High-Performance Digital-to-Analog Audio Converter
The ZD3 is a audiophile-grade balanced stereo DAC meticulously developed by Fosi Audio after thoroughly understanding user needs. It features the ES9039Q2M high-precision DAC chip, delivering rich and superior sound.
Input: USB, HDMI ARC, Optical, Coaxial, Bluetooth; Output: XLR,RCA
SNR≥126dB; THD+N<0.00008%
Bluetooth Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD
Swappable Op-Amp Design
Easily replaceable DIP8 dual discrete op-amps, meeting your pursuit of a personalized audio experience, such as LME49720, NE5532, MUSES02, SS3602.
Bypass Mode
The signal bypasses the internal preamp section, providing a fixed output level for direct signal transmission.
Trigger In/Out
Enables synchronized on/off across your audio setup, automating system control for seamless operation.
Perfect Match to ZA3 Amp
In the same series and form factor, the ZD3 provides seamless integration with the ZA3, unlocking audio details and clarity.
- Flagship Desktop DAC: A fully balanced digital-to-analog converter preamp with multiple inputs and outputs. Fosi Audio's first DAC to support HDMI ARC input and comes equipped with a high-performance ES9039Q2M chip to deliver rich and superior sound.
- Premium Chipset: The ZD3 features the chipset consisting of XMOS XU316+ES9039Q2M+QCC3031+LME49720. It supports high audio resolution, with a maximum capability of DSD512 and PCM 32bit/768kHz sampling rates, providing unparalleled clarity and depth.
- Versatile & Flexible: The ZD3 offers comprehensive connectivity, supporting inputs like Bluetooth, USB, OPT, COAX, HDMI ARC, and balanced XLR/RCA outputs. This flexibility allows you to customize your audio system to suit various setups and scenarios.
- Ease of Use: The ZD3 adopts a 1.5-inch OLED display, remote control, preamp bypass switch, and 12V trigger in/out interfaces, allowing synchronized power on/off with other home audio devices, all for a good user experience.
- Family Design: Featuring the same design language as the ZA3 amplifier: compact and exquisite appearance and audiophile-grade components for high performance and excellent sound quality. Pair it with the ZA3 to create a robust home audio system.
When the ZD3 is used with an LG TV, a bug in the LG TV system may cause issues with the HDMI-CEC function. Specifically, after turning off the TV with the power button or remote control, both the TV and ZD3 may automatically power back on after a short time. If you are using an LG TV, we recommend disabling the HDMI-CEC function. We are working hard to resolve this issue and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused. Thank you for your understanding.
- Chip Set: XMOS XU316 + ESS 9039Q2M + QCC3031 + LME49720
- Maximum Sampling Rate:
USB: PCM 32bit/768kHz; DSD512
OPT/COAX: PCM 24bit/192kHz
Bluetooth: PCM 24bit/48kHz - Output Level:
XLR: 5Vrms RCA: 2.5Vrms - Input Mode:USB, HDMI (ARC), Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth
- Output Mode: XLR, RCA
- SINAD: 126dB
- THD: ≥120dB
- THD+N: <0.00008%
- Dynamic Range: ≥123dB
- Noise Floor: ≤2μV
- Bluetooth Version: 5.0
- Bluetooth Connection Distance: ≥13m
- Bluetooth Transmission Audio Format: aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
- Power Supply: DC 12V 1.5A
- USB Compatible Devices: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11 (Some require drivers; please refer to the user manual)Mac OS X, Linux (No driver required)
- DAC ZD3 *1
- 12V Power Adapter *1
- Infrared Remote Control *1
- USB-A to USB-B Cable *1
- 3.5mm Trigger Cable *1
- USER MANUAL *1
- For RCA output, replace one op-amp. For XLR balanced output, replace two op-amps corresponding to the left and right channels.
Tools required: needle-nose pliers, tweezers, and an H2.0 hex screwdriver.
- Use the hex screwdriver to remove the two screws on either side of the rear panel.
- Remove the front panel knob, and with needle-nose pliers, unscrew the nut and washer from the potentiometer, then slide out the front panel.
- Disconnect the components near the notch of the circuit board by the front panel, which is connected to the Bypass mode switch.
- Carefully pull out the mainboard, and you will find three interchangeable op-amp chips.
- Replace one op-amp for RCA output and two for XLR output, corresponding to the left and right channels.
- Use tweezers to gently pry out the op-amp chip(s) from the side pin gap.
- Install the new op-amp chip(s) into the sockets. Ensure correct orientation by matching the '1' marking or the groove on the chip cover with the 'O1' position on the PCB. Incorrect installation may damage the op-amp.
- After installing the new op-amp(s), connect the amplifier, power, and speakers to test if the sound is working. If all is fine, reassemble the device.
If you need more guidance, please scan the QR code or watch the video starting at 10:02. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7L_jZyh90Q)
- The ZD3 does have HDMI CEC. In HDMl ARc input mode, you can control the ZD3's volume with yourTV remote, but it does not support HDMI EARC
- Please refer to the tutorial video for guidance on swapping op-amps: Watch Video.
- No. The ZD3 does not have a built-in headphone amplifier and cannot connect headphones; it also does not support an analog input AUX.
- Yes, the ZD3 supports both ASIO and WASAPI drivers in Windows 11.
- Yes, you can use a dual 3.5mm male splitter cable to control two ZA3 amplifiers synchronously
- The ZD3 has disabled the multiple filter modes provided by the ESS chip, and it only uses one default filter mode, making adjustments unavailable.
M
Very well made DAC. Has all the inputs especially HDMI ARC. I am using this for my home theater setup and have mine paired up with the ZA3 amp and a set of Elac Bookshelf speakers. I am quite happy with it. The TV turns on the DAC and AMP and everything sounds fantastic.
H
This dac Added zd3 to za3 and no problems tv cd computer bluetooth. Sounds realy good. Well done Fosi
The Fosi Audio ZD3 is a stand out in a line of exceptional products from this innovative, disruptive company. I compared the ZD3 to my reference DAC, the Benchmark DAC1 USB, and it no only helps its own sonically, it beat out the Benchmark with its right features set. The ZD3 is not my go-to DAC and the Benchmark moved to office duty. I don’t believe I can pay a higher compliment. I firmly believe the ZD3 is the absolute pinnacle of value and quality that can be found today for a DAC in the HiFi market. If you’re on the fence, pick one up and try it for yourself. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
B
I love the clear sound and separation. An upgrade to my previous Musical Fidelity V90.
With HDMI ARC there are sound glitches (echoes). For half a second, occuring about once an hour.
The cec function is working, but the zd3 turns itself on again after shutting IT down. (Firmware 1.06)
I Hope this will be fixed soon, i really like the ZD3.
R
Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC