The Fosi Audio ZP3 Balanced Stereo Preamplifier brings versatile audio control to your Hi-Fi system with two stereo RCA inputs, balanced XLR connectivity, and dedicated RCA, XLR, and powered subwoofer outputs. Featuring premium ELNA capacitors, an NJR electronic volume control, adjustable bass and treble, and a three-position high-pass filter, the ZP3 delivers low-distortion sound with flexible customization for stereo and 2.1-channel systems. With per-input volume memory, an included infrared remote, and 12V trigger input/output connections, this compact preamplifier makes it easy to manage multiple sources and integrate compatible power amplifiers.
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Fosi Audio ZP3 Balanced Stereo Preamplifier

Take control of your home audio system with the Fosi Audio ZP3 Balanced Stereo Preamplifier, a versatile Hi-Fi component designed to bring multiple audio sources, precise volume control, and flexible system connectivity together in one compact device. Featuring a balanced audio architecture, three selectable analog inputs, and dedicated RCA, XLR, and subwoofer outputs, the ZP3 serves as the control center for a high-performance stereo system. With premium audio components, adjustable bass and treble, a three-position high-pass filter, and convenient remote operation, the ZP3 makes it easy to customize your listening experience while preserving the clarity and dynamics of your favorite music.

Designed for listeners who want greater control over their audio systems, the ZP3 features two stereo RCA inputs and one balanced stereo XLR input, allowing you to connect multiple source components such as external DACs, CD players, music streamers, and phono preamplifiers. Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs provide flexible connections to compatible power amplifiers and powered speakers, while a dedicated subwoofer output allows easy integration of a powered subwoofer for deeper, more impactful bass. The ZP3 also supports conversion between balanced and unbalanced analog signals, making it easier to combine components with different connection types without relying on additional converters.

At the heart of the Fosi Audio ZP3 is an optimized preamplifier circuit incorporating premium ELNA capacitors, an NJR NJU72315 electronic volume control IC, and gold-plated RCA connections. These components help minimize distortion and unwanted noise while preserving musical detail and precise stereo imaging. The balanced XLR output achieves a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 112dB and total harmonic distortion plus noise of 0.0007% or less, while the RCA output delivers a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 115dB with distortion of 0.0008% or less. With a manufacturer-rated SINAD of at least 113dB and channel crosstalk of -130dB or lower, the ZP3 provides a clean, controlled foundation for high-fidelity music reproduction.

For additional flexibility, the ZP3 features independent bass, treble, and left/right balance adjustments, giving you control over the tonal character and stereo balance of your system. Bass can be adjusted by ±12dB, while treble can be adjusted by ±6dB, allowing you to fine-tune playback for different recordings, speakers, and listening preferences. A dedicated Bypass switch removes the bass and treble adjustment circuitry from the signal path when you prefer a more direct listening experience. The ZP3 also incorporates a three-position high-pass filter with full-range, 80Hz, and 120Hz settings, allowing you to reduce low-frequency output to your main speakers when using a powered subwoofer. This makes it particularly useful for compact bookshelf speaker systems and 2.1-channel Hi-Fi setups.

Convenience is another key part of the ZP3's design. Its precision electronic volume control remembers individual volume settings for each input, reducing the need for repeated adjustments when switching between sources with different output levels. Front-panel controls provide direct access to input selection, volume, bass, treble, and stereo balance, while the included infrared remote handles power, mute, volume, and source selection from your listening position. Dedicated 12V trigger input and output connections allow the ZP3 to synchronize power with compatible audio components, including the Fosi Audio ZD3 DAC and ZA3 power amplifier. With its compact desktop-friendly enclosure, premium components, and flexible analog connectivity, the Fosi Audio ZP3 is an excellent choice for building or expanding a dedicated stereo or 2.1-channel Hi-Fi system.

Specifications

• Brand: Fosi Audio
• Model: ZP3
• Product Type: Balanced stereo preamplifier
• Audio Channels: 2.0-channel stereo with dedicated subwoofer line output
• Supported System Configuration: Stereo or 2.1-channel with a powered subwoofer
• Preamplifier Architecture: Balanced analog signal architecture
• Total Audio Inputs: 3 selectable stereo inputs
• RCA Audio Inputs: 2 stereo RCA pairs (RCA 1 and RCA 2)
• Balanced Audio Input: 1 stereo XLR pair
• Total Audio Output Types: 3
• Analog RCA Output: 1 stereo RCA pair
• Balanced XLR Output: 1 stereo XLR pair
• Subwoofer Output: 1 dedicated RCA line-level output for a powered subwoofer
• Balanced and Unbalanced Signal Conversion: Supports RCA-to-XLR and XLR-to-RCA signal routing
• RCA and XLR Output Operation: Both outputs operate simultaneously and cannot be independently selected
• 12V Trigger Input: 1 × 3.5mm connection
• 12V Trigger Output: 1 × 3.5mm connection
• 12V Trigger Function: Synchronized power operation with compatible upstream and downstream equipment
• Volume Control IC: NJR NJU72315
• Capacitors: Premium ELNA audio capacitors
• RCA Connections: Gold-plated RCA jacks
• Operational Amplifiers: Replaceable left and right channel op-amps
• Op-Amp Customization: Supports replacement with electrically compatible operational amplifiers
• Volume Control: Electronic volume adjustment using the front-panel control or remote
• Volume Memory: Remembers the previous volume setting independently for each input source
• Input Selection: Front-panel power/input selector or infrared remote
• Input Indicators: Dedicated LEDs indicating the selected audio source
• Bass Control: ±12dB
• Treble Control: ±6dB
• Left/Right Balance Control: Adjustable stereo channel balance
• Tone Bypass: Dedicated switch to bypass bass and treble adjustment circuitry
• High-Pass Filter: Three-position selectable HPF for RCA/XLR main outputs
• High-Pass Filter Settings: Full range, 80Hz, and 120Hz
• Full-Range Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz (±0.2dB)
• 80Hz HPF Frequency Response: 80Hz–20kHz (±0.2dB)
• 120Hz HPF Frequency Response: 120Hz–20kHz (±0.2dB)
• Subwoofer Output Frequency Response: 20Hz–200Hz (±0.2dB)
• Balanced XLR Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 112dB
• Balanced XLR Output Dynamic Range: At least 112dB
• Balanced XLR Output THD+N: 0.0007% or less
• Balanced XLR Output Noise Floor: 6µV or less
• Unbalanced RCA Output Signal-to-Noise Ratio: At least 115dB
• Unbalanced RCA Output Dynamic Range: At least 115dB
• Unbalanced RCA Output THD+N: 0.0008% or less
• Unbalanced RCA Output Noise Floor: 4µV or less
• Manufacturer-Rated SINAD: At least 113dB
• Manufacturer-Rated Channel Crosstalk: -130dB or lower
• Remote Control: Included infrared remote
• Remote Functions: Power on/off, mute, volume increase/decrease, and input selection
• Remote Compatibility: Supports selected Fosi Audio Z-Series components using dedicated product-selection controls
• Remote Batteries: Batteries not included
• Front-Panel Controls: Power/input selector, balance, bass, treble, and volume
• Rear-Panel Connections: RCA inputs, XLR inputs, RCA outputs, XLR outputs, subwoofer output, and 12V trigger connections
• Filter and Bypass Switches: Located on the underside of the enclosure
• Power Input: AC mains
• Input Voltage Range: AC 110–240V
• Built-In Power Amplifier: No
• Speaker-Level Outputs: No
• Built-In DAC: No
• Built-In Headphone Amplifier: No
• Headphone Output: No
• Built-In Phono Preamplifier: No
• Bluetooth Connectivity: No
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: No
• USB Audio Input: No
• HDMI Connectivity: No
• Optical/Coaxial Digital Inputs: No
• App Control: No
• EAN: 6976136960836
• Manufacturer Warranty: 24-month limited warranty
• Included Accessories: Fosi Audio ZP3 Preamplifier, infrared remote control, AC power cord, 12V trigger cable, and user manual

What It's Great At

• Versatile Analog Source Management: Two stereo RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input allow the ZP3 to serve as a central control hub for multiple music sources, including DACs, streamers, CD players, and compatible phono preamplifiers.
• Premium Balanced Audio Connectivity: Balanced XLR inputs and outputs, unbalanced RCA connections, and support for RCA/XLR signal conversion make it easy to integrate components with different analog connections while maintaining low-noise performance.
• Flexible 2.1-Channel System Integration: A dedicated powered subwoofer output and selectable full-range, 80Hz, and 120Hz high-pass filter settings let you fine-tune bass management for bookshelf speakers, floorstanding speakers, and powered subwoofers.
• Customizable Sound and Stereo Balance: Independent bass, treble, and left/right balance adjustments provide convenient sound customization, while Tone Bypass offers a more direct signal path when additional EQ is not desired.
• Convenient Volume and System Control: Per-input volume memory, an included infrared remote, and dedicated 12V trigger input/output connections simplify daily operation and integration with compatible audio components.
• High-Fidelity Preamplifier Performance: Premium ELNA capacitors, NJR electronic volume control, and carefully optimized analog circuitry provide excellent dynamic range, low distortion, and precise sound reproduction for dedicated Hi-Fi listening.

FAQ Section

Q: What is the Fosi Audio ZP3 used for?
A: The Fosi Audio ZP3 is a stereo preamplifier designed to manage multiple analog audio sources, control volume and tone, and send audio to compatible power amplifiers or powered speakers. It includes two stereo RCA inputs, one balanced XLR input, RCA and XLR preamplifier outputs, and a dedicated powered subwoofer output. It does not contain a built-in power amplifier, so passive speakers require a separate amplifier.

Q: How many audio inputs and outputs does the Fosi Audio ZP3 have?
A: The ZP3 features three selectable stereo audio inputs: RCA 1, RCA 2, and balanced XLR. It also provides three analog output types: stereo RCA, balanced stereo XLR, and a dedicated RCA subwoofer output. Separate 12V trigger input and output connections support automatic power synchronization with compatible equipment.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZP3 have a 12V trigger?
A: Yes. The ZP3 includes both a 12V trigger input and a 12V trigger output. These connections allow compatible source components and power amplifiers to turn on and off together, making the ZP3 an excellent addition to systems built around compatible Fosi Audio products such as the ZD3 DAC and ZA3 power amplifier.

Q: Can I connect a powered subwoofer to the Fosi Audio ZP3?
A: Yes. The ZP3 includes a dedicated RCA subwoofer output for connecting a powered subwoofer. Its three-position high-pass filter allows you to select full-range, 80Hz, or 120Hz operation for the main RCA/XLR outputs, helping reduce unwanted low-frequency demands on your main speakers when a subwoofer handles deeper bass.

Q: Can I adjust the bass, treble, and stereo balance on the Fosi Audio ZP3?
A: Yes. The ZP3 provides independent bass adjustment of ±12dB, treble adjustment of ±6dB, and a dedicated left/right balance control. It also includes a Bypass switch that removes the bass and treble adjustment circuits from the signal path when you prefer a more direct listening experience.

Q: Can I use both the RCA and XLR outputs on the Fosi Audio ZP3?
A: Yes. The ZP3's RCA and XLR outputs operate simultaneously, allowing compatible equipment to receive analog audio through both connection types. However, the outputs cannot be independently switched on or off, so connected components should be configured accordingly.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZP3 include a remote control?
A: Yes. The included infrared remote allows you to turn the preamplifier on or off, mute playback, adjust volume, and switch between the three available audio inputs. The ZP3 also features per-input volume memory, automatically recalling the previous volume setting when returning to a selected source.

Q: Does the Fosi Audio ZP3 have Bluetooth, a DAC, or a phono input?
A: No. The ZP3 is a dedicated analog preamplifier and does not include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, a built-in DAC, or a phono preamplifier. Digital sources must be connected through an external DAC or another component with analog outputs, while turntables require a built-in or external phono preamp before connecting to one of the ZP3's RCA inputs.