The Fosi Audio ZH3 Desktop DAC, Headphone Amplifier & Preamplifier delivers exceptional high-resolution audio with an AKM AK4493SEQ DAC, XMOS XU316 processor, and support for PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512. Featuring 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm headphone outputs, up to 2,570mW per channel of balanced headphone power, and USB-C, optical, coaxial, RCA, and XLR connectivity, the ZH3 provides versatile performance for audiophile headphones and desktop Hi-Fi systems. With three gain levels, adjustable bass and treble, six digital filters, 12V trigger input/output, and an included remote control, the ZH3 combines premium sound quality with convenient system integration.
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Fosi Audio ZH3 Desktop DAC, Headphone Amplifier & Preamplifier

Elevate your desktop listening experience with the Fosi Audio ZH3 Desktop DAC, Headphone Amplifier & Preamplifier, a versatile all-in-one Hi-Fi solution designed for audiophiles, music enthusiasts, and gamers who demand exceptional sound quality. Combining an AKM AK4493SEQ DAC, XMOS XU316 USB processor, and four Texas Instruments OPA1612 operational amplifiers, the ZH3 delivers detailed, low-distortion audio with support for high-resolution PCM playback up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD512. Featuring a fully balanced amplification architecture, powerful headphone outputs, and comprehensive digital and analog connectivity, the ZH3 serves as the centerpiece of a premium desktop or home audio system.

Engineered to deliver clean, dynamic sound across a wide range of headphones, the ZH3 incorporates a proprietary dual-power balanced amplifier circuit with ultra-low-noise LDO regulators and carefully selected capacitors. Its 4.4mm balanced headphone output delivers up to 2,570mW per channel into 32 ohms, while the 6.35mm single-ended connection provides up to 640mW per channel. Three selectable gain levels accommodate headphones with impedances ranging from 16 to 300 ohms, making the ZH3 equally capable of driving sensitive in-ear monitors and more demanding over-ear headphones. With a signal-to-noise ratio reaching 121dB and an exceptionally low noise floor of just 1.9µV through the single-ended output, the ZH3 preserves subtle musical details while minimizing unwanted background noise.

Beyond headphone listening, the Fosi Audio ZH3 functions as a versatile digital-to-analog converter and stereo preamplifier. USB-C, optical, coaxial, and stereo RCA inputs allow you to connect computers, CD players, streamers, gaming consoles, and other compatible audio sources. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs provide connections for powered speakers, integrated amplifiers, and dedicated power amplifiers. Select adjustable preamplifier output for convenient volume control or fixed-level line output when connecting to another component with its own volume adjustment. Dedicated 12V trigger input and output connections allow the ZH3 to synchronize power with compatible equipment, making it an excellent companion for components such as the Fosi Audio ZA3 power amplifier and MERAK CD player.

For listeners who enjoy customizing their sound, the ZH3 includes independent bass and treble adjustments, six selectable digital filters, and a Bypass function that removes the tone control circuit from the signal path. Two replaceable DIP8 operational amplifier sockets also provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to experiment with compatible aftermarket op-amps. USB Audio Class 1.0 and 2.0 support ensures flexibility between high-resolution computer playback and compatible gaming consoles such as the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. An intuitive front-panel display, multifunction volume knob, and included infrared remote make it easy to select inputs, change output modes, adjust volume, and manage settings without complicated software.

Housed in a refined desktop enclosure that complements Fosi Audio's Z-Series components, the ZH3 combines modern aesthetics with practical everyday functionality. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for headphone listening stations, desktop audio systems, and dedicated Hi-Fi setups, while its extensive input and output options provide the flexibility to expand your system over time. Whether you're enjoying high-resolution music, powering audiophile headphones, or building a system around balanced power amplification, the Fosi Audio ZH3 delivers exceptional versatility and high-fidelity performance in one convenient component.

Specifications

• Brand: Fosi Audio
• Model: ZH3
• Product Type: Desktop digital-to-analog converter, headphone amplifier, and stereo preamplifier
• Audio Channels: 2-channel stereo
• DAC Chip: AKM AK4493SEQ
• USB Audio Processor: XMOS XU316
• Operational Amplifiers: Texas Instruments OPA1612 ×4
• Amplifier Architecture: Fully balanced, dual-power amplifier circuitry with push-pull differential amplification
• Power Regulation: Multiple ultra-low-noise LDO regulators and capacitors
• Maximum USB PCM Resolution: 32-bit/768kHz
• Maximum USB DSD Resolution: DSD512
• Optical Audio Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM
• Coaxial Audio Resolution: Up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM
• Audio Inputs: 4 input types: USB-C, optical, coaxial, and stereo RCA
• USB Audio Input: 1 × USB-C
• Optical Digital Input: 1 × TOSLINK
• Coaxial Digital Input: 1 × coaxial S/PDIF
• Analog Audio Input: 1 × stereo RCA pair
• Audio Outputs: 4 output types: 4.4mm balanced, 6.35mm single-ended, stereo RCA, and balanced XLR
• Balanced Headphone Output: 1 × 4.4mm
• Single-Ended Headphone Output: 1 × 6.35mm (1/4-inch)
• Analog Line Outputs: 1 × stereo RCA pair
• Balanced Line Outputs: 1 × stereo XLR pair
• 12V Trigger Input: 1 × 3.5mm
• 12V Trigger Output: 1 × 3.5mm
• Supported Headphone Impedance: 16–300 ohms
• Headphone Gain Settings: Low, Medium, and High
• 4.4mm Balanced Output Power, Low Gain: 145mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• 4.4mm Balanced Output Power, Medium Gain: 580mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• 4.4mm Balanced Output Power, High Gain: 2,570mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• 4.4mm Balanced Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 119dB (A-weighted)
• 4.4mm Balanced Output THD+N: 0.00018% or less (A-weighted)
• 4.4mm Balanced Output Dynamic Range: At least 119dB
• 4.4mm Balanced Output Noise Floor: 4.9µV or less (A-weighted)
• 4.4mm Balanced Output Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB)
• 6.35mm Output Power, Low Gain: 36mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• 6.35mm Output Power, Medium Gain: 145mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• 6.35mm Output Power, High Gain: 640mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• 6.35mm Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 121dB (A-weighted)
• 6.35mm Output THD+N: 0.00024% or less (A-weighted)
• 6.35mm Output Dynamic Range: At least 121dB
• 6.35mm Output Noise Floor: 1.9µV or less (A-weighted)
• 6.35mm Output Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB)
• RCA Line Output Level: 2Vrms in fixed line-output mode
• RCA Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 122dB (A-weighted)
• RCA Output THD+N: 0.00018% or less (A-weighted)
• RCA Output Dynamic Range: At least 122dB
• RCA Output Noise Floor: 1.7µV or less (A-weighted)
• RCA Output Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB)
• XLR Line Output Level: 4Vrms in fixed line-output mode
• XLR Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 119dB (A-weighted)
• XLR Output THD+N: 0.00025% or less (A-weighted)
• XLR Output Dynamic Range: At least 120dB
• XLR Output Noise Floor: 4.6µV or less (A-weighted)
• XLR Output Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB)
• Analog RCA Input Support: Accepts compatible line-level stereo sources
• RCA Input to 4.4mm Output Power: Up to 2,100mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• RCA Input to 6.35mm Output Power: Up to 520mW ×2 at 32 ohms
• Output Modes: PO headphone output, AUX adjustable preamplifier output, and LO fixed line-level output
• Fixed Line Output Voltage: RCA 2V / XLR 4V
• Volume Adjustment: Multifunction rotary volume control with on-screen level indication
• Volume Range: 0–99 for digital inputs; 0–32 with RCA input
• Tone Controls: Adjustable bass and treble for supported headphone-output modes
• EQ Bypass: Disables bass and treble circuitry for direct audio playback
• Digital Filters: 6 selectable DAC filters
• Filter 1: Sharp Roll-off – Powerful, Dynamic
• Filter 2: Slow Roll-off – Neutral, Balanced
• Filter 3: Short Delay Sharp Roll-off – Detailed, Extended Highs
• Filter 4: Short Delay Slow Roll-off – Clear, Well-Defined
• Filter 5: Super Slow Roll-off – Natural, Smooth
• Filter 6: Low Dispersion – Precise, Analytical
• Replaceable Op-Amps: 2 user-replaceable DIP8 dual-channel op-amp positions
• Compatible Op-Amp Examples: LME49720, NE5532, MUSES02, SS3602, and other electrically compatible dual-channel models
• USB Audio Modes: USB Audio Class 1.0 and 2.0
• Gaming Compatibility: PlayStation 5 and other supported gaming consoles using UAC 1.0
• Computer Compatibility: Windows 8, 8.1, 10, 11; macOS X 10.6 or later; Linux
• USB Driver Requirements: Standard playback is plug-and-play on supported modern systems; additional drivers may be required for certain DSD and 768kHz playback configurations
• Firmware Updates: XMOS firmware updates supported through USB-C
• Display: Integrated front-panel digital display
• Display Information: Volume, input source, output mode, sampling rate, EQ status, and system settings
• Display Brightness: Four adjustable brightness levels with automatic screen-off mode
• Remote Control: Included infrared remote
• Remote Functions: Power, mute, volume, input selection, output selection, filter selection, display brightness, and menu navigation
• Remote Batteries: 2 AAA batteries required, not included
• Automatic Standby: Optional automatic power-off after 30 minutes without an audio signal
• 12V Trigger Function: Trigger input and output allow synchronized power operation with compatible upstream and downstream components
• Power Requirement: DC 12V
• Built-In Speaker Amplification: No; requires external amplification for passive speakers
• Bluetooth Connectivity: No
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: No
• HDMI Connectivity: No
• Built-In Phono Preamplifier: No
• Manufacturer Warranty: 24-month limited warranty
• Included Accessories: Fosi Audio ZH3, 6.35mm headphone adapter, 12V trigger cable, infrared remote, USB-A/C to USB-C cable, DC 12V power adapter, and user manual

What It's Great At

• Exceptional High-Resolution Audio Playback: The AKM AK4493SEQ DAC and XMOS XU316 processor support PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 through USB for detailed, high-fidelity music listening.
• Powerful Balanced Headphone Amplification: Delivering up to 2,570mW per channel at 32 ohms through its 4.4mm balanced output, the ZH3 provides substantial power for a wide range of audiophile headphones.
• Flexible DAC and Preamplifier Integration: USB-C, optical, coaxial, and RCA inputs combine with balanced XLR and RCA outputs to accommodate computers, music sources, powered speakers, and external amplifiers.
• Customizable Listening Experience: Three headphone gain settings, independent bass and treble adjustment, six digital filters, and EQ Bypass allow you to tailor playback for different headphones, recordings, and listening preferences.
• Convenient Hi-Fi System Control: Dedicated 12V trigger input and output connections, selectable fixed or variable line outputs, and an included infrared remote make the ZH3 easy to integrate with compatible audio components.
• Versatile Desktop and Gaming Compatibility: USB Audio Class 1.0 and 2.0 support allows the ZH3 to serve as both a high-resolution desktop DAC and a compatible gaming-console audio solution.

FAQ Section

Q: What is the Fosi Audio ZH3 used for?
A: The Fosi Audio ZH3 is an all-in-one desktop DAC, headphone amplifier, and stereo preamplifier designed for high-resolution music listening, gaming, and home Hi-Fi systems. It converts digital audio into analog sound, powers compatible wired headphones, and connects to powered speakers or external power amplifiers through RCA and XLR outputs.

Q: How much headphone power does the Fosi Audio ZH3 deliver?
A: The ZH3 delivers up to 2,570mW per channel into 32 ohms through its 4.4mm balanced headphone output and up to 640mW per channel into 32 ohms through its 6.35mm single-ended output when using USB input and high gain. Three selectable gain levels accommodate headphones with different power requirements, including models rated from 16 to 300 ohms.

Q: What audio inputs and outputs does the Fosi Audio ZH3 have?
A: The ZH3 features four audio input types: USB-C, optical, coaxial, and stereo RCA. It also provides four audio output types: 4.4mm balanced headphones, 6.35mm single-ended headphones, stereo RCA, and balanced stereo XLR. Separate 12V trigger input and output connections support synchronized power control.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZH3 have a 12V trigger?
A: Yes. The ZH3 includes both a 12V trigger input and a 12V trigger output. The trigger input allows an upstream component, such as a compatible CD player, to control the ZH3's power, while the trigger output can automatically power compatible downstream equipment such as the Fosi Audio ZA3 amplifier on or off.

Q: Can I connect the Fosi Audio ZH3 to powered speakers or a power amplifier?
A: Yes. The ZH3 features stereo RCA and balanced XLR outputs that can connect to compatible powered speakers, integrated amplifiers, or dedicated power amplifiers. Its AUX mode provides adjustable preamplifier output, while LO mode supplies fixed-level 2Vrms RCA and 4Vrms XLR signals for components with their own volume controls.

Q: Can I adjust the bass, treble, and sound signature on the Fosi Audio ZH3?
A: Yes. The ZH3 features adjustable bass and treble, six selectable digital filters, and an EQ Bypass function. These customization features are available in supported headphone playback modes, while some adjustments are disabled when using fixed or variable line-level outputs.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZH3 work with PlayStation 5 and gaming consoles?
A: Yes. The ZH3 supports USB Audio Class 1.0 for compatibility with gaming systems such as the PlayStation 5 and USB Audio Class 2.0 for high-resolution playback from supported computers and audio devices. Select UAC 1.0 when using a console that requires the older USB audio standard.

Q: Can I connect a turntable to the Fosi Audio ZH3?
A: Yes, provided the turntable has a built-in phono preamplifier or is connected through a separate external phono preamp. The ZH3 includes a stereo RCA analog input for line-level sources but does not contain a dedicated phono stage. The turntable's signal must therefore be converted to line level before connecting to the ZH3.