These days, many of us (myself included) are just used to the audio quality that we get coming from our phones into our earbuds. And sure, it’s good – but it could be better. That’s where a digital-to-analog-converter (DAC) can come into play, putting some warmth back in, and doing a better job than whatever chip is in your phone. Recently released, the iFi ZEN DAC 3 has us intrigued.
What it is
The iFi ZEN DAC 3 is a compact DAC that was intended for a wide set of use-cases. The fact that it was built with us non-audiophiles in mind is revealed by the input. It’s not an audio standard that we’re used to seeing, but it’s one that points us to the future: USB-C. This means that you can hook your phone, laptop, or tablet in, and have it work. For the output, you’ve got a dedicated headphone jack, as well as a line out to send the signal into your audio setup, if you want.
Why we like the iFi ZEN DAC 3
I’ve seen various DAC announcements, and they never quite grabbed my attention. This one, though, has me thinking about adding one to my setup. The inclusion of that USB-C input, that really underscores the press release saying that this is a DAC for everyone. It’s about the simplest setup you could have. Plug it into the wall, run the USB-C cable from the source, and then plug your headphones in. This is markedly easy, and should allow folks (like me) to easily experience what a dedicated DAC can do for their music.
Wrapping things up
Along with the relatively compact size and good looks, you’re going to like the price of the iFi ZEN DAC 3 – $229. For a device of this nature to come in there with the balanced output, bass boosting circuits, and the plug-and-play ease of USB-C feels almost unheard of. Is it too good to be true? We’re working on getting a review unit, so we’ll be sure to let you know. In the meantime, you can check it out over at ifi-audio.com
Key Features
- Ultra-res audio: PCM 768kHz, DSD 512 and Full MQA Decoding
- Improved DC offset and USB-C input overvoltage protection
- USB-C input for plug-and-play connectivity
- 4.4mm balanced headphone and line outputs
- Fixed or variable output gain for optional preamp functionality
- XBass+ and PowerMatch analogue processing modes
iFi ZEN DAC 3 Tech Specs
| Input | USB-C | |
| Formats | PCM DSD MQA | 768kHz 512 Full Decoder |
| DAC | Bit-Perfect DSD & DXD DAC by Burr Brown | |
| Headphone Output | BAL 4.4mm/UnBAL 6.3mm | |
| Output Power (RMS) | Balanced UnBAL | 390mW@32?; 7.2V@600? 210mW@32?; 3.8V@600? |
| Output Impedance | <1? (BAL/UnBAL) | |
| SNR | 109dB(A) (BAL/UnBAL) | |
| DNR | 109dB(A) (BAL/UnBAL) | |
| THD + N | Balanced UnBAL | <0.006% (2.0V @ 600?) <0.006% (1.27V @ 32?) |
| Line Output | BAL 4.4mm/UnBAL RCA | |
| Output Power | Balanced UnBAL | 2V-6.2V max. (variable); 4.2V fixed 1V-3.3V max. (variable); 2.1V fixed |
| Output Impedance | <200? BAL; <100? UnBAL | |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz – 90kHz (+/-3dB) | |
| Power Consumption | ~2.5W Max Signal | |
| Dimensions | 158x115x35mm (6.2” x 4.6” x 1.4”) | |
| Weight | 456g (1.0 lbs) | |
| Warranty period | 12 months | |
