Fosi Audio ZD3 Balanced Stereo DAC + Pre-Amp

Fosi Audio ZD3 Fully Balanced DAC / Pre-Amp With HDMI ARC

Overview

The Fosi Audio ZD3 Balanced DAC and Pre-Amp combines advanced digital conversion, low-noise analogue design, and effortless usability in a compact, beautifully built unit. Designed for both audiophile playback and desktop integration, it delivers clarity, dynamics, and natural tonal balance that elevate every source.

At its core lies the ESS ES9039Q2M Sabre DAC, built around HyperStream IV architecture. Supporting PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD512, the Fosi ZD3 DAC extracts exceptional detail from high-resolution files, streaming platforms, and traditional digital media. Whether playing lossless tracks or connecting via HDMI ARC, it ensures precision timing, lifelike texture, and a neutral yet musical presentation.

Fosi Audio’s fully balanced circuit topology ensures low distortion and perfect channel separation. A discrete pre-amp stage built around LME49720 OPAs delivers up to 5 Vrms from XLR and 2.5 Vrms from RCA outputs, maintaining dynamic energy while preserving tonal purity. Each OPA is DIP-8-mounted, allowing users to tailor the amplifier’s character through op-amp rolling — from clean and analytical to smooth and warm.

Connectivity is where the Fosi Audio ZD3 DAC / Pre-Amp shines. It features USB-B, HDMI ARC (CEC), optical Toslink, coaxial, and Bluetooth 5.0 inputs. The XMOS XU316 interface ensures bit-perfect decoding for USB PCM 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD512, while other digital inputs support PCM 24-bit/192 kHz. Wireless playback uses the Qualcomm QCC3031 chipset, compatible with aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs for stable, high-quality bluetooth streaming up to 24-bit/48 kHz.

The Fosi ZD3’s sleek aluminium chassis is precision-machined and finished with elegant detailing. The included remote control provides seamless volume adjustment, input switching, and mute functions — perfect for both desktop and living-room setups. Internal power regulation ensures consistent performance from its external 12V supply while minimising noise and interference.

With an SNR of 126 dB, SINAD ≥ 120 dB, and THD + N < 0.00008 %, the ZD3 performs with silent precision. Each note feels vivid, three-dimensional, and natural — music flows with ease and authenticity. Balanced outputs make it an ideal partner for the Fosi ZA3 integrated amplifier , V3 Mono power amps, or any high-end power amplifier, forming a compact system with genuine high-fidelity performance.

For Groove Central listeners, the Fosi Audio ZD3 is more than a DAC — it’s the hub that defines your entire signal chain. Balanced, flexible, and beautifully engineered, it bridges digital sources and analogue power with transparency and musical truth.

Key Features

• Uses the flagship ESS ES9039Q2M Sabre DAC with HyperStream IV architecture.

• Supports PCM 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD512 via USB.

• Balanced XLR and RCA outputs with 5 Vrms / 2.5 Vrms signal levels.

• Fully balanced, low-noise circuit design for excellent channel separation.

• LME49720 OPAs in DIP-8 mounts for op-amp rolling and tone customisation.

• XMOS XU316 USB interface ensures bit-perfect signal processing.

• Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD, aptX, AAC and SBC codecs.

• THD + N < 0.00008 % and SNR 126 dB for ultra-clean audio.

• Precision aluminium chassis with remote-controlled operation.

• Ideal digital hub for Fosi amplifiers or balanced hi-fi systems.

Technical Stuff 

A Deep Dive Into Fosi Audio ZD3 DAC & Pre-Amp ...

For More Information

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Shipping

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