IFi ZEN BLUE 3

IFi ZEN BLUE 3 — Wireless Hi-Fi DAC

If you are looking for a way to integrate wireless audio into your Hi-Fi system without compromising on quality, the iFi ZEN Blue 3 is the ideal solution. This third-generation Bluetooth DAC supports aptX Lossless, which allows for wireless transmission of CD-quality audio to both your Hi-Fi system and wireless headphones. With three operating modes (RX, TX, DAC), the ZEN Blue 3 serves as a universal bridge between modern digital sources and traditional Hi-Fi components. With support for Bluetooth 5.4 and a wide range of codecs, it offers the highest quality and flexibility of connection.

Lossless Bluetooth

One of the main benefits of this device is its support for a wide range of modern Bluetooth codecs, including aptX Lossless, LDAC, aptX HD and LHDC. This means that the ZEN Blue 3 automatically connects in the highest sound quality possible from your source device. Additionally, aptX Low Latency support ensures picture and sound are synchronized, making it ideal for watching TV, playing games or playing videos.

Three operating modes for maximum versatility

ZEN Blue 3 offers three different modes that cover most usage scenarios:

• RX (Receiver) mode: Receives audio from your phone, tablet or PC and transmits it to an amplifier, active speakers or DAC at up to aptX Lossless quality.
• TX (Transmitter) mode: Transmits audio from a TV, console or CD player to wireless headphones with low latency.
• DAC mode: Works as a USB or S/PDIF DAC for direct digital connection, which will be appreciated by users who want to bypass Bluetooth.

Audio architecture and connectivity

Unlike conventional Bluetooth adapters, ZEN Blue 3 is designed as a full-fledged Hi-Fi component. It features balanced 4.4mm analog output that significantly reduces noise and distortion, resulting in clean and stable sound comparable to a wired connection. Connectivity includes:

• Inputs: Bluetooth, USB-C, RCA line-in, S/PDIF (optical and coaxial).
• Outputs: 4.4mm balanced, RCA single-ended, S/PDIF (optical and coaxial).

Technical data

• Bluetooth version: 5.4 (Qualcomm QCC5181)
• Supported codecs: aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX Low Latency, aptX HD, aptX, LDAC, LHDC, AAC, SBC
• Power supply: USB-C (audio + power), separate DC 5V input (compatible with iFi iPower and iPower X)
• Operating modes: RX, TX, DAC
• Outputs: 4.4mm balanced, RCA, S/PDIF (optical and coaxial)

Who is the iFi ZEN Blue 3 suitable for?

• For users who want to stream music in the highest possible quality without cables.
• For wirelessly connecting a phone or PC to a Hi-Fi system.
• For watching TV or playing games with low audio latency.
• As a modern and flexible addition to classic Hi-Fi systems.