By: CE Critic - Buy Better Tech

iFi Audio has recently released two new additions to their popular ZEN series: the ZEN DAC 3 and ZEN Phono 3. These upgraded audio solutions promise to deliver exceptional sound quality and a range of features for music enthusiasts.

ZEN DAC 3: A Versatile DAC for Gamers, Casual Listeners, and Audiophiles

The iFi ZEN DAC 3 is a compact and affordable digital-to-analog converter (DAC) designed to elevate your listening experience. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

• High-Resolution Audio Support: Handles PCM files up to 768kHz, DSD files up to DSD512, and full MQA decoding for superior audio fidelity.
• True Native Burr-Brown DAC Chip: Ensures accurate signal conversion preserving the nuances of your music.
• Versatile Connectivity: Features two 4.4mm balanced outputs (one for headphones and one for hi-fi equipment), a single-ended 6.3mm headphone output, and RCA outputs.
• Output Options: Offers both fixed and variable output gain options for seamless connection to headphones, amplifiers, or active speakers.
• XBass+ and PowerMatch: Analog processing modes for boosting bass and optimizing headphone output gain, respectively.
• Enhanced Protection: Improved DC offset and USB-C input overvoltage protection.

ZEN Phono 3: Rediscover Your Vinyl Collection

Designed specifically for vinyl enthusiasts, the iFi ZEN Phono 3 is a high-quality phono preamplifier that aims to enhance the listening experience by extracting the best possible sound from your records. Its key features include:

• Intelligent Subsonic Filter: Removes imperfections from warped records without affecting low-end frequencies, preserving the integrity of the original recording.
• Accurate RIAA Equalization: Maintains a consistent frequency response for authentic reproduction of your vinyl records.
• Ultra-Low Noise Performance: Equivalent Input Noise Figure of -151dBV ensures minimal background noise.
• Balanced Circuitry: Incorporates high-quality components for exceptional sound quality.
• Gain Settings and Loading Options: Offers multiple gain and loading settings to optimize performance for different cartridge types (MM, MC-High, MC-Low, MC-V Low).
• Balanced and RCA Outputs: Includes both 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced and RCA inputs for versatile connectivity.

Pricing and Availability

Both the iFi Audio ZEN DAC 3 and ZEN Phono 3 are now available for purchase:

• ZEN DAC 3: £229 / $229 / €229
• ZEN Phono 3: £249 / $249 / €249

You can find more information and purchase these products directly from the iFi Audio website (https://ifi-audio.com/) or other authorized retailers.

Additional Notes

The ZEN DAC 3 and ZEN Phono 3 represent upgrades over their predecessors, offering improved features and refined sound quality. While there is a slight price increase compared to previous models, iFi Audio's reputation for delivering high-performance audio products at accessible price points suggests these new additions are likely to be well-received by music lovers.