iFi HFM Zen Signature Set review: great combo for the Sundara

The English manufacturer iFi has recently launched its HFM Set, composed of the Zen DAC Signature V2 and the Zen Can Signature HFM (plus various accessories), a highly anticipated package among HiFiMan headphone enthusiasts, as it is designed to get the very best out of some of the Japanese company’s headphones, first and foremost the well-known Sundara.

Before diving into the review, it is worth summarizing what the set includes:

• Zen Can Signature HFM version
• Zen DAC Signature V2
• 2 iFi iPower2 power supplies
• Balanced 4.4mm – 4.4mm cable
• 2 RCA-RCA cables
• USB 3 cable

All of this comes packaged in a simple yet vibrant set of boxes. The distinctive feature of this iFi set is the HFM function on the headphone amplifier, designed to work on the correct wavelengths (in terms of frequency response) in order to deliver a more accurate sound with HiFiMan headphones, particularly the Sundara and other budget models (HE-400S, HE-400se, HE-5, etc.). The manufacturer indeed indicates different levels of optimization depending on the HiFiMan model, with the best results achieved with the entry-level Sundara, long considered a benchmark for headphone enthusiasts looking to spend less than 400 euros; a substantial headphone with excellent sound performance we have discussed before.

If you own a Sundara, you may now be wondering whether enabling the HFM function on this special edition of the Zen Can Signature produces a truly noticeable improvement in sound quality. The answer is yes—there is no need to focus closely to hear the difference: the improvement is clearly perceptible. With HFM enabled, the bass becomes more robust—arguably a bit too understated on the Sundara by default—and there is improved detail in the upper mids. The XSpace function instead works on the width and depth of the soundstage, introducing variations that slightly change the listening perception and are particularly enjoyable with certain tracks. Definitely a feature worth trying, although the HFM function remains the real star of this special edition.

The quality of this system must naturally be evaluated in relation to its price range: the set costs 600 euros and includes amplifier and DAC, as well as power supplies and cables. It only requires a computer and a good pair of headphones to form a complete system. We tested the devices with our Sundara and also ran comparisons with other entry-level DACs, replacing the Zen DAC Signature V2 with the standard V2 version of the same model and with a Beresford unit, as well as with other headphones.

The set paired with the Sundara performs best with the HFM function enabled, which increases precision and clarity. The jump in quality compared to the more affordable Zen DAC V2 is clearly audible, and in our opinion justifies the higher price of the Signature version (which costs 300 euros on its own, while the Zen DAC V2 costs around 200 euros). Therefore, unless you are strongly constrained by budget, we recommend choosing the full Signature HFM set at 600 euros over the 500-euro combo of Zen DAC V2 + Zen Can Signature HFM.

The performance of the Zen DAC Signature V2 is in line with expectations: iFi is known for relatively affordable devices with excellent value for money. For those familiar with the classic Zen DAC or its V2 variant, the Signature model is clearly superior, as expected from its more advanced hardware. It remains a 300-euro DAC, not comparable to higher-end models such as the xDSD Gryphon (also from iFi), but still very solid for its price range. Its only drawback is the lack of a dedicated power button.

A headphone listening system based on the HFM Signature set plus Hifiman Sundara, with a total cost of around 950 euros, represents an excellent complete solution under 1000 euros, ideal for those looking to step up into entry-level hi-fi with performance that goes well beyond what the label “entry-level” might suggest.

The Zen Can Signature HFM has plenty of power, with gain adjustment via a front-panel button, alongside an input switch button and a volume knob. During our tests, we particularly enjoyed the sound reproduction with rock, psychedelic rock, and electronic music—from The Doors to Iosonouncane—genres where the detail and power of the Sundara really shine.

Regarding the iFi iPower2 power supply, if you already own an iFi DAC powered via USB from your PC, consider adding the dedicated power supply: it will not revolutionize sound quality, but given its low cost, it is still a worthwhile upgrade.

CONCLUSIONS

The iFi set is an excellent product for its price range, one of several solid options for a headphone system around 600 euros. We recommend it without hesitation to anyone looking for well-built, aesthetically pleasing devices for desktop or armchair listening, and especially to those intending to pair it with Sundara headphones, or other HiFiMan headphones such as the Ananda Nano and the Arya Stealth Magnets.