iFi Audio ZEN Stream 3 – Audiophile Network Streamer for Any Hi-Fi
The iFi Audio ZEN Stream 3 brings any traditional hi-fi system online with serious sound quality intact. Upgraded hardware, a next-generation streaming engine and JVCKENWOOD's K2 Technology combine with iPurifier and Active Noise Cancellation to feed your DAC the cleanest possible digital signal. Native support for Tidal, Spotify, Qobuz, Roon, AirPlay and DLNA means no compromises on services — handpicked and supported at Soundium.
Key Features
-
Next-generation streaming engine: Native Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, AirPlay and DLNA
-
K2 Technology by JVCKENWOOD: Studio-grade restoration adds depth and texture back to compressed audio
-
iPurifier with Active Noise Cancellation: Reduces high-frequency noise on USB and S/PDIF outputs to your DAC
-
Femto-precision clock and ELNA Silmic II caps: Audiophile-grade clocking and power supply filtering inside a desktop chassis
-
Exclusive Modes & simple setup: Front-panel modes for Tidal, Roon, Qobuz, AIO and DLNA, plus easy Bluetooth pairing via the Nexis app
Customer Benefits
Plug ZEN Stream 3 into your DAC or amplifier with a USB or coaxial cable, connect via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and your existing system instantly becomes a modern hi-res streamer. The exclusive front-panel mode switch isolates each streaming protocol on the OS level, so you only run what you actually use — clean software equals clean signal — while K2 Technology breathes life back into compressed material.
Quick Specs
-
Hi-Res Support: PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD256 (11.3 MHz)
-
Streaming Protocols: Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, AirPlay, DLNA, NAS & USB HDD
-
Network Inputs: Wi-Fi 802.11, Ethernet RJ45 (Gigabit), 2× USB-A
-
Outputs: 2× USB-A audio, S/PDIF Coaxial (RCA)
-
System Update: USB-C
-
Clocking: Femto-precision clock, ELNA Silmic II capacitors
-
Power: DC 9 V/1.8 A to 15 V/0.8 A (centre positive)
-
Power Consumption: ~6 W idle, ~10 W max
-
Dimensions: 15.8 × 10 × 3.5 cm
-
Weight: 578 g
What's in the Box
- iFi Audio ZEN Stream 3
- RJ45 Ethernet cable
- Wi-Fi antenna
- Power adapter
- Switch adjustment tool
- Quick-start guide and warranty card
Use Cases / Ideal For
- Adding a hi-res streaming front end to a DAC, integrated amp or active monitor system
- Roon endpoints in second listening rooms or a desktop setup
- Tidal/Spotify/Qobuz Connect users who want lossless wireless casting
Compatibility
- Feeds any USB DAC or coaxial-input DAC and digital amplifier
- Works with NAS libraries and USB HDD storage
- Controlled via the iFi Nexis app on iOS and Android
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Genuine audiophile-grade components in a desktop-friendly chassis
- K2 Technology and iPurifier for cleaner-than-typical streaming
- Native support for the streaming services people actually use
- Simple setup via the Nexis app and front-panel mode switch
⚠️ Cons:
- No internal DAC — requires an external DAC or DAC/amp
- Only one S/PDIF output (coaxial), no optical or AES/EBU
- Setup polish best on iOS/Android via Nexis app
Bring your hi-fi online with no compromise on signal integrity. The iFi Audio ZEN Stream 3 is a serious, future-proof network source for both casual and reference listeners — available now at Soundium.
