Comprehensive Desktop HiFi Solution

With comprehensive input and output options, the ZH3 functions as a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamp, which can be connected to IEMs, over-ear headphones, active speakers, and amplifiers. Featuring UAC 1.0 and 2.0, it is also compatible with gaming consoles, ensuring seamless connectivity across multiple desktop devices.

  • Chipset: XMOS XU316+AKM4493SEQ+ OPA1612 x 4
  • Input: Coaxial/Optical/USB/RCA
  • Output: 4.4mm/6.35mm/RCA/XLR
  • SINAD ≥ 115dB; SNR ≥ 121dB; THD+N ≤ 0.00018%; Noise Floor ≤ 1.9μV

Product details

Description
  • An all-in-one desktop HiFi DAC/headphone amp/preamp: With premium chipsets and self-developed fully balanced circuitry, low noise and low distortion. Perfect for HiFi headphones or active speakers, it's the ultimate desktop audio solution.
  • Exceptional Sound Quality: Premium chipset with AKM4493SEQ DAC, XMOS XU316 processor, and four OPA1612 amps supports up to PCM 768kHz/32bit & DSD512. A self-developed dual-power balanced amp circuit with multiple ultra-low-noise LDOs and capacitors keeps noise as low as 1.9μV.
  • High Output Power: Equipped with both 6.35mm single-ended (640mW@32Ω x2) and 4.4mm balanced (2570mW@32Ω x2) outputs. The 3-level gain switch supports headphones ranging from 16Ω to 300Ω, making it perfect for almost in-ears and over-ear headphones.
  • Versatile & Flexible: With coaxial, optical, USB, and RCA inputs, plus 4.4mm, 6.35mm, RCA, and XLR outputs, it connects to diverse audio sources and devices. Functions as a DAC/amp/preamp for desktop HiFi. UAC mode switching ensures full compatibility with game consoles for both music and gaming.
  • Rich Customization: Features bass/treble EQ adjustments and 6 filter types, including Bypass mode and two swappable op-amps, allowing you to customize the sound to match your preference. All functions are integrated into the screen for a clean, premium look that continues the Z-Series design language.
What‘s in the box?
  • Fosi Audio ZH3 x 1
  • 6.35mm Adapter x 1
  • 12V Trigger Cable x 1
  • IR Remote x 1
  • User Manual x 1
  • USB-A/C to USB-C Cable x 1
  • DC 12V Power Adapter x1

FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

When do I need to install a driver for ZH3 on Windows?

If your PC is running Windows 7 or earlier. (Note: Windows 7 is no longer updated and may have compatibility issues. Using ZH3 with Windows 7 is not recommended.); To play DSD tracks. (Note: If you use Foobar with the built-in WASAPI plugin for DSD playback, no driver is needed.); To play PCM 768kHz tracks.

USB not recognized?

Faulty or loose USB connection—try a different USB cable; Computer malfunction—try connecting to another computer; Malfunctioning USB port—try another USB port; ZH3 is not set to USB input mode; Driver conflict—go to "Device Manager," find "Audio Inputs and Outputs," uninstall the ZH3 driver, reinstall it, reboot your computer, then reconnect the ZH3 via USB.

If a submenu item appears grayed out, it means the function is not available in the current input/output mode.

USB Input--R/X or LO output: EQ, Bypass, and Gain adjustment not supported; Optical/Coaxial Input--PO output: UAC switching not supported; Optical/Coaxial Input--R/X or LO output: EQ, Bypass, Gain, and UAC switching not supported; RCA Input--PO output: UAC switching and Filter not supported; RCA Input--R/X or LO output: Only input and output selection available.

Can I replace the op-amps in the ZH3?

The ZH3 supports the replacement of two op-amp chips. It utilises easily replaceable DIP8 dual-channel discrete op-amps, catering to your pursuit of a personalised audio experience. Compatible models include the LME49720, NE5532, MUSES02, SS3602, and others. For detailed video tutorials, please consult customer service.

Customer Reviews

Based on 21 reviews
81%
(17)
14%
(3)
5%
(1)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
T
Tsuyoshi Takahashi
The DAC Headphone Amp currently offering the highest level of design and cost performance

I was able to purchase it very cheaply, even with a 20% discount for early purchase. The packaging during shipping was excellent, and it works perfectly in Japan. I own balanced connection earphones and headphones, and I don't use speakers. In my setup, where I play music on a Mac mini, just having this “ZH3” lets me enjoy headphones and earphones with satisfying sound quality. Placing it on top of my Mac mini (Intel version) poses no issues with its design or size, and the included remote control offers a great feel. I haven't found any complaints so far.

I thought I ordered early, but the only disappointment was that it didn't include the limited edition 8th Anniversary Custom Knob, of which only 400 were available.

Y
Y in Bellevue, WA
Impressed

Not my first Fosi product. I was primarily looking for a headphone amp and DAC, but I also happened to have a pair of balanced monitor speakers sitting around (jbl 305). Out of curiosity I hooked them up and I am blown away by how good they sound.

It is also highly capable headphone amp.

To my untrained ears everything sounds so clear, precise and crisp.

N
Nimrod Fox
Excellent DAC and Amp

I love it! Works exactly as described and sounds amazing

P
Paul Huss

Fosi Audio ZH3 DAC Headphone Amp

R
Rob Whitehead
Fosi ZH3

I’d love to give this on 5 stars as I’d really looked forward to its arrival. To my taste, the Fosi GR70 drives my i5 cans better. Could just be the i5 headphones seem to prefer single ended to balanced amps.