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iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only)

iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only)

iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only) iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only)
$ 159.00

Score By Feature

Based on 1,493 ratings
Quality of material
9.71
Volume control
9.49
Sheerness
9.28
Sound quality
9.29
Value for money
9.09

OveReview Final Score

How Our Score Is Calculated

Product Description

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UPGRADE YOUR SYSTEM - Whether you use speakers or headphones, you will notice a difference and clarity in your audio system when using this state-of-the-art compact Digital Analogue Converter for home audio, office, or desktop use.
CONNECTIVITY IS EASY - USB3 is the preferred method of connection. 0 (USB2. 0 compatible) USB source, such as a computer or a Digital Audio Player (DAP). With 6, you can send your audio to headphones, active speakers, or an amplifier. Unbalanced / Unbalanced / Unbalanced / Unbalanced / Un Connections: 4mm balanced / RCA
HI-RES AUDIO - Hear familiar songs in a whole new light, with rich detail and warm natural tones created by the Burr Brown True Native digital to analogue converter, which can process any hi-res audio format up to PCM 24/384, DSD256, DXD 384kHz, and renders MQA all without additional conversion, allowing you to listen exactly as the artist intended. Also ideal for improving the sound quality of streaming music services like Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, and Amazon Music.
TECH PACKED - Includes features such as variable analogue volume control and PowerMatch adjustment for iEMs/On-Ear Monitors.
STYLISH AND SMART DESIGN - The exterior is made of Military Grade Aluminum, which is both durable and attractive. The soft curves and edges will give your home or office a sense of calm and tranquility.

Questions & Answers

Does the power adapter come with it? Thanks. ?

Unless you purchase the bundle, which I noticed on here, it does not come with one. I didn't get one with it, and despite the fact that it runs on USB power, there were some crackles and pops. I recently purchased a low-cost power supply for it (Belker 36W Universal 3V 4. 5 volts, 5 volts, 5 volts, 6 volts, and No more crackles and pops with this 5V 9V 12V AC DC Adapter Power Supply.

Will it be able to drive the dt 990 pro 250 ohm to maximum volume when connected via USB?

Yes, I've used it with 300 ohm headphones before, such as the HD600.

The argument for this is so ugliness and impracticality. Is there any intention of designing a better stackable case?

Only a "tin" of beauty can be found. You're aware of the characteristics that set the high-end apart. End the Yamaha Adventage AV Receiver's Mid-Life Crisis RXV Series is a high-grade series. The "thick" Aluminum Faceplate is one of them. It's also not just a matter of appearance. As an RF/Other Interference protector, it dates back a long time. The first thing you'll notice about any of the Zen Series Devices with performance well above their price/class is that they're all built like an Aluminum Tank. They're also all very stackable. In fact, the Zen Blue, Zen DAC, and Zen Can can all be "technically stacked." If you have some $$$ Planar Magnet Headphones that are extremely difficult to "scale," Using the Balanced 4 as a tool For the same price as a Zen DAC, Zen Can, and even a Balance Connection/with 8 feet of balanced headphone wire, you can get a Zen DAC, Zen Can, and even a Zen Balance Connection/with 8 feet of balanced headphone wire. or even some of these "Thin Sounding" THX AAA HP Amps on their own. There's also the In order to get 15 V into headphones, you'll need A. To do them justice, you'll need a headphone amplifier worth $1,000. The thick aluminum case isn't the only feature of the Zen Series that is "Far Above Class." Take a look at the internal components that have been incorporated into the design. Every single one of these Zen Stackables performs exceptionally well. Examine the buttons and attenuation knobs for their substantial feel. Finally, pay attention to your own inner voice. Last but not least, beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

Is it true that USB2 is compatible? Is it possible to achieve 0 without the use of external power? I don't have any of the other three. Has anyone tried 0 on their 2009 Macbook Pro?

Yes, it is compatible with both USB2 and USB3. 0 and 3. The device will work as intended as long as the input voltage is 5V, which is USB standard.

Selected User Reviews For iFi Zen DAC - HiFi Desktop Digital Analog Converter with USB3.0 B Input/Outputs: 6.3mm Unbalanced / 4.4mm Balanced/RCA (Unit Only) (Unit Only)

There are a lot of options, but the performance isn't great
3/5

I conducted a professional review of the ifi zen. If you Google "ifi zen dac audio science review," the detailed review should come up first. To summarize, the feature set is excellent for the price, but it uses older DAC chips, which, like many other ifi DACs, limits its performance. That might not be very audible, but the low power output will. There is simply not enough power in this system to drive low or high impedance headphones without distortion. It might work if you have a sensitive headphone, but I'd recommend looking for better performance elsewhere.

Anais Price
Anais Price
| Nov 15, 2021
Excellent audio quality - TIDAL MQA Streaming is a Great Option! So far, I've written the following review: br>I'm a newbie to Hi-Fi music
5/5

Res Audio, MQA, and other such technologies are available. etc. . br>Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect: Awesome, go out and get one right now. After taxes, Amazon had it for $139. br>IT WAS COMPLETELY WORTH IT! Details: br>br> It does not come with a power supply that is 5 volts. However, it appears that one can be purchased. I've never had to use one. I plug it into my USB port (so that I can stream MQA from TIDAL) and it gets power from there. External 5vdc power is likely to be required in some situations. but. br>br>It includes an RCA (unbalanced) connector for connecting audio to your receiver or amplifier. br>The power match button is a button that can be used to increase the strength of a match. (Gain) - (Gain) (Gain) (Gain) ( This increases the volume. This appears to be for driving challenging headphones. It appears to be a good idea. I prefer it when things are more pronounced. TrueBass button: br>br> This is absolutely fantastic. It truly separates and clarifies the bottom line. There isn't a trace of mud here. EXCEPT. I did notice that when listening to heavier music, it was best to turn TrueBass off. However, it is very nice in general. br>br>The Volume knob turns smoothly, and the dial "glows" according to the Audio Resolution. As usual, my favorite is the MQA Purple. br>br>I did download the USB driver from the iFi website. (I didn't have to) in any case. After loading it, I was unable to locate the device. Until I went back to the website and downloaded an older version of the driver that was still available. After that, I was back to normal. br>br>In TIDAL, keep an eye out for MQA - MQA should be set to Exclusive mode. I was only receiving Green 44 for a while. despite the fact that TIDAL was yelling MASTER. br>br>At the moment, I don't have any 4. 4mm balanced connectors (I'll probably get one soon so I can connect balanced to my amp). I'm not convinced, however, that I have enough interference to warrant a new cable. br>br>In addition, I own the DragonFly RED: (This is not meant to be a slam on the RED) The iFi Zen Dac produces a richer, warmer sound than the Dragonfly. br>br>I understand that the Dragonfly's main advantage is its portability. br>br>However, in the future, the iFi Zen will be my main system DAC for my living room, as it has an incredible full sound. br>br>Even without MQA processing, it sounds fantastic - 1 is also a winner! br>br>If you have any questions, please ask them and I will do my best to answer them. Have a wonderful day! br>br>.

Nova Marshall
Nova Marshall
| Dec 13, 2021
Incredible value for money! e10K is a long way behind
5/5

I was sceptical of headphones with audio equipment. I listen to music through my computer, and most of my headphones are simple to drive, so I didn't see the point in investing in a DAC or an amplifier. Then, a few months ago, I purchased a Fiio e10K and realized that adding a DAC and Amp could significantly improve things. I then bought the Hifiman He4XX (which are fantastic) because the e10K just wasn't cutting it in terms of power. I was planning on purchasing a Fiio K5 Pro or a JDS Atom until I saw this iFi product. I looked over the specifications and decided to take a chance, and WOW, WHAT A DIFFERENCE! For only $120, this device is a game changer. The unit's build quality, crystal clear sound, exceptional Bass Boost function, and a few unique output options make it a TERRIFIC choice for anyone looking to upgrade from an on-board sound card or a less expensive DAC/AMP. It has a Balanced output as well. It also has the ability to drive fairly difficult-to-drive headphones, such as my He4xx, extremely well. br>br>The iFI Zen Dac is simple to set up on Windows using the drivers available on the iFi website. A GTO Filter firmware update is also available on the iFi page, which is simple to apply and simply sharpens the sound. I can't say enough good things about this unit, especially if you have the SHP9500s, M50x, or Grados, or anything else that you don't think needs an AMP/DAC but you're on the fence about getting one. It will, without a doubt, elevate your music to new heights.

Holden GARDINER
Holden GARDINER
| Jun 02, 2021
Sound quality is excellent, and the build quality is excellent
5/5

especially when properly balanced I am a huge fan of iFi products. My Nano BL and xDSD are two of my favorite devices. I was intrigued by the new Zen DAC and decided to try it out. This DAC provides excellent power to my Beyerdynamic DT880s, and the sound is very pleasing to the ear, present and lively. However, I must say that the sound quality when using the 4 really stands out for me. A total of four balanced headphone inputs are available. I own two iBasso it01s phones, each with a 2. I added a 4th jack to a balanced jack. Fiio adapter (four). I'm telling you, the sound from those Zen DAC-connected headphones is incredible. In my head, it has a three-dimensional feel to it. The clarity, detail, and separation are all outstanding. While I could power my over-the-ear headphones with great sound using the Zen and other iFi DACs, the performance I'm getting from the 4. The Zen clearly offers a one-of-a-kind experience with its four balanced headphone inputs. I'm not sure how to explain it, but that fact alone makes the Zen a keeper in my book. Overall, the Zen DAC is a very capable performer for the price.

Kieran Cooper
Kieran Cooper
| Feb 07, 2021

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