Description
Elevate your listening experience with the iFi Audio ZEN DAC 3, a portable USB headphone amp and digital audio converter built to accommodate a wide variety of headphones and in-ear monitors, delivering high-fidelity PCM, DSD, and DXD audio. It seamlessly connects to headphones, preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers, or active speakers, offering a comprehensive audio solution for home and office.The ZEN DAC 3 delivers high-resolution music with support for sample rates of up to 768 kHz. This futureproof feature ensures full compatibility with all music formats available on streaming platforms, bringing you the best in sound quality. The ZEN DAC includes a USB-C cable, a dual RCA cable, and a 1/4" adapter.At a Glance Supports all high-res music formats up to PCM 768 kHz, DSD512, and MQAEquipped with a USB-C input for plug-and-play connectivityOffers both 6.3mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs, delivering up to 390mW of power for various headphones and earphonesFeatures RCA and 4.4mm balanced outputs with variable and fixed volume settings, allowing for seamless connection to your active speakers, preamplifiers, or power amplifiersIncludes XBass+ to restore lost bass frequencies from open headphonesComes with PowerMatch, a switchable gain to ensure optimal power for the headphones you are usingImproved low-jitter GMT (Global Master Timing) clock provides 20dB better performanceImproved circuitry, including enhanced DC offset, ensures heightened signal purity and accuracyIncorporates a 16-Core XMOS low-latency microcontroller for DSD512 and MQA full decodingRefined to Perfection The ZEN DAC 3 continues its legendary status by doubling its high-resolution support up to 768 kHz, DSD512, and MQA-decoding capabilities.The USB-C connectivity streamlines cable management and provides USB input overvoltage protection, safeguarding it against potential harm. Moreover, a significant reduction in DC offset minimizes audio clicks when adjusting settings. These improvements propel the ZEN DAC 3 to new heights of audio excellence.Powering Your Headphones The ZEN DAC 3 goes beyond being just a USB DAC, boasting a built-in headphone amplifier equipped with both balanced 4.4mm and SE 6.3mm headphone outputs. With its high-performance 390mW headphone output power, you can use it with a broad range of headphones.XBass+ is a switchable pure analog signal processing mode designed to enhance the bass without compromising midrange clarity. It is perfect for use with IEMs or open-back headphones, which may lack bass response.The amplifier stage includes a switchable gain feature called PowerMatch, which provides a gain boost for more demanding headphones. If you have headphones that demand even more power, you can connect the ZEN DAC 3 to the ZEN CAN headphone amplifier using a 4.4 to 4.4mm balanced cable, stacking them up as a ZEN system.Activate Your Speakers and Amplifier The ZEN DAC 3 is the most versatile USB DAC in its class, offering multiple usage options.The ZEN DAC 3 features a Variable or Fixed output switch.In Variable mode, adjust volume using the knob when connecting directly to active speakers via iFi's 4.4mm to XLR cable or RCA cables.Use Fixed mode for connecting line outputs to a receiver or main amplifier.USB-C Powered, Upgradable Performance The ZEN DAC 3 is powered by USB-C, simplifying cable management. However, for audiophiles seeking to elevate their system, the 5V power input offers an upgrade path.When an external power supply is connected, the USB-C port will only transmit data, ensuring a purer signal.The iFi iPower2 is an ultraquiet and ultraclean audiophile-grade power supply, featuring Active Noise Cancellation II technology to cancel out all incoming EMI and RFI noise, you ll never feel powerless against noise and graininess again.Premium Components Hi-Res AudioHi-res audio support is state of the art with True Native playback. It handles PCM data to 32-bit / 768 kHz, DSD up to DSD512, and single an