iFi Zen Blue 3 Review

The future of audio is wireless. This sentiment is echoed by manufacturers of hi-fi products. Not only are there great wireless headsets from brands like Focal and Dali Audio but also innovations making use of Bluetooth 5.4 and AptX Lossless. These advancements make a compelling case for audiophiles to embrace a wireless future. The iFi ZEN Blue 3 stands out as a notable device, offering cutting-edge Bluetooth features at an unprecedented price point. iFi, known for leading the way in high-quality Bluetooth streaming since the launch of its early ZEN Blue and portable wireless products, aims to push the envelope further with the ZEN Blue 3, priced at $299. Let’s delve into the features and performance of this remarkable device.

What’s in the Box:

• ZEN BLUE 3
• Power Supply
• USB-A to USB-C Cable
• RCA to RCA Cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card

Build Quality

The iFi ZEN Blue 3 follows the same build philosophy as the Zen DAC 3 and Zen CAN 3, designed to stack together. Its chassis, crafted from solid, high-grade aluminum alloy, ensures durability and longevity while offering a sleek, modern aesthetic. The matte finish enhances its stylish appeal, making it a valuable addition to any audio setup.

Each component is arranged to optimize space and functionality, reflecting iFi’s commitment to excellence in design and engineering. The back panel features S/PDIF, USB-C, and RCA Analog inputs for its DAC section, along with Bluetooth reception. Outputs include S/PDIF, RCA, and balanced connections. The front panel offers controls for wireless modes, DAC settings, transfer modes, Bluetooth pairing, and light brightness. Central to the front panel is iFi’s Bluetooth codec and PCM display. This changes color based on the codec in use, and a light indicating the sample rate of the streaming music.

Design

The iFi ZEN Blue 3 showcases a masterful integration of cutting-edge technology and thoughtful engineering. At its core is the Qualcomm QCC518x Bluetooth audio chip, supporting the latest aptX Lossless codec, capable of delivering CD-quality audio wirelessly at a maximum bitrate of 1,200kbps. This ensures high-fidelity sound without compromising on audio quality.

A dedicated ESS Sabre DAC enhances its performance, providing precise and clear digital-to-analog conversion. The versatile input options, including USB-C, SPDIF, and analog RCA, make the ZEN Blue 3 adaptable to various audio sources. This technical design underscores iFi’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of wireless audio technology, offering audiophiles a seamless blend of wired and wireless high-resolution audio options.

Bluetooth Functionality

The ZEN Blue 3 supports an extensive range of Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC™, LHDC/HWA, aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC, and SBC, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of devices. Notably, it functions as both a Bluetooth receiver and transmitter, offering unparalleled flexibility. This feature allows users to transmit AptX Lossless audio to compatible speakers, headphones, or any wireless device, making it a crucial addition in the early stages of Bluetooth 5.4.

The device also outputs audio via 4.4 balanced or RCA analog outputs. Its Low Latency mode, when paired with a compatible receiver (using aptX Adaptive), reduces audio delay, making it ideal for watching movies or gaming.

Sound Impressions

The ZEN Blue 3 offers a clear, neutral-warm sound signature, consistent with the Zen line of equipment. Whether used as a DAC or a transport to another device (like the Zen DAC 3 or Zen CAN 3), it delivers clean and balanced audio. Testing with detail-heavy headphones such as the Sennheiser HD600, Audeze MM-100, and Hifiman Edition XS revealed minimal lossiness, even with the highest quality codecs.

Bass response is clean and assertive, with the Hifiman Edition XS pairing particularly well. The midrange is controlled with a solid midbass transition and neutral vocal presentation, and instrument separation is excellent. The HD600 headphones, known for their midrange focus, revealed no lack of detail. Treble reproduction with the MM-100 and Edition XS was tactile and deliberate, showing impressive detail retrieval without feeling overly smoothed.

Final Thoughts

Wireless audio technology continues to evolve, and iFi is at the forefront of this progress. The ZEN Blue 3 offers impressive sound quality at its price point, with the key feature of transmitting AptX Lossless setting it apart. This device is likely to encourage more people to explore the potential of wireless audio.

The iFi Zen Blue 3 is available at Audio46.