iFi Zen DAC 3 Black DAC and amplifier

Reveal every musical detail

Equipped with a built-in headphone amplifier and the ability to function as both a DAC and a DAC/Preamp, this versatile device is the only one you'll need on your desk. It easily connects to headphones, preamps, integrated amplifiers or powered speakers, offering a complete audio solution for the home and office.

High quality audio

High-resolution audio support is state-of-the-art with True Native playback. It handles PCM data up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD up to DSD512, and single- and dual-bit DXD.

Thanks to the four-channel True Native design of the Burr-Brown DAC chip, PCM and DSD follow separate paths - this allows DSD, as well as PCM, to remain "bit-perfect" in their native form until analog conversion.

16 core XMOS chip

This new low latency XMOS microcontroller has significantly increased processing power. Compared to the current generation of eight-core chips, this new 16-core chip offers twice the clock speed (2000MIPS) and four times the memory (512KB), and also supports the latest SuperSpeed ​​USB standard.

Brought to perfection

The Zen DAC series has received numerous awards, including being named WHAT Hi-Fi's Best DAC Under £200 four years in a row.

Zen DAC 3 continues its legendary status by doubling high-definition support to 768 kHz, DSD512, and MQA decoding capabilities.

The USB-C connector simplifies cable management and provides surge protection to the USB input, protecting it from potential damage. Additionally, the significant reduction in DC offset minimizes audible noise when adjusting settings. These enhancements take the Zen DAC 3 to new heights of sonic excellence.

Headphone Amplifier

The Zen DAC 3 goes beyond a simple USB DAC as it has a built-in headphone amplifier and features both balanced 4.4mm and 6.3mm headphone outputs.

The high-performance 390mW output power allows it to be used with a wide range of headphones.

XBass+ is a switchable pure analog signal processing mode designed to enhance bass without sacrificing midrange clarity. It's ideal for use with IEMs or open-back headphones that may lack bass response.

The amplifier stage features PowerMatch gain switching, which provides amplification for more demanding headphones. If you have headphones that require even more power, you can connect the Zen DAC 3 to a Zen CAN headphone amplifier using a 4.4mm to 4.4mm balanced cable, combining them as a Zen system.

Activate your speakers and amplifiers

Zen DAC 3 has a variable or fixed output switch.

In Variable mode, adjust the volume with the knob when connecting directly to powered speakers using a 4.4mm to XLR or RCA cable.

Use Fixed mode to connect the line outputs to your receiver or main amplifier.

USB-C powered

Zen DAC 3 is powered by USB-C, making cable management easy. However, for audiophiles looking to level up their system, the 5V power input offers upgradability.

When an external power source is connected, the USB-C port will only transfer data, providing a cleaner signal.