Fosi Audio ZD3

Fosi Audio ZD3 Desktop DAC Preamp User Manual

Model: ZD3

Introduction

The Fosi Audio ZD3 is a flagship desktop digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and preamplifier, offering a fully balanced design with multiple input and output options. It is Fosi Audio's first DAC to support HDMI ARC input and is equipped with a high-performance ES9039Q2M chip, delivering rich and superior sound quality. Designed for home stereo amplifiers, the ZD3 provides versatile connectivity and an enhanced user experience with its OLED display and remote control.

What's in the Box

  • Fosi Audio ZD3 DAC Preamp x1
  • 12V Power Adapter x1
  • Infrared Remote Control x1
  • USB-A to USB-B Cable x1
  • 3.5mm Trigger Cable x1
  • User Manual x1
Contents of Fosi Audio ZD3 box including DAC, power adapter, remote, and cables.
Figure 1: Contents of the Fosi Audio ZD3 package. Includes the ZD3 unit, power adapter, remote control, USB-A to USB-B cable, 3.5mm trigger cable, and user manual.

Setup Guide

Front and Rear Panel Overview

Front and rear panel overview of Fosi Audio ZD3 DAC.
Figure 2: Detailed view of the Fosi Audio ZD3's front and rear panels. The front features an OLED display and volume control. The rear panel includes XLR outputs, RCA outputs, 12V Trigger In/Out, Coaxial Input, HDMI ARC Input, USB Input, Optical Input, and a Bluetooth antenna connection.

Connecting Your ZD3

The Fosi Audio ZD3 offers comprehensive connectivity options. Follow these steps to connect your device:

  1. Power Connection: Connect the provided 12V power adapter to the DC 12V input on the rear panel of the ZD3.
  2. Audio Output:
    • For balanced audio, connect your amplifier or active speakers to the XLR Output ports.
    • For single-ended audio, connect your amplifier or active speakers to the RCA Output ports.
  3. Audio Input: Choose one of the following input methods:
    • USB Input: Connect your computer or other USB audio source to the USB In port using the provided USB-A to USB-B cable.
    • Optical Input: Connect devices like CD players, DVD players, or game consoles to the OPT In port using an optical cable.
    • Coaxial Input: Connect compatible devices to the COAX In port using a coaxial cable.
    • HDMI ARC Input: Connect your TV's HDMI ARC port to the HDMI ARC In port for audio return channel functionality.
    • Bluetooth Input: Ensure the Bluetooth antenna is securely attached to the BT connector. Pair your smartphone or other Bluetooth device with the ZD3.
  4. 12V Trigger: Use the 3.5mm trigger cable to connect the 12V Trigger Out on the ZD3 to the 12V Trigger In on compatible Fosi Audio amplifiers (e.g., ZA3) for synchronized power on/off.
Diagram showing various product connections for Fosi Audio ZD3.
Figure 3: Product connection and usage diagram. Illustrates connecting the ZD3 to various sources (phone, computer, TV) via Bluetooth, USB, Optical, Coaxial, and HDMI ARC, and outputting to amplifiers or active speakers.
Video 1: ZD3 Trigger Out: Simultaneously Control Two ZA3 Amplifiers. This video demonstrates how to use the 12V trigger feature to power on/off multiple Fosi Audio devices simultaneously.

Operating Instructions

Power On/Off and Input Selection

  • Power: Press and hold the volume knob on the front panel for approximately 2-3 seconds to power the ZD3 on or off.
  • Input Selection: Short press the volume knob to cycle through the available input modes (Bluetooth, USB, Optical, Coaxial, HDMI ARC). The OLED display will show the currently selected input.
  • Volume Control: Rotate the volume knob clockwise to increase volume and counter-clockwise to decrease volume. The OLED display shows the current volume level.
Fosi Audio ZD3 with OLED display showing volume and input.
Figure 4: The ZD3's 1.5-inch OLED display clearly indicates the current volume level, input mode, sampling rate, and audio format. The display can be turned off via the remote control if not needed.

Remote Control Functions

The ZD3 comes with an infrared remote control for convenient operation:

  • Power Button: Turns the unit on/off.
  • Mute Button: Mutes/unmutes the audio output.
  • Volume +/-: Adjusts the volume level.
  • Previous/Next Track: Navigates through tracks (for Bluetooth/USB input).
  • Pause/Play: Controls media playback (for Bluetooth/USB input).
  • Input Mode Buttons: Dedicated buttons for COAX, OPT, USB, HDMI, and BT input selection.
  • Brightness Button: Adjusts the brightness of the OLED display.
Fosi Audio ZD3 remote control layout.
Figure 5: Layout of the ZD3 infrared remote control, showing buttons for power, mute, volume, track control, input selection, and display brightness.

Preamp Bypass Switch

The ZD3 features a bypass switch on the bottom of the unit. When activated, the volume control on the ZD3 becomes inactive, and the output level is fixed. This mode is ideal for users who prefer to control volume via a separate preamplifier or integrated amplifier, ensuring a pure digital-to-analog conversion without additional volume processing.

Close-up of the bypass switch on the Fosi Audio ZD3.
Figure 6: Close-up view of the bypass switch located on the underside of the ZD3 unit. This switch allows users to bypass the internal preamplifier for a fixed output level.

Maintenance and Care

  • Keep the unit in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  • Avoid exposing the unit to moisture or extreme temperatures.
  • Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
  • Ensure proper ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No sound output.Incorrect input selected, cables loose, ZD3 muted, or amplifier off.Verify input mode, check all cable connections, ensure ZD3 is not muted, and confirm amplifier is powered on.
Sound distortion or poor quality.Incorrect sampling rate, faulty cables, or interference.Check source sampling rate matches ZD3 capabilities, try different cables, ensure no strong electromagnetic interference nearby.
Bluetooth connection issues.Device not in pairing mode, out of range, or interference.Ensure ZD3 is in Bluetooth input mode and pairing, move device closer, remove obstacles, or try re-pairing.
Remote control not working.Batteries low/dead, or IR sensor blocked.Replace remote batteries, ensure no obstructions between remote and ZD3's IR sensor.

Specifications

  • Output Chipset: XMOS XU316 + ESS 9039Q2M + QCC3031 + LME49720
  • Maximum Sampling Rate:
    • USB: PCM 32bit/768kHz; DSD512
    • Optical/Coaxial: PCM 24bit/192kHz
    • HDMI: PCM 24bit/192kHz
    • Bluetooth: PCM 24bit/48kHz
  • Output Level:
    • XLR: 5Vrms
    • RCA: 2.5Vrms
  • Input: USB, HDMI (ARC), Coaxial, Optical, Bluetooth
  • Output: XLR, RCA
  • SNR: 126dB
  • THD+N: <0.00008%
  • Dynamic Range: 126dB
  • Noise Floor: ≤2µV
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (±0.1dB)
  • Bluetooth Version: 5.0
  • Bluetooth Connection Distance: ≥13m
  • Bluetooth Transmission Audio Format: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD
  • Input Voltage and Current: DC 12V 1.5A
  • USB Compatible Devices: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11 (Some require drivers; please refer to the user manual), Mac OS X, Linux (No driver required)
  • Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 7.24 x 2.01 inches
  • Item Weight: 2.65 pounds

Warranty and Support

Fosi Audio products come with a standard warranty. For detailed warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please visit the official Fosi Audio website or contact their customer support team. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

Official Fosi Audio Store: Fosi Audio Store on Amazon

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