iFi Audio NEO iDSD 3 High-Resolution DAC & Headphone Amplifier
The iFi Audio NEO iDSD 3 is a premium 3-in-1 DAC, headphone amplifier, and Bluetooth receiver engineered for audiophiles who demand both precision and musicality. Merging purist design principles with advanced digital processing and powerful amplification, it delivers exceptional clarity, realism, and emotional impact from every source — wired or wireless.
Built around a customized Burr-Brown DAC chipset, the NEO iDSD 3 processes PCM and DSD through separate signal paths to maintain bit-perfect accuracy. With support for ultra-high-resolution audio up to 768kHz PCM and DSD512, it reveals fine detail, dynamic nuance, and natural tonal balance across your entire music library.
Powered by an upgraded PureWave amplification circuit inspired by the Diablo 2, it delivers up to 5,551mW of peak output power (2,532mW RMS), driving even the most demanding headphones with authority and control. Advanced Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, LDAC, LHDC, and more ensures CD-quality wireless audio with no data loss. Enhanced with JVCKENWOOD K2 and K2HD Technology, the NEO iDSD 3 restores harmonic richness lost during digital encoding, bringing your music back to life with depth, warmth, and realism.
What It's Great At
- Driving high-impedance and planar magnetic headphones with powerful, controlled amplification
- Delivering ultra-high-resolution playback up to 768kHz PCM and DSD512
- Providing CD-quality Bluetooth audio via aptX Lossless and LDAC
- Restoring warmth and harmonic depth with K2 and K2HD processing
- Serving as a versatile desktop DAC, preamp, and headphone amplifier in one chassis
- Integrating seamlessly into modern Hi-Fi systems with RCA input and multiple digital connections
iFi Audio NEO iDSD 3 Specifications
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Analogue Inputs: Single-Ended RCA (L/R)
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Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.4
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Bluetooth Formats: aptX Lossless; aptX Adaptive; aptX; LDAC; LHDC/HWA; AAC; SBC
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Digital Inputs: USB-B 3.0; S/PDIF Coaxial; S/PDIF Optical; Bluetooth
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File Support: Up to 768kHz PCM; DSD512 (22.6MHz)
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Headphone Outputs: Balanced 4.4mm; Single-Ended 6.3mm
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Headphone Output Impedance: ≤1Ω; ≤7Ω when iEMatch enabled
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Maximum Output Power: ≥5,551mW Peak; 2,532mW RMS
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DAC Architecture: Customized Burr-Brown chipset with separate PCM and DSD pathways
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Amplification Circuit: PureWave circuitry inspired by Diablo 2
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Digital Enhancement: JVCKENWOOD K2 Technology; K2HD Technology
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Capacitors: Upgraded polymer capacitors; WIMA MKS2 capacitors
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Operational Amplifiers: Newly upgraded for lower distortion
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Dimensions: 214 x 158 x 41mm (8.4 x 6.2 x 1.6”)
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In the Box: NEO iDSD 3; Stereo RCA Cable; 3.5mm to 6.35mm Adapter; iPower 2; USB 3.0 Type A to B Cable; Aluminium Remote Control; Vertical Stand; Quick Start Guide
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Warranty: 1-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty
Expanded Key Features List
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3-in-1 DAC, Amp, and Bluetooth Receiver: Combines high-resolution digital-to-analog conversion, powerful headphone amplification, and advanced wireless connectivity in a single home audio component.
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Ultra-High-Resolution Audio Support: Handles PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512 for reference-level playback with exceptional detail and dynamic accuracy.
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PureWave Amplification Circuit: Inspired by the Diablo 2 design, delivering up to 5,551mW peak output for effortless control over demanding headphones.
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aptX Lossless & Advanced Bluetooth 5.4: Provides CD-quality wireless audio with no data loss, plus compatibility with LDAC, LHDC, AAC, and SBC.
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Customized Burr-Brown DAC Architecture: Uses separate PCM and DSD signal paths to preserve bit-perfect integrity and natural musicality.
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K2 & K2HD Harmonic Restoration: Restores harmonic content lost during digital processing and enhances lower-resolution tracks for improved realism and depth.
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Upgraded Power & Signal Components: Features polymer capacitors, WIMA MKS2 caps, and new op-amps for reduced distortion and smoother high frequencies.
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Low Output Impedance with iEMatch: Ensures compatibility with both sensitive in-ear monitors and high-power headphones while minimizing noise.
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Flexible Connectivity: Includes USB, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth, and RCA input for seamless integration into desktop or full Hi-Fi systems.
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Desktop-Friendly Design: Horizontal or vertical placement with included stand and adjustable LED brightness for clean home integration.
FAQ Section
Q: Is the NEO iDSD 3 suitable for high-impedance headphones?
A: Yes, with up to 5,551mW peak output power, it can easily drive high-impedance and planar magnetic headphones.
Q: What is the maximum supported audio resolution?
A: It supports up to 768kHz PCM and DSD512 (22.6MHz) for ultra-high-resolution playback.
Q: Does it support aptX Lossless Bluetooth?
A: Yes, it supports aptX Lossless, along with LDAC, LHDC, aptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC for high-quality wireless audio.
Q: What does K2 and K2HD Technology do?
A: These technologies restore harmonic detail lost during digital encoding and enhance musical depth and realism, with K2HD also improving lower-resolution tracks.
Q: Can it be used as a preamp in a speaker system?
A: Yes, with RCA output and high-quality DAC architecture, it can function as a preamp in an active speaker or amplifier-based setup.
Q: What headphone connections are available?
A: It includes both a balanced 4.4mm output and a single-ended 6.3mm output for versatile headphone compatibility.
Q: Does it support both wired and wireless playback?
A: Yes, it supports USB, coaxial, optical, and Bluetooth inputs for maximum flexibility.
Q: Is it easy to integrate into a home setup?
A: Yes, with RCA input, multiple digital inputs, remote control, and vertical or horizontal placement options, it integrates easily into modern Hi-Fi systems.
iFi Audio NEO iDSD 3 Downloads
Neo iDSD 3 User Manual
