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iFi Audio ZEN Blue 3 Balanced Hi-Res Wireless Bluetooth DAC
£299.00 £249.17
SKU
P003542
Free UK Delivery
12 Months
New
48 Hours
The iFi Audio ZEN Blue 3 Hi-Res Wireless Bluetooth DAC combines wireless connectivity with lossless CD-quality audio transmission and audiophile-grade circuitry, offering a premium Bluetooth experience for your Hi-Fi system. With three operation modes, a balanced line output, and the latest Bluetooth 5.4 and aptX Lossless codec, it ensures superior sound quality and versatility for any audio setup.
iFi Audio ZEN Blue 3 Balanced Hi-Res Wireless Bluetooth DAC
iFi Audio, a trailblazer in high-fidelity audio components, is proud to reveal the ZEN Blue 3 Hi-Res Wireless Bluetooth DAC. By merging wireless connectivity with lossless CD-quality audio transmission and audiophile-grade circuitry, ZEN Blue 3 offers a true audiophile-grade Bluetooth experience for your Hi-Fi system.
The ZEN Blue 3 introduces three new operation modes: Bluetooth RX, TX, and DAC. Featuring the aptX Lossless Bluetooth codec, it enables you to receive or transmit lossless CD-quality and Hi-Res audio over Bluetooth, with a switchable low-latency mode for seamless video and audio synchronisation. Stream lossless CD-quality music from your mobile phone to your Hi-Fi system or enjoy high-quality audio with Hi-Res Bluetooth headphones while watching movies at home.
In addition to its wireless capabilities, the ZEN Blue 3 can act as a traditional wired DAC via USB-C or S/PDIF inputs. It boasts true audiophile-grade Hi-Fi circuitry, employing separate Bluetooth, DAC, and Op-Amp chips for superior sound. With Bluetooth 5.4 and the aptX Lossless codec, it transmits lossless CD quality with no data loss, and Hi-Res 96kHz via LDAC and LDHC/HWA.
For those using the ZEN Blue 3 in transmission mode for watching video content or gaming, the low-latency mode ensures that the audio is in sync with the video, perfect for intense gaming sessions or relaxing movie nights. The unit’s three function modes—RX, TX, and Wired DAC—cater to any listener's needs, whether you're receiving Bluetooth from a source device, transmitting Bluetooth to a device, or using it as a wired DAC.
The ZEN Blue 3 also includes a balanced line output, reducing signal noise and crosstalk between channels, ensuring audio clarity without clutter. Its eye-catching two-tone front panel and smile-like button layout showcase the redesigned aesthetic of the ZEN 3 product series, standing out among typical Hi-Fi components.
Features
- Wireless connectivity with Hi-Res lossless CD-quality audio
- Three Operation Modes: Bluetooth RX (receive), TX (transmit), and DAC
- aptX Lossless Codec two-way lossless CD-quality and Hi-Res audio over Bluetooth
- Switchable Low Latency Mode ensures audio syncs with video for gaming and movies
- Wired DAC Functionality can act as a traditional DAC via USB-C or S/PDIF inputs
- Balanced Line Output reduces signal noise and crosstalk, enhancing audio clarity
- Two-tone front panel and smile-like button layout
- High-quality parts from TDK and Texas Instruments
Cut the Cord. Keep the Quality.
The ZEN Blue 3 offers wireless audio that is free of compromise by incorporating Lossless Bluetooth audio, courtesy of Qualcomm’s Flagship QCC518x Bluetooth audio chip and the aptX Lossless codec.
Offering a maximum bitrate of 1,200kbps aptX Lossless is the first and only Bluetooth codec currently capable of wirelessly sending and receiving CD-quality audio without losing data during compression. For instance, if your phone supports aptX Lossless, you can stream high-quality lossless music from your phone to your hi-fi system.
Not ready to join the Lossless party just yet? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered. The ZEN Blue 3’s extensive backwards compatibility ensures that all current major Bluetooth codecs are supported: aptX Lossless, LDAC™, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC and SBC.
Forging New Connections.
In this increasingly wireless world, high resolution Bluetooth headphones and TWS (True Wireless Stereo) earbuds are an essential for audio enthusiasts. However, the need for a Bluetooth connection can often make them incompatible with your home audio setup.
The ZEN Blue 3 tears down this wall with Bluetooth transmission in all supported codecs, including CD-quality aptX Lossless.
Connect your ZEN Blue 3 to audio sources such as laptops, mobile phones or TVs, via USB-C, SPDIF or even analogue RCA, and introduce your favourite Bluetooth headphones or earbuds to the rest of your audio world.
Whether it’s a late-night vinyl session without the speakers, enjoying your aptX Lossless earbuds while working on your laptop, or marathoning your favourite Netflix series on the TV via headphones, the ZEN Blue 3 offers new opportunities for listening enjoyment.
Versatility Breeds Possibility.
Even with all this innovation on show, the ZEN Blue 3 has even more tricks up its sleeve.
Leveraging the capabilities of the Qualcomm QCC518x chipset paired with a dedicated ESS Sabre DAC and Hi-Fi circuitry, it outperforms most Bluetooth transmitters and receivers.
The ZEN Blue 3 is also able to function as a fully wired DAC, offering 96kHz/24Bit audio via USB-C, or 192kHz/24Bit audio via SPDIF, which can be output via 4.4 balanced or RCA analogue outputs.
Wired and wireless – is it too much to ask for both? We believe not.
Let That Sync In.
Whether you’re getting lost in a great movie or immersing yourself in your favourite video game, few things take you out of the moment quite like a delay in the audio. This is a notorious issue with other Bluetooth products, but for the ZEN Blue 3 this is simply another place to excel.
When using ZEN Blue 3’s Low Latency mode with a device receiver that supports aptX Low Latency, the time taken to send and receive audio is drastically reduced. When your eyes see it, your ears hear it – putting you right back in the moment, where you belong.
Balance in All Things.
With so many Hi-Res audio options available to the ZEN Blue 3, making balanced circuitry available to users is more important than ever.
By including a balanced line output, users with a balanced audio setup can look forward to significantly reduced signal noise and crosstalk between channels, bringing all the clarity with none of the audio clutter.
Performance can be further enhanced with the optional SilentPower iPower2 power supply, featuring proprietary Active Noise Cancellation II technology.
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Discrete ESS Sabre Hyperstream DAC chipset with time domain jitter eliminator, discrete oscillator and 112dB dynamic range for discerning listeners. |
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As with many other iFi audio products, we’ve incorporated a custom OV Series operational-amplifier. This top-notch component contributes to the extremely low noise, low distortion (0.0001%) and wide bandwidth. |
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It is a superior method to the traditional single-ended circuit approach. Balanced circuits reduce noise and crosstalk. Less Interference – clearer sound. You normally find this set-up in products at the higher end of the price spectrum such as the Pro iCAN Signature but iFi is now using this across its range to produce the best quality audio for all our customers. |
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A key advantage of the ESS Sabre DAC chip is its Hyperstream architecture with integrated Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, which delivers vanishingly low distortion and a high dynamic range. |
Specification
- Digital input RX mode: Bluetooth 5.4
- Digital input TX mode/DAC mode: USB, Optical, Coaxial
- Analogue input RX mode: -
- Analogue input TX mode/DAC mode: RCA
- Digital output RX mode: Optical, Coaxial
- Digital output TX mode: Bluetooth 5.4
- Digital output DAC mode: Optical, Coaxial
- Analogue output RX mode: RCA, 4.4mm Balanced
- Analogue output TX mode: -
- Analogue output DAC mode: RCA, 4.4mm Balanced
- Maximum Sampling Rates: 192kHz/24-Bit
- SNR: 109dB
- DNR: 109dBA (0dBFS @ 1kHz)
- THD+N: <0.005% (10K load @ 20-20kHz)
- Dimensions: 158 x 115 x 35mm (6.2 x 4.5 x 1.4”)
- Net Weight: 447g (0.99 lbs)
Package Includes
- iFi Audio ZEN Blue 3
- Power Adapter
- USB-A to USB-C Cable (1.2m)
- Instruction Card
- Quick Start Guide
- RCA Cable
About iFi Audio 
iFi Audio is an award-winning audio tech company dedicated to enhancing your music enjoyment. With a mission to improve sound quality and eliminate noise, distortion, and hiss, iFi Audio offers a wide range of products that cater to headphones, speakers, portable audio devices, phones, and TVs. By doing so, they aim to deliver studio-quality audio that allows you to experience music as the artists intended.
Since its establishment in 2012, iFi Audio has been driven by the love of music and a commitment to making a difference in people's lives. With over 50 meticulously designed and manufactured products, they ensure every detail meets their high standards. Sourcing parts from around the world, including Germany, the USA, and Japan, they bring together global expertise to create exceptional audio devices.
At the heart of iFi Audio's business are its customers. They prioritise delivering the highest quality audio wherever you are, whether in the comfort of your home or on the go. Their distribution centre in the USA serves renowned retailers such as B&H and etailz, expanding their global network and reaching more music enthusiasts.
iFi Audio takes pride in its eco-friendly practices, using recyclable materials like aluminium, paper, and recycled plastics for its products and packaging. They strictly adhere to environmental standards, ensuring their components are hazardous toxins-free.
With a focus on Class A analogue circuitry and maintaining the audio signal's integrity, iFi Audio's products offer exceptional performance without compromising environmental sustainability. They believe that how a product looks, performs, and impacts the environment all matter, and they strive to deliver audio solutions that meet these criteria.
Experience the difference of high-quality audio with iFi Audio and immerse yourself in the joy of music.
Specification
- Digital input RX mode: Bluetooth 5.4
- Digital input TX mode/DAC mode: USB, Optical, Coaxial
- Analogue input RX mode: -
- Analogue input TX mode/DAC mode: RCA
- Digital output RX mode: Optical, Coaxial
- Digital output TX mode: Bluetooth 5.4
- Digital output DAC mode: Optical, Coaxial
- Analogue output RX mode: RCA, 4.4mm Balanced
- Analogue output TX mode: -
- Analogue output DAC mode: RCA, 4.4mm Balanced
- Maximum Sampling Rates: 192kHz/24-Bit
- SNR: 109dB
- DNR: 109dBA (0dBFS @ 1kHz)
- THD+N: <0.005% (10K load @ 20-20kHz)
- Dimensions: 158 x 115 x 35mm (6.2 x 4.5 x 1.4”)
- Net Weight: 447g (0.99 lbs)
UK Delivery
1. We use Royal Mail 1st Class Services as a Standard Postage Option
Orders received before 4.30pm Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays) are usually dispatched the same day by FIRST CLASS post (unless premium postal or timed courier services are selected), subject to stock availability. Over 98% of our orders are usually delivered the next working day including Saturdays.
Standard delivery is usually within 2-3 working days, although 98% of all orders are delivered the next working day including Saturdays . In extreme cases, such as delivery to the Highlands and Islands, this may take 3 days.
All items are fully insured and come with an invoice from Futureshop.co.uk. We use the Royal Mail for delivery of small packages and DPD or Interlink Express for items that weigh over 2KG. Items over 2KG are fully insured and will usually be delivered within 48 hours of placing your order Monday to Friday subject to stock availability. For International orders, we use FedEx Services where customers have selected this option.
Please note, special orders for non-standard cable lengths or custom-made cables may be subject to longer delivery time-scales. This may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
We offer 'Free UK delivery on orders over £99' subject to the following terms & conditions:
- Applies only to orders with £99 or more of items (including VAT at the UK rate), at FutureShop.co.uk
- Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK (excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by UK Mail).
- Applies only to deliveries to addresses within mainland UK and Northern Ireland addresses. Applies only to orders that are to be delivered to a single Mainland UK delivery address.
- You will not be eligible for free delivery on your order if any items are cancelled or returned for a refund, bringing the total order amount below £99. Where items are returned, the refund due will be the cost of the item less any postage costs.
- We reserve the right to change or discontinue 'Free delivery on orders over £99 promotion at any time.
- FREE DELIVERY FOR ORDERS OVER £99 OFFER DOES NOT APPLY TO TRADE CUSTOMERS.
Free Delivery on orders over £99 utilises Royal Mail First Class postal service for items weighing under 2KG. For items weighing over 2KG, we use DPD or Interlink Express next working day services which deliver from 9.00am to 6pm within mainland UK.
Free Delivery for orders over £99 excludes Royal Mail Special Delivery Services and timed next day delivery services by DPD or Interlink Express.
2. Special Delivery UK - Guaranteed Next Working Day
We have 99.9% of the UK covered With Royal Mail Next Day Special Delivery. We guarantee delivery to most UK addresses by 1pm the next working day. This includes Northern Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey. Some places take longer to deliver to but we still guarantee delivery within three working days by 5.30 PM.
For the Next Day Special Delivery service, orders must be received by futureshop.co.uk by 4.30pm weekdays. Orders after the 4.30pm deadline cannot be guaranteed for same day dispatch.
Please note, Royal Mail Special Delivery for next working day may not be possible where non-standard cable lengths are ordered. If this is the case, the item will be shipped via The Royal Mail Special Delivery service as soon as the cable is custom made.
For orders weighing over 2KG, we reserve the right to ship items using Next Day Pre-Noon Courier Services where Royal Mail Special Delivery option has been selected.
3. Channel Islands & Northern Ireland
We accept orders from all Channel Islands including Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey and Sark. Unless you select a premium service, Items weighing under 2KG are delivered using our standard UK delivery option above. For items weighing over 2KG, a surcharge may be applied for all deliveries to the Channel Islands as well as Northern Ireland.
European Countries
Deliveries to EU member states are subject to 20% VAT. We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Untracked Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 10 working days.
- Royal Mail First Class International Tracked Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 3 to 7 working days.
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm for next day service to most destinations in Europe
- Federal Express International Economy - Item are usually delivered within 48 to 72 hours
Worldwide - Excluding UK & Europe
Deliveries outside of the EU are not subject to 20% VAT and so the 20% tax on items is automatically deducted when you login or register.
We offer the following shipping services:
- Royal Mail First Class International Untracked Airmail Services - Items are usually delivered within 15 working days.
- Royal Mail First Class International Tracked Airmail - Items are usually delivered within 10-15 working days.
- DHL Express International - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. DHL orders must be received by 3:30pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability.
- Federal Express International Priority - Items are usually delivered within 48 hours. FedEx orders must be received by 3.00pm in order to ship items the same day, subject to stock availability.
Where the actual weight of the package significantly exceeds the shipping cost charged on orders, we may write to you for an additional shipping charge. For larger orders, items may be shipped in multiple packets.
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