iFi Audio announced the UP Play Max on September 24, adding a compact Bluetooth transmitter to its range.
Lossless support has a compatibility requirement
The transmitter supports aptX Lossless, but using that codec requires compatible receiving headphones or a DAC.
UP Play Max can also pair with two headphones simultaneously. iFi specifies that this shared-listening mode uses SBC, so the dual-headphone feature should not be confused with simultaneous lossless playback to two listeners.
An update still to come
The launch announcement includes low-latency operation through aptX Adaptive, a built-in microphone with Qualcomm cVc, and control through iFi’s Nexis app.
Auracast is planned for a firmware update after launch. It is a promised addition rather than a feature readers should assume is already enabled on a newly purchased unit.
Source: iFi Audio’s UP Play Max launch announcement.
Feature image: AI-generated editorial illustration for Guava Insights; conceptual imagery, not a product photograph.
