iFi NEO iDSD 3 Bluetooth DAC/Amp
Best high-power DAC for audiophiles seeking premium wireless and wired performance.
The iFi NEO iDSD 3 is a versatile 3-in-1 Bluetooth DAC/Amp designed for home audio enthusiasts. It features JVCKENWOOD's K2 and K2HD Technology to restore natural harmonics in digital recordings, and PureWave circuitry for sonic purity with low noise and distortion. With up to 5,551mW of peak output power, it can drive demanding headphones. The device supports aptX Lossless for CD-quality Bluetooth audio and utilizes a custom Burr-Brown DAC stage for bit-perfect signal conversion. It offers both balanced and single-ended headphone outputs, along with flexible line outputs and an RCA analogue input for system integration.
$999.00
More NEO iDSD Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 733
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-28%
Below average
Analog Inputs
Single-Ended RCA (L/R)
/ Single-Ended RCA (L/R)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and highly detailed sound reproduction
- System builders needing a central hub for diverse audio sources
- Headphone collectors with varied power requirements for their gear
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners looking for entry-level audio solutions
- Commuters requiring a portable device for mobile listening
- Beginners intimidated by advanced settings and complex audio configurations
Performance breakdown
Drive Capability
Massive power reserves easily handle even the most demanding planar headphones.
Wireless Fidelity
AptX Lossless support delivers near-wired performance without the cable clutter.
Sonic Purity
PureWave circuitry ensures an exceptionally clean and transparent audio signal path.
Digital Versatility
Extensive input options accommodate everything from high-res USB to legacy sources.
Harmonic Restoration
K2HD technology adds a natural, organic warmth to digital music files.
System Integration
Flexible output modes make it a seamless centerpiece for any audio setup.
Key Specs
Analog Inputs
Single-Ended RCA (L/R)
Bluetooth Formats
aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC, SBC
Digital Inputs
Bluetooth 5.4, USB-B 3.0, S/PDIF Coaxial, S/PDIF Optical
Dimensions
214 x 158 x 41mm (8.4 x 6.2 x 1.6”)
File Support
768kHz PCM, DSD512 (22.6 MHz)
Headphone Output
Balanced 4.4mm, Single-Ended 6.3mm
Headphone Output Impedance
≤1Ω, ≤7Ω when iEMatch enabled
Headphone Output RMS
4.4mm ≥12.7V/2,532mW @ 64Ω (RMS), 6.3mm ≥8.4V/2,244mW @ 32Ω (RMS)
Features
- Restores natural harmonics with JVCKENWOOD's K2 and K2HD Technology.
- Delivers high headphone amplification power up to 5,551mW peak.
- Provides CD-quality audio via Bluetooth with aptX Lossless.
- Features PureWave balanced, symmetrical dual-mono circuitry for sonic purity.
- Utilizes a custom Burr-Brown DAC stage for natural musicality.
- Offers flexible connectivity with RCA analogue input and adjustable front LED brightness.
- Includes a modified amplification stage from the iDSD Diablo 2.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the iFi NEO iDSD 3 for its exceptional sound quality, noting a remarkable clarity and detail that elevates their listening experience. Many highlight its robust and elegant design, appreciating the premium feel and aesthetic appeal that complements any setup. The device is frequently lauded for delivering a powerful and immersive audio performance, making it a standout choice for discerning audiophiles seeking both sonic excellence and sophisticated craftsmanship. Its ability to transform digital audio into a rich, engaging soundscape is a recurring positive.
Know before you buy
Yes. With a peak output power of up to 5,551mW, it is designed to handle demanding headphones with ease, providing plenty of headroom for both balanced and single-ended connections.
The device supports a wide range of high-quality codecs including aptX Lossless, LDAC, and LHDC. This ensures you can stream CD-quality or high-resolution audio wirelessly from compatible devices.
JVCKENWOOD's K2 and K2HD technology works to restore natural harmonics and detail that can be lost during digital recording or compression, resulting in a more organic and lifelike sound.
Absolutely. The NEO iDSD 3 features both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA line outputs, allowing you to connect it directly to an external power amplifier or active speakers.
Yes, the device includes iEMatch technology, which adjusts the output impedance to ensure a clean, hiss-free experience when using highly sensitive in-ear monitors.
You have several options, including USB-B 3.0 for computer audio, as well as optical and coaxial S/PDIF inputs for CD players or streamers, in addition to its Bluetooth 5.4 capability.
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