iFi GO Pods Air Review: True Wireless Capabilities, Made Lighter

In a market saturated with wired in-ear monitors, it’s easy to assume the era of Bluetooth IEM adapters is behind us. But iFi Audio refuses to let wireless audio become an afterthought. Enter the iFi GO Pods Air, the latest addition to iFi’s GO Pods series, offering a completely wireless hi-fi experience for IEM lovers. Designed to convert almost any pair of high-end in-ear monitors into true wireless earbuds, the GO Pods Air aim to deliver crystal-clear sound, high-res codec support, and ergonomic portability—without sacrificing the performance expected by discerning listeners. But how does this slimmed-down, affordable version compare to its older siblings?

What’s in the Box

• 1x Pair of iFi GO Pods Air
• 1x Compact Charging Case
• 1x 0.78mm 2-Pin Ear Loops
• 1x MMCX Ear Loops
• 1x USB-C Charging Cable
• 1x Quick Start Guide
• 1x Warranty Card (1-Year)

The inclusion of both MMCX and 2-Pin connectors allows for compatibility with a wide range of in-ear monitors out of the box. The travel-ready case and quick start guide make setup and transport effortless.

Design & Build Quality

Visually, the GO Pods Air maintain the futuristic, geometric aesthetic of the original GO Pods. The construction features a lightweight textured polymer, which improves comfort and portability while adding grip. The most notable change is the swap from a glossy touch sensor to a matte finish, giving it a subtler, more refined feel.

The compact zippered case is a standout—designed with EVA composite materials, it’s softer to the touch and more travel-friendly than traditional clamshell cases. There’s ample space for storing your IEMs attached to the Pods, reducing the hassle of frequent reconnections. It’s a minor but significant upgrade that suits on-the-go lifestyles.

Features & Functionality

While the GO Pods Air don’t overload you with features, they prioritize what matters: a clean, powerful true wireless connection for IEMs. They support both MMCX and 2-Pin connectors, and the included adapters work with recessed sockets—though, notably, the Sennheiser IE series remains incompatible, similar to the original GO Pods.

Touch controls on the housing allow for track skipping, volume adjustment, and voice assistant activation, offering core functionality without bloating the experience with extra gestures. This streamlined approach favors audiophiles who prefer simplicity and performance over excessive customization.

Technical Specifications

• Price: $249
• Bluetooth Version: 5.2
• Bluetooth Codecs: LDAC, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
• Chipset: Qualcomm QCC5144
• Connection Types: MMCX, 2-Pin, A2DC, T2, Pentaconn (optional adapters available separately)
• Chassis Materials: Textured Polymer (Pods), EVA Composite & Polymer (Case)
• Ingress Protection: IPX5 (water/sweat resistant)
• Auto-Impedance Detection: 16Ω, 32Ω, 64Ω
• Output Power: ≥57mW @16Ω, ≥30mW @64Ω
• Dynamic Range / SNR: ≥123dB(A)
• Battery Life: 7 hours per charge, 14 additional hours via case
• Weight: 12g (Pods), 106g (Case)

Listening Impressions

The GO Pods Air were tested using several high-performance IEMs including the IKKO OH5, Noble Audio Van Gogh, Flipears Aegis, and Campfire Audio Bonneville. Across all models, the Pods preserved each monitor’s core sound signature, a major win for purists.

• The Van Gogh’s bass remained authoritative and well-controlled. Low-end extension stayed tight, delivering clean impact without muddying the mids.
• With the Bonneville, midrange clarity stood out the most, letting vocal textures and instrumental details shine—proof that the GO Pods Air don’t mask or veil.
• Even IEMs with softer tuning like the IKKO OH5 gained a touch of vitality, enhancing engagement without introducing coloration.
• Volume output was impressive, reaching full-bodied dynamics at just 50% volume, making these a solid choice for listeners who crave loud listening without distortion.

Overall, the GO Pods Air subtly enhance dynamic range and transient snap, lending a bit more punch while preserving the unique character of each IEM.

GO Pods vs. GO Pods Air vs. GO Pods Max

The iFi GO Pods lineup now includes three versions: Original GO Pods ($399), GO Pods Air ($249), and the GO Pods Max ($599). Each model has its own strengths:

The GO Pods Air offer the most portable and affordable option, but with slightly less battery and output power. The original GO Pods provide a power boost and longer runtime, while the GO Pods Max push performance further with a next-gen chipset, more advanced codecs, and premium materials.

Conclusion

For audiophiles who crave the freedom of true wireless but refuse to compromise on audio fidelity, the iFi GO Pods Air deliver incredible value. Supporting high-resolution Bluetooth codecs, wide IEM compatibility, and excellent power output in a compact package, these Pods are a great middle-ground for those seeking a wireless adapter under $300. They may not have all the bells and whistles of the GO Pods Max, but for the price, they punch far above their weight.

If you’ve already invested in great IEMs and want a portable, no-fuss wireless upgrade, the GO Pods Air are a smart choice—especially if you value lightweight design, travel-readiness, and honest sound reproduction.

the iFi GO Pods Air are available now at Audio46.