iFi 0311021 Audio ZEN Blue 3 Lossless Bluetooth DAC (0311021)

iFi 0311021 Audio ZEN Blue 3 Lossless Bluetooth DAC (0311021)

The iFi 0311021 AudioZEN Blue 3 is a lossless Bluetooth DAC that can both send and receive CD-quality audio via aptX Lossless, bringing uncompromised wireless sound to your Hi‑Fi or headphones. It also includes a Hi‑Res USB mode for desktop use for flexible, high‑quality playback.

Lossless Bluetooth, both ways

As the world’s first Bluetooth DAC to transmit and receive aptX Lossless, ZEN Blue 3 delivers CD-quality audio (44.1kHz/16-bit) with zero data loss.

• Bluetooth 5.4 powered by Qualcomm QCC518x
• aptX Lossless maximum bitrate: 1,200kbps
• RX and TX support for lossless Bluetooth audio

Hi‑Res Bluetooth compatibility

The Hi‑Res Bluetooth engine supports current high‑definition formats for broad device compatibility and higher sample rates where available.

• Codecs: aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, aptX Low Latency, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC, SBC
• 24‑bit capable: aptX HD up to 48kHz; aptX Adaptive, LDAC, and LHDC up to 96kHz
• Over‑the‑air updatable Bluetooth engine for potential future codec additions

Hi‑Fi architecture for accuracy

A separate Bluetooth stage, dedicated DAC stage, and amp stage optimize performance at every step. A dedicated ESS Sabre DAC handles conversion, custom OV series op‑amps amplify the signal, and the GMT femto‑precision clock system eliminates jitter for precise playback.

Versatile desktop DAC and connections

Beyond Bluetooth, ZEN Blue 3 functions as a traditional wired DAC with multiple inputs and convenient analogue outputs for easy system integration.

• Dedicated DAC mode via USB or S/PDIF inputs
• USB‑C up to 96kHz/24‑bit; S/PDIF up to 192kHz/24‑bit
• Analogue outputs: 4.4mm balanced or RCA

Low‑latency mode for A/V sync

With a device receiver that supports aptX Low Latency, ZEN Blue 3’s Low Latency mode reduces transmission delay so onscreen action aligns with what you hear.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does ZEN Blue 3 support lossless Bluetooth in both directions?

  Yes. It is the world’s first device to both send and receive CD‑quality audio over Bluetooth using aptX Lossless (44.1kHz/16‑bit, zero data loss).

• Which Bluetooth codecs are supported?

  aptX Lossless, aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX, aptX Low Latency, LDAC, LHDC/HWA, AAC, and SBC. Among 24‑bit codecs, aptX HD supports up to 48kHz, while aptX Adaptive, LDAC, and LHDC reach up to 96kHz.

• Can it work as a wired DAC?

  Yes. In DAC mode it accepts USB or S/PDIF inputs, supporting up to 96kHz/24‑bit over USB‑C and up to 192kHz/24‑bit over optical/coaxial S/PDIF, with 4.4mm balanced or RCA analogue outputs.

• Is the Bluetooth platform updatable?

  Yes. The Bluetooth engine can be updated over the air, and future codecs may be added.

• What’s included in the box?

  ZEN Blue 3, RCA cable, USB‑A to USB‑C cable, power adapter, and a quick start guide.

Add to Cart to bring lossless Bluetooth to your system, and contact or visit Gibbys for personalized system‑matching and setup advice from our audio specialists.