1. Product Overview
The Hidizs S3 PRO is a compact and portable Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to enhance audio quality from various devices. It features an ESS9281C PRO DAC chip, supports MQA audio, and offers broad compatibility with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS systems.
Image 1.1: Hidizs S3 PRO Portable DAC Headphone Amplifier.
Key Features:
- ESS9281C PRO DAC: Provides low power consumption, ultra-low distortion, and near-zero noise. Supports PCM up to 32Bit/384kHz and DSD128.
- 8X MQA Support: Capable of fully 'unfolding' MQA files for high-fidelity audio playback.
- Ultra-Portable Design: Compact dimensions (0.79 in diameter, 3.54 in length) for easy transport.
- High-Quality Cable: Features a mixed braiding of 2 core high purity silver and 2 core OFC wires (60 strands each) for optimal signal transmission.
- Wire Control Support: Compatible with earphones featuring inline controls for playback, volume, and phone calls.
- Sampling Rate Indicator Light: An LED light changes color to indicate the current audio sampling rate.
- Multi-system Compatibility: Supports Windows, Mac, Android, iPadOS, and iOS devices.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Hidizs S3 PRO Portable DAC Headphone Amplifier
- USB-A adapter x 1
- User Manual (this document)
3. Setup Instructions
3.1 Connecting to a Device
- Identify the USB-C Connector: The S3 PRO features a USB-C connector for connecting to your source device.
- Connect to Source Device:
- For devices with a USB-C port (Android phones, MacBooks, Windows PCs with USB-C): Directly plug the S3 PRO's USB-C connector into the device's USB-C port.
- For devices with a standard USB-A port (most Windows PCs): Use the included USB-A adapter. Connect the S3 PRO's USB-C end to the adapter, then plug the adapter into the USB-A port.
- For iOS devices (iPhones, iPads with Lightning port): A Lightning OTG cable (not included) is required and must be purchased separately. Connect the S3 PRO to the Lightning OTG cable, then to your iOS device.
- Connect Headphones: Plug your 3.5mm headphones or earphones into the 3.5mm audio jack on the S3 PRO.
Image 3.1: Connecting the S3 PRO to a smartphone and earphones.
3.2 Driver Installation (Windows Only)
For Windows operating systems, it may be necessary to install specific drivers for optimal performance. Visit the official Hidizs website to download the latest drivers for the S3 PRO model. Follow the on-screen instructions for installation.
Note: Windows 7 and earlier versions are not supported. Mac, Android, and iOS systems typically do not require additional driver installation.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Audio Playback
Once connected, your device should automatically recognize the S3 PRO as an external audio output device. Select the S3 PRO as your preferred audio output in your device's sound settings or music application.
4.2 Sampling Rate Indicator Light
The S3 PRO features an LED indicator that illuminates in different colors to show the current audio sampling rate:
- Red: Indicates a sampling rate of 44.1kHz - 48kHz.
- Blue: Indicates a sampling rate of 88.2kHz - 384kHz.
- Pink: Indicates MQA audio playback.
Image 4.1: The S3 PRO's LED indicator showing the sampling rate.
4.3 MQA Playback
To utilize the 8X MQA unfolding capability, ensure you are using a music service and application that supports MQA (e.g., TIDAL Masters, HiBy Music). The S3 PRO will automatically detect and process MQA files, indicated by a pink LED light.
Image 4.2: Visual representation of MQA audio support with the S3 PRO.
4.4 Wire Control Functionality
If your earphones are equipped with inline controls, the S3 PRO supports these functions for convenience:
- Playback Control: Play/pause music.
- Volume Adjustment: Increase or decrease volume.
- Call Management: Answer or end phone calls without disconnecting the dongle.
5. Firmware and Tuning Styles
The Hidizs S3 PRO offers three distinct firmware tuning styles to customize your listening experience. These can typically be switched via a firmware update tool available on the Hidizs website. Refer to the official Hidizs support page for detailed instructions on how to update firmware and select tuning styles.
- Transparent Treble: Bright, clean, crisp, and detailed sound profile.
- Tonal Balance: A pure and pleasing sound with balanced frequencies.
- Prominent Bass: Enhanced bass with notable elasticity and depth.
Image 5.1: Representation of the S3 PRO's three available tuning styles.
6. Compatibility
The Hidizs S3 PRO is designed for broad compatibility with various operating systems:
- Windows: Supports Windows 8 and newer versions. (Windows 7 and earlier are not supported).
- Mac OS: Fully supported.
- Android: Fully supported.
- iOS/iPadOS: Supported, but requires a separate Lightning OTG cable for Apple devices with a Lightning port.
Image 6.1: Operating system compatibility for the Hidizs S3 PRO.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Hidizs |
| Model Number | S3PRO |
| DAC Chip | ESS9281C PRO |
| PCM Support | Up to 32Bit/384kHz |
| DSD Support | DSD64/128 |
| MQA Support | 8X MQA Unfolding |
| THD+N | -110dB |
| SNR | +130dB |
| Output Jack | 3.5mm Single-Ended |
| Interface Type | USB-C |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Product Dimensions | 3.54 x 0.79 x 0.39 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.39 ounces |
| Cable Type | Mixed Braiding (2 core high purity silver + 2 core OFC) |
8. Troubleshooting
- No Sound Output:
- Ensure the S3 PRO is securely connected to both your source device and headphones.
- Verify that the S3 PRO is selected as the default audio output device in your operating system's sound settings.
- Check the volume levels on both your source device and any inline headphone controls.
- For Windows, confirm that the necessary drivers are installed.
- Test with different headphones or a different source device to isolate the issue.
- MQA Indicator Not Lighting Up (Pink):
- Ensure you are playing MQA-encoded audio files.
- Verify that your music playback application (e.g., TIDAL, HiBy Music) is configured for MQA playback and is outputting to the S3 PRO.
- Check for available firmware updates for the S3 PRO on the Hidizs website.
- Intermittent Audio or Disconnections:
- Ensure the connection between the S3 PRO and your device is stable and not loose.
- Avoid excessive bending or strain on the cable.
- Try connecting to a different USB port or a different source device.
- Ensure there are no conflicting audio drivers or software running on your device.
- Device Not Recognized:
- Restart your source device.
- Try connecting the S3 PRO to a different USB port.
- For Windows, ensure drivers are correctly installed.
- For iOS, confirm the Lightning OTG cable is compatible and functioning correctly.
9. Maintenance and Care
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the S3 PRO. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: Handle the S3 PRO and its cable with care. Avoid pulling on the cable or applying excessive force to the connectors.
- Moisture: Keep the device away from water and high humidity to prevent damage.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please refer to the official Hidizs website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Hidizs Official Website: www.hidizs.net
