The HIFIMAN EF499 is a balanced headphone amplifier and DAC designed to enhance your audio experience, offering a range of features for both casual listeners and audiophiles. This device serves as a central hub for your audio setup, allowing you to connect various sources and drive a wide array of headphones.

Function Description:

At its core, the EF499 integrates two primary functions: a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and a headphone amplifier. The DAC section is responsible for converting digital audio signals from your connected devices (such as a PC, mobile phone, or network streamer) into analog signals. This conversion is crucial for reproducing sound through headphones or speakers. The amplifier section then takes these analog signals and boosts their power to drive your headphones effectively, ensuring optimal volume and sound quality.

The device features multiple input options to accommodate various digital sources. You can connect to a PC or mobile phone via a USB cable, utilizing either a Type-C or USB-B input. For network streaming, a dedicated network connector is provided, allowing the EF499 to integrate into your home audio network. Additionally, a coaxial input is available for other digital audio sources.

On the output side, the EF499 offers both balanced and single-ended connections for headphones. A 4-pin XLR balanced headphone output is present for high-fidelity listening with compatible headphones, providing enhanced channel separation and power. For more common headphones, a 6.35mm single-ended headphone output is also included. Beyond headphones, the EF499 can also act as a pre-amplifier or DAC for a larger audio system, offering XLR balanced outputs (R and L) and RCA single-ended outputs (R and L) to connect to external power amplifiers or active speakers.

A key functional aspect of the EF499 is its 4-level function switch, which allows you to select different gain and oversampling (OS) modes. These modes are indicated by LED lights on the front panel: High Gain NOS (Non-Oversampling), High Gain OS, Low Gain OS, and Low Gain NOS. This flexibility enables users to tailor the sound characteristics and power output to match their headphones and personal preferences. The volume control, a prominent knob on the front panel, provides precise adjustment of the output level.

Usage Features:

The EF499 is designed for straightforward operation, making it accessible for users to integrate into their existing audio setups.

Connecting to a PC or mobile phone is a simple process. You connect the EF499 using an appropriate USB cable (not a charging cable). For PCs, the device should be automatically recognized; if not, you may need to select it as the output device in your sound settings. For older Windows operating systems (WIN XP and older), a specific driver may need to be downloaded from the HIFIMAN website. For mobile phones, the device should also be automatically recognized, though enabling USB Debugging in Developer Options might be necessary in some cases. Once connected, you can launch your preferred music application and enjoy high-quality audio.

The 4-level function switch on the front panel is a significant usage feature, allowing for sonic customization. By toggling this switch, you can experiment with different combinations of gain (High or Low) and oversampling (OS or NOS). High gain provides more power for demanding headphones, while low gain is suitable for more sensitive ones. Oversampling (OS) typically involves digital filtering to reduce aliasing and improve signal-to-noise ratio, while Non-Oversampling (NOS) modes aim for a more direct, unfiltered sound, which some audiophiles prefer for its perceived naturalness. The LED indicators clearly show which mode is currently active.

The presence of both balanced and single-ended headphone outputs ensures compatibility with a wide range of headphones. The XLR 4-pin balanced output is ideal for headphones that can take advantage of a balanced connection, which often results in improved sound clarity and dynamics due to reduced noise and increased power delivery. The 6.35mm single-ended output caters to the majority of headphones available on the market.

The rear panel offers a comprehensive set of input and output options, providing versatility for different audio setups. The Coaxial/NET+USB function switch allows you to select the active digital input, ensuring that the EF499 processes audio from your desired source. The power switch is located on the rear, along with the power connector.

Maintenance Features:

Maintaining the HIFIMAN EF499 involves adhering to general best practices for electronic devices to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.

One of the most critical maintenance aspects is related to power. The device features a voltage selector (AC 115V/230V) on the bottom panel. It is imperative to ensure that this selector is set to match your local voltage requirements before connecting the product to a power source for the first time. Failure to do so can cause irreparable damage. If the voltage needs to be adjusted, the power supply must be turned off and the power cable disconnected first. Always firmly grasp the plug when unplugging the power cable, rather than pulling the cable itself, to prevent damage to the cord or the device's power inlet.

Environmental considerations are also important for maintenance. The EF499 should be kept in a clean, dust-free environment and never exposed to high humidity. Dust and moisture can lead to internal component damage or short circuits. If the product will not be used for an extended period, it is advisable to unplug it from the power source.

Physical handling requires care. Avoid operating the device with wet or oily hands, as this can lead to accidental damage or electrical hazards. The EF499 should not be disassembled or refitted by anyone other than HIFIMAN or authorized service personnel. Unauthorized tampering will void the warranty and could lead to damage or unsafe operation. In case of malfunctions, such as a damaged power cable, liquid spills, exposure to extreme humidity, or noticeable changes in performance, the power supply should be disconnected immediately, and HIFIMAN customer service should be contacted.

To prevent hearing loss, it is recommended to always maintain a moderate listening volume when using headphones or earphones with the EF499. This is a user-centric maintenance practice that protects your health while enjoying the device.

Finally, the EF499 is designed for adult use, and it should be kept away from children. Additionally, it should be protected from high temperatures and potentially damaging chemicals or solvents (like butane lighters, gasoline, or insecticides), as these can cause irreparable damage to the unit's finish and internal components. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure the EF499 provides many years of reliable high-fidelity audio.

HiFiMAN EF499 - Table of Contents

Table of Contents

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