iFi Audio
Hip-DAC 3 Portable DAC/Headphone Amplifier
Best portable upgrade for audiophiles seeking high-resolution sound on the go.
Experience superior portable audio with the iFi Hip-DAC 3, a compact DAC/headphone amplifier designed to elevate your listening on the go. It transforms your smartphone, tablet, or computer's audio with its True Native DAC for bit-perfect, hi-res playback. Enjoy detailed, spacious sound thanks to upgraded circuitry and tailor your audio with features like PowerMatch and XBass. Its stylish, hip-flask-sized aluminum build houses versatile balanced and S-balanced outputs for a premium, personalized sound experience anywhere.
$199.00
More Hip-DAC Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
255
/ 733
#255 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-86%
Below average
Formats Supported
256384384384
/ DSD , PCM kHz, DXD kHz, MQA kHz
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking rich, high-resolution sound quality
- Listeners wanting flexible connectivity and customizable sound profiles
- Mobile users needing seamless connection to modern devices
Who should skip it
- Commuters prioritizing slim, pocket-friendly gear
- Travelers requiring long-lasting battery performance
- Owners of high-impedance, power-hungry studio headphones
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
True Native DAC architecture delivers exceptional clarity and bit-perfect hi-res playback.
Drive Capability
Robust power output handles demanding headphones with ease and impressive authority.
Portability
Compact flask-inspired design slips effortlessly into any pocket or travel bag.
Connectivity Versatility
Dual USB-C and dual headphone outputs offer seamless integration with modern devices.
Sound Customization
PowerMatch and XBass provide meaningful control over gain and low-end response.
Battery Endurance
Eight hours of playback is sufficient for daily commutes but lacks longevity.
Key Specs
Formats Supported
DSD 256, PCM 384kHz, DXD 384kHz, MQA 384kHz
Digital Inputs
USB-C
Headphone Outputs
4.4mm Balanced, 3.5mm S-Balanced
Power Output (Balanced)
400mW @ 32Ω
Power Output (S-Balanced)
280mW @ 32Ω
Battery
Lithium-polymer 2200mAh
Battery Life
Approx. 8 hours playback
Dimensions
102 x 70 x 14 mm
Features
- Upgraded circuitry for detailed sound
- True Native DAC for bit-perfect audio
- Supports hi-res audio playback
- Compact and durable aluminum build
- Dual USB-C for audio and charging
- Balanced and S-balanced headphone outputs
- Adjustable gain with PowerMatch
- Enhanced listening with iEMatch and XBass
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise the iFi Hip-DAC 3 for its signature warm, musical sound profile, which brings richness often absent in neutral DACs. Its refined internal components deliver noticeable improvements in detail and dynamics. Users appreciate the impressive power output, confirming its ability to drive a wide range of headphones effectively. The sturdy, distinctive design is well regarded for its aesthetic and durability. Practical features like switchable XBass and PowerMatch allow users to tailor the audio experience easily. While performance is highly positive, some note battery life is adequate but not exceptional for all day use. Overall, the Hip-DAC 3 is a top choice for those seeking a powerful and engaging portable listening experience.
Know before you buy
Yes, it features both a 4.4mm balanced output for high-end headphones and a 3.5mm S-Balanced output, which reduces distortion and crosstalk when using standard single-ended headphones.
The Hip-DAC 3 is capable of driving headphones with an impedance of up to 600 Ohms, making it a versatile choice for both demanding studio gear and standard portable headphones.
PowerMatch adjusts the input sensitivity and gain, allowing you to optimize the amplifier's output for your specific headphones. Use a higher gain setting for power-hungry over-ear models and a lower setting for sensitive in-ear monitors.
XBass adds a subtle, natural boost to the low-end frequencies without muddying the sound, while iEMatch is designed to reduce background hiss and optimize volume control for highly sensitive in-ear monitors.
Yes, it supports a wide range of hi-res formats, including DSD 256, PCM 384kHz, DXD 384kHz, and full MQA decoding for bit-perfect playback.
The Hip-DAC 3 features dual USB-C ports, allowing you to separate the data connection from the charging cable to ensure a clean, interference-free audio signal while the battery is being topped up.
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Ready to buy?
$199