The brand’s bestselling device, the iFi Audio ZEN DAC USB DAC and headphone amplifier is now in its third generation, with the integration of a new conversion stage to support Hi-Res tracks up to 32-bit/768kHz, DSD512 and MQA. The audio architecture has been refined to provide an even more precise listening experience with headphones or the living room hi-fi system.
New Hi-Res DAC
The ZEN DAC adventure began in 2019 with the launch of the first-generation iFi Audio ZEN. With its compact format, built-in headphone amplifier and Hi-Res compatibility, it quickly became a bestselling desktop and living room hi-fi product. In 2021, the brand updated this model with the iFi Audio ZEN DAC V2, which featured a more powerful processor and a more precise clock for 32-bit/384kHz playback. A formula that received countless awards from the specialist press, including a Diapason d’Or, 5 stars from What Hi-Fi, and an EISA award.
With the new iFi Audio ZEN DAC V3, the manufacturer is once again setting new standards by integrating a new 32-bit/768kHz, DSD512 and MQA compatible Burr Brown DAC. True Native technology provides bit-perfect playback, thereby maximizing conversion precision and finesse.
A true headphone amplifier
At the output of the conversion stage, signals can be transmitted to the RCA and 4.4mm jack connectors. Their level can be fixed or variable, allowing the iFi Audio ZEN DAC 3 to be used as a hi-fi source or preamplifier. Another feature of this model is its integrated headphone amplifier, ideal for desktop hi-fi, so you can enjoy your music while you work, without disturbing those around you. Equipped with a 6.35mm unbalanced output and 4.4mm jack balanced output, this headphone amp can develop a comfortable 300mW on the balanced output and 210mW on the unbalanced output. Enough to power numerous headphones and in-ear monitors efficiently.
Numerous settings
The iFi Audio ZEN DAC 3 retains the ultra-compact pebble-like design of its predecessor and the Zen range. The chassis is made entirely of aluminum and its front panel is partially covered with an elegant dimpled finish. This is where the control interface is located, with a Power Match button to match the impedance of the associated headphones or earphones. There’s also an XBass+ button that lets you reinforce the depth of the bass to compensate for the limited low-frequency range of certain hi-fi headphones.
Price and availability
The new iFi Audio ZEN DAC 3 DAC and headphone amplifier is now available to preorder on Son-Vidéo.com for €229.
iFi Audio ZEN Phono V3: the phono preamplifier
Alongside the iFi Audio ZEN DAC 3 DAC and headphone amplifier, the British manufacturer has also announced the release of the iFi Audio ZEN Phono V3 phono preamplifier. This model, in the same compact format as the DAC, is the ideal ally for turntables, and can process both MM and MC signals. Its RIAA equalization circuit uses TDK capacitors in parallel to bring out the finest vinyl record details. Its power supply is fully isolated and benefits from Active Noise Cancellation II technology to eliminate all incoming radio-frequency or electromagnetic noise. Finally, a subsonic filter eliminates distortion without affecting the bass reproduction.
To ideally adapt to any MM or MC phono cartridge, the iFi Audio ZEN Phono V3 preamp features four gain settings: one for moving magnet cartridges and three for moving coil cartridges. The impedance can also be set to four levels, from 47,000 to 1000 ohms. Lastly, the unbalanced RCA and balanced 4.4mm jack outputs make it easy to connect this preamplifier to any hi-fi amp or active speakers. The iFi Audio ZEN Phono V3 is also available to preorder on Son-Vidéo.com at a price of €249.
With the new iFi Audio ZEN DAC 3 DAC and headphone amplifier, the British manufacturer continues to update its most popular model to provide an even more comprehensive and powerful solution, capable of getting the best out of the latest Hi-Res digital files. For analog enthusiasts, the iFi Audio ZEN Phono 3 phono preamp is the perfect solution for revealing every detail engraved on their vinyl records.
