full charge in about 2.5 hours. This supports convenient daily use. Battery performance may vary with firmware updates. Users are advised to monitor optimization settings for best results.

 

Key Specifications: 

• DAC: 8x CS43198 Octa-DAC Matrix
• Audio Decoding: Up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM, Native DSD512
• THD+N: -123dB
• Dynamic Range: 134dB
• Headphone Outputs: 3.5mm, 4.4mm
• Other Outputs: Mini coaxial (24-bit/384kHz, DoP DSD128), USB digital (32-bit/384kHz, native DSD256)
• Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
• Operating System: Android 13 + Mango OS
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 128GB UFS
• Additional Features: USB DAC functionality

  

Equipment’s used for this review:

• DAP’s             : iBasso DX260 MK2, iBasso DX260, HiBy R6 Pro II
• Erphones       : iBasso IT07, Campfire Audio Fathom
• Headphones  : iBasso SR3

 

Albums & tracks used for this review:

• Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Apple Music Lossless)
• Adele – My Little Love (Apple Music Lossless)
• Sarah McLachlan – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
• Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Payer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Elton John – Rocket Man ((Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Sting – Englishman in New York – (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Tidal Hi-Fi)
• Radiohead – Live in Berlin “Album” (Apple Music Lossless)
• Radiohead – Pyramid Song (Apple Music Lossless)
• U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Bear McCreary’s – Valkyries (Deezer HiFi)
• Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Deezer HiFi)
• Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Daft Punk – Instant Crush (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Toutant – Rebirth (Deezer HiFi)
• Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Apple Music Lossless)
• Hans Zimmer – The Dark Knight OST (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Spotify)
• Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Vivaldi – Le QuarttroStagioni “The Four Season” (Apple Music Lossless)
• Pink Floyd – Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Apple Music Lossless)
• Miles Davis – So What (Deezer HiFi)
• Otto Liebert& Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove it) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Tidal Hi-Fi)
• Rush’s – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Slayer – Angel of Death (Spotify)
• Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Spotify)
• Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Spotify)

 

 

The Sound:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 offers a refined auditory experience that builds upon the foundation established by the original DX260. This review is based on an extensive burn-in period of approximately 100 hours, with evaluations conducted using the iBasso IT07 in-ear monitors (IEMs), Campfire Audio Fathom IEMs, and iBasso SR3 headphones. The sound is characterized by a harmonious balance and a focus on detail, making it a compelling choice for both casual enjoyment and critical listening sessions.

 

Bass:

The bass on the DX260 MK2 unfolds with remarkable control and transparency, delivering a foundation that is both deep and articulate. Sub-bass frequencies go deep with authority, providing a resonant underpinning for genres like electronic dance music or hip-hop, where low-end presence is paramount. The texture of basslines is richly defined, allowing the listener to discern individual notes in complex tracks. Mid-bass has a tight punch, ensuring kick drums strike with precision and sustain without muddying the overall mix. This clarity is particularly noticeable in fast-paced tracks, where the bass maintains its integrity even at elevated volumes, offering a satisfying thump that enhances rhythmic drive.

The bass response varies beautifully with different pairings. With the iBasso IT07, it delivers a lively and energetic presentation, accentuating the drive of electronic beats with a crisp attack. The Campfire Audio Fathom introduces a warmer, more enveloping quality to the low end, enhancing the fullness of jazz basslines or orchestral double bass passages with a smooth, rounded character. The iBasso SR3 elevates this further, unveiling a robust and controlled bass that shines in classical recordings, where the depth of timpani rolls or cello solos becomes strikingly vivid. Compared to the original DX260, the MK2’s bass feels more refined, with a slight improvement in separation that allows individual bass elements to stand out more clearly, though the overall neutral character remains consistent. Listeners who prefer a more pronounced or warmer bass might find the default presentation a touch understated, yet its natural delivery makes it versatile across a wide array of musical styles.

 

Midrange:

The midrange of the DX260 MK2 serves as a captivating focal point, where vocals and instruments are rendered with exceptional clarity and spatial separation that draws the listener into the heart of the performance. Vocals take a central stage, presented with a natural timbre that avoids artificial boosting or harshness, allowing the emotional nuance of a singer’s performance to shine through with authenticity. Instruments such as acoustic guitars, pianos, and violins are distinctly layered, each retaining its unique tonal color and position within the soundfield, creating a cohesive yet detailed listening experience.

The midrange’s qualities are highlighted through different pairings. Testing with the iBasso IT07 emphasizes the ability to resolve fine vocal details, such as the texture of a whispered lyric or the resonance of a sustained note, making it ideal for a cappella performances or solo acoustic tracks. The Campfire Audio Fathom enhances the midrange with a lush, warm quality, bringing out the interplay of strings and woodwinds in live jazz recordings with an organic feel. The iBasso SR3 further amplifies this strength, placing orchestral instruments with pinpoint accuracy, where the interplay of violins and violas in a symphony becomes a three-dimensional spectacle.

Treble:

The treble range of the DX260 MK2 achieves a delicate equilibrium between detail and comfort, extending into the upper frequencies with an airy and expansive quality that lifts the overall soundstage into a more open and engaging space. High-pitched elements such as cymbals, flutes, and the upper registers of vocal performances are reproduced with a refined sparkle, revealing intricate details. The treble avoids any tendency toward sharpness or sibilance, instead offering a smooth and polished presentation that invites prolonged listening without causing fatigue, maintaining a consistent clarity that enhances the music’s liveliness. This smoothness is complemented by a subtle brightness that adds a sense of height and width, making the upper frequencies feel both detailed and approachable.

The treble response adapts beautifully to different pairings. When paired with the iBasso IT07, it comes across with a crystalline clarity, illuminating the upper harmonics of classical compositions. The Campfire Audio Fathom accentuates the texture of cymbal crashes and percussion in rock tracks, delivering a dynamic yet controlled top end. The iBasso SR3 showcases the treble’s ability to handle complex orchestral passages, where the interplay of high strings and brass sections unfolds with a natural sheen and precise articulation.

 

Overall Cohesion and Dynamics:

The overall cohesion of the DX260 MK2’s sound is one of its most impressive attributes, weaving bass, midrange, and treble into a seamless tapestry that mirrors the intent of the recording with remarkable unity. Dynamics are handled well, with soft passages retaining their intimacy and quiet beauty, while loud crescendos deliver impactful energy without ever crossing into distortion. The transition between frequency ranges is fluid and natural, ensuring that a deep bass note flows effortlessly into a midrange vocal or a soaring treble line without abrupt shifts, creating a listening experience that feels both engaging and relaxed. This balance contributes to a versatility that accommodates extended sessions across a broad spectrum of music, from delicate acoustic pieces to powerful orchestral arrangements.

The cohesion is audible through various pairings. The iBasso IT07 pairing emphasizes this unity with a vibrant and lively presentation, ideal for pop or electronic tracks where energy and rhythm are key. The Campfire Audio Fathom adds a rich, enveloping quality, enhancing the emotional depth of acoustic or jazz performances. The iBasso SR3 brings out the full dynamic range, making symphonic works or cinematic scores feel grand and immersive.

 

Soundstage & Imaging:

The DX260 MK2 offers a commendable soundstage that extends widely and provides good depth, creating an immersive listening environment. Instrument separation and imaging are well-executed, with each sound source positioned accurately within the mix, contributing to a three-dimensional effect. The background remains clean, with minimal noise interference, allowing subtle details to emerge clearly. This soundstage performance is particularly noticeable with the iBasso SR3, where orchestral layers are distinctly placed, making the device a strong choice for spatially complex recordings.

 

Comparison:

iBasso DX260 MK2 versus HiBy R6 Pro II:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 and HiBy R6 Pro II are portable Digital Audio Players (DAPs) crafted for audiophiles, each delivering impressive hardware and sound performance, with the DX260 MK2 maintaining a slight edge. The DX260 MK2 features an 11nm Octa-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC, 4GB LPDDR4X RAM, and 128GB UFS storage, ensuring smooth app performance and efficient file handling. Its dual-OS system, combining Android 13 and Mango OS, supports versatile streaming and dedicated audio playback, paired with a user-replaceable 4400mAh battery lasting up to 14 hours. Its octa-DAC matrix with eight CS43198 chips and FPGA-Master 2.0 controller delivers 1015mW at 32 ohms (balanced) with a 1μV noise floor and excellent distortion metrics. The R6 Pro II, powered by the same Snapdragon 665 and 4GB RAM, uses 64GB eMMC storage (expandable to 2TB via microSD) and runs Android 12 with HiBy’s music app for bit-perfect playback. Its 5000mAh non-replaceable battery lasts 8-12 hours, and its Dual AK4499EX + AK4191EQ chips and Class A/AB modes outputs 405mW at 32 ohms (balanced) with a slightly higher noise floor.

In sound performance, the DX260 MK2’s neutral, reference-grade profile slightly outshines the R6 Pro II’s warm, engaging sound in clarity and refinement. The DX260 MK2’s bass is tight and well-defined, with deep sub-bass that adds weight to genres like electronic and hip-hop, and articulate mid-bass that keeps rock or pop rhythms crisp and controlled. The R6 Pro II delivers punchy, energetic bass with solid impact, particularly in bass-heavy genres, though its sub-bass is slightly less precise and mid-bass can feel a touch warm in complex tracks.

The DX260 MK2’s midrange excels with exceptional transparency, rendering vocals with natural timbre and fine emotional detail, while instruments like guitars or pianos in jazz and acoustic genres are layered with precise spatial separation. The R6 Pro II’s midrange is smooth and inviting, offering a pleasing vocal warmth and good instrument clarity, though it doesn’t match the DX260 MK2’s ability to resolve intricate details in busy arrangements.

The DX260 MK2’s treble is smooth and extended, providing airy, detailed highs for cymbals and strings without harshness, making it ideal for prolonged listening across genres like classical or jazz. The R6 Pro II’s treble is refined and slightly softer, delivering a relaxed yet clear presentation that shines in laid-back genres, but it lacks the DX260 MK2’s sparkling precision. The DX260 MK2’s soundstage is wider and deeper, with pinpoint imaging that creates a vivid, three-dimensional experience, particularly for orchestral or live recordings. The R6 Pro II offers a spacious soundstage with strong horizontal imaging, enhanced by its MSEB tuning for customizable warmth or vocal emphasis, though it falls just short of the DX260 MK2’s immersive depth. Its Class A mode adds dynamic richness, while Class AB ensures efficiency.

The DX260 MK2’s higher power output and cleaner background make it more versatile, effortlessly driving sensitive IEMs and high-impedance headphones with a detailed, reference-quality sound perfect for critical listening. The R6 Pro II performs admirably with IEMs and less demanding headphones, its warm and customizable sound via MSEB offering a pretty enjoyable, musical experience.

 

Conclusion:

The iBasso DX260 MK2 builds upon the strengths of the original DX260, introducing meaningful upgrades that enhance its appeal for audiophiles and music enthusiasts while remaining a compelling option for existing DX260 owners. It retains the exceptional audio performance of its predecessor, driven by an octa-DAC matrix with eight CS43198 chips and the FPGA-Master 2.0 controller, supporting high-resolution formats up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM and native DSD512. Key improvements include the transition to an 11nm Octa-Core Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC from the Snapdragon 660, offering better multitasking and power efficiency, and an upgrade to 128GB UFS storage from 64GB eMMC for faster read/write speeds and improved file management. The dual-OS system now features Android 13 instead of Android 11, providing a more modern interface, enhanced security, and broader app compatibility alongside the audio-optimized Mango OS. Additional refinements include a smoother volume wheel, improved bass separation, and expanded digital output support, such as mini coaxial for 24-bit/384kHz and DoP DSD128. For current DX260 owners, the MK2’s upgrades may not necessitate an immediate replacement, as the core audio quality and design remain consistent, but those seeking enhanced processing power, faster storage, and a more current operating system will find the MK2 a worthwhile upgrade. With its robust CNC-machined aluminum build, user-replaceable battery, and versatile connectivity options, including dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, the DX260 MK2 at $949.00 delivers a premium portable audio experience that balances innovation with familiarity.

 

Pros & Cons:

• + Exceptional sound quality with balanced, detailed bass, midrange, and treble
• + Wide, immersive soundstage with precise imaging
• + Powerful octa-DAC matrix (8x CS43198 chips) supporting high-resolution audio
• + Upgraded Snapdragon 665 SoC for smooth performance
• + 128GB UFS storage for fast file handling and large music libraries
• + Dual-OS (Android 13 and Mango OS) for versatile streaming and audio focus
• + User-replaceable 4400mAh battery with up to 14 hours playback
• + Robust CNC-machined aluminum build with durable design
• + Smoother volume wheel for improved tactile control

 

• – Stock silicone case lacks premium feel (but a fine leather case is available for the DX260MK2 at the very reasonable price)
• – No swappable amplifier modules, unlike some predecessors
• – Short button travel may cause accidental presses

 

Thank you for the Read!