Zen DAC v3 Review: back on track with the times

After three years, iFi introduces a new version of its popular DAC and headphone amplifier, the Zen DAC v3. The price has slightly increased (from around €200 to €229, the cost of the V3 at the time of writing), while the improvements to the device are quite significant.

Zen DAC v3 Review: overview

Those familiar with the Zen DAC v2 will immediately recognize the model, which appears at first glance as a more refined and cooler version of its predecessor. We still have both balanced and unbalanced outputs on the front, Power Match and XBass functions, along with the volume knob, and on the rear, power input, RCA outputs, fixed/variable mode selector (the former for headphone listening or powered speakers, the latter for connection to another amplifier or receiver), and USB-C connectivity.

What stands out is the leap forward in technical specifications, with support for PCM files up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD 512, whereas the previous version handled PCM at 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD256; we will discuss these improvements further later on.

Inside the iFi box, in addition to the device—which is noticeably more refined than the previous version, since aesthetics matter too—we find a USB-C cable, an RCA cable, and a 3.5 to 6.35 mm jack adapter, along with a user manual, leaflet, and the typical iFi sticker.

For those unfamiliar with it, the previous model, the Zen DAC v2, won the What Hi-Fi Award four years in a row in the sub-€200 headphone amplifier category, and is rightly known to the general public as a device with excellent value for money. Time passes, however, and an update was necessary—hence the Zen DAC v3: more refined in appearance and equipped with more advanced hardware, allowing higher-level decoding (lossless-quality files).

We tested the previous version when it was first released several years ago and continued to use it gladly to test a large number of entry-level and entry/mid-range headphones, so we were quite curious to see how much the device had improved.

As usual for this product, it can be powered via the same USB cable used for data transmission; however, we recommend investing in a proper external power supply and connecting it to the rear input, so that the USB cable handles data only. The obvious option would be to pair the Zen DAC v3 with the iFi iPower2, but even with other power supplies, it is preferable to use a separate power source.

The signal is processed by a latest-generation 16-core XMOS chip, an excellent choice for a device in this price range, while decoding is handled by a Burr-Brown chipset. It is worth highlighting that the Burr-Brown DAC architecture used, called True Native, features separate paths for PCM and DSD, allowing both to achieve bit-perfect conversion. The MQA standard is also supported up to 384 kHz, so there are no issues for those accustomed (or looking to get accustomed) to MQA listening via Tidal, Roon, or similar services.

We have often discussed the filters available on iFi devices; in this case, we find the now almost indispensable XBass, a filter that boosts low frequencies, bringing them forward and providing more bass impact at the push of a button. This on-the-fly setting allows better enjoyment of bass-heavy tracks or, if you generally enjoy strong low frequencies, to listen with a slightly bass-emphasized signature at all times.

The two main differences in construction and finish are the volume knob, improved in the v3—heavier and more precise, still surrounded by colored LEDs—and the USB connection, now upgraded to USB-C.

Here is an overview of the technical specifications:

Input: USB Type-C

Formats

• PCM (768/705.6/384/352.8/192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1kHz)
• DSD (512/256/128/64)
• DXD (768/705.6/384/352.8kHz)
• MQA (Decoder)
• DAC: Bit-Perfect DSD & DXD DAC by Burr Brown

Output Power
Balanced: 4.4mm 2V / 6.2V max. (variable); 4.2V fixed
Single-Ended: RCA 1V / 3.3V max. (variable); 2.1V fixed
Output Impedance: Balanced 4.4mm ≤200Ω; Single-Ended RCA ≤100Ω
SNR: ≥ 113dBA @ 0dBFS
DNR: ≥ 113dBA @ 0dBFS
THD+N: Balanced 4.4mm <0.0015% @ 0dBFS; Single-Ended RCA <0.003% @ 0dBFS

Max.^ Output Power
Balanced: 4.4mm >70mW @ 600Ω; >300mW @ 32Ω
Single-Ended: 6.35mm >18mW @ 600Ω; >210mW @ 32Ω
RMS Output Power
Balanced: 4.4mm >390mW @ 64Ω
Single-Ended: 6.35mm >210mW @ 32Ω
Output impedance: ≤1Ω
SNR: ≥ 109dBA @ 0dBFS (6.2V 4.4mm / 3.3V 6.35mm)
DNR: ≥ 109dBA @ 0dBFS (6.2V 4.4mm / 3.3V 6.35mm)
THD+N: Balanced 4.4mm <0.005% (2V @ 600 Ω); Single-Ended 6.35mm <0.013% (1.27V @ 32Ω)

Frequency Response: 5Hz – 90kHz (±3dB)
Power supply requirement: USB-C or DC 5V/0.5A (centre +ve)
Power consumption: No Signal ~0.5W; Max Signal ~2.5W
Dimensions: 158 x 115 x 35mm
Weight: 456g

How the Zen DAC v3 sounds

The Zen DAC v3 immediately appears as an improved version of its predecessor: the sound is recognizable from the very first moment—no radical changes, but refinements. We tested it with a range of headphones from the HE400SE to the Hifiman Arya, always using a separate power supply. We also recommend using a balanced cable connection, although the unbalanced output still sounds very good, with Power Match to be activated as needed depending on the headphone’s requirements.

The reproduced sound is generally neutral with a slight tendency toward warmth. Particularly impressive is the clarity of reproduction, with excellent cleanliness, great instrument separation, and a sometimes surprising ability to retrieve detail, considering the price range just above €200.

Another appreciated characteristic is speed and the ability to handle complex scenes and sound effects moving between channels. The soundstage is quite wide compared to competing devices, while remaining within entry-level limits. The soundstage is enhanced by a balanced and realistic placement of instruments. Overall, musicality is very pleasing, and listening sessions (which can vary depending on the headphones used) are not fatiguing: the device’s balanced timbre lends itself well to long listening sessions.

The bass is well-detailed and properly present in the frequency mix—not overly boosted or dominant, but clearly there—and thanks to its strong detail, its presence is enjoyable. For our taste, the default bass response is more than adequate, and we only activated XBass when listening to rock or electronic tracks where we wanted stronger, more impactful bass.

The midrange frequencies come through clearly, cleanly, and with good detail, as do the highs, which are handled without annoying spikes. Vocals are reproduced in a particularly natural and melodious way, one of the areas where improvement over the previous version is noticeable, and a true highlight of this device. All of this occurs within a realistic soundstage, with the ability to appreciate the resonance of vocal notes in silence in certain tracks.

As with the previous version, a pairing that works very well for a roughly €500 setup is with the Sundara v2 by HiFiMan. This confirms the excellent work done by both companies in updating some of their flagship models: despite the passing years, the Zen DAC + Sundara combo remains, in our opinion, one of the best solutions in the €500 budget range.

Comparison with the previous version

It is very clear that the Zen DAC v3 is strongly based on the previous version. A direct comparison between Zen DAC v2 and Zen DAC v3 setups makes this especially evident: they are siblings, with the difference that the new model is slightly more detailed and offers a slightly more spacious soundstage when handling lossless decoding. We also greatly appreciated the improved vocal performance—slightly more forward, more natural, and more detailed—making vocal-centric tracks more enjoyable. For those who want to take advantage of support for PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD 512, the new version is strongly recommended.

The €30 difference between the two versions clearly leads us to recommend the newer one: for such a small price increase, you get a DAC/headphone amplifier with better performance that will remain up-to-date in the entry-level segment for years to come.

Conclusions

In short, we could say: the Zen DAC v2 is dead, long live the Zen DAC v3. iFi’s update hits the mark, with improved performance at a minimal price increase, support for PCM files up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD 512, an improved volume knob, and a more distinctive design—while retaining the same flexibility as the previous model, allowing the DAC to be used in combination with other amplifiers. The Zen DAC v3 is here to stay. Its value for money remains excellent.