The Fosi Audio S3 Balanced Hi-Fi Music Streamer combines an AKM AK4493SEQ DAC, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3 to deliver high-fidelity music streaming with Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Qobuz Connect. Featuring balanced XLR, RCA, and optical outputs alongside HDMI eARC, optical, and analog inputs, the S3 offers versatile connectivity for stereo and 2.1-channel home audio systems. With Fosi Audio App control, a 10-band equalizer, an included Bluetooth remote, and a 12V trigger output, this compact music streamer delivers premium sound and convenient everyday operation.
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Fosi Audio S3 Balanced Hi-Fi Music Streamer, DAC & Preamplifier

Bring high-resolution wireless music streaming to your home audio system with the Fosi Audio S3 Balanced Hi-Fi Music Streamer, a versatile all-in-one network streamer, digital-to-analog converter, and stereo preamplifier designed for modern music enthusiasts. Featuring a premium AKM AK4493SEQ DAC, Amlogic A113X streaming processor, and Texas Instruments OPA1612 operational amplifiers, the S3 delivers detailed, low-distortion audio with a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 120dB. With Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Qobuz Connect support, the S3 brings your favorite music services together in a compact component designed for high-fidelity listening.

Designed to make wireless music streaming effortless, the Fosi Audio S3 features dual-band Wi-Fi 6 connectivity supporting both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, along with a dedicated Ethernet port for a reliable wired network connection. Enjoy music directly from compatible streaming apps using Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, or Google Cast, or access music stored on compatible network-attached storage devices through DLNA. Bluetooth 5.3 provides another convenient way to play music from compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers, with support for SBC and AAC codecs. Whether you're listening to curated playlists, discovering new albums, or exploring a personal music library, the S3 delivers flexible streaming options without the need for a separate computer.

At the heart of the S3 is its carefully engineered digital-to-analog conversion system, built around the AKM AK4493SEQ DAC and a fully balanced analog output stage. Featuring dual Texas Instruments OPA1612 operational amplifiers, Japanese ELNA capacitors, ultra-low-noise LDO power regulation, and isolated analog and digital circuitry, the S3 is designed to minimize unwanted noise and preserve musical detail. Its manufacturer-rated total harmonic distortion plus noise is just 0.00018% or less, with a SINAD of at least 117dB. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs allow the S3 to connect to compatible power amplifiers, powered speakers, and integrated amplifiers, while an optical digital output makes it possible to use the S3 as a dedicated network transport with an external DAC.

More than just a music streamer, the Fosi Audio S3 can also serve as the centerpiece of a modern stereo or 2.1-channel entertainment system. A dedicated HDMI eARC input lets you connect a compatible television and enjoy TV audio through your existing stereo system, while an optical digital input and stereo RCA analog input provide connections for additional audio sources. A dedicated powered subwoofer output makes it easy to add deeper bass to your listening setup, and a 12V trigger output enables synchronized power control with compatible downstream amplifiers. This flexibility makes the S3 an excellent companion for the Fosi Audio ZA3 power amplifier or other compatible Hi-Fi components.

Control your listening experience with the Fosi Audio App, available for compatible iOS and Android devices. The app simplifies network setup, music playback, input management, and sound customization with a built-in 10-band equalizer. An included Bluetooth remote provides convenient control over power, volume, playback, input selection, and output modes from your listening position. Firmware updates help keep the S3 current with supported streaming features and improvements. With a compact chassis measuring just 6.81 inches wide, the Fosi Audio S3 combines powerful streaming capabilities, premium audio engineering, and flexible connectivity in one streamlined addition to your home audio system.

Specifications

• Brand: Fosi Audio
• Model: S3
• Product Type: Network music streamer, DAC, and stereo preamplifier
• Audio Channels: 2-channel stereo
• Supported System Configuration: Stereo or 2.1-channel with powered subwoofer
• Streaming Processor: Amlogic A113X
• DAC Chip: AKM AK4493SEQ
• Operational Amplifiers: Texas Instruments OPA1612
• Analog Circuit Design: Fully balanced differential amplification
• Internal Architecture: Isolated analog and digital circuit sections
• Capacitors: Japanese ELNA capacitors
• Power Regulation: Ultra-low-noise LDO regulation
• Network Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and wired Ethernet
• Wi-Fi Standards: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
• Wi-Fi Frequencies: 2.4GHz and 5GHz
• Ethernet Connection: 1 × RJ45 LAN port
• Ethernet Speed: 10/100Mbps
• Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.3
• Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, and BTLE
• Bluetooth Audio Codecs: SBC and AAC
• Apple AirPlay: AirPlay 1 and AirPlay 2
• Google Cast: Supported
• Spotify Connect: Supported
• TIDAL Connect: Supported
• Qobuz Connect: Supported with updated firmware
• DLNA: Supported
• Network Music Playback: Supports compatible network-attached storage and DLNA music libraries
• Roon Compatibility: Playback available through AirPlay 2 or Google Cast; native Roon Ready certification remains pending
• Maximum DAC PCM Capability: Up to 32-bit/768kHz, subject to input method and firmware
• Optical Input Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz
• Bluetooth Input Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/48kHz
• Google Cast Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/96kHz
• AirPlay 2 Resolution: PCM up to 16-bit/48kHz
• HDMI eARC Input Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz
• Wi-Fi Streaming Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz in the published input specification table; higher rates depend on the supported playback path
• Audio Inputs: HDMI eARC, optical digital, stereo RCA, Bluetooth, and network streaming
• HDMI Input: 1 × HDMI eARC
• Optical Digital Input: 1 × TOSLINK
• Analog Audio Input: 1 × stereo RCA pair
• Audio Output Types: Balanced XLR, stereo RCA, optical digital, and powered subwoofer line output
• Balanced Analog Output: 1 × stereo XLR pair
• Unbalanced Analog Output: 1 × stereo RCA pair
• Digital Audio Output: 1 × optical TOSLINK
• Subwoofer Output: 1 × RCA line-level output for a powered subwoofer
• Output Selection: Selectable optical digital or RCA/XLR analog output modes
• Subwoofer Output Operation: Remains active independently of the selected main output mode
• 12V Trigger: 1 × 12V trigger output
• 12V Trigger Function: Synchronized power control for compatible downstream audio equipment
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 120dB
• SINAD: At least 117dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise: 0.00018% or less
• Sound Customization: App-based equalization
• Equalizer: 10-band EQ with supported updated firmware
• Control App: Fosi Audio App
• App Compatibility: iOS, iPadOS, and Android
• App Functions: Initial network setup, playback management, input control, device settings, and equalization
• Computer App: No dedicated Windows, macOS, or Linux application
• Remote Control: Included Bluetooth remote
• Remote Operating Range: Over 15 meters under suitable conditions
• Remote Functions: Power, playback, volume, mute, input switching, output selection, and pairing
• Remote Batteries: 2 AAA batteries required, not included
• Front-Panel Controls: Power/input selection, Bluetooth pairing/output selection, and volume control
• Front-Panel Indicators: LED indicators for input and output status
• Input Modes: Wi-Fi/LAN, Bluetooth, RCA, HDMI eARC, and optical
• Firmware Updates: Supported through the network
• Power Requirement: DC 12V/1.5A
• Cooling: Passive chassis heat dissipation
• Dimensions: 17.3 × 17.3 × 4.7cm (6.81 × 6.81 × 1.85 inches)
• Built-In Speaker Amplification: No; requires external amplification for passive speakers
• Built-In Headphone Amplifier: No
• Headphone Output: No
• Built-In Phono Preamplifier: No
• USB Audio Input: No
• Coaxial Digital Input: No
• HDMI Outputs: No
• Manufacturer Warranty: 24-month limited warranty
• Included Accessories: Fosi Audio S3 Balanced Hi-Fi Streamer, Bluetooth remote control, DC power adapter, optical cable, and quick guide

What It's Great At

• High-Resolution Wireless Music Streaming: Wi-Fi 6, Ethernet, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and DLNA provide convenient access to streaming services and personal music libraries.
• Premium AKM Digital-to-Analog Conversion: The AKM AK4493SEQ DAC, OPA1612 operational amplifiers, and balanced audio circuitry deliver detailed, low-distortion sound with a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 120dB.
• Flexible Stereo and Home Theater Connectivity: HDMI eARC, optical digital, and RCA inputs allow the S3 to accommodate televisions, external audio sources, and music streaming, while a dedicated powered subwoofer output supports 2.1-channel systems.
• Balanced XLR and Digital Audio Outputs: Stereo XLR and RCA outputs provide convenient connections for compatible amplifiers and powered speakers, while optical digital output allows the S3 to operate as a dedicated network music transport.
• Convenient App and Remote Control: The Fosi Audio App provides streaming setup, music playback management, and 10-band EQ customization, while the included Bluetooth remote offers easy everyday control from your listening position.
• Easy Hi-Fi System Integration: A dedicated 12V trigger output, compact enclosure, and versatile analog and digital connections make the S3 an excellent companion for compatible power amplifiers and existing stereo audio systems.

FAQ Section

Q: What is the Fosi Audio S3 Balanced Hi-Fi Streamer?
A: The Fosi Audio S3 is an all-in-one network music streamer, DAC, and stereo preamplifier designed to bring wireless music services and digital audio connectivity to an existing Hi-Fi system. It supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and DLNA, with balanced XLR, RCA, and optical outputs for connecting compatible audio equipment.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio S3 support Apple AirPlay and Bluetooth?
A: Yes. The S3 supports Apple AirPlay 1 and AirPlay 2, allowing compatible Apple devices to stream audio over a network. It also features Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC and AAC codec support for wireless playback from compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Q: What music streaming services does the Fosi Audio S3 support?
A: The S3 supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and DLNA streaming. Qobuz Connect support is available with updated firmware. These technologies allow playback from compatible music apps and network music libraries, although supported features and maximum audio resolutions vary by service and connection type.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio S3 support Roon Ready?
A: Native Roon Ready certification is still pending and should not be considered an active certified feature. However, the S3 can receive audio from Roon through compatible AirPlay 2 or Google Cast connections. Direct Roon Ready integration will depend on future certification and firmware support.

Q: Can I connect the Fosi Audio S3 to my television?
A: Yes. The S3 includes one HDMI eARC input for connecting a compatible television and playing TV audio through a connected stereo system. It also features an optical digital input for compatible TVs and other digital sources. The S3 is designed for stereo audio playback rather than multichannel home theater decoding and requires external amplification or powered speakers.

Q: Can I connect a powered subwoofer to the Fosi Audio S3?
A: Yes. The S3 includes a dedicated RCA line-level output for a powered subwoofer, allowing you to build a 2.1-channel audio system with compatible speakers and amplification. The subwoofer output remains active regardless of whether the main output mode is set to analog RCA/XLR or optical digital.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio S3 have a 12V trigger?
A: Yes. The S3 includes a 12V trigger output for synchronizing power with compatible downstream components. This allows a connected power amplifier, such as the Fosi Audio ZA3, to turn on and off automatically with the S3 when the proper trigger connection is used.

Q: Can I control the Fosi Audio S3 with an app?
A: Yes. The Fosi Audio App is available for compatible iPhone, iPad, and Android devices. It provides network setup, playback management, device settings, and a 10-band equalizer on supported firmware. The S3 also includes a Bluetooth remote for convenient playback, input selection, volume, and output control without using your phone.