The portable Hi-Res DAC/headphone amplifier hip-dac 3 from iFi Audio combines timeless elegance with cutting-edge features to elevate the listening experience to a new level. The sleek aluminum housing is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers functional advantages. Two USB-C ports for audio and charging make cable management a breeze. The iEMatch technology, specifically optimized for highly sensitive headphones and in-ear monitors, ensures perfect audio output. Inside, innovative circuits like new metal film capacitors provide an extended frequency response. The updated GMT circuit, combined with a new quartz oscillator, minimizes phase noise and delivers clearer sound. The hip-dac 3 is not just about style; it's also about sound quality. Compact in size but impressive in performance, the hip-dac 3 fits discreetly into any pocket. The Burr-Brown chipset, supported by a 16-core XMOS microcontroller, guarantees optimal performance and a perfect Hi-Res partnership. For power-hungry headphones, the symmetrical circuit design minimizes signal distortion and provides an immersive listening experience. The switchable gain control PowerMatch ensures optimal headphone performance, while the iEMatch technology reduces noise and enhances detail fidelity for highly sensitive headphones. XBass, an analog function, boosts the bass without compromising the clarity of the mids—ideal for earphones and open headphones. The asynchronous design guarantees jitter-free data transmission, and a separate USB-C charging port allows for use during charging. Two outputs—a 3.5mm headphone jack and a balanced 4.4mm headphone jack—provide connectivity for various headphones.
