The following product descriptions, specifications and images are provided by the manufacturer.
Fosi Audio ZD3 is a fully balanced desktop DAC and preamplifier for computers, televisions, wireless sources and dedicated digital transports.
The ES9039Q2M platform, HDMI ARC, USB, Bluetooth, XLR/RCA outputs and bypass mode make it a versatile digital hub for modern HiFi systems.
Why it stands out
Four reasons this product deserves a place in a well-planned audio system.
ES9039Q2M Balanced Conversion
The flagship ESS DAC architecture supports high-resolution decoding and balanced analog output.
HDMI ARC for Television Audio
Connect a compatible TV directly and control a stereo system without relying on a separate AV receiver.
Variable or Fixed Output
Use preamp mode for direct volume control or bypass mode for a fixed-level connection to another preamplifier.
Trigger and Remote Integration
12V trigger input/output, OLED display and remote control streamline everyday system operation.
Best for
- TV-to-HiFi upgrades using HDMI ARC
- Balanced power amplifiers such as ZA3 or V3 Mono
- Computer USB audio systems
- Bluetooth and multi-source digital systems
- Active speakers with XLR or RCA input
Not ideal for
- Users needing built-in speaker amplification
- Headphone listeners without a separate headphone amplifier
- Analog-only sources such as a turntable
- Systems requiring Wi-Fi network streaming apps inside the DAC
EMiUZEK Buying Notes
- ZD3 is a DAC/preamp, not a speaker power amplifier; connect it to active speakers or a separate amplifier.
- Use bypass only when downstream equipment provides volume control, because bypass sends fixed-level output.
- HDMI is ARC audio input rather than a general HDMI video switch or HDMI output.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the ZD3 drive passive speakers?
No. Connect its XLR or RCA output to a power amplifier before passive speakers.
Can it connect directly to a television?
Yes, through a compatible HDMI ARC connection. Configure the television for supported digital audio output.
Does it have a headphone output?
No. Add a separate headphone amplifier if headphone listening is required.
Can it connect to active speakers?
Yes. Use XLR or RCA output and operate the ZD3 in preamp mode for volume control.
What is bypass mode?
It bypasses variable preamp control and sends fixed-level output to a downstream preamp or integrated amplifier.
Does Bluetooth transmit to headphones?
No. Bluetooth is an input for receiving audio from a source device.
Does it support high-resolution USB audio?
Yes, up to PCM 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512 over USB with compatible hardware and software.
HOW TO CONNECT
TV stereo system
Source: Television
Connection: HDMI ARC
Output: XLR or RCA
Target: Power amplifier or active speakers
Note: Select a compatible PCM output setting on the TV if required.
Computer audio
Source: PC / Mac
Connection: USB
Output: XLR or RCA
Target: Power amplifier, headphone amp or active speakers
Note: Some Windows configurations require the Fosi USB driver.
Wireless audio system
Source: Phone / tablet
Connection: Bluetooth 5.0
Output: XLR or RCA
Target: Amplifier or active speakers
Note: Bluetooth is receive-only on the ZD3.
Technical Specifications
Core Architecture
| Feature |
Specification |
| Product Type |
Balanced DAC / preamplifier |
| DAC |
ESS ES9039Q2M |
| USB Interface |
XMOS XU316 |
| Bluetooth Chip |
QCC3031 |
| Op-Amp |
LME49720; swappable design |
Digital Audio
| Feature |
Specification |
| USB Maximum |
PCM 32-bit/768kHz; DSD512 |
| Optical / Coaxial Maximum |
PCM 24-bit/192kHz |
| Bluetooth Maximum |
PCM 24-bit/48kHz |
| Bluetooth Codecs |
aptX HD, aptX, AAC, SBC |
| Bluetooth Version |
5.0 |
Inputs and Outputs
| Feature |
Specification |
| Inputs |
USB, HDMI ARC, coaxial, optical, Bluetooth |
| Outputs |
Balanced XLR; RCA |
| XLR Output Level |
5Vrms |
| RCA Output Level |
2.5Vrms |
| Trigger |
12V trigger input and output |
Measured Performance
| Feature |
Specification |
| SINAD |
126dB |
| SNR |
≥126dB |
| THD+N |
<0.00008% |
| Dynamic Range |
≥123dB |
| Noise Floor |
≤2μV |
| Power Supply |
DC 12V/1.5A |
Recommended System Setup
| Setup |
Connection |
| TV HiFi |
TV → HDMI ARC → ZD3 → amplifier → passive speakers |
| Balanced desktop |
Computer → USB → ZD3 → XLR active speakers |
| Wireless system |
Phone → Bluetooth → ZD3 → amplifier or active speakers |
Additional Product Content
| Feature |
ZD3 |
ZH3 |
GR40 |
| Product Position |
Balanced DAC / preamp |
DAC / headphone amp / preamp |
Tube DAC / headphone amp |
| DAC Chip |
ES9039Q2M |
AKM AK4493SEQ |
Not specified |
| USB Maximum |
PCM 768kHz / DSD512 |
PCM 768kHz / DSD512 |
Product-dependent lower tier |
| HDMI ARC |
Yes |
No |
No |
| Bluetooth Input |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
| Headphone Output |
No |
4.4mm, 6.35mm |
3.5mm |
| Analog Input |
No |
RCA |
No |
| Balanced Line Output |
XLR |
XLR |
No |
| Remote Control |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
| Best Use |
TV and balanced amplifier hub |
Complete desktop/headphone hub |
Compact tube-flavoured desktop audio |