Fosi Audio ZH3 DAC Headphone Amp, Fully Balanced Preamp with AKM4493SEQ XMOS XU316 PCM 768kHz for Amplifiers, USB/Optical/COAX/RCA/12V Trigger Input, XLR/RCA/4.4mm/6.35mm Output with Remote
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AI Verdict
This is a 2570mW@32Ω balanced headphone amp and DAC with extensive digital and analog I/O, ideal for driving demanding headphones and integrating into a desktop HiFi stack.
This unit is a strong fit for desktop audiophiles needing a powerful, high-resolution DAC/amp/preamp. Its AKM4493SEQ DAC, XMOS XU316 processor, and 2570mW@32Ω balanced output drive a wide range of headphones, and the extensive I/O integrates well into complex setups.
If you need integrated wireless convenience, look for a DAC/amp with built-in Bluetooth 5.0 or higher.
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Pros
- Delivers 2570mW@32Ω from its 4.4mm balanced output, capable of powering headphones from 16Ω to 300Ω.
- Features an AKM4493SEQ DAC and XMOS XU316 processor, supporting PCM up to 768kHz/32bit and DSD512.
- Offers a wide array of inputs including USB-C, Optical, Coaxial, and RCA, plus outputs like 4.4mm, 6.35mm, RCA, and XLR.
- Allows sound customization with bass/treble EQ adjustments, 6 filter types, and swappable OPA1612 op-amps.
- Maintains a low noise floor of 1.9μV and a SINAD of ≥115dB, ensuring a clean audio signal.
- Includes a 12V trigger input/output for synchronized power control with other audio components.
Cons
- Bass and treble EQ adjustments are only active for the headphone output, not the RCA or XLR preamp outputs.
- Lacks integrated Bluetooth connectivity, requiring external adapters for wireless audio streaming.
- Does not include an HDMI input, limiting direct connectivity with some modern media devices.
- The remote control requires AAA batteries, which are not included in the box.
- The preamp function's volume memory might be tied to the headphone output volume, which can be inconvenient when switching.
Dimension Scores
Utilizes an AKM4493SEQ DAC and XMOS XU316 processor, supporting PCM 768kHz/32bit and DSD512, with a low noise floor of 1.9μV.
Delivers 2570mW@32Ω from its 4.4mm balanced output and 640mW@32Ω from its 6.35mm output, capable of driving headphones from 16Ω to 300Ω.
Features extensive inputs (USB-C, Optical, Coaxial, RCA, 12V Trigger) and outputs (4.4mm, 6.35mm, RCA, XLR), covering most desktop HiFi needs.
Constructed with a metal body, described as rigid and durable, and weighs 2.87 pounds, making it sturdy for desktop use but not highly portable.
Best For
- Driving power-hungry audiophile headphones on a desktop setup.
- Users who want to integrate a high-resolution DAC with multiple digital and analog sources.
- Desktop HiFi systems needing a preamp with XLR outputs for active speakers or power amplifiers.
- Gamers using consoles that benefit from UAC 1.0/2.0 compatibility for improved audio.
Not Recommended For
- Listeners primarily using wireless headphones or needing integrated Bluetooth streaming.
- Users who require HDMI audio input for their setup.
- Those needing bass/treble tone control for their active speakers or external power amplifier via the preamp outputs.
Watch Out For
- The bass and treble controls are only active when using the headphone outputs, meaning preamp users cannot apply EQ to their speakers.
- The remote control does not come with the necessary AAA batteries, so you'll need to supply your own.
- While it has UAC 1.0/2.0 for game consoles, it lacks HDMI, which is a common audio output for many consoles.
- Some users reported the single-ended 6.35mm output, while still powerful at 640mW@32Ω, is noticeably less powerful than the 4.4mm balanced output's 2570mW@32Ω.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0FC2NWBL4 |
| Brand | Fosi Audio |
| Item Weight | 2.87 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Fosi Audio |
| Output Power | 1285 Watts |
| Connector Type | RCA |
| Controller Type | Hand Control |
| Special Feature | RCA |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Item model number | ZH3 |
| Compatible Devices | Amplifier |
| Product Dimensions | 9.45 x 11.81 x 2.76 inches |
| Connectivity Technology | Coaxial, Optical, USB-C, RCA |
| Surround Sound Channel Configuration | 5.1 |
What Buyers Say
Users frequently highlight the ZH3's ability to drive a wide range of headphones, especially those with higher impedance, thanks to its substantial power output. Many appreciate the clean sound reproduction and the flexibility offered by the swappable op-amps and various filter options. The inclusion of a remote and 12V trigger is often cited as a convenience for desktop setups. However, a recurring point of contention is the limitation of the bass and treble controls, which only function for the headphone outputs and not the preamp outputs. The absence of Bluetooth is also a common observation for a device in this price range.
“This thing is a beast for my headphones, finally got some real power, but man, why can't I tweak the bass for my speakers when it's hooked up as a preamp? That's just dumb.”
Common Praise
- Drives demanding headphones with significant headroom, even the 300Ω ones.
- Produces a clean, detailed sound with a low noise floor of 1.9μV.
- Offers extensive input and output options, including balanced XLR out for active speakers.
- Customization options like swappable op-amps and six digital filters allow for sound tailoring.
- The 12V trigger simplifies power management in a multi-component audio stack.
- The multi-function IR remote provides convenient control over inputs, outputs, and menu settings.
Common Complaints
- Bass and treble EQ only works for headphone output, not for preamp output to speakers.
- Lacks integrated Bluetooth, requiring an additional device for wireless streaming.
- No HDMI input, which some users might expect for console or TV integration.
- The remote control does not include AAA batteries.
- The single-ended 6.35mm output is considerably less powerful than the balanced 4.4mm output.
Ownership Tips
- The small circular screen is functional for settings but not for detailed track information.
- The orange volume dial adds a visual pop to the otherwise standard black chassis.
- Switching between outputs (headphones vs. preamp) remembers the last volume setting for each, preventing accidental loud blasts.
- The auto power-off feature after 30 minutes of no signal is useful for energy saving.
- The ability to swap op-amps is a niche feature but offers a tangible way to experiment with sound signatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Fosi Audio ZH3 have Bluetooth?
No, the Fosi Audio ZH3 does not have built-in Bluetooth connectivity. You would need an external Bluetooth receiver if you want to stream audio wirelessly to it.
Can I use the bass and treble controls when connected to active speakers?
No, the bass and treble EQ adjustments on the ZH3 only apply to the headphone outputs (4.4mm and 6.35mm). They do not affect the RCA or XLR preamp outputs used for active speakers or external amplifiers.
What kind of headphones can the ZH3 drive?
The ZH3 is designed to drive headphones with impedances ranging from 16Ω to 300Ω. Its 4.4mm balanced output provides up to 2570mW@32Ω, which is sufficient for many demanding headphones.
What are the main inputs and outputs available?
For inputs, it has Coaxial, Optical, USB-C, and RCA. For outputs, you get 4.4mm balanced, 6.35mm single-ended, RCA, and XLR. It also includes a 12V trigger.
Does it come with a remote control?
Yes, the Fosi Audio ZH3 includes a multi-function IR remote control. However, you will need to provide your own AAA batteries for it.
Buying Guide
When looking at a DAC/headphone amp/preamp like the ZH3, you're essentially buying three devices in one. The DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) takes digital audio from your computer or console and turns it into an analog signal. The headphone amp boosts that analog signal to drive your headphones, and the preamp controls the volume and sends the signal to powered speakers or a separate power amplifier. You need to consider what kind of headphones you have and if the amp has enough power for them, and how you plan to connect it to all your audio sources and outputs.
Output Power (e.g., 2570mW@32Ω)
This number tells you how much power the amplifier can deliver to your headphones at a specific impedance. Higher wattage, especially at 32 ohms, means it can drive more demanding headphones (like planar magnetics or high-impedance dynamics) to a comfortable listening level without strain, similar to how a more powerful car engine can accelerate faster.
PCM 768kHz/32bit & DSD512
These figures indicate the maximum resolution of digital audio the DAC can process. PCM (Pulse-Code Modulation) is standard digital audio, and DSD (Direct Stream Digital) is another high-resolution format. Higher numbers mean the DAC can handle more detailed and 'hi-res' audio files, potentially offering a more accurate and nuanced sound reproduction, like seeing a high-resolution photo versus a pixelated one.
Balanced Outputs (e.g., 4.4mm, XLR)
Balanced connections use separate signal paths for positive and negative, which helps cancel out noise and interference, especially over longer cable runs. Think of it like having two separate, shielded lanes on a highway for your audio signal, resulting in a cleaner sound compared to a single-lane, unbalanced connection (like RCA or 6.35mm single-ended).
Noise Floor (e.g., 1.9μV)
This measures the amount of inherent electronic noise the device produces, even when no audio is playing. A lower noise floor (like 1.9 microvolts) means you'll hear less hiss or background static, especially with sensitive headphones or IEMs, allowing the music to emerge from a 'blacker' background.
Alternatives
If this doesn't fit, look for units with integrated Bluetooth for wireless convenience, or HDMI inputs if you need direct TV/console audio, and ensure any EQ features apply to all outputs if that's a priority for your preamp use.
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