High-Performance Digital-to-Analog Audio Converter

The ZD3 is an 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.

Product details

Description

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.

Specifications
  • 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)
What‘s in the box?
  • 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

Which Product is right for you?

Compare products to find the best one for your needs.

Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC - Fosi Audio

Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC

Type
DAC Preamp
MAX Power Output
Input
USB, HDMI (ARC), Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth
Output
XLR, RCA
Treble & Bass Control
No
THD+N
<0.00008%
SNR
≥126dB
Chipset
XMOS XU316+ESS 9039Q2M+QCC3031
Terminating Impedance
Power Supply
DC 12V/1.5A
Fosi Audio GR40 Tube DAC Headphone Amp Preamp

Fosi Audio GR40 Tube DAC Headphone Amp Preamp

Type
DAC+Headphone Amp
MAX Power Output
250mw@32Ω
Input
Bluetooth, USB, Optical, Coaxial
Output
RCA, 3.5mm Headphone Jack
Treble & Bass Control
Yes
THD+N
<0.003%
SNR
>103dB
Chipset
Terminating Impedance
16-300Ω
Power Supply
DC 12V/1.5A
Fosi Audio K7 HiFi DAC & Headphone Amplifier - Fosi Audio

Fosi Audio K7 Desktop DAC Headphone Amplifier

Type
DAC+Headphone Amp
MAX Power Output
2x 2.1W@32Ω
Input
Bluetooth, USB, Optical, Coaxial
Output
RCA, 3.5mm/4.4mm Headphone Jack
Treble & Bass Control
Yes
THD+N
≤ 0.0002%
SNR
≥121dB
Chipset
XMOS XU208+AKM4493S+QCC3031+TPA6120
Terminating Impedance
16-300Ω
Power Supply
DC 12V/2A
Fosi Audio SK02 Desktop DAC/Headphone Amp - Fosi Audio

Fosi Audio SK02 Desktop DAC Headphone Amplifier

Type
DAC+Headphone Amp
MAX Power Output
1.1W@32Ω
Input
USB-C, Optical
Output
3.5mm/4.4mm Headphone Jack, 3.5mm AUX/Optical
Treble & Bass Control
No
THD+N
≤0.001%
SNR
≥120dB
Chipset
Terminating Impedance
16-300Ω
Power Supply

FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

How many Sparkos SS3602 op-amps do I need for the ZD3?

For RCA output, replace one op-amp. For XLR balanced output, replace two op-amps corresponding to the left and right channels.

How to replace the op-amps?

Tools required: needle-nose pliers, tweezers, and an H2.0 hex screwdriver.

  1. Use the hex screwdriver to remove the two screws on either side of the rear panel.
  2. Remove the front panel knob, and with needle-nose pliers, unscrew the nut and washer from the potentiometer, then slide out the front panel.
  3. Disconnect the components near the notch of the circuit board by the front panel, which is connected to the Bypass mode switch.
  4. Carefully pull out the mainboard, and you will find three interchangeable op-amp chips.
  5. Replace one op-amp for RCA output and two for XLR output, corresponding to the left and right channels.
  6. Use tweezers to gently pry out the op-amp chip(s) from the side pin gap.
  7. 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.
  8. 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)

Does the ZD3 have HDMI CEC? Can I use my TV’s remote for volume control?

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

Can I get a video on op-amp swapping for the ZD3 DAC/Preamp?

Please refer to the tutorial video for guidance on swapping op-amps: Watch Video.

Can I use the Trigger Out from the ZD3 to control two ZA3 amplifiers?

Yes, you can use a dual 3.5mm male splitter cable to control two ZA3 amplifiers synchronously

Customer Reviews

Based on 152 reviews
82%
(125)
12%
(18)
3%
(4)
1%
(1)
3%
(4)
C
Curtis Toombs
Never received

Still waiting...... Customer service is responsive, but after four emails of "I don't think it has shipped" I finally got them to understand that it is lost somewhere. I just hope I can get my money back at this point

A
Alexunder

Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC

R
RAZVAN-MARIUS ANDONE
Excellent but no auto sensing of input signal

Had another Chinese brand DAC, an E50 which could handle MQA also and I was fine with it. I needed an HDMI input though, since my amplifier didn't have one, so I purchased the ZD3. In my opinion, the Fosi has more low end, more oomph, and the clarity is still there. The issues with it are: it has no auto sensing of input signal, so I always have to operate by remote and while HDMI is connected, it shows NONE where should be PCM 44.1k. If those two would be implemented, this would be a complete DAC. Sound quality is great, build quality is great, overall happy with it and would easily recommend it.

R
Robert Doughty
great value dac

fabulous for the money and tons of inputs

N
Nicodim Claudiu Cozma

Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC