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.
B
To begin with, let me get the sound out of the way up front. This ZD3 sounds wonderful! In my system, the addition of the ZD3 (and I have 8 other DAC's by the way) introduced a much more "airy" sound quality to the music. It's as if one more sonic veil had been lifted, allowing me to hear right through to the music. As for the bass response with the stock op-amps, I noticed a bit less heft with regard to the lower bass and dynamic capabilities. It's nice to see that in this case, Fosi steered away from using the typical NE5532 stock op amps used in 95% of ChiFi audio components, and used the LME49720 version. I've had good experiences with that particular IC-based op amp. However, based on other experiences, I've come to prefer the discrete versions from either Burson or Sparkos Labs. In this case, I inserted the Sparkos Labs SS3602's and I found the bass to be tighter and deeper.
I believe the ZD3 is in a class of its own. I've read a few articles now (and some videos) where the reviewers stated that hearing differences between DAC's is ridiculous - that they basically all sound very similar. I'm sorry, but that couldn't be further from the truth. The very first thing I noticed with the ZD3, was it's increased openness (meaning much more "air" around and between the instrumentation), its superb midrange and treble capabilities (smooth and textured), and a greatly expanded sound-stage. The problem with some reviewers is that they rely purely on measurements alone - that is, the "tangible" areas that can be measured. However, for audiophiles, there is so much more involved with good music reproduction. There are the "intangible" areas, meaning those variables that cannot be measured (i.e. how do you measure "immersive"), yet make a huge difference in how we perceive our involvement with sound reproduction.
Now I must add that in my opinion - on my system - the stock op-amps, although perfectly fine - provide a bit less bass extension and tightness in that area when compared to some discrete versions like the Burson V7 and Sparkos Labs SS3602 varieties.
So yes, this is a wonderful DAC unit, along with a very nice preamp section.
SUGGESTION TO FOSI: As an aside, just recently, Douk Audio released their diminutive A5 amplifier that features a revolutionary, simple lift-up glass top case/lid that makes changing op amps very convenient. I was wondering why other manufacturers haven't followed with similar designs? Changing op-amps in that Douk A5 took only seconds - and what a convenience that was. Why do manufacturers advertise having op-amp swap-out capabilities when the user has to jump through hoops unscrewing cases, pulling off knobs - and in the case of the ZD3, having to also disconnect wires also? Fosi - why don't you make access to the op-amps a simple solution?
Although the ZD3 costs a bit more than most budget oriented DAC/Head-amp units, it's well worth the cost for such a quality-made, and excellent performing unit.
B
I recently set up a ZD3 running ZA3 amps in mono. I upgraded all the op amps. What an amazing setup!! I did not really have to switch the op amps which raised the price a bit. The system is GREAT for not a lot of money in audiophile terms. I added one of the new inexpensive (but good) CD players and a streamer. For around $1000 (Elac desktop speakers) I have a fantastic second system. But none of this would have happened without the ZD3 and ZA3s being so good. And small fitting into a hot little rack. It's great to see this evolution in hifi components.
P
The product itself is an amazing value, no need to spend thousands on stuff like Cambridge... Fosi gets the job done the same quality for cheaper.
I had some customs issues in my country, but Fosi helped.
Very good product and service.
J
Wow, das ist ein Pärchen das es in sich hat, Leistung satt und unfassbar einfache Handhabung! Super wäre wenn Fosi eine schickere Fernbedienung (Größer) anbietet und im Shop ein Kurzes XLR Kabel! Das System treibt bei mir 2 Wharefadale Jade5 an und einen Hornlautsprecher aus den 70ern von Living Audio! OpAmps zum tauschen und testen sind bestellt! Bin Mega zufrieden und habe mir noch ein Pärchen bestellt!!!
M
Amazing that these little amps produce this much power with great sound. It gets plenty loud for me with my bedroom tower speakers. Might try amp rolling at some point because I like to play but sounds great out the box. I wanted the orange knob but mine came with black so had to order an orange knob.