iFi Audio Zen Blue 3 – Hi-Res Bluetooth DAC & Transmitter/Receiver
Enjoy true lossless wireless audio with the Zen Blue 3. It’s a versatile Bluetooth 5.4 hub that receives and transmits CD-quality sound via aptX Lossless, plus it doubles as a high-resolution wired DAC with USB or S/PDIF inputs—an elegant centerpiece for both digital and wireless setups.
Key Features
- Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless: The world’s first DAC capable of both sending and receiving CD-quality wireless audio without compression.
- Flexible modes: Operates as Bluetooth RX, Bluetooth TX, or wired DAC (USB/S-PDIF), selectable via a front-panel mode button.
- Wide codec support: Compatible with LDAC, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Low-Latency, AAC, and SBC for universal connectivity.
- Premium audio chain: Qualcomm QCC518x chipset handles Bluetooth; ESS Sabre ES9023 DAC and MAX97220 amp provide high-fidelity conversion and output.
- Balanced analogue output: Front-accessible 4.4 mm balanced and RCA connectors for clean, versatile connections.
- Dedicated low-latency and pairing controls: Perfect for gaming, video watching, and multi-source setups with quick, intuitive toggles.
Customer Benefits
The Zen Blue 3 fits into any audio ecosystem, wirelessly or wired. Use it to retire cables with pristine Bluetooth audio, wire it directly into a DAC for high-res playback, or stream vinyl (or anything) to your favourite Bluetooth headphones with audiophile confidence.
Quick Specs
- Bluetooth input/output: aptX Lossless, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, aptX variants, AAC, SBC
- Wired DAC input/output: USB-C, optical coax (up to 192 kHz) with RCA and 4.4 mm balanced outs
- Sampling rates: RX/TX/DAC via USB, up to 96 kHz/24-bit; via S/PDIF up to 192 kHz/24-bit
- Audio performance: SNR 109 dB; DNR 109 dB; THD+N < 0.005%
- Dimensions: 15.8 × 10.6 × 3.5 cm
- Weight: 0.447 kg
- Power: USB-C or 5 V DC ≥ 0.5 A
What’s in the Box
- 1 × Zen Blue 3 unit
- Bluetooth antenna
- USB-A to USB-C cable
- RCA analog cable
- 5 V DC power adapter
Use Cases / Ideal For
Ideal for music lovers seeking wireless, lossless streaming, hi-res DAC for desktop setups, or TV-to-headphones wireless feeds. It’s a minimalist all-in-one solution for any modern home entertainment setup.
Compatibility
Connects to smartphones, laptops, TVs, and more via Bluetooth or USB/S-PDIF. Offers balanced or RCA analog output to amplifiers, speakers, or headphones—flexible integration with most audio systems.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Only device that transmits and receives CD-quality Bluetooth audio
- Wired DAC capability lends hi-res flexibility without extra gear
- Compact, well-built, and easy-to-use mode switching
⚠️ Cons:
- Balanced outputs carry higher impedance—not ideal for driving headphones directly
- Complex mode selection may require a learning curve for setup newbies
The iFi Zen Blue 3 brings audiophile-grade sound to both Bluetooth and wired workflows—cleverly compact, flexible, and built to perform without compromise.
