The iFi Zen DAC 3 is – as the ‘three’ might suggest – already the third generation of this success number.
The iFi Zen DAC 3 will not cost you (very much). Still, it is a very complete and comprehensive unit. The maximum supported quality of the DAC is 768 kHz PCM and DSD up to DSD512. Should you have some MQAs lying around here or there, it is good to know that this format is also supported. Practical is the built-in headphone amplifier and associated volume control. Here you can choose between an asymmetrical regular 6.3 mm jack connection and a 4.4 mm balanced output. A USB-C connection is provided as an input.
Zen Phono 3
Also new from iFi is the Zen Phono 3, a phono preamplifier that can handle both MM and MC cartridges. Practical is the built-in subsonic filter that – according to the manufacturer – should have a positive effect on both integrity and musicality. The Phono 3 features balanced and unbalanced outputs, so you can go either way with it.
The iFi Zen DAC 3 is available immediately and costs $229. You can also purchase the Zen Phono 3 now, at a cost of $249. So, as mentioned, quite affordable!