{"product_id":"fosi-audio-zd3-fully-balanced-desktop-dac-preamplifier-1","title":"Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC \u0026 Preamplifier","description":"\u003ch3\u003eFosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC \u0026amp; Preamplifier\u003c\/h3\u003e  \u003cp\u003eExperience high-resolution audio with the Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC \u0026amp; 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003eEngineered 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003eDesigned 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003eMore 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003ch4\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h4\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBrand:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fosi Audio\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eModel:\u003c\/strong\u003e ZD3\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fully balanced desktop DAC and stereo preamplifier\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAudio Channels:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2-channel stereo\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDAC Chip:\u003c\/strong\u003e ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB Audio Processor:\u003c\/strong\u003e XMOS XU316\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth Processor:\u003c\/strong\u003e Qualcomm QCC3031\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOperational Amplifiers:\u003c\/strong\u003e LME49720\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDAC Architecture:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fully balanced digital-to-analog conversion\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnalog Circuitry:\u003c\/strong\u003e Proprietary current-to-voltage conversion circuit\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInternal Components:\u003c\/strong\u003e High-precision wafer resistors and low-drift capacitors\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaximum USB PCM Resolution:\u003c\/strong\u003e 32-bit\/768kHz\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaximum USB DSD Resolution:\u003c\/strong\u003e DSD512\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Audio Resolution:\u003c\/strong\u003e PCM up to 24-bit\/192kHz\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCoaxial Audio Resolution:\u003c\/strong\u003e PCM up to 24-bit\/192kHz\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHDMI ARC Audio Resolution:\u003c\/strong\u003e PCM up to 24-bit\/192kHz\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth Audio Resolution:\u003c\/strong\u003e PCM up to 24-bit\/48kHz\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTotal Audio Input Types:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB Audio Input:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × USB-B\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHDMI Input:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × HDMI ARC\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOptical Digital Input:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × TOSLINK\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCoaxial Digital Input:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × coaxial S\/PDIF\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWireless Audio Input:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bluetooth\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSelectable Input Modes:\u003c\/strong\u003e USB, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTotal Audio Output Types:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBalanced Analog Output:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × stereo XLR pair\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUnbalanced Analog Output:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × stereo RCA pair\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eXLR Output Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5Vrms at fixed output level\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRCA Output Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2.5Vrms at fixed output level\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e12V Trigger Input:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × 3.5mm\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e12V Trigger Output:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 × 3.5mm\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e12V Trigger Function:\u003c\/strong\u003e Synchronized power control with compatible upstream and downstream audio components\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSignal-to-Noise Ratio:\u003c\/strong\u003e At least 126dB\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTotal Harmonic Distortion + Noise:\u003c\/strong\u003e Less than 0.00008%\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDynamic Range:\u003c\/strong\u003e 126dB\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNoise Floor:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2µV or less\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrequency Response:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB)\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth Version:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5.0\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth Audio Codecs:\u003c\/strong\u003e SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX HD\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth Wireless Range:\u003c\/strong\u003e At least 13 meters (approximately 43 feet) under suitable conditions\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBluetooth Antenna:\u003c\/strong\u003e External antenna\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHDMI ARC:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supported\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHDMI CEC:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supports compatible TV-initiated power and volume synchronization\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHDMI Outputs:\u003c\/strong\u003e None\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHDMI Video Pass-Through:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePreamplifier Function:\u003c\/strong\u003e Adjustable analog output volume\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBypass Mode:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fixed-level analog output with internal volume adjustment disabled\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVolume Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e Front-panel multifunction rotary knob and infrared remote\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOp-Amp Customization:\u003c\/strong\u003e Replaceable DIP8 dual operational amplifiers\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompatible Replacement Op-Amps:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sparkos SS3602, MUSES02, OPA2134PA, and other electrically compatible models\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDisplay:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.5-inch OLED display\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDisplay Information:\u003c\/strong\u003e Selected input, current sampling rate, PCM\/DSD\/Bluetooth format, volume, and mute status\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDisplay On\/Off:\u003c\/strong\u003e Controlled using the included remote\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFront-Panel Controls:\u003c\/strong\u003e Multifunction power, volume, and input selection knob\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBypass Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dedicated switch on the underside of the unit\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemote Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e Included infrared remote\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemote Functions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Power, volume, mute, input selection, and display control\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRemote Batteries:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 AAA batteries required, not included\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComputer Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11; macOS; Linux\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUSB Driver Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Plug-and-play on supported modern Windows and macOS systems; drivers may be required for older Windows versions, DSD, or 768kHz PCM playback\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePower Requirement:\u003c\/strong\u003e DC 12V\/1.5A\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIncluded Power Adapter:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12V DC\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-In Speaker Amplification:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpeaker-Level Outputs:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeadphone Output:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-In Phono Preamplifier:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnalog Audio Inputs:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWi-Fi Connectivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApple AirPlay:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt-In Music Streaming Services:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eApp Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e No dedicated app control\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBass and Treble Controls:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpeaker A\/B Selector:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eManufacturer Warranty:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24-month limited warranty\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIncluded Accessories:\u003c\/strong\u003e 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\u003c\/li\u003e \u003c\/ul\u003e  \u003ch4\u003eWhat It's Great At\u003c\/h4\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh-Resolution Digital Audio Conversion:\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFully Balanced Hi-Fi Connectivity:\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlexible Digital and Wireless Inputs:\u003c\/strong\u003e USB-B, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth 5.0 connections accommodate computers, televisions, CD transports, music streamers, smartphones, and other compatible sources.\u003c\/li\u003e  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVersatile DAC and Preamplifier Operation:\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConvenient System Integration:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dedicated 12V trigger input and output connections allow the ZD3 to synchronize power with compatible components, including the Fosi Audio ZA3 amplifier.\u003c\/li\u003e  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCustomizable Audiophile Performance:\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003c\/ul\u003e  \u003ch4\u003eFAQ Section\u003c\/h4\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: What is the Fosi Audio ZD3 used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: What audio inputs and outputs does the Fosi Audio ZD3 have?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 support HDMI ARC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 support Bluetooth and wireless music streaming?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Can the Fosi Audio ZD3 play high-resolution music?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Can I connect the Fosi Audio ZD3 directly to powered speakers or a power amplifier?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 have a 12V trigger?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e  \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Does the Fosi Audio ZD3 have a headphone amplifier or built-in speaker amplifier?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Fosi Audio","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":62887304724639,"sku":"FOS-ZD3-BLK","price":179.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0495\/6910\/4031\/files\/3e964367-5aa7-4f11-9a7b-d29886e6c0ba.jpg?v=1791572772","url":"https:\/\/listenup.com\/products\/fosi-audio-zd3-fully-balanced-desktop-dac-preamplifier-1","provider":"ListenUp","version":"1.0","type":"link"}