From high-end audio brand iFi comes a new way to experience your music wirelessly. The ZEN Blue 3 is not only the next generation of their Bluetooth DAC/Amp series, but it’s also the first lossless receiver and transmitter. With the support of aptX Lossless, the ZEN Blue 3 aims to offer a true audiophile-grade wireless experience. This also comes with three new operation modes including Bluetooth RX, TX, and DAC.
Lossless Audio Over Bluetooth
The new DAC uses the latest Bluetooth 5.4 and the aptX Lossless codec, and Hi-Res 96kHz via LDAC and LDHC/HWA. aptX Lossless falls under the ‘aptX Adaptive’ codec, which houses multiple codecs with different transmission speeds and bit rates within it.
For audio connoisseurs, this means the ZEN Blue 3 allows you to stream lossless CD-quality music from your mobile phone to your Hi-Fi system. Home cinema lovers can also enjoy high-quality audio with Hi-Res Bluetooth headphones while watching movies at home, and much more.
Switchable Low Latency For Gaming
For those using the ZEN Blue 3 in transmission mode for watching video content or gaming, there is a low latency button on the front of the unit. Perfect for intense gaming sessions or relaxing movie nights, low latency mode resolves the delay issue between the video and audio, meaning audio is in sync with video content.
New Wired & Wireless Modes
The iFi ZEN Blue 3 is more versatile than ever, with three new function modes to suit any listener. These modes include:
- RX mode which receives Bluetooth from a source device
- TX mode which transmits Bluetooth to a device
- Wired DAC mode
- ZEN Blue 3 can now act as a traditional wired DAC via USB-C or S/PDIF inputs. ZEN Blue 3 has true audiophile-grade, Hi-Fi circuitry and is not just a System on a Chip solution by using separate Bluetooth, DAC, and Op-Amp chips for superior sound.
- 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.
Signature ZEN Series DesignÂ
Following the redesigned aesthetic of the ZEN 3 product series, the ZEN Blue 3 showcases an eye-catching two-tone front panel design to stand out among hi-fi ‘black boxes’. Similarly, the ZEN Blue 3 exudes character and personality with its smile-like button layout.
The iFi ZEN Blue 3 will be available soon at Audio46.
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