iFi Audio
iFi Audio Zen Blue 3
Best high-fidelity solution for audiophiles seeking seamless wireless and wired connectivity.
The iFi Audio Zen Blue 3 redefines wireless audio, bridging convenience and high-fidelity performance. This next-generation Bluetooth DAC, transmitter, and receiver supports aptX Lossless for CD-quality wireless streaming. Powered by Qualcomm’s flagship QCC518x chipset and an ESS Sabre DAC, it supports all major codecs including LDAC. With balanced 4.4mm and RCA outputs, plus versatile inputs, it seamlessly integrates with hi-fi systems and more. Use it to connect wired sources to Bluetooth headphones or transform your system into a high-resolution wireless setup. Experience pure, detailed sound, wired or wireless.
$299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 164
Best Bluetooth Transmitters
Price vs Category Average
+188%
Above average
Bluetooth Chipset
518
/ Qualcomm QCCx Series
Who it's for
- Audiophiles demanding maximum wireless fidelity from high-resolution streaming sources
- Home audio enthusiasts integrating wireless streaming into diverse legacy systems
- Listeners seeking superior sound clarity beyond standard Bluetooth receiver performance
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for basic wireless connectivity solutions
- Users needing a transmitter for wireless headphones or network streaming
- Minimalists wanting a clutter-free setup without extra power cables
Performance breakdown
Wireless Fidelity
aptX Lossless support delivers true CD-quality audio over a wireless connection.
Codec Versatility
Comprehensive support for LDAC, LHDC, and aptX ensures compatibility with any source.
Connectivity Flexibility
Seamlessly toggles between transmitter, receiver, and standalone DAC modes for any setup.
Signal Integrity
Audiophile-grade circuitry and balanced outputs maintain a clean, noise-free signal path.
AV Synchronization
Low latency mode effectively eliminates distracting lag during video playback.
Build Quality
Compact, robust chassis feels premium and fits easily into any desktop system.
Key Specs
Bluetooth Chipset
Qualcomm QCC518x Series
DAC
ESS ES9023
Supported Audio Codecs
aptX Lossless, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC, SBC
Bluetooth Version
5.4
Input Ports
Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C, Optical (TOSLINK), Coaxial, RCA L/R (Analogue)
Output Ports
RCA stereo, 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced, Optical, Coaxial
DAC Mode Input Support
96kHz/24Bit (USB), 192kHz/24Bit (Optical/Coaxial)
SNR
109dB (A) @ 0dBFS
Features
- World's first lossless Bluetooth transmitter/receiver
- CD-quality wireless audio with aptX Lossless
- Hi-Res audio with LDAC and LHDC/HWA
- Multiple modes: Receiver, Transmitter, Wired DAC
- Audiophile-grade circuitry for superior sound
- Wired DAC functionality via USB-C or S/PDIF
- Balanced 4.4mm and RCA analog outputs
- Low Latency mode for perfect AV sync
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Zen Blue 3 for its remarkable audio fidelity, noting a significant upgrade over typical Bluetooth performance. The device is celebrated for its ability to extract maximum detail from wireless streams, making digital music sound rich and expansive. Users also appreciate the straightforward setup and reliable connectivity, confirming that high quality sound does not require complicated operation. This unit delivers exceptional value by bridging the gap between convenience and audiophile standards.
Know before you buy
Yes. The device features a dedicated transmitter mode that allows you to connect analog sources, such as a turntable or CD player, and stream that audio wirelessly to your Bluetooth headphones.
aptX Lossless allows for bit-for-bit CD-quality audio transmission over Bluetooth. Unlike standard codecs that compress audio, this technology ensures your music retains the original detail and clarity of the source file.
Yes, it includes a wired DAC mode. You can connect your computer via USB-C to take advantage of the high-quality ESS Sabre DAC, bypassing your computer's internal sound card for better audio performance.
The Zen Blue 3 includes a Low Latency mode specifically designed to minimize delay. This ensures that audio remains synchronized with the video when you are using Bluetooth headphones for TV or movie playback.
Yes, the unit is versatile. It features a 4.4mm balanced output for high-end audio setups and standard RCA outputs for traditional stereo systems.
Yes, it supports a wide range of high-resolution codecs, including LDAC and LHDC/HWA, allowing you to stream high-bitrate audio from compatible devices.
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$299