The Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC & Preamplifier delivers high-resolution audio with an ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC, XMOS XU316 processor, and support for PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512. Featuring USB-B, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth 5.0 inputs alongside balanced XLR and stereo RCA outputs, the ZD3 provides versatile connectivity for desktop audio, televisions, and home Hi-Fi systems. With adjustable preamplifier functionality, a fixed-output Bypass mode, 12V trigger input/output, a 1.5-inch OLED display, and an included remote control, the ZD3 combines premium sound quality with convenient everyday operation.
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Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC & Preamplifier

Experience high-resolution audio with the Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC & Preamplifier, a versatile Hi-Fi component designed to bring exceptional digital-to-analog conversion, modern connectivity, and convenient system control to your listening setup. Featuring the flagship ESS ES9039Q2M DAC, XMOS XU316 USB processor, and fully balanced analog circuitry, the ZD3 delivers detailed, low-distortion sound with support for PCM audio up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512. With HDMI ARC, USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs, along with balanced XLR and stereo RCA outputs, the ZD3 provides a flexible foundation for premium desktop and home audio systems.

Engineered for accurate, high-fidelity sound reproduction, the ZD3 combines its ESS Sabre DAC with LME49720 operational amplifiers and Fosi Audio's proprietary current-to-voltage conversion circuitry. High-precision wafer resistors and low-drift capacitors help minimize signal processing errors and maintain accurate channel balance, while the fully balanced architecture reduces unwanted noise and crosstalk. Delivering a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 126dB and total harmonic distortion plus noise below 0.00008%, the ZD3 provides an exceptionally clean foundation for enjoying high-resolution digital music. Its balanced XLR outputs deliver 5Vrms, while the unbalanced RCA outputs provide 2.5Vrms for compatibility with a wide range of amplifiers and powered speakers.

Designed to accommodate modern digital entertainment systems, the Fosi Audio ZD3 features five selectable audio input types. The USB-B input supports high-resolution PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 from compatible computers, while optical and coaxial inputs accommodate digital audio sources such as CD transports and music streamers. Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC support allows convenient wireless music playback from compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers. A dedicated HDMI ARC input also makes it easy to connect a compatible television and enjoy TV audio through a high-quality stereo system. HDMI CEC functionality supports synchronized power and volume control with compatible televisions, simplifying everyday operation.

More than a standalone DAC, the ZD3 also functions as a stereo preamplifier with adjustable volume control. Its selectable Bypass mode disables the internal preamplifier volume adjustment and provides a fixed-level analog output for connecting to equipment with its own volume control. In preamplifier mode, the front-panel multifunction knob and included infrared remote allow convenient volume adjustments, input selection, and playback control. Balanced XLR and RCA outputs provide flexibility for connecting powered speakers, integrated amplifiers, or dedicated power amplifiers. Both 12V trigger input and output connections support synchronized power operation with compatible components, making the ZD3 particularly well suited for systems built around the Fosi Audio ZA3 power amplifier.

The ZD3 also offers customization and convenience for audio enthusiasts. Its replaceable DIP8 operational amplifiers allow users to experiment with compatible alternatives, including the Sparkos SS3602, MUSES02, and OPA2134PA. A 1.5-inch OLED display provides clear information about the selected input, sampling rate, audio format, and volume level, while the included remote allows control from your listening position. Housed in a compact enclosure designed to complement Fosi Audio's Z-Series components, the ZD3 combines modern styling, high-performance audio engineering, and flexible connectivity. Whether you're upgrading your computer audio, connecting a television to a dedicated stereo system, or building a balanced Hi-Fi setup, the Fosi Audio ZD3 delivers exceptional versatility and detailed sound reproduction.

Specifications

• Brand: Fosi Audio
• Model: ZD3
• Product Type: Fully balanced desktop DAC and stereo preamplifier
• Audio Channels: 2-channel stereo
• DAC Chip: ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M
• USB Audio Processor: XMOS XU316
• Bluetooth Processor: Qualcomm QCC3031
• Operational Amplifiers: LME49720
• DAC Architecture: Fully balanced digital-to-analog conversion
• Analog Circuitry: Proprietary current-to-voltage conversion circuit
• Internal Components: High-precision wafer resistors and low-drift capacitors
• Maximum USB PCM Resolution: 32-bit/768kHz
• Maximum USB DSD Resolution: DSD512
• Optical Audio Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz
• Coaxial Audio Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz
• HDMI ARC Audio Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/192kHz
• Bluetooth Audio Resolution: PCM up to 24-bit/48kHz
• Total Audio Input Types: 5
• USB Audio Input: 1 × USB-B
• HDMI Input: 1 × HDMI ARC
• Optical Digital Input: 1 × TOSLINK
• Coaxial Digital Input: 1 × coaxial S/PDIF
• Wireless Audio Input: Bluetooth
• Selectable Input Modes: USB, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth
• Total Audio Output Types: 2
• Balanced Analog Output: 1 × stereo XLR pair
• Unbalanced Analog Output: 1 × stereo RCA pair
• XLR Output Level: 5Vrms at fixed output level
• RCA Output Level: 2.5Vrms at fixed output level
• 12V Trigger Input: 1 × 3.5mm
• 12V Trigger Output: 1 × 3.5mm
• 12V Trigger Function: Synchronized power control with compatible upstream and downstream audio components
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 126dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise: Less than 0.00008%
• Dynamic Range: 126dB
• Noise Floor: 2µV or less
• Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB)
• Bluetooth Version: 5.0
• Bluetooth Audio Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX HD
• Bluetooth Wireless Range: At least 13 meters (approximately 43 feet) under suitable conditions
• Bluetooth Antenna: External antenna
• HDMI ARC: Supported
• HDMI CEC: Supports compatible TV-initiated power and volume synchronization
• HDMI Outputs: None
• HDMI Video Pass-Through: No
• Preamplifier Function: Adjustable analog output volume
• Bypass Mode: Fixed-level analog output with internal volume adjustment disabled
• Volume Control: Front-panel multifunction rotary knob and infrared remote
• Op-Amp Customization: Replaceable DIP8 dual operational amplifiers
• Compatible Replacement Op-Amps: Sparkos SS3602, MUSES02, OPA2134PA, and other electrically compatible models
• Display: 1.5-inch OLED display
• Display Information: Selected input, current sampling rate, PCM/DSD/Bluetooth format, volume, and mute status
• Display On/Off: Controlled using the included remote
• Front-Panel Controls: Multifunction power, volume, and input selection knob
• Bypass Control: Dedicated switch on the underside of the unit
• Remote Control: Included infrared remote
• Remote Functions: Power, volume, mute, input selection, and display control
• Remote Batteries: 2 AAA batteries required, not included
• Computer Compatibility: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11; macOS; Linux
• USB Driver Requirements: Plug-and-play on supported modern Windows and macOS systems; drivers may be required for older Windows versions, DSD, or 768kHz PCM playback
• Power Requirement: DC 12V/1.5A
• Included Power Adapter: 12V DC
• Built-In Speaker Amplification: No
• Speaker-Level Outputs: No
• Headphone Output: No
• Built-In Phono Preamplifier: No
• Analog Audio Inputs: No
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: No
• Apple AirPlay: No
• Built-In Music Streaming Services: No
• App Control: No dedicated app control
• Bass and Treble Controls: No
• Speaker A/B Selector: No
• Manufacturer Warranty: 24-month limited warranty
• Included Accessories: Fosi Audio ZD3 DAC, 12V power adapter, infrared remote control, USB-A to USB-B cable, Bluetooth antenna, 3.5mm 12V trigger cable, and user manual

What It's Great At

• High-Resolution Digital Audio Conversion: The ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC and XMOS XU316 processor support PCM audio up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 through USB for detailed, high-fidelity music playback.
• Fully Balanced Hi-Fi Connectivity: Stereo XLR outputs deliver 5Vrms at fixed level for connecting compatible balanced amplifiers and powered speakers, while RCA outputs provide convenient integration with traditional analog audio systems.
• Flexible Digital and Wireless Inputs: USB-B, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth 5.0 connections accommodate computers, televisions, CD transports, music streamers, smartphones, and other compatible sources.
• Versatile DAC and Preamplifier Operation: Adjustable volume control allows the ZD3 to function as a stereo preamplifier, while Bypass mode provides fixed-level audio output for systems with separate volume control.
• Convenient System Integration: Dedicated 12V trigger input and output connections allow the ZD3 to synchronize power with compatible components, including the Fosi Audio ZA3 amplifier.
• Customizable Audiophile Performance: Replaceable DIP8 operational amplifiers, a clear 1.5-inch OLED display, and an included infrared remote combine high-performance audio engineering with convenient everyday operation.

FAQ Section

Q: What is the Fosi Audio ZD3 used for?
A: The Fosi Audio ZD3 is a fully balanced desktop digital-to-analog converter and stereo preamplifier designed for high-resolution music listening, TV audio, and home Hi-Fi systems. It converts digital audio from USB, optical, coaxial, HDMI ARC, and Bluetooth sources into analog audio for compatible powered speakers, integrated amplifiers, and dedicated power amplifiers.

Q: What audio inputs and outputs does the Fosi Audio ZD3 have?
A: The ZD3 features five selectable audio input types: USB-B, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth. It provides two stereo analog output types: balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA. It also includes separate 12V trigger input and output connections for synchronized power operation with compatible equipment.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 support HDMI ARC?
A: Yes. The ZD3 features one HDMI ARC input for connecting a compatible television and playing TV audio through an external stereo amplifier or powered speakers. It also supports HDMI CEC for compatible TV-initiated power and volume control. The HDMI connection receives audio rather than functioning as a video input or video pass-through connection.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 support Bluetooth and wireless music streaming?
A: Yes. The ZD3 includes Bluetooth 5.0 with SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX HD codec support for streaming music wirelessly from compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers. However, it does not include Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, or other independent network streaming services.

Q: Can the Fosi Audio ZD3 play high-resolution music?
A: Yes. The ZD3 features an ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC and XMOS XU316 USB processor supporting PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 through compatible USB connections. Optical, coaxial, and HDMI ARC inputs support PCM audio up to 24-bit/192kHz, while Bluetooth supports audio up to 24-bit/48kHz depending on the source and codec.

Q: Can I connect the Fosi Audio ZD3 directly to powered speakers or a power amplifier?
A: Yes. The ZD3 includes balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs for connecting compatible powered speakers, integrated amplifiers, or dedicated power amplifiers. In preamplifier mode, you can adjust volume using the front-panel knob or included remote. In Bypass mode, the output level is fixed, so volume must be controlled by downstream equipment.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 have a 12V trigger?
A: Yes. The ZD3 includes both a 12V trigger input and a 12V trigger output. The input allows compatible upstream equipment to control the ZD3's power state, while the output allows the ZD3 to control compatible downstream components such as the Fosi Audio ZA3 power amplifier. A 3.5mm trigger cable is included.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 have a headphone amplifier or built-in speaker amplifier?
A: No. The ZD3 is designed for digital-to-analog conversion and stereo preamplifier functions rather than directly powering headphones or passive speakers. It does not have headphone outputs or speaker-level amplification. For headphone listening, connect a compatible external headphone amplifier, or use a power amplifier or powered speakers for traditional stereo playback.