Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Combines the DAC stage of the ZEN DAC V2 and the Bluetooth stage of the ZEN Blue V2, making it an all-in-one solution
  • Feels substantial and well-built, with a polished look, dark navy blue case, and brushed aluminum front
  • Has multiple input sources, including USB input, optical input, coaxial input and output, and Bluetooth
  • The Bluetooth implementation performs well and offers flexibility, with a very stable connection, good reception, and distance

Product Considerations

  • Does not have volume control, which some may find limiting
  • To fully use the colors indicating file formats and sampling frequency, you need to recall what each color signifies
  • If both Coaxial and Optical inputs are receiving an input, then Coaxial will take priority; when the Coaxial source stops, it will not switch back to the Optical automatically, and you need to disconnect the Coaxial cable or reboot the device
  • May have a slight lack of focus in the soundstage
  • The output from the unbalanced RCAs is over 3V, which can cause clipping on the input of certain amplifiers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Rotel A12MKII: The Bluetooth reception is superior, providing a more nuanced and transparent presentation

Takeaway: The ZEN recKDq9viSnEQa3i3 offers a clean presentation, clarity, and non-fatiguing sound with seemingly endless input options. Its well-built design and good Bluetooth implementation make it a good value for those looking for a high-performing DAC.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

ZEN One Signature

reviews

[{"title":"Review - iFi Audio ZEN One Signature","link":"https://english.achoreviews.com/2023/07/review-ifi-audio-zen-one-signature.html","source":"Acho Reviews","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"iFi Audio Zen One Signature Digital-to-Analog Converter","link":"https://www.soundstageaccess.com/index.php/equipment-reviews/1197-ifi-audio-zen-one-signature-digital-to-analog-converter","source":"SoundStage! Access","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"iFi Audio ZEN One Signature Review","link":"https://www.headfonia.com/ifi-audio-zen-one-signature-review","source":"Headfonia Reviews","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"iFi Audio ZEN One Signature DAC Review","link":"https://www.avforums.com/reviews/ifi-audio-zen-one-signature-dac-review.19770","source":"AVForums","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"iFi Audio ZEN One Signature Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/ifi-audio-zen-one-signature-review","source":"Headfonics","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"iFi ZEN One Signature Review: A Captivating Digital To Analog Converter On The Cheap!","link":"https://hifitrends.com/2022/03/19/ifi-zen-one-signature-review-a-captivating-digital-to-analog-converter-on-the-cheap","source":"Hi-Fi Trends","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"iFi audio ZEN One Signature DAC review","link":"https://addictedtoaudio.com.au/blogs/reviews/ifi-audio-zen-one-signature-dac-review","source":"Addicted To Audio","datePublished":""},{"title":"iFi Zen One Signature Review - DACs Matter! / But How Much?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3b6f7eo7xg","source":"Matt Coykendall","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"iFi Audio Zen One Signature - a Great DAC at a Great Price - SoundStage! Real Hi-Fi (Ep:41)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtDuS5ANVV8","source":"SoundStage! Network","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Budget Binary Beauty? The Ifi Zen One Signature DAC Review vs. Geshelli Labs J2 DAC","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lEv4WgvoH8","source":"cheapaudioman","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"iFi Audio ZEN One Signature DAC: Real-World Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3SAzI5ue_c","source":"AV NIRVANA – Home Theater and AV FORUM","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"iFi ZEN One Signature Review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=or0jHaSpRCA","source":"Luis Awesomest","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Analogue Outputs: Coaxial, Audio RCA L/R, 4.4 Balanced Lineout
  • Digital Inputs: USB3.0 Type B (USB2.0 compatible), S/PDIF (coaxial, TOSLINK optical), Bluetooth 5.1
  • Dimensions: 158 x 100 x 35 mm (6.2" x 3.9" x 1.4")
  • Net Weight: 485g (1.1 lbs)
  • Output: 4V/2V max. (BAL/UnBAL)
  • Power: DC 5V
  • Power Consumption: No Signal ~0.7W/Max Signal ~1W
  • SNR: -105dB(A) @ 0dBFS (BAL/UnBAL)
  • THD+N: <0.002% @ 0dBFS (BAL/UnBAL)
  • Frequency Response: 5Hz - 80kHz ±3dB
Building on the ZEN DAC, the ZEN One Signature adds high-definition Bluetooth, additional digital inputs, and our Signature-grade circuitry - making it the home audio hub for all your devices.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • iFi offers a wide range of devices, from portable to desktop solutions, catering to diverse audio needs and preferences.
  • They emphasize versatility, often combining multiple functionalities like DAC, amplifier, and Bluetooth connectivity in a single unit.
  • iFi employs its own custom technologies and features, such as XBass and XSpace, to enhance the listening experience, tailoring sound to individual preferences.
  • The brand is known for its commitment to high-resolution audio, supporting various formats, including DSD, MQA, and lossless Bluetooth codecs.

ZEN DAC 3

  • Positioning: The entry-level desktop DAC in the iFi lineup.
  • Description: Offers high-resolution audio support up to PCM 768kHz and DSD512, making it a great choice for those seeking high-quality sound on a budget. Features a Burr-Brown DAC chip for True Native playback, which is a step up from the ZEN Blue 3's focus on Bluetooth capabilities. Its balanced outputs and USB-C connectivity provide versatility for both headphones and active speakers, unlike the ZEN One Signature which lacks a headphone amp.

ZEN Blue 3

  • Positioning: A Bluetooth DAC in the iFi lineup.
  • Description: Notable for being the first Bluetooth DAC to support aptX Lossless, offering CD-quality audio wirelessly. Excels in wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.4, unlike the ZEN DAC 3 which focuses on wired connections. Its ability to function as a wired DAC with USB and S/PDIF inputs adds flexibility.

GO bar

  • Positioning: A portable DAC/amp designed for on-the-go use.
  • Description: Compact yet powerful, offering up to 475mW output, which is significantly more than typical portable devices. Features iEMatch and Turbo modes for optimal headphone performance, setting it apart from the ZEN DAC 3's desktop focus. Its portability and balanced circuitry make it ideal for users who need high-quality audio in a small package, unlike the iDSD Diablo 2 which is more powerful but less portable.

ZEN One Signature

  • Positioning: A mid-range DAC in the iFi lineup, designed as a home audio hub.
  • Description: Combines high-definition Bluetooth with multiple digital inputs, making it a versatile choice for home setups. Supports a wide range of audio formats, including MQA and DSD256, similar to the ZEN DAC 3 but with added Bluetooth capabilities. Its focus on connectivity and premium components makes it suitable for users who want a central audio hub, unlike the GO bar which is designed for portability.

iDSD Diablo 2

  • Positioning: The flagship portable DAC/amp in the iFi lineup.
  • Description: Offers groundbreaking power with up to 5,180mW output, making it ideal for driving demanding headphones. Features advanced technologies like xMEMS compatibility and aptX Lossless Bluetooth, providing superior audio quality compared to the GO bar's more compact design. Its high power and versatility make it suitable for audiophiles who need a portable solution without compromising on performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
82
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
19
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
19
Founding Year
2012

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
iFi
NEO iDSD 2
899
899
/
20
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The NEO iDSD 2 functions as a versatile all-in-one (AIO) solution, working as a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier
  • It has a significantly more powerful amplifier section than its predecessor, making it better at driving a wider range of headphones
  • Includes sound-shaping features such as XBass and XSpace, plus selectable digital filters, allowing users to customize the sound
  • Comprehensive connectivity options include USB, S/PDIF (coaxial/optical), Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs

Product Considerations

  • The amplifier section may not be powerful enough to drive some very power-hungry headphones to their full potential
  • The Nexis app only works with a 2.4ghz WiFi signal
  • There is a slight click or noise when switching inputs as a pre-amp
  • Some reviewers would have preferred the inclusion of the iPower X power adapter instead of the iPower V2, considering the unit's price
  • The variable volume output may not save the last used settings

Takeaway: The iFi Audio NEO iDSD 2 combines a high-quality DAC with a significantly improved headphone amplifier, making it a good all-in-one solution for desktop audio. With its wide range of features, solid build quality, and pleasing sound, the NEO iDSD 2 is a worthwhile upgrade.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
EverSolo
DMP-A6
769
769
/
25
Reviews
EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Our summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent and responsive touchscreen display, and user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate
  • Versatile as an all-in-one device, functioning as a streamer, DAC, pre-amp, and media storage server with a competitive price point
  • High build quality, featuring a solid aluminum alloy chassis
  • Supports a wide variety of streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and more
  • Rock solid as a streamer, especially when going into a separate DAC

Product Considerations

  • Customer support from Eversolo may be limited, with some reviewers noting slow or nonexistent responses to inquiries
  • Internal DAC, while good, is not on par with higher-end—more expensive DACs
  • Lack of a traditional I/R remote could be a drawback for some users
  • Some unusual control procedures are noted, such as the inability to power on the unit from the mobile app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The DMP-A6 sounds just as good as the Lumin U2 Mini as a streamer
  • The A6 beats the Bluesound Node when used only as a streamer
  • The A6 has similar features, a similar control/display, and a similar size and shape
  • The Lumin U2 has more "shine", dynamics, solidity and is a touch more refined than the A6
  • The Eversolo is favored over the iFi Neo Stream, especially as a streaming DAC
  • Eversolo proves it can play with Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) in many ways

Takeaway: The Eversolo DMP-A6 is a versatile and user-friendly streamer that delivers great value, and it provides a great streaming experience with its screen. It is a great entry point into high-resolution digital audio and can serve as the center of a modern hifi system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Matrix Audio
Mini-i 4
649
649
/
16
Reviews

The all-new music streamer mini-i 4 does not only have a rich set of digital inputs with excellent digital audio processing capabilities, but also supports various network streaming protocols. Combined with a self-developed high-quality digital audio/streaming playback system MA Player and the controller app MA Remote App, it easily plays a vast amount of online streaming music, provides you with an exceptional high-fidelity listening experience.

Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sonic performance, characterized by neutrality, transparency, and detail retrieval
  • The MA Remote app is intuitive and feature-rich, offering access to various streaming services and settings
  • Solid build quality with an aluminum chassis, though the sides are plastic, and a bright, clear LCD screen
  • Versatile connectivity with a wide array of inputs, including USB-C for external storage, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and analog RCA inputs

Product Considerations

  • Lacks wireless connectivity—no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
  • Does not come with a physical remote, the RM5 is sold separately
  • Some users have experienced issues with navigating large local music libraries
  • Some reviews mention the touch screen controls being a bit fiddly
  • No digital output to support an external DAC

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bluesound Node (2021): Mini-i 4 has better detail retrieval and is cleaner sounding
  • Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: DMP-A6 sounds more natural with bolder bass and better soundstaging, while Mini-i 4 sounds tonally and spatially flatter
  • Vs Matrix Audio Mini-i 3 Pro: Mini-i 4 has a wider range of source repositories and USB storage reader

Takeaway: The Matrix Audio Mini-i 4 is a great sounding device for anyone wanting a DAC and streamer that can do it all. With its comprehensive set of features and focus on audio quality, enjoying music becomes easy.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
EverSolo
DAC-Z8
699
699
/
15
Reviews
EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional build quality, with a premium feel thanks to the aluminum chassis and attention to detail
  • Clean, crisp, and clear sound, with a neutral presentation that resolves detail well
  • Well-implemented headphone amplifier that can drive a wide range of headphones, and the headphone level reverts to the last used
  • Bright and crisp LCD screen with VU meters adding to its visual appeal
  • Versatile connectivity with USB-B, USB-C, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs, as well as balanced XLR and RCA outputs

Product Considerations

  • Lacks HDMI ARC input, which would be useful for hybrid setups
  • Some reviewers find the treble a little aggressive and fatiguing with certain recordings or speakers
  • No Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity, meaning a computer or other network streaming device is needed
  • No dedicated subwoofer output
  • Not a tone control, those looking for a colored or editorialized sound should look elsewhere

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Z8 has a more nuanced presentation and better separation than the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M
  • The Z8 is smoother with a darker background on the headphone output, but the SMSL M500 MKII is warmer and fuller sounding on the line outputs
  • The Z8 has a cleaner sound, darker background, and deeper soundstage on the line-outs than the Topping DX5, but the DX5 has more powerful headphone amplification
  • Java Hi-Fi gives a slightly cleaner presentation with more authority in the bass than the Z8

Takeaway: The Eversolo DAC-Z8 is a well-built and versatile DAC that delivers a clean and detailed sound. It is a great option for users looking for a high-quality DAC with a range of features, including a headphone amplifier and preamp capabilities.

Video review

Our take on the brand

EverSolo is a newer hifi audio brand that makes affordable, high-performance DACs and streamers. The brand appeals to budget-conscious audiophiles by offering features typically found in more expensive equipment, such as dual AKM4499EX DAC chips and R2R volume control, at more accessible price points.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

iFi
GO bar
329
/
Released
2022
The GO bar may be the size of a USB stick, but with powerful sound customisation and 10x the output power of your iPhone, it's your portable audio powerhouse - ready for any adventure.
Check Amazon
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Comprehensive specifications, aiming to equal or improve upon existing portable DACs
  • Features a balanced 4.4mm output and a single-ended 3.5mm headphone output
  • High power output, described as the most powerful headphone amp of its size
  • Includes XBass+ and XSpace analog processing for sound enhancement
  • Supports PCM up to 384kHz, DSD up to 256, and DXD

Product Considerations

  • The blue text on the blue chassis is hard to read in almost any lighting condition
  • Can be considered chunky compared to other dongle DACs
  • Can be noisy and produce audible hiss with sensitive IEMs, though IEMatch can help mitigate this
  • High power consumption potentially impacts battery life of the source device
  • The digital filters can be tricky to access, according to one review

Takeaway: The iFi Audio GO bar is a powerful and versatile portable DAC/amp that can drive most headphones, providing a clean and detailed sound. It is packed with features and offers good sound quality, making it a great option for enjoying high-resolution music on the go.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
GO bar Kensei
449
/
Released
2024
Forged for masters of audio. Like a true Kensei, this GO bar is a skilful master of power and performance. Adorned with K2HD Technology and crafted from Japanese stainless steel, the Kensei represents the pinnacle of our refinement in the GO bar range.
Check Amazon
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Detailed, organized, and spacious sound.
  • Strong output power for a dongle.
  • Premium build quality with tactile Japanese stainless steel.
  • Feature-rich with exclusive sound-tuning options, like K2HD processing, XBass, XSpace, and digital filters.
  • Improved clocking and circuitry contribute to less background noise, no jitter, and increased audio quality.

Product Considerations

  • Treble can sound rather relentless—overstated, hard-edged, and thin.
  • The device can get quite warm during use.
  • High power draw can drain a mobile phone battery quickly.
  • Stainless steel exterior is prone to collecting fingerprints and scratches.
  • Controls can be difficult to understand at first, necessitating the manual.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Kensei offers slight improvements in clarity and bass accuracy compared to the original GO Bar, with less warmth in the lower mids.

Takeaway: The iFi GO Bar Kensei is a premium, well-built portable DAC/amp that delivers a detailed and powerful sound experience. It's packed with features and offers a noticeable upgrade for those serious about high-quality mobile hifi listening.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
ZEN DAC 3
229
/
Released
2024
Amid the rush of everyday life, the ZEN DAC 3 is your escape to pure harmony. This multi award-winning desktop DAC delivers high-end, Hi-Fi performance to your headphones and speakers - all in a simple, plug-and-play design.
Check Amazon
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers clean, musical, and entertaining sound
  • Features a new USB-C input
  • Good build quality and aesthetic design
  • Includes XBass+ for bass enhancement
  • Simple to set up and use

Product Considerations

  • Audible noise floor reported, especially with sensitive IEMs
  • May not have enough power for demanding planar headphones
  • Simultaneous output to all connected devices may require manual switching
  • XBass+ may be too much for some users or cause distortion at higher volumes
  • Some reviewers feel the power output is a downgrade from previous models

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • ZEN DAC 3 has more practical outputs for desktop use, but Go Bar has lower noise floor and is more portable
  • ZEN DAC 3 is more colorful, dynamic, and crisp, while C200 sounds flatter
  • Similar vivid sound, but ZEN DAC 3 has warmer, punchier bass
  • ZEN DAC 3 sounds warmer and punchier, while X5 creates a wider soundstage
  • DX3 Pro+ offers more power and a more neutral sound, while ZEN DAC 3 offers a more musical sound signature

Takeaway: The iFi ZEN DAC 3 is a stylish and easy-to-use DAC/AMP that delivers a musical and engaging sound, making it a good all-around choice for desktop audio. It offers a lot of features for the price, like balanced outputs and XBass+, so listeners can enjoy music with great sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
ZEN Blue 3
299
/
Released
2024
The ZEN Blue 3 is the world's first Bluetooth DAC to send and receive CD-quality audio via aptX Lossless – and comes complete with a Hi-Res USB mode for desktop use.
Check Amazon
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent Bluetooth connectivity and fidelity with support for a wide range of codecs, including aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC, and SBC
  • Functions as both a Bluetooth receiver and transmitter, offering flexibility in various audio setups
  • Serves as a central audio hub due to its generous input/output section, including USB-C, S/PDIF, RCA analog inputs, and balanced connections
  • Robust construction with a solid, high-grade aluminum alloy chassis ensuring durability and a sleek aesthetic

Product Considerations

  • The DAC section is considered budget-level, with a less dynamic sound compared to dedicated DACs
  • Some connections require adaptors, specifically for coax SPDIF connections, and a 3.5mm Optical/Coaxial connector adapter is not included
  • AptX Lossless connection can be inconsistent, requiring near-ideal conditions for stable performance

Takeaway: The iFi ZEN Blue 3 is a versatile device that brings high-quality Bluetooth streaming to any audio system and injects modern wireless capabilities into an existing setup. With a robust build and extensive connectivity options, this device offers a practical and seamless way to enjoy wireless audio.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
ZEN DAC Signature V2
269
/
Released
2021
The ZEN DAC Signature is a dedicated DAC with true-differential, dual-mono architecture, inspired by our Pro series. With boutique components and direct signal paths, it's the perfect match for your favourite amp.
Check Amazon
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very detailed and exquisite audio quality
  • Features balanced (4.4mm) and unbalanced (RCA) analog outputs
  • Construction is of high quality, with a nice weight and solid feel
  • Clean and neutral sound, a little more A-shaped than the Signature

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers want more digital input types
  • Lacks an on/off switch, remaining powered when connected to a source

Product Strengths

  • Drives headphones with grace and power, bringing out detail
  • Offers multiple gain settings to accommodate different headphones
  • Can be used with a wide range of headphones, not just the Sennheiser or HIFIMAN models it's optimized for

Product Considerations

  • Activating/deactivating the HFM/XSpace modes can cause a clicking noise through IEMs
  • May need an iEMatch attenuator for some headphones to avoid excessive volume

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Signature has better bass boost functionality for the reviewer's needs
  • The Signature sounds a tad more V-shaped than the ZEN
  • The ZEN CAN sounds similar to the Asgard 3

Takeaway: The ZEN products provide high-quality audio and versatile features for headphone enthusiasts. They are a solid choice for those seeking a detailed and powerful listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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