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If you're always on the go or just want a portable way to upgrade your old stereo and want the very best audio quality available, then the iFi UP Travel could be just what you're looking for. This Bluetooth receiver and transmitter is not only small and light, but also has a very cool design. Press a button and the 3.5mm plug fires out like a switchblade. I'd be lying if I said I didn't spend ten minutes just doing that when I first opened the box! The iFi is a high-end solution for frequent flyers or travellers who often use in-flight entertainment systems and prefer to use their Bluetooth headphones instead of the airline’s seat-powered wires. It's also perfect for car owners with older AUX systems who want to add high-res Bluetooth streaming without replacing the entire stereo. You can also use the same trick at home for older hi-fi equipment, whether it's a record player or those speakers you can't bear to part with. This is all very smart, but what sets the UP Travel apart is the laser focus on audio quality. It supports a vast array of codecs and automatically switches to the one that provides the best sound, regardless of the device to which it is connected. According to iFi, you can triple the quality of regular Bluetooth audio. It even has a built-in mic with noise suppression tech for when you need to take a call. Battery life is around the ten-hour mark, which I think is perfectly respectable. You'll be able to go some distance if your journey or commute is longer. However, many competing devices pack more power, so if you have very long travel days or want maximum standby time, this is something to consider. It is also pricier than many basic Bluetooth transmitters/receivers. Of course, you will not find the same audio quality or the vast array of supported codecs. And none of them are as nifty! In transmit mode, it still requires a wire to be connected to a headphone jack or AUX. On many flights, you may require a dual-prong airline adapter (though the product includes a plane headphone adapter, so be sure to pack it). Although it provides a receiver mode for older systems, it doesn’t make them wireless by itself - you still need a physical 3.5mm input on the system (which, to be fair, will almost certainly be present). However, if you want to use it with a newer phone or tablet that lacks a 3.5mm input (such as USB-C or Lightning), you will need additional adapters. You can link it to the iFi Nexis app, which allows you to update the firmware, unlock additional features and personalise your settings. I got to use it a few times while travelling, in which it does an admirable job, but it's also worth highlighting that it's great for extending the life of your vintage audio kit/speakers at home. The iFi UP Travel is a very strong performer, offering features and build quality that set it apart from most generic adapters. If you value high-quality audio on the go and frequently travel or commute, it's a worthwhile investment. On the other hand, if your needs are simpler (just basic Bluetooth to a car stereo or a generic flight adapter), the premium might not be justified. The iFi Up is available via Amazon for £99. Alternatives Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter/Receiver UGREEN Bluetooth 5.2 Transmitter Receiver
