Name: iBasso Nunchaku | Vacuum Tube Portable DAC and Amp
Brand: iBasso
SKU: IBAS-NUNCHAKU-R
Price: 299.0 USD
Availability: InStock

iBasso red Nunchaku DAC front quarter whitebox

iBasso grey Nunchaku DAC front quarter whitebox

iBasso red front and grey rear Nunchaku DACs whitebox

iBasso grey Nunchaku DAC rear quarter highlighting active tubes whitebox

iBasso red Nunchaku DAC rear quarter highlighting active tubes whitebox

iBasso Nunchaku bird's eye in yellow protective case with attached devices over burlap

iBasso red and grey Nunchaku bird's eye over wood table

$299.00

Color

Red

Grey

Introducing iBasso's Latest Portable Dongle DAC and Amp, Nunchaku, Featuring Dual New Old Stock Vacuum Tubes

Portable DAC and headphone amplifier
Features 2x CS43198 Flagship DAC chipsets and 2x Raytheon JAN6418 vacuum tubes
Dual output modes: Tube and Class AB
Balanced 4.4mm + single-ended 3.5mm outputs

Nunchaku: A World Class Portable Tube DAC/Amp

The iBasso Nunchaku is a premium portable DAC and amplifier that combines cutting-edge technology with the charm of analog sound. Powered by two Raytheon JAN6418 directly heated vacuum tubes, it delivers a rich, warm, and engaging “tube flavor” in TUBE mode, while Class AB mode provides a clean, distortion-free experience. A dedicated 22.5V anode power supply ensures superior headroom and peak performance, enhancing audio fidelity.

At its core, the Nunchaku features a high-performance Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chip, a benchmark in conversion and renowned for its exceptional resolution, accurate sound reproduction, wide dynamic range, and exceptionally low noise floor. To minimize microphonic effects, the tubes are suspended using PORON material, reducing vibrations for pristine audio quality. Each unit undergoes APX555 testing to ensure meticulously matched tube pairs, with only 50 pairs completed daily, guaranteeing consistent, exceptional performance.

The Nunchaku offers audiophiles a versatile, portable solution with the perfect blend of modern precision and analog warmth.

3D render PCB and dual tube schematic with voltage diagram

Dual JAN6418 Tubes

The Nunchaku features x2 Raytheon JAN6418 directly heated vacuum tubes, valued for their compact size, low power use, and reliability. Unlike typical portable devices with 5V or 12V power supplies, it uses a 22.5V anode power supply, ensuring superior headroom and optimal tube performance.

These tubes deliver a warm, smooth “tube sound” for an authentic analog listening experience. To reduce microphonic effects, iBasso suspends the tubes with PORON material, effectively minimizing vibrations and ensuring pristine audio quality.

For consistent sound, iBasso carefully matches the tubes using advanced APX555 testing, a meticulous process limited to 50 pairs daily, guaranteeing outstanding performance in every Nunchaku.

*NOTE: Microphonic Effect

TUBE Mode: The Nunchaku’s sensitive tube design can produce a slight microphonic effect. If you tap the device’s chassis while music is paused, you may hear a ringing sound—this is normal. Additionally, there may occasionally be interference from nearby phones. However, when music is playing, these sounds are typically masked and do not impact the listening experience.
Class AB Mode: In Class AB mode, there is no microphonic effect, interference, background noise, or similar issues.

iBasso red Nunchaku with connected headphone on black wood bench

Unleashing Power + Audio Excellence

Departing from the typical all-in-one chip approach found in most dongles, the Nunchaku adopts a sophisticated OPAMP+BUF634 flagship architecture. This design integrates x2 Raytheon vacuum tubes, x4 TI high-performance dual operational amplifiers (OPAMPs), and x4 BUF634A buffers into a compact footprint.

Nunchaku delivers up to 525mW+525mW@320Ω in TUBE mode, effortlessly powering flagship IEMs and most headphones. Despite its power, the Nunchaku remains energy-efficient, consuming just 120mA/5V in TUBE mode and under 100mA/5V in Class AB mode.

JRC Hardware Volume Control

In TUBE mode, the Nunchaku incorporates a precise JRC hardware volume control. This innovative approach ensures the DAC operates at its MAX output level, followed by a tube amp stage and then volume control. This unique architecture effectively reduces noise as the volume is lowered, significantly enhancing the SNR and delivering a more refined listening experience.

x2 Nunchaku units on Chinese book with lens flare over volume wheel

Specifications

DAC: Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
PCM: Up to 32bit/768kHz
DSD: Native DSD 512x
Weight: 1.7 oz
Dimensions: 2.6" x 1.4" x 0.6"

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

In the Box

Nunchaku DAC
Protective case
USB-C to C cable
USB-C to Lightning cable
USB-A adapter
iBasso Nunchaku user manual

iBasso Nunchaku with included accessories bird's eye

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Sounds Incredible

I recently recently received the Ibasso Nunchaku, and I have to say it exceeded my expectations. Having just heard The Muse HiFi M5 Ultra which is also has tubes, I was hoping the Ibasso would compare in sound. Well, I have to say, I like the Ibasso a little bit better. Don't get me wrong, the Muse is an awesome device and has a few more features but in the sound, I like the Ibasso better. Since the Ibasso has more power, it drives over the ear headphones better too. For around $100 cheaper, I would go with the Ibasso all day.

bestportable DAC amp i own

i have many many IEM’s and dongle DAC/amps. this new Nunchaku is by far the best. solid smooth textured and musical i love it. used with my CTM D’vinci or the Celeste Beast it is a pleasure!

So happy

So glad I bought it. As soon as the ad reach my in box, I order it immeasurably with out a second thought. The reputation of Ibaaso plus it has tube and it goes well with mt DC Elite and 07. The sound of the Nunchaku is smooth and detailed, I will use this as my primary DAC. Very happy and thank Bloom Audio for the fast shipping.

Excellent performer

It's a great dongle, the tube sound is warm and full and has that beautiful tube sheen. Also the treble is well extended on tube mode. AB mode is full and pretty neutral, like the other reviewer it like the DC07PRO but with fuller/more forward mids so it sounds more even across the spectrum. But make no mistake the tube mode is intoxicating. Oh, and like the DC07PRO the filters actually effect the sound.

Good stuff! And of course Bloom is excellent to deal with. You might say they're Blooming fantastic.

Portable Tube Sound at Great Price

The title says it all from me. Great price to get tube sound for iems and headphones.

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iBasso Nunchaku | Vacuum Tube Portable DAC and Amp