Fosi Audio ZD3 ESS DAC Audio Decoder

Fosi Audio ZD3 ESS DAC Audio Decoder – Flagship HiFi Sound with Ultra-High Resolution Performance

The Fosi Audio ZD3 ESS DAC Audio Decoder is a high-performance desktop HiFi digital-to-analog converter designed for audiophiles, home theater users, and professional music listeners who demand ultra-clean sound reproduction and advanced decoding capability. Manufactured by Fosi Audio and distributed by Audio Phonic, the ZD3 combines cutting-edge ESS 9039Q2M DAC technology, XMOS USB processing, high-quality analog amplification, and Bluetooth wireless streaming into a compact yet powerful HiFi solution.

This DAC is engineered to deliver reference-grade sound quality with extremely low distortion, high dynamic range, and precise soundstage imaging. Whether you are using it with active speakers, a headphone amplifier, or a full HiFi system, the ZD3 ensures that every detail of your music is reproduced with accuracy and clarity.

With support for ultra-high-resolution PCM up to 768kHz, DSD512 decoding, HDMI ARC input, and balanced XLR output, the Fosi Audio ZD3 stands as a complete modern audio hub for both digital and analog audio environments.

Key Features of Fosi Audio ZD3 ESS DAC Audio Decoder

Flagship ESS 9039Q2M DAC Chip

At the heart of the Fosi Audio ZD3 lies the ESS 9039Q2M DAC chip, one of the most advanced digital-to-analog converters in the HiFi industry.

This flagship DAC provides:

• Ultra-high resolution audio decoding

• Extremely low distortion levels

• Highly accurate sound reproduction

• Wide dynamic range performance

• Transparent and natural sound signature

The ESS architecture ensures that music is reproduced exactly as intended, without unwanted coloration or distortion.

XMOS XU316 USB Audio Processing

The ZD3 uses the high-performance XMOS XU316 USB audio processor, enabling stable and high-speed digital audio transmission.

Benefits include:

• High-bandwidth USB audio decoding

• Low latency performance

• Stable PCM and DSD transmission

• Improved compatibility with modern devices

This ensures seamless playback of high-resolution music files from computers and digital sources.

High-Resolution Audio Support

The Fosi Audio ZD3 supports ultra-high-resolution audio formats, making it suitable for audiophile-grade listening.

Supported formats include:

USB Input:

• PCM up to 32bit / 768kHz

• DSD512

Optical / Coaxial:

• PCM up to 24bit / 192kHz

Bluetooth:

• PCM up to 24bit / 48kHz

This ensures compatibility with both studio-grade and consumer audio sources.

Advanced Bluetooth 5.0 Connectivity

The ZD3 includes Bluetooth 5.0 support via QCC3031 chipset for high-quality wireless audio streaming.

Supported Bluetooth codecs include:

• aptX HD

• aptX

• AAC

• SBC

Key benefits:

• Stable wireless connection up to 13 meters

• High-quality audio transmission

• Reduced latency for media playback

• Easy smartphone pairing

This allows users to enjoy wireless HiFi sound from mobile devices.

Balanced XLR and RCA Output

The Fosi Audio ZD3 offers both balanced XLR output and standard RCA output for flexible audio system integration.

Output specifications:

• XLR output: 5Vrms

• RCA output: 2.5Vrms

Benefits of balanced output:

• Lower noise interference

• Better channel separation

• Improved sound clarity

• Professional-grade audio performance

This makes the ZD3 suitable for both home HiFi and studio setups.

HDMI ARC Input Support

One of the standout features of the ZD3 is HDMI ARC input support, allowing direct connection to TVs and home theater systems.

Benefits include:

• High-quality TV audio decoding

• Simple one-cable connection

• Improved movie and gaming audio experience

• Seamless integration with modern TVs

This makes it an excellent choice for home entertainment systems.

High-Performance Analog Circuit Design

The DAC uses premium LME49720 operational amplifier chips to ensure high-quality analog signal processing.

Benefits include:

• Clean and accurate sound output

• Low noise amplification

• Smooth tonal balance

• Improved musical detail

This enhances the natural and realistic sound signature of the DAC.

Ultra-Low Distortion Performance

The Fosi Audio ZD3 achieves extremely low distortion levels for highly accurate sound reproduction.

Key performance metrics:

• THD+N: <0.00008%

• SINAD: 126dB

• Dynamic range: ≥123dB

• Noise floor: ≤2μV

These specifications ensure exceptional clarity and transparency in audio playback.

Wide Device Compatibility

The ZD3 is compatible with a wide range of operating systems and devices.

Supported systems include:

• Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11

• macOS

• Linux

This ensures flexible usage across desktops, laptops, and media systems.

Technical Specifications of Fosi Audio ZD3

DAC and Audio Processing

• DAC Chip: ESS 9039Q2M

• USB Processor: XMOS XU316

• Bluetooth Chip: QCC3031

• OP AMP: LME49720

Input Options

• USB input

• HDMI ARC input

• Optical input

• Coaxial input

• Bluetooth 5.0 input

Output Interfaces

• Balanced XLR output

• RCA output

Audio Resolution Support

USB Input:

• PCM up to 32bit / 768kHz

• DSD512

Optical / Coaxial:

• PCM up to 24bit / 192kHz

Bluetooth:

• PCM up to 24bit / 48kHz

Bluetooth Specifications

• Bluetooth version: 5.0

• Connection distance: ≥13 meters

• Supported codecs:

  • aptX HD

  • aptX

  • AAC

  • SBC

Audio Performance

• SINAD: 126dB

• THD+N: <0.00008%

• Dynamic range: ≥123dB

• Noise floor: ≤2μV

Output Levels

• XLR output: 5Vrms

• RCA output: 2.5Vrms

Power Supply

• DC 12V / 1.5A

Physical Specifications

• Compact desktop design

• Premium metal build construction

Sound Performance and Listening Experience

Ultra-High Clarity and Detail Retrieval

The ESS 9039Q2M DAC provides exceptional detail retrieval, allowing listeners to hear subtle textures and micro-details in music.

Wide and Precise Soundstage

The balanced output design ensures accurate stereo imaging and a wide soundstage, making instruments feel naturally positioned.

Natural and Transparent Sound Signature

The ZD3 delivers a neutral and highly transparent sound profile without artificial coloration.

Powerful Dynamic Response

The DAC handles both soft and loud passages effortlessly, preserving musical dynamics and emotional expression.

Clean Background Noise-Free Audio

Thanks to its ultra-low noise floor, the ZD3 provides a silent background that enhances listening immersion.

Why Choose Fosi Audio ZD3 from Audio Phonic

Audio Phonic offers authentic HiFi audio solutions designed for audiophiles who demand performance and reliability. The Fosi Audio ZD3 is a premium DAC that combines modern digital processing with advanced analog output technology.

Choosing this product ensures:

• Genuine Fosi Audio build quality

• Flagship ESS DAC performance

• HDMI ARC integration

• High-resolution PCM and DSD support

• Balanced XLR output capability

It is an ideal upgrade for both home and professional audio systems.

Ideal Applications of Fosi Audio ZD3

The ZD3 is suitable for:

• Home HiFi systems

• Desktop audio setups

• TV and home theater systems

• Audiophile headphone systems

• Studio monitoring environments

• Wireless Bluetooth music streaming

Its versatility makes it suitable for modern audio ecosystems.

Setup Guide for Fosi Audio ZD3

Connect the device using USB, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, or Bluetooth input. Then connect the output to amplifiers, active speakers, or headphone systems using XLR or RCA cables.

For best performance:

• Use balanced XLR output when possible

• Enable high-resolution playback from source devices

• Use HDMI ARC for TV audio integration

• Pair Bluetooth using aptX HD for better quality

Once configured, the DAC delivers immediate improvement in clarity and sound quality.

Maintenance and Usage Tips

To ensure long-term performance:

• Keep the DAC in a ventilated environment

• Avoid heat and moisture exposure

• Use high-quality cables for best signal transmission

• Clean with a soft dry cloth

• Use stable DC 12V power supply

Proper maintenance ensures consistent HiFi performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What DAC chip does the Fosi Audio ZD3 use?

It uses the flagship ESS 9039Q2M DAC chip.

Does it support high-resolution audio?

Yes, it supports up to 32bit/768kHz PCM and DSD512.

Does it support HDMI ARC?

Yes, it includes HDMI ARC input for TV audio.

What Bluetooth codecs are supported?

It supports aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC.

Does it have balanced output?

Yes, it includes XLR balanced output and RCA output.

Is it compatible with Windows and Mac?

Yes, it supports Windows, macOS, and Linux.

What is the maximum USB audio resolution?

Up to PCM 32bit / 768kHz and DSD512.