iFi ZEN Blue 3 Bluetooth Desktop DAC
Best high-fidelity solution for audiophiles seeking lossless wireless audio streaming.
The iFi Zen Blue 3 is a high-resolution Bluetooth DAC and transmitter that supports CD-quality audio wirelessly. It features Qualcomm's QCC518x chipset and Bluetooth 5.4, enabling aptX Lossless for both receiving and transmitting audio. It also supports other Hi-Res codecs like LDAC and LHDC. In wired DAC mode, it accepts USB-C, optical, or coaxial inputs, offering high-resolution playback. With distinct internal circuits for Bluetooth, DAC, and amplification, it minimizes interference and jitter for clearer sound. The device includes a low-latency mode for AV synchronization and offers both balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn and RCA outputs.
$299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
7
/ 164
#7 in Bluetooth Transmitters
Price vs Category Average
+188%
Above average
Digital Inputs (RX mode)
5.4
/ Bluetooth
Who it's for
- Listeners using high-end gear requiring clean balanced signals
- Audiophiles demanding bit-perfect wireless sound quality
- Users needing flexible streaming for complex home audio setups
Who should skip it
- Travelers seeking a portable solution for on-the-go listening
- Desktop users wanting a simple all-in-one headphone solution
- Casual listeners on a budget looking for basic connectivity
Performance breakdown
Wireless Fidelity
Support for aptX Lossless delivers true CD-quality audio over Bluetooth.
Codec Versatility
Comprehensive compatibility with LDAC, LHDC, and aptX ensures high-resolution streaming flexibility.
Operational Flexibility
Seamless switching between transmitter, receiver, and wired DAC modes adds immense value.
Signal Integrity
Dedicated circuitry and precision clocking effectively minimize jitter and interference.
AV Synchronization
Low-latency mode keeps audio perfectly aligned during gaming and video playback.
Connectivity Options
Balanced 4.4mm outputs provide a professional-grade connection for high-end audio systems.
Key Specs
Digital Inputs (RX mode)
Bluetooth 5.4
Digital Inputs (TX/DAC mode)
USB, Optical, Coaxial
Analogue Outputs (RX/DAC mode)
RCA, 4.4mm Balanced
Max Sampling Rate (DAC mode USB)
96kHz/24-Bit
Max Sampling Rate (DAC mode S/PDIF)
192kHz/24-Bit
SNR
109dB
DNR
109dBA
Dimensions
158 x 115 x 35mm
Features
- Supports advanced Bluetooth codecs (aptX Lossless, LDAC, LHDC) for high-resolution wireless audio
- Versatile 3-mode operation: Receiver (RX), Transmitter (TX), and wired DAC
- Dedicated low-latency mode for lag-free gaming and video synchronization
- Audiophile-grade circuitry with separate Bluetooth, DAC, and Op-Amp chips for superior sound
- Balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn output for high-fidelity analog audio
- Compact and stylish design suitable for any Hi-Fi system
- USB-C and S/PDIF inputs for wired DAC functionality
- Can pair two units for extended wireless audio transmission
- Bi-directional lossless Bluetooth with aptX Lossless for CD-quality streaming
- Supports a wide range of Hi-Res codecs including LDAC and LHDC
- Precision clock minimizes jitter for clearer audio reproduction
- Extended Bluetooth range with rear antenna
- Qualcomm QCC518x chipset
- Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity
What customers say
The iFi ZEN Blue 3 earns high praise for its exceptional build quality and seamless integration into home audio setups. Users appreciate the refined design which feels both sturdy and sophisticated on a desk. The setup process is remarkably straightforward, allowing listeners to enjoy high fidelity sound without technical hurdles. Its ability to deliver a stable connection and premium audio performance makes it a standout choice for those seeking a reliable wireless bridge. This device successfully balances advanced features with a user friendly experience, making it a favorite for both casual listeners and dedicated enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
Receiver (RX) mode lets you stream audio from your phone to your Hi-Fi system. Transmitter (TX) mode sends audio from a wired source, like a CD player, to your wireless headphones. Wired DAC mode allows you to connect a computer or digital source via USB or S/PDIF for high-resolution playback through your speakers.
Yes, it supports aptX Lossless, which enables CD-quality audio transmission over Bluetooth. To take advantage of this, both your source device and your receiving headphones must also support the aptX Lossless codec.
Yes, the device features a dedicated low-latency mode specifically designed to synchronize audio with video. This ensures that dialogue and sound effects match the on-screen action when using Bluetooth headphones.
It provides both standard RCA outputs for traditional stereo setups and a 4.4mm balanced output. The balanced output is ideal if your amplifier supports it, as it helps reduce noise and interference for a cleaner signal.
The ZEN Blue 3 supports pairing with multiple devices, but it can only actively stream or receive from one source at a time. You can also pair two ZEN Blue 3 units together to extend your wireless audio range.
Yes, the ZEN Blue 3 is a DAC and transmitter, not a power amplifier. You will need to connect its analog outputs to an integrated amplifier, a power amplifier, or a pair of active powered speakers.
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