iFi Zen DAC 3
iFi Zen DAC 3
iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier: new design and perfect sound for your home or office
The iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier draws you into the world of hi-res music with support for sample rates up to 768kHz, which ensures compatibility with all music formats available on streaming platforms. The built-in 390mW headphone amplifier and the ability to function as a DAC or DAC/preamp make it the only device you need on your desk – easily connect it to headphones, preamps, integrated amplifiers or active speakers. The ZEN DAC series, winner of four WHAT Hi-Fi? awards, is taken to a new level here with DSD512 support and full MQA decoding. The USB-C connection simplifies cable management, protects the iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier from overvoltage and minimises audio interference. The PowerMatch and XBass+ features adapt the sound to the type of headphones, while the variable and fixed outputs allow the iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier to connect flexibly to speakers or amplifiers. The USB-C power supply can be upgraded with an iFi iPower2 for even cleaner sound. With support for PCM 32bit/768kHz, native DSD, and the True Native Burr-Brown chip architecture, you can be sure your music sounds just as it was recorded.
Key features of the iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier
- Full compatibility with all music formats on streaming platforms
- Built-in 390mW headphone amplifier suitable for a wide range of headphones
- Gain adjustment and bass boost for natural sound and optimised listening
- USB-C connection with overvoltage protection and an iFi iPower2 upgrade option for even better sound quality
- XBass mode to boost the bass for a fuller, richer listening experience
- Direct connection to active speakers, integrated amplifiers or preamps
- Adjustable PowerMatch for optimal performance with different headphones
- Burr-Brown DAC and 16-core XMOS chip combination guarantees precise and authentic high-resolution audio
Burr-Brown True Native
Sound in its original quality
16-core XMOS chip
SuperSpeed USB for flawless audio transfer
MQA technology
Delivers the sound of the original master recording
Hi-Res True Native
High-resolution playback
Analogue XBass technology
Restores missing bass
Jitter elimination
Clean sound and stabilityiFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier with hi-res audio support and MQA decoding
The iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier delivers hi-res audio with support for PCM up to 32bit/768kHz, DSD512 and MQA, ensuring top-quality sound that you will appreciate on all modern streaming platforms. This DAC also features a built-in 390mW headphone amplifier, which connects to headphones using a 4.4mm balanced or 6.3mm SE output. This makes the ZEN DAC 3 an ideal choice for a wide range of headphones, from everyday models to more demanding ones, delivering maximum clarity and depth of sound regardless of your preferred listening style.
iFi Zen DAC 3 adapts the sound to your headphones
The iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier is equipped with PowerMatch and XBass+ features that let you customise the sound exactly to your preferences and headphone type. PowerMatch adjusts the gain level to match the sensitivity of your headphones, giving you optimal volume and clarity whether you're using demanding studio headphones or sensitive IEMs. XBass+ adds depth to the sound and boosts the bass frequencies. These features give you control over the audio spectrum and let you personalise your listening experience to the max.
Headphone amplifier minimises noise
The combination of the Burr-Brown DAC and 16-core XMOS chip in the iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier is designed to provide maximum precision and authenticity in high-resolution audio. The Burr-Brown DAC delivers a natural musicality that iFi has carefully tuned for the best possible audio experience. The 16-core XMOS microcontroller, specially programmed by the iFi team, ensures precise processing of digital audio inputs and minimises distortion and distracting noise. This combination of two advanced technologies delivers a rich, detailed sound that lets you hear the music just as the artists intended.
Flexible outputs for easy connection to your audio system
The ZEN DAC 3 offers variable and fixed outputs for easy connection to active speakers, integrated amplifiers or preamps. In Variable mode, you can adjust the volume directly on the device, while Fixed mode is ideal for connecting to an amplifier without needing further volume control. This flexibility enables easy integration into various audio setups.
USB-C connection with protection and power upgrade option
The iFi Zen DAC 3 headphone amplifier offers USB-C connectivity for an easy connection and tidy cable management. Thanks to overvoltage protection, your device is safe from potential damage, which increases its reliability and lifespan. For those looking for further sound enhancements, there is an option to upgrade the power supply via the iFi iPower2 – an ultra-clean power supply with Active Noise Cancellation II technology that eliminates electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) for even better sound quality.
Specifications
Inputs and outputs
Features
Frequency range
Power supply
Connection
Dimensions and weight
Specifications can be changed without notice. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
