iBasso Nunchaku Review
iBasso Nunchaku Review
Introduction:
The iBasso Nunchaku enters the portable audio market as a hybrid USB DAC/Amplifier, notable for its integration of both vacuum tube and solid-state technologies. Featuring dual Raytheon JAN6418 tubes alongside dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips, the device aims to provide a distinct audio signature. It also incorporates a switchable Class AB mode, high-resolution audio support up to PCM 768kHz and DSD512, and various output options including SPDIF. The Nunchaku’s design includes an OLED display and a multi-functional control knob within a compact form factor. This review will examine the Nunchaku’s performance across its various features, evaluating its audio quality, functionality, and overall user experience to determine its position within the competitive portable DAC/Amp category.
Now, let’s dive into a more detailed review.
Disclaimer:
I’d like to extend my gratitude to iBasso for providing the Nunchaku USB DAC/Amplifier dongle as a review sample. I have no affiliation with iBasso beyond this review, and the opinions expressed here are my honest and unbiased thoughts about the product.
Price & Availability:
The iBasso Nunchaku is priced at an accessible $299 USD, making it a compelling option for audiophiles looking for hybrid amplification without breaking the bank. For more details, check the official product page:
Package & Accessories:
The iBasso Nunchaku arrives in a stylish, compact box that reflects the brand’s attention to detail. Encased in a protective sleeve with iBasso branding, the packaging opens to reveal a thoughtfully curated set of accessories, ensuring a premium unboxing experience.
Inside the box, you’ll find:
- 1 x iBasso Nunchaku USB DAC/Amplifier Dongle
- 1 x USB Type-C to USB Type-C Cable
- 1 x USB Type-C to Lightning Cable
- 1 x USB Type-C to USB-A Adapter
- 1 x Yellow Leatherette Protective Case
- 1 x Cable Storage Pouch
- 1 x User Manual and Warranty Card
The inclusion of a vibrant yellow leatherette case adds a touch of flair and practicality, safeguarding the device during travel.
Design & Build Quality:
The iBasso Nunchaku catches your eye right away with its thoughtful design and premium feel. Built from a lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy and paired with sleek tempered glass panels, it strikes a perfect balance between elegance and toughness. Available in two striking color options, red and grey, it lets you pick a look that suits your style while keeping its compact form, weighing just 50g and measuring 65mm x 34.6mm x 15mm, perfect for slipping into your pocket. Every detail, from the materials to the layout, reflects iBasso’s commitment to crafting a device that’s as much a joy to hold as it is to listen through. It’s a blend of modern tech and subtle artistry that feels both practical and special.
The front surface of the Nunchaku is characterized by a ribbed aluminum surface, reminiscent of vintage car stereo amplifiers. This design choice not only adds a distinctive texture but also aids in heat dissipation during prolonged use, seamlessly integrating form and function.
A 0.96” OLED screen is positioned on the left side, providing essential information such as volume, output mode (Class AB or Tube), playback format, filter settings, and gain. Adjacent to the screen, a “Hi-Res Audio” badge signifies the device’s high-resolution audio capabilities.
The left side panel mirrors the ribbed texture of the front, maintaining design consistency and providing enhanced grip. This subtle detail contributes to the overall cohesive aesthetic.
Conversely, the right surface panel features a smooth, rounded finish, complementing the device’s robust construction without detracting from its core functionalities.
The top of the Nunchaku houses a USB Type-C port, facilitating both power and data connections for seamless integration with various devices.
A multi-functional volume knob stands out, offering smooth rotation with tactile clicks for precise volume adjustments. Pressing and holding the knob enables access to the settings menu, allowing for quick and convenient on-device customizations
The bottom of the Nunchaku demonstrates its versatility with two analog output options: a 4.4mm balanced output for high-fidelity audio and a 3.5mm single-ended port for compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment. Notably, the 3.5mm port also functions as a coaxial/SPDIF output when the PCM volume reduction button is held, effectively transforming the Nunchaku into a digital audio hub.
The rear of the device features a tempered glass panel that provides a view of the internal vacuum tubes, a unique and distinguishing feature of the Nunchaku. The iBasso logo and “Nunchaku USB DAC & Tube AMP” are subtly etched into the glass, reinforcing the device’s premium quality without being ostentatious. This transparent design element serves to highlight the device’s unique technological aspects.
Technical Specifications:
- Model : Nunchaku
- DAC Chipset : Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
- PCM : up to 32bit/768kHz
- DSD : Native DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512
- Coaxial Out : Up to 32bit/768kHz
- Weight : 50 grams
- Size : 65mm*34.6mm*15mm
4.4mm BAL Output (AB Mode)
- THD+N: -119dB (0.00011%) @1kHz 200kΩ
- Output Voltage: 2.8Vrms (Low Gain) / 4.1Vrms (High Gain)
- Output Power: 450mW@32Ω
- S/N: 130dB
- Dynamic Range: 130dB
- Crosstalk: 145dB
- Frequency Response: 15Hz-40kHz ±0.5dB
4.4mm BAL Output (TUBE Mode)
- Output Voltage: 2.3Vrms (Low Gain) / 4.5Vrms (High Gain)
- Output Power: 525mW@32Ω
- S/N: 107dB
- Dynamic Range: 110dB
- Crosstalk: 82dB
- Frequency Response: 15Hz-40kHz ±1dB
3.5mm SE Output (AB Mode)
- THD+N: -115dB (0.00017%) @1kHz 600kΩ
- Output Voltage: 1.4Vrms (Low Gain) / 2Vrms (High Gain)
- Output Power: 125mW@32Ω
- S/N: 125dB
- Dynamic Range: 125dB
- Crosstalk: 116dB
- Frequency Response: 15Hz-40kHz ±0.5dB
3.5mm SE Output (TUBE Mode)
- Output Voltage: 1.15Vrms (Low Gain) / 2.25Vrms (High Gain)
- Output Power: 150mW@32Ω
- S/N: 112dB
- Dynamic Range: 112dB
- Crosstalk: 82dB
- Frequency Response: 15Hz-40kHz ±1dB
Hardware & Software Features:
When I got my hands on the iBasso Nunchaku, I was amazed by how much cutting-edge tech it packs into such a small frame. It boasts dual Raytheon JAN6418 vacuum tubes for that warm analog sound, dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs, and a robust OPAMP + BUF634 setup for serious driving power. It handles PCM up to 768kHz and native DSD512, making it a high-res audio champ in a portable package.
Digital to Analog Converter & Amplification:
At the heart of the Nunchaku are two Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chips, known for delivering exceptional detail, wide dynamic range, and an incredibly quiet noise floor.
These work in tandem with a hybrid amplification system that lets you switch between tube and Class AB modes. In Tube mode, the dual Raytheon JAN6418 vacuum tubes, powered by a dedicated 22.5V supply, provide a rich, textured sound. When I switch to Class AB, I get a clean, punchy output with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) hitting 130dB, which drops to 107dB in Tube mode due to its warmer character.
Additionally, the Nunchaku offers the flexibility to adjust the sound signature by selecting the
DAC’s low-pass filter:
- Fast: First roll-off filter
- Slow: Slow roll-off filter
- LL/F: Short delay fast roll-off filter
- LL/S: Short delay slow roll-off filter
- NOS: Non-oversampling
This little powerhouse delivers up to 525mW per channel at 32Ω through its 4.4mm balanced output in Tube mode, easily driving even the most demanding headphones. The 3.5mm single-ended output offers 150mW per channel at 32Ω, perfect for sensitive IEMs. When I tested it with the Campfire Audio Andromeda, the noise floor stayed impressively quiet, when paired with my MSI Vector GP68 HX gaming laptop without any hiss or clutter.
However, a slight interference was audible when connected to my smartphone (Samsung S25 Ultra).
Supported Sampling Rates:
The Nunchaku supports a wide range of audio formats: PCM from 16-bit/44.1kHz up to 32-bit/768kHz, plus native DSD up to 512x. Whether you’re spinning standard tracks or diving into ultra-high-res files, it’s got you covered.
Power Supply Technologies & Power Consumption Control:
Power efficiency is a notable aspect. The Nunchaku draws approximately 120mA at 5V in Tube mode and less than 100mA in Class AB, which suggests minimal power consumption from the host device. A dedicated 22.5V anode supply powers the tubes, a feature that potentially enhances headroom and sound quality in a portable DAC. The tubes are cushioned with PORON material, intended to mitigate microphonic noise and maintain audio clarity during movement.
JRC Hardware Volume Control:
Unlike many dongles that rely on digital volume tweaks, the Nunchaku uses a precision JRC hardware volume control in Tube mode. Paired with a smooth-turning knob offering tactile detents, it follows the DAC and tube stages, reducing noise as I lower the volume.
Connectivity:
A single USB Type-C port handles input, doubling as power and data for plug-and-play use with Android devices, iPhones (via an optional Lightning cable), and computers (Mac/Windows 10).
Outputs include a 4.4mm balanced port (4.5Vrms in Tube mode, 4.1Vrms in Class AB) and a 3.5mm single-ended port (2.25Vrms in Tube, 2.8Vrms in Class AB). The 3.5mm also serves as a coaxial/SPDIF output with a long press of the volume button, turning it into a digital hub for other gear.
iBasso UAC APP:
For Android users wanting more control, the iBasso UAC app is available. It’s not mandatory since the Nunchaku’s onboard knob and OLED screen handle basics like mode switching, filters, and gain, but the app opens up extra tweaks when paired with your phone or tablet. Download it from iBasso’s site if you’re keen to fine-tune your setup.
List of Main Features:
- Tube/Class AB dual output modes
- Dual Raytheon JAN6418 antique tubes
- OPAMP+BUF Class AB amplifier, BUF634A*4
- 525mW+525mW@32ohm output power
- Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 Master HiFi™ DAC Chips
- FPGA built-in and KDS Femtosecond oscillator
- Support of PCM up to 32bit/768kHz
- Support of Native DSD up to 512x
- 3.5mm coxial output supports PCM up to 768kHz, and DoP DSD up to 256x
- 0.96” OLED Screen
- Knob operation quickly completes settings and volume adjustment
- Dedicated UAC APP for Android devices, which allows adjustment of volume, channel balance, and digital filters
- Aluminum CNC case with tempered glass panels on both sides.
- Detachable cable design
- 4.4mm balanced output and 3.5mm single-ended output
Equipments used for this review:
- DAC’s : iBasso Nunchaku, Cayin RU7
- USB Source : Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, MSI Vector GP68 HX
- IEM’s : iBasso IT07, Campfire Audio Fathom, Oriveti OH700VB
- Headphones : iBasso SR03
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 Nunchaku stands out as a highly versatile and adaptable DAC in terms of its overall sound character. In Tube Mode, powered by the Raytheon JAN6418 tubes, it delivers a warm, smooth, and analog-like flavor, evoking the nostalgic charm of vinyl playback; the bass is relaxed yet textured, the midrange expansive and lifelike, and the treble open yet easy on the ears. Switching to Class AB Mode, the sound becomes more controlled, fast, and analytical, its tightening the bass, sharpening the midrange, and adding a touch of sparkle to the treble.
This duality between modes makes the Nunchaku appealing to both those seeking emotional depth and those prioritizing technical precision. Overall, its sound signature strikes a skillful balance between warmth and clarity, offering a flexible character that caters to a wide range of musical genres and personal preferences.
Now, let’s analyze the Nunchaku in detail.
This review was written after a burn-in period of approximately 120+ hours. I paired the iBasso Nunchaku with sources such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the MSI Vector GP68 HX laptop. My sound impressions below are primarily based on my experiences with the iBasso IT07, Campfire Audio Solaris Stellar Horizon, and Oriveti OH700VB IEMs, as well as the iBasso SR3 headphone.
Bass:
In Tube Mode, the iBasso Nunchaku delivers bass with a distinctly textured and relaxed profile, leveraging the Raytheon JAN6418 tubes to produce a warm, smooth sound that carries a subtle sweetness, reminiscent of the analog charm found in vinyl playback. The midbass stands out with a firm, satisfying punch, which suits genres like jazz or classical where a natural, layered low-end can bring out the subtleties of acoustic instruments or double bass lines. Sub-bass decay unfolds in an unhurried, organic way, lending a sense of depth to the soundstage without stepping on the toes of other frequencies. When paired with the Oriveti OH700VB, an IEM recognized for its adaptable bass tuning, this mode enhances the low-end with a fuller, more detailed character that reveals the earphone’s potential for richness without exaggeration. The result is a bass response that feels cohesive and well-integrated into the overall sound.
Switching to Class AB Mode, the bass tightens up noticeably, offering faster transients and a more controlled delivery that aligns well with the demands of fast-paced electronic tracks or the driving rhythms of rock music. While this mode increases the impact, it avoids slipping into muddiness or excessive boom, maintaining a clear separation from the midrange. When paired with the iBasso IT07, known for its responsive drivers, the Nunchaku in Class AB Mode brings out a quick, well-defined bass that highlights the IEM’s ability to handle rapid basslines with agility. This versatility makes it easy to see why the Nunchaku appeals to listeners with varied musical tastes.
Midrange:
The midrange is a strong point for the Nunchaku, particularly in Tube Mode, where it takes on a wide, immersive quality that draws listeners into the music. Vocals carry a natural, unforced timbre that feels lifelike, striking a balance between warmth and clarity that keeps the sound engaging over long sessions. The lower midrange has a rich, tangible texture, giving male vocals, such as a baritone crooner or a soulful singer, a full, grounded presence that resonates with depth. The upper midrange holds up equally well, offering clear detail and a sense of presence that brings out the nuances in female vocals, acoustic guitars, or higher-pitched instruments like violins. When paired with the iBasso SR3, a headphone noted for its balanced and revealing midrange, the Nunchaku in Tube Mode handles complex musical passages with a mix of accuracy and warmth, making it easy to pick out individual layers in dense arrangements while still conveying emotional weight.
In Class AB Mode, the midrange shifts to a drier, more precise character, prioritizing clarity and detail over the lushness of Tube Mode. This makes it a good match for listeners who prefer a sharper, more analytical sound, perhaps for dissecting a studio recording or a live acoustic set, thanks to its excellent control and separation between instruments and voices. The Nunchaku’s midrange performance in this mode remains detailed and engaging, with enough resolution to highlight subtle inflections in a vocalist’s delivery or the pluck of a guitar string. It’s a presentation that appeals to those who value both technical precision and an emotional connection, offering a window into the recording without coloring it too heavily. The flexibility between modes adds a layer of adaptability that’s hard to overlook.
Treble:
The Nunchaku’s treble performance strikes a balanced middle ground, extending smoothly without tipping into harshness or sharpness that could tire the ears. In Tube Mode, it offers decent reach with a touch of openness, adding a slight airy quality that complements the overall warmth without pushing for razor-sharp detail. The treble carries a subtle brightness and a controlled presence, giving cymbals or high strings a pleasant lift that enhances the listening experience without dominating it. When paired with the Campfire Audio Solaris Stellar Horizon, an IEM celebrated for its exceptional treble extension and refinement, the Nunchaku in Tube Mode plays to the earphone’s strengths, delivering a smooth yet articulate high end that feels cohesive with the rest of the frequency range. It’s a pairing that highlights how well the Nunchaku can adapt to treble-focused gear.
Switching to Class AB Mode, the treble picks up extra clarity and sparkle, which makes it a strong choice for detailed, critical listening, such as classical pieces with intricate violin solos or electronic tracks with shimmering synths. It brings out finer nuances, like the decay of a hi-hat or the breathiness of a flute, while maintaining a sense of space that keeps the soundstage airy. Even with this added resolution, the Nunchaku keeps the treble well in check, avoiding any tendency to become overly bright or fatiguing over time. This controlled approach ensures the highs remain enjoyable across genres, offering a versatile treble tuning that adjusts to different preferences or source material without losing its composure.
Soundstage & Imaging:
One of the iBasso Nunchaku’s most praised features is its soundstage, particularly in Tube Mode. The soundstage widens significantly, creating a grand, enveloping experience, though imaging precision takes a slight backseat to the lush presentation. There’s a sense of grandness and liquidity that adds to the musicality, making it ideal for genres that benefit from a wide and spacious sound.
In Class AB Mode, the soundstage narrows slightly but offers superior separation and positioning accuracy. Instruments and vocals are precisely placed, providing an accurate and detailed image of the soundstage. The dual operating modes allow users to tailor the soundstage to their preference, ensuring versatility and adaptability to different musical styles. The Nunchaku’s soundstage and imaging capabilities make it a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking both depth and precision in their listening experience.
Comparison:
iBasso Nunchaku versus Cayin RU7:
In Tube Mode, the Nunchaku delivers a warm, rich bass with a natural decay, emphasizing texture and musicality with a satisfying midbass punch and deep sub-bass extension. The Cayin RU7 offers a clean, precise, and well-defined bass, known for its excellent control and transient response. While the Nunchaku’s Tube Mode provides a warmer low-end, the RU7 excels in clarity and definition with a very linear and neutral bass. The Class AB Mode of the Nunchaku adds tighter, more controlled, and impactful bass suited for fast-paced genres, contrasting with the Cayin RU7’s detailed and accurate low-end that remains consistent across various styles.
The Nunchaku’s midrange shines especially in Tube Mode, rendering a lush, organic sound with a holographic presentation, making vocals natural and engaging. Conversely, the RU7 delivers a pretty detailed and transparent midrange, focusing on accuracy and neutrality with a clean and articulate presentation. The midrange of the Nunchaku’s Tube Mode is warm and inviting, adding richness to vocal-centric music, whereas the RU7 provides a more resolving midrange that reveals every nuance and detail. Class AB Mode of the Nunchaku offers a more analytical midrange with excellent detail retrieval, making it comparable to the RU7’s precise and accurate midrange presentation.
The iBasso Nunchaku’s treble performance in Tube Mode is smooth and airy, extending without harshness, creating a relaxed and pleasant treble experience. In comparison, the RU7 provides a refined and extended treble with excellent clarity and detail, avoiding any harshness or sibilance. The treble in Class AB Mode of the Nunchaku is more sparkling and detailed, ideal for critical listening, enhancing the brilliance and presence of high frequencies. While the RU7’s treble remains smooth and non-fatiguing, the Nunchaku offers a versatile treble response that caters to different listening preferences, whether relaxed or detailed.
The soundstage of the Nunchaku in Tube Mode is wide and immersive, creating a three-dimensional listening experience with a sense of grandness and liquidity. In contrast, the RU7 offers a precise and well-defined soundstage with excellent imaging accuracy. Instruments are precisely placed within the soundstage, creating a realistic and immersive listening experience. While the Nunchaku’s Class AB Mode offers a more precise soundstage with excellent instrument separation and positioning, the RU7 excels in detail and accuracy, providing a balanced soundstage that remains consistent across different musical styles.
Conclusion:
The iBasso Nunchaku is a remarkable achievement in portable audio, blending the best of tube and solid-state worlds into a compact, stylish package. Priced at $299, it delivers exceptional value with its dual-mode amplification, premium build, and high-resolution playback capabilities. Whether you crave the soulful glow of tubes or the pristine clarity of Class AB, the Nunchaku adapts effortlessly, making it a must-consider for audiophiles on the go.
Pros & Cons:
- + Excellent Overall Sound Performance
- + Versatile Tube and Class AB modes
- + Warm, engaging sound in Tube mode
- + Clean, dynamic output in Class AB mode
- + Premium aluminum and glass design
- + Pretty Compact and lightweight
- + Thoughtful accessory package with leather case
- – Slight microphonic effect in Tube mode (only noticed with smartphones)
- – Dedicated playback buttons would be a welcome addition
Thank you for the read!
