Over the years, iFi's Zen series has undergone numerous changes. I have reviewed the previous two versions of the Zen DAC and Zen Amp, determining that they provide a solid performing entry-level, budget friendly options.
iFi Audio is once again updating the Zen series. Will this 3rd variation maintain the same quality and functionality, or will it build upon the previous success?
I want to thank iFi Audio for providing the Zen DAC 3 and Can 3 for review, much appreciated.
Purchase/More Information:
Each, the Zen DAC 3 and Zen Can 3, will set you back $230 from your bank account.
Zen DAC 3:
Zen Can 3:
Specifications:
Zen DAC 3
Input | USB Type-C |
Game Console Compatibility | SONY PS5 and Nintendo Switch “SONY” is registered trademark or trademark of Sony Group Corporation. “PS5” is registered trademark or trademark of Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. Nintendo Switch™ is trademark of Nintendo. |
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 |
Line Output Section | |
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 |
Headphone Output Section | |
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) |
General | |
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 (6.2” x 4.6” x 1.4”) |
Net weight | 456g (1.0 lbs) |
Zen Can 3
Input Voltage | DC | 5V/2.5A |
AC 100-240V, 50/60Hz | ||
Analogue Inputs | SE RCA L/R | 2.0V nominal @ 0dBFS, 1MegOhm Zin |
SE 3.5mm | 1.0V nominal @ 0dBFS, 1 MegOhm Zin | |
BAL 4.4mm | 4.0V nominal @ 0dBFS, 24kOhm Zin | |
Max Input Level | SE RCA | 3.8V RMS |
SE 3.5mm | 1.92V RMS | |
BAL 4.4mm | 7.4V RMS | |
Headphone Output Section | ||
Output Impedance | BAL 4.4mm HP | <2 Ohms |
SE 6.3mm HP | <1 Ohm | |
Headphone Output (RMS) | BAL 4.4mm | >11.5V/2,000mW (@ 64 Ohms) |
SE 6.35mm | >7.2V/1,600mW (@ 32 Ohms) | |
Headphone Output (Max.) | BAL 4.4mm | >15.1V/385mW (@ 600 Ohms) |
>6.2V/1,200mW (@ 32 Ohms) | ||
SE 6.35mm | >7.6V/98mW (@ 600 Ohms) | |
>7.2V/1,600mW (@ 32 Ohms) | ||
xMEMS | BAL 4.4mm | >21Vpp, 22 Ohms, 11V DC bias |
SNR | BAL 4.4mm | ≥125dB (7.3V 4.4mm Input 0dB @ 600 Ohms) |
SE 6.35mm | ≥122dB (1.9V Input 0dB @ 600 Ohms) | |
DNR | BAL 4.4mm | ≥119dB(A) @ 0dBFS |
SE 6.35mm | ≥119dB(A) @ 0dBFS | |
THD+N | BAL 4.4mm | <0.006% (@ 360 mW/2.4V 16 Ohms) |
SE 6.35mm | <0.006% (@ 100mW/1.27V 16 Ohms) | |
Line Output Section | ||
Output Impedance | <200 Ohms | |
Output Level | 4Vrms (0dB 200kOhm load) | |
SNR | ≥125dB (7.3V 4.4mm Input 0dB @ 200kOhm) | |
DNR | ≥119dB(A) | |
THD+N | 0.006% (0dB 200kOhm load) | |
General | ||
Gain | 0dB, 6dB, 12dB, 18dB | |
Frequency Response | 10Hz-200kHz (-3dB) | |
Power Consumption | No Signal | ~5W |
Max Signal | ~13W | |
Dimensions | 158x117x35mm (6.2x4.6x1.4”) | |
Net Weight | 495g (1.09 lbs) | |
Box/Contents:
I usually include an unboxing segment in the review but I am skipping it this time as this is the usual iFi Audio experience. Everything you need to listen to tunes is included.
Ohhh, we have Hi-Res stickers, they've got to sound good!
Build/Design:
The 3rd version models are now in a dark grayish-blue color, a departure from the cobalt blue and silver options of the previous versions. iFi opted for a brushed nickel finish with a faux leather inlay, differing from the silver and dark blue finishes of the earlier versions. Maintaining a comparable size to its predecessors, the Zen's stack neatly with each other. Its compact size occupies very little space, yet it has enough weight to prevent any movement when buttons are pressed. And we have more Hi-Res stickers, they really have to sound good!
Zen DAC 3:
The Zen DAC 3 features the Power Match and XBass buttons on the front panel, along with a 6.35mm single-ended and a 4.4mm balanced headphone output and a large volume knob.
It has USB-C input with RCA and 4.4mm balanced output on the rear. While there is an optional 5V DC power input at the back, the power brick is not included as the device can be adequately powered through the USB-C port from a desktop computer or laptop.
Additionally, there is a switch for selecting between variable or fixed line-out for use with powered speakers or amplifier connections.
Zen Can 3:
The Zen Can 3 headphone amplifier features a front panel design that is alike, albeit with differing buttons such as the power button, input selector, gain selector, a large volume knob, and outputs for both 6.35mm and 4.4mm.
Also includes the xBass, xSpace, gaming, movie, and MEMs modes accessible through the multi-functional button on the right side.
At the back of the Can 3, there are ports for 4.4mm balanced, 3.5mm auxiliary and RCA inputs, along with a 4.4mm output. The unit is powered by a 5V DC power input and comes with the proper power brick.
xBass/xSpace/Gaming/Movie/MEMs:
Trying xBass and xSpace creates a delightful experience when used with different IEMs and headphones. xSpace enhances the soundstage slightly without affecting the bass quality. In rock music, it proves helpful in distinguishing instruments and improving imaging. xBass boosts the mid bass, providing additional fullness and weight, while introducing a hint of warmth to the bass and midrange frequencies. The xBass feature serves as a useful tool to counterbalance neutral and bright IEM and headphones. The impact of XBass and XSpace differs with each headphone and IEM, offering an enjoyable trial-and-error experience with each pairing.
As I am not actively gaming these days, randomly picking up the PS5 remote for some racing or sporting games, I have limited time with the gaming mode during gameplay. I found it enhanced the clarity and stage width, bass was impactful. When gaming mode was activated for music, it significantly distorts the sound quality. The movie mode appears to diminish the bass output, presumably to enhance vocal clarity. Lastly, I have not had the opportunity to test the MEMs mode as I don't have any MEMs driver headphones or IEMs, which are quite uncommon at this time.
Some of the Gear Used to Review: Audeze LCD-5
Audeze LCD-2 Closed
Hifiman Sundara
Hifiman Arya Stealth
Austrian Audio Hi-X60
Rode NTH-100
Sennheiser HD660s2
Fiio FT5
Moondrop Para
Westone Mach60
ThieAudio Oracle mkiii
Tangzu Nezha
Fosi Audio V3 Mono
Le Audio Cattle Pro
Martin Logan Motion 15
Fiio K19
Fiio K9 AKM
Mytek Liberty DAC ii
Mytek Liberty THX AAA HPA
Terms & Definitions:
Sonic Impressions:
Zen DAC 3:
The DAC 3 offers a slightly warm, neutral leaning sound profile. There are no options to adjust filters or settings. The DAC 3 sound is neither cold and clinical nor overly warm; instead, it offers a pleasant, cozy, and comfortable sound with sufficient technical capabilities. The notes have a natural tone and timbre, with a little extra weight to them, especially when using xBass. The midrange offers a pleasing richness and openness that prevents any sense of being muffled. The treble display nice extension, featuring a restrained energy that maintains a smooth flow in the music without being lively enough to kick off a party. The tone and timbre are mostly natural, but with slightly excessive fullness. The delivery of details has a softness to it. The resolution is typical for the price, subtly exposing the flaws in tracks without explicitly pointing them out. I find the DAC 3 paired with my neutral amplifiers and neutral leaning IEM & headphones, delivering consistent performance among all of them. Pairing with the warmer amplifiers, headphones, and IEMs, they had a slightly muddy and muffled sound.
The headphone output provides sufficient power for most IEM and headphones. When using easier to drive headphones, there is ample power to reach high volume levels. I seldom have to adjust the volume knob much to enjoy comfortable listening levels. But, when using more demanding planar headphones, I observe a lack of richness in the sound overall and feel that the built-in headphone amplifier is not strong enough to drive them effectively. I did not encounter any problems with power when using an IEM with the DAC 3. The Power Match feature performed excellently with headphones and IEMs that are easier to drive.
The DAC 3 complements powered speakers, preamps, and speaker amps effectively. I tried it out with the Le Audio Cattle Pro, Fosi Audio V3 Mono, Martin Logan Motion 15, and Monoprice MM5r. The experience was equally enjoyable whether using speakers, headphones, or IEMs.
Zen Can 3:
The Zen Can 3 offers sufficient power for planar headphones such as the Hifiman Sundara, Arya Stealth, or the Audeze LCD-5. While I don't find these combinations to be exceptional due to what I perceive as a slight lack of fullness and impact, they are all enjoyable to listen to. The Zen Can 3 greatly improves the sound quality compared to headphone output of the Zen DAC 3. The Zen Can 3 provides a robust, authoritative presentation with a refined and focused approach. When paired with other DACs, the Zen Can 3 remains neutral, allowing the intricacies of the DAC's presentation to be fully revealed without adding its own distinct flavor.
Despite offering 4 gain settings, they are all set a bit too high, resulting in limited volume control especially with IEMs. While using a variety of headphones, I only needed to make minimal adjustments, even on the lowest gain settings to achieve high volume levels. While some headphones did benefit from a slightly more dynamic, fuller sound, the volume knob hardly moved from its lowest position, most of the time. It was challenging to find the ideal gain settings for most headphones. Utilizing the lowest gain setting, IEMs can produce very loud sound with just a slight adjustment of the dial. It is not surprising that noticeable noise is present when using IEMs and very sensitive headphones. The Zen Can 3 isn't very good pairing for IEMs.
Conclusion:
Once again, iFi Audio has packed a lot of features into a compact device, offering most of the functionalities you would expect from an affordable DAC and amplifier. The Zen DAC 3 stands out as a reliable performer, particularly suitable for users of IEMs or headphones that are easy to drive, or for those who primarily use it as a DAC. On the other hand, the Zen Can 3 caters mainly to headphone enthusiasts, although it can be a bit picky to pair headphones with the large gain settings. Both devices are better suited for use with neutral-leaning products. Ultimately, they boast an attractive design, pleasing sound quality, and come at a reasonable price point.
I am Dave the Honest Audiophile. Thanks for reading, and I will catch you in the next one. Don't forget to enjoy the music and that honesty is the BEST policy!
I am not a professional sound engineer, producer, musician, or vocalist, etc. I have not done any scientific research, measurements, or in-depth testing of any kind; just my own listening, comparing and internet reading/research. I have limited, real-life experience with recording, mixing and mastering gear. I have been involved since my teenage years with various churches as an amateur sound booth technician.
Please take these thoughts, opinions and reasonings as just that, my honest audiophile thoughts, opinions and reasonings.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TalkDbs @TalkDbs
Website: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com
YouTube membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgMj7xJ1SDxGqqxZ5l3g_jg/join
The Honest Audiophile research/review process: https://youtu.be/UkSnoZZNyYc Tierlist:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1nRHnsP_4vLg9DlD9kwJ6gQuEQFqhTR0lnrkxXo3AMG8/edit?usp=sharing
Audio Terms/Definitions: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/the-honest-audiophile-s-terms-and-definitions-guide
Test Tracks: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/does-your-music-preference-impact-your-sound-impressions
Amazon playlist: https://music.amazon.com/user-playlists/afb5506483ba4ae3be17c2184797ebb6sune?ref=dm_sh_ycUHvBw1lOkeqCrwPFcc45NAl
Tidal Playlists:Jazz: https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/ea7f58ba-f05d-466f-9714-936d0ab7fa0f
Recommended Gear:
Audeze LCD-5: https://www.audeze.com/products/lcd-5
Rosson Audio Design RAD-0: http://www.rossonaudiodesign.com/
Meze Empyrean: https://mezeaudio.com/products/meze-empyrean
Hifiman Ananda: https://hifiman.com/products/detail/290
Sennheiser HD660s2: https://www.sennheiser-hearing.com/en-US/p/hd-660s2/clcrij55r0b570bw9bubufphu/
Austrian Audio Hi-X60: https://austrian.audio/headphones/hi-x60/
Audeze LCD 2 Closed: LCD-2 Closed Back (audeze.com)
CTM Da Vinci X: https://cleartunemonitors.com/products/da-vinci-x-universal
Westone Mach 60: https://westoneaudio.com/product/mach-60/
Tin Hifi T2: https://www.linsoul.com/products/tinhifi-t2?_pos=1&_sid=7cddd72dc&_ss=r&variant=34447375302811
Sony NW-A105: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/walkman-digital-recorders/walkman-mp3-players/p/nwa105-b
Sony NW-WM-1a: https://electronics.sony.com/audio/walkman-digital-recorders/walkman-mp3-players/p/nwwm1a
Mytek Liberty DAC ii: https://mytek.audio/shop/lbrt-dac-ii-287#attr=Mytek Liberty THX HPA: https://mytek.audio/shop/liberty-thx-285#attr=
HeadAmp GSX-Mini: https://www.headamp.com/products/gs-x-mini
Tor Audio Roger: https://toraudio.com/main.html#
Schiit Audio BiFrost 2: https://schiit.com/products/bi-frost-1
Massdrop THX AAA 789:
Massdrop THX AAA One Linear: https://drop.com/buy/drop-thx-aaa-one-linear-amplifier?utm_source=linkshare&referer=FTSS2S
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