Perfect partner for headphone amplifier Framed in a "Cosmic Blue" finish, now synonymous with iFi signature products, the ZEN DAC Signature was designed as a pure DAC, without a built-in headphone amplifier. Its sole purpose is to serve as a source for connecting an external amplifier, whether it be a headphone amplifier or speaker amplifier. This setup allows for audio system upgrades and easy improvements. The existing ZEN DAC has shown the benefits of balanced circuitry, but the ZEN DAC Signature further elevates the sound quality with its enhanced balanced topology.
High-quality circuits. Superior sound
Key surface mount components have been replaced with Hi-End components used in higher-end devices, including Panasonic OS-CON and Elna Silmic II capacitors. The analog output circuitry has been enhanced to provide short, direct signal paths for optimal signal clarity. This leads to increased detail and expressiveness in sound quality.
Truly Native The digital circuitry of the ZEN DAC Signature ensures direct, bit-perfect data transmission to the DAC, as well as pristine PCM (up to 32-bit/384 kHz), DSD (up to DSD256), DXD, and MQA - the Hi-Res streaming technology used by Tidal. The LED behind the aluminum volume control displays the sampling frequency of the incoming audio data, and the programmable XMOS chip processes data received through the USB input, along with audio-grade oscillators that eliminate jitter. This ensures consistent processing of digital audio signals as they are received, processed, and converted into analog form.
Modern connectivity The USB Type B input supports "SuperSpeed" USB 3.0 standard as well as USB 2.0 for backwards compatibility. It is asynchronous, meaning data transfer speed is regulated solely by the specialized clock scheme of the ZEN DAC Signature for precise data transmission without jitter from the source device. The output features a pair of unbalanced RCA connectors and a Pentaconn 4.4mm output for balanced signal transmission between compact devices that cannot accommodate traditional bulky XLR connections. When connected to an amplifier or active speakers, you can experience all the benefits of the balanced scheme of the ZEN DAC Signature.
Fixed or adjustable output The ZEN DAC Signature outputs can be switched between adjustable and fixed volume levels. The adjustable signal level allows the ZEN DAC to act as a pre-amplifier for direct connection to a power amplifier. The fixed option bypasses the volume control, fixing the output at 4.2V (balanced) or 2.1V for connection to an external preamplifier, built-in amplifier, or active speakers with their own volume control.
Dynamic Duo The ZEN DAC Signature pairs well with the ZEN CAN Signature. When used together, these two ZEN Signature components create a fantastic desktop headphone system for digital and analog sources, further solidifying the reputation of the iFi ZEN series for exceptional performance and versatility at affordable prices.
