This remarkable unit had me second guessing myself. At $180.00 and the ability to swap Op-amps it is an outstanding performer and value. Highly recommended. Please use my code below and save $30.00. FOSI ZD-3: www.ebay.com/itm/Fosi-Audio-ZD3-Fully-Balance-Desktop-DAC-Integrated-Amp-Converter-ES9039Q2M-/296757673959?nordt=true. Use Code: OLDGUYHIFICODE for additional discount. Now $149.99. If you wish to join the channel and become a member please click here: www.youtube.com/@OldGuyHifi/membership
I am liking your channel and just subscribed! Question, I am running a ZA3 with the Burson Vivid 7 Op Amps. I love the way they sound in there but if I add the ZD3 to my system...how does that affect the sound? Does one still need to add more Burson OP Amps to the sound chain? Or is that overkill? I am currently streaming a Wiim Pro through a Schitt Modi Dac into my ZA3 amp to a pair of Elac DB 6.2's... I like the form factor of the ZD3 and the remote and think it would complement the system overall. Was just wanting an educated opinion on the OP Amps...oh AND also, are the XLR in/outs that much better? Would you switch the Burson to the XLR OP Amps instead of the RCA's?
@@adrianriveraotr You only need to roll the op-amps if you want to. The ZD3 out of the box sounded very good with the stock op-amps. Give it a try and see. you can always roll the op-amps later. Thx for subscribing.
I'm interested to know what firmware version the ZD3 you listen to used. I recently upgraded from V1.05 to V1.06 and think the sound quality may have degraded. I'm planning to switch back if possible. Thanks.
@@boomerscs9193 I didn't know you could update the firmware. I have no idea which version it was. The unit is all boxed up. I am sorry I have no way of checking
I just swapped the op amps with 5x52b and I also used a breeze super low noise 25 watt linear power supply and WOW. It turned a good DAC into something great. I have never heard my speakers sound so good! Just one tip you don't need to mess with the screws at the bottom, you can just unplug it from the board. It's way easier than mess with the switch.
I love to see your passion and feelings that you have for music. Thanks for bringing us these albums along with showing us the new gear you listened to them on. Great Job Ed
Really great review. I love the music histories as much as the hardware reviews. It is so refreshing to see folks who review hifi to get emotional because that is exactly why I spend so much time and money pursuing this hobby. Getting the best music possible in my home. When I first brought Sonus faber into my home a few months ago, I got emotional. The sound was amazing and it keeps amazing me every time I turn on my system. Thank you so much for your honest reviews.
I use two spoons, one on each side of the knob, to remove it. Put some painter's tape down to protect the finish, or just put the painter's tape on the spoons. Position the spoons, push down and the knob should slide off. This is a trick that's been used for decades to remove knobs from electric guitars.
6:50 I think they designed it so you can slide it out halfway without unscrewing the bottom so you have enough room to switch out the OP amps without sliding out the PCB all the way out? Also this is the best review of this product I’ve seen so far! 👍🏽
You don’t need to remove the 2 little screws on the bottom to undo that slide switch. Instead, just remove the little white molex connector from the motherboard right by the front notch. Then the motherboard will pull out the back and the switch on the bottom stays attached to the chassis. Much easier! And this is the way that Fosi shows to do it. It work great in my ZD3. Nice video. Thanks!
Great review and disassembly instructions, which suits the techie in me greatly. Intriguing for me to hear your varied perspectives on all this equipment . Thank you as always for your time and efforts sharing this with us all. Take care, Sir.
Fosi published a video on disassembly showing that the wire should be unplugged from the circuit board too. This will save you all the grief of trying to get the switch back into the slot on the bottom.
I’m glad to see you showcase your chip puller. I’ve been advocating for its use whenever given the chance. Very inexpensive, worthwhile and lasts a lifetime.
Thanks for the review. The Schiit Modi+ has a Sabre DAC chip and has zero glare. Implementation of the analog output stage is very good, plus it uses the superb OPA1656 opamp, which provides a nice, overall tonal balance. Sabres are very good, if the rest of the circuitry is up to snuff.
Thanks for the review. I'm curious though, are you anti-WiiM? I've noticed that you never mention them and have never reviewed any of them. I thought that it was just that you wouldn't review DAC'S below about a $1000, but this review makes me wonder. I own a WiiM Ultra for my main system, Pro Plus in my office and I have a Mini arriving today to hook up to some powered speakers in my bathroom. I like that I can turn them on all synced together as well. I'm thinking about someday using my Ultra as a streamer only, running to another DAC. If you review the Ultra, then you could knowingly tell us how the DAC in it compares with this one and the others you review. Thanks for what you do. I respect your opinions.
@@MLantier Maurice, I don't talk about WiiM much because lots of other channels have covered it extensively. I think it is a good product as a starting point. I have gone a different route in that 90% of my streaming is done through Audirvana which is bit perfect (WiiM's are not) feeding any number of out board DACs. It is the best fit for my listening habits well. If I use a streamer it is the Cambridge MXN10 which I believe is the best sounding sub $1k device available. It's software is simple and very stable & robust. I don't care about digital EQ or room correction. I do understand the convenience of whole house audio but I don't have that requirement. If you decide to use an outboard DAC on the Ultra at some point I might recommend you get a DDC like the SMSL PO 100 and connect it to the Ultra's USB and go SPDIF into the outboard DAC. It will sound far better. WiiMs are known for having jitter, latency and clocking issues. The DDC helps ameliorate those. It is a fine product and I have given them to several family members. They just don't fit my use case. Thanks for asking and thanks for being a part of the channel's community. I do appreciate it.
Appreciate the Jade Warrior suggestion! Never heard of them and am always amazed at the number of groups that were not played on our radios in the 70s. Am going to enjoy exploring their catalog 🤙
Excellent video and thanks for sharing, enjoyed the music suggestion segment also, the problem with the choice of Jade Warrior is after listening you will eventually purchase every single thing release in their catalog
Another great review, I’ve been considering this fosi for some neighbor I’m helping put a new simple system together, appreciate your extensive knowledge in the equipment and enjoyed your educational review on the albums as well, just plain good all around thanx again!!
Thanks so much for your review of the ZD3. After watching your video, I ordered the ZD3 and to my surprise, it came the very next day, I was quite surprised. I have only had it for one day right now. My Gear is (Denon 3802, Schiit Magni and Modi, and Fiio BTR7 for late-night movies and road trips, Sandara, Sennheiser 600, and Marshall Cans Closed back). I tried the Topping DX3 Pro+ and compared that I like the ZD3 much better. I had to return the DX3 Pro+ due to overheating and shut issues on the very first day. I tried driver updates, and checking firmware it still would shut down and was very warm to the touch. After seeing 3 other reports online of the same issue, I returned it, and boy I am glad. (Modi has USB short after 5 years, Denon 3802 is too big for my office, and heavy} Now using Denon X4800H in the media room). The office has Bose 601s Sires III Hardwoods and Yamaha Stereo Amp. AGAIN THANKS SO MUCH P.S. I am very sorry I did not order from your link (which was $20 cheaper). I am housebound for another 45 days due to surgery and my wife has to do a lot for me right now. She does not want to go anywhere else for returns if there is a problem.
Just checked the specs on the SX52B discreet opamp. They show it having a slew rate(conversion rate) of 120V/micro-second, which is very high, considering that most opamps usually slew 20-25V/micro-second. This could have something to do with your positive impression of the SX52B.
I've had the ZD3 for several weeks and have been very happy with the sound using the base Ti op amps it ships with. I have the bonus JRC op amps my early order shipped with but haven't tried them yet. I've ordered a set of the op amps you were so happy with to compare as well. My one issue with the ZD3 has been trouble with TV audio, both with HDMI ARC and Toslink connections. In both cases I've had the left channel drop out and also an intermittent echo or reverb effect. I just switched out the HDMI cable to one I had been using with my 4K disc player, and so far so good, we'll see how tonight's 2 hours of TV viewing plays out. I'll note that with my WiiM Pro Plus hooked up to the ZD3 with the same optical cable there have been no issues, it seems to only be an issue with the Vizio TV audio.
First of all, thanks for pulling it apart and swapping the opamps. I did the swap on my v3 monos and plan to do it on this too. Second, your comments echo my own experience. I fired mine up yesterday and couldnt understand where the extra low end was coming from. I guess it must be the Fosi since youre experiencing it too. Great video.
The folks at Fosi worked some magic on this one. Normally, I don't like Sabre DACs. This one I can and enjoy it. Yeah. The bass was very pleasing. It got better on the SX52B op-amps. Thanks for stopping by.
Thanks for the review of both the DAC and music. Agree with you about the David Gilmour album. He and his daughter together is beautiful. Thanks for the Jade Warrior recommendation. Listening to it on Qobuz. Keep up the great work and rock on!
Great review as usual. Definitely an interesting little unit. It looks to me like it would be possible to remove the two 2mm screws, knob and nut and then slide out the front panel. Grab the little plug for the bypass switch with a needle nose and unplug it, then slide the board and rear panel out the back, leaving the switch attached to the case. Probably how it’s assembled in the factory. In reverse order of course. At 8:17… they’re *all* solid state. I think the word you were looking for is “discrete.” However the OPA1656 is NOT discrete. It is a surface mount monolithic chip on a tiny PC board with DIP8 pins out the bottom. The Sparkos and apparently the Ali Express opamps are indeed discrete in that there are individual components on them, not a monolithic IC. For the uninitiated, solid state simply means “not a tube.” It’s a very old term dating back to the early introduction of the transistor. You aren’t the only reviewer that has commented on the disassembly/reassembly process being a PIA due to that switch, but I’m just not sure it’s really the issue it’s being made out to be.
Excellent Review! 2 things I discovered those SX52Bs in 2020 burn them in 2nd even Denifrips recommends a DDC not that big of a controversy but requires a modified setup. Last thing most MFGs don't add the 3db recommended by SABRE Extra:SX52B lower current draw and 4 Volt DC to 18 operating range
Thanks Ed! As op amp rolling gets more coverage from more and more credible reviewers it seems the “synergy” you speak of is often difficult to predict, ie you prefer an op amp that’s less well known to the nearly universally praised SS3602. This is becoming a bit of a pattern where I’ve seen a few people describing outcomes that were less than favorable with highly regarded op amps. I’ve been enjoying my ZD3 in its stock condition for now, looking for credible feedback before shooting the money cannon at various op amp options. I will be taking your feedback very seriously as I move forward. Thanks again, Ed! 👍
I had swapped out the stock opamps in my V3 mono’s for more affordable and accessible IC opamps chips which made a nice improvement over the stock NE5532 opamps. I then recently bought a pair of the Sparkos SS3602 opamps to swap out position 2 opamps in the V3 monos. My system is very resolving and I’m a keen listener. The SS3602 made a pretty noticeable improvement and I couldn’t go without them now to be honest. It didn’t improve a handful of aspects or parts of the sound, it improved all aspects of the sound in every way. It brings a “maturity” to everything, a refinement, density, fullness across the spectrum and expansion of space throughout that the IC opamps couldn’t do. More affordable IC opamps absolutely make a difference over stock but the Sparkos discrete opamps do in fact take things up a few more notches.
@@sean_heisler the SS3602 has been praised nearly universally when applied in Class D amplifiers. I’ve seen similar praise for the Burson V7V in those applications too, if perhaps slightly favoring the Sparkos. Ed is the second well-regarded reviewer I’m aware of who didn’t think the SS3602 was a synergistic match with the ZD3, and one reviewer felt the V7V actually made the ZD3 sound much worse. Perhaps the analog side of a DAC/preamp is not nearly as universal as that in an amplifier and the op amp requires a much more carefully matched environment to perform well? I’m hoping we get to understanding this phenomenon better so we can get to more predictable outcomes.
@Brian_Romska that’s an expression I stole from a buddy who shares my passion for DIY car repairs, describing people who lack troubleshooting skills and just start replacing parts. 😁
I like gear that comes from the factory with carefully chosen complimentary op-amps selected by the designers. I think I get what the op-amp craze is about. $$$ Thanks for your informative, enjoyable videos..
BTW Ed, I checked out Luck and Strange - what a beautifully recorded song. That delicate high-hat tapping away comes from just outside of the left speaker, and the guitar work is so clean and sharp. A great listening song. Yes I have Ghosts, his voice is so full and effortless, and the whole package is well done. Thanks for the suggestions!
The Cambridge MXN-10 which you were lyrical about als has a Sabre DAC chip inside by the way ;) Thanks for the heads up on the SX52B. Put it on my list.
I got the audio lab Dac solely on your video, which I normally never do. But you sounded so sincere. You were absolutely correct on that so I’m assuming if you like this even better. Your word is gold on this one as well.
I hope that someone put this DAC among the so-called 'greats' or best' but more expensive DACs for a blind test. Just because it is cheaper, many 'audiophiles' just go for the more expensive ones. Hope some will take the challenge.
Thanks for another great review. When you mentioned David Gilmour and Jade Warrior, Porcupine Tree came to mind. You might enjoy their twelve minute rollercoaster ride, Arriving Somewhere Not Here. 😎
I couldn't agree more with your comment about the quality of recordings. A great HiFi system will reproduce all the bad parts of a bad recording - and make them sound even worse! And of course the opposite is true too with good recordings
Hi Ed, if you don't need balanced outputs, Bluetooth or HDMI I believe the Topping E30 ii Lite DAC/preamp, presently on sale at $84 (was $100) at Amz, is a better deal. It gets a great review on ASR. I've ordered one & will report back. Happy Thanksgiving!
I just got mine last week, I did the reorder also. I also have the ZA3 on the way. I plan to use this as the system for my 2 channel TV . I'm giving up on the sound bar. Time to buy op apms.
Great review! I just finished writing a review of the ZD3 for Fosi and yours makes me feel very validated. This DAC blew me away. I ended up comparing it to my Benchmark DAC1 USB and the sound was so close, when I came to the value/feature proposition, it was no contest. Spectacular work, once again 👏🏻
UK based Quad has long maintained that it is the implementation of the DAC chip that determines the qualities it provides. Rather than whether it is an ESS or AK chip. IMO that holds with R2R DACs as well.
Geoffrey, I do agree with that to some extend. Unfortunately most ESS implementations are using their 5 volt mobile DAC chip. Anything with a Q2M or K2M designation is a chip designed of dongle DACs, automotive use and low voltage applications, i. e., USB powered DACs. IMO I think there are compromises made to achieve the low power consumption. Quads premise is correct but maybe only in brands known for better engineering. I do think AKM is head and shoulders above ESS. Great comment. Thx.
I just looked on aliexpress: SX52B going for $8.50. Sx45B is about $21. Didn’t see the SX35B Are these all the same size? My understanding when rolling on this unit is you need two op amps for XLR and one for the unbalanced- so you never need to roll all three unless you plan to go back-and-forth using XLR and RCA. @old guy- again I’m interested in your thoughts on comparing the ZD3 with your favorite op amps vs the Geshelli J3
@@kineahora8736I don't think they are all the same. Not 100% sure. I would choose the J3 even with the stock op-amps. In my opinion the AKM 4499/4191 Chip set is far superior to anything ESS makes. I have 3 DACs with the chip set and 3 more with the baby brother AKM 4493SEQ. As I said it is the best ESS chip based DAC I have heard. Not the best I have ever heard. Remarkable for the money for sure. I do like it for it value.
@@kineahora8736 SX45B is bigger than the SX52. SX35B is slightly bigger than the SX45B, they are almost the same. I believe SX35B is only available on Taobao. SX45B is the more transparent out of the three, so best to pair with warm sounding gear.
@@OldGuyHifi aha so you do overall continue to prefer the better AKM implementations… helpful. No sense in my sinking a lot of time into spendy op amps then, but then again-I could always use them if I get a Geshelli! I mean there are SMSLs with the best AKM chips-but it’s the IMPLEMENTATION. People I trust have not really said great things about the SMSLs…with or without the AKM chips… The thing is- I *REALLY* like the HDMI input and the remote function…
It seems that there are TWO bass guitars playing on Chain of Fools! Left and right channels; with fairly "hard pans" on both. Obvious on headphones; but hadn't noticed this on speakers over all these years. And thank you for the heads up on the new David Gilmore album!
Oh boy, I got one of these on preorder (for $144) mostly for the hdmi, kinda enjoyed it for awhile but I just swapped it out for the WiiM ultra so I can get my bass management and the built in streamer back. I never swapped op amps but I think the WiiM ultra sounds better, in part because I can just integrate the sub better I’m guessing? Or maybe the streamer in the ultra is better than the WiiM mini that I was using with the zd3? I do not have the clinically discerning audiophile ears that some of you guys have but I’ll keep the zd3 and try it out some more and probably toss a sparkos in there at some point too. Thanks again Ed! Edit, I’ve been putting off listening to the new gilmour album, and wow it’s good, thanks again for that, I’m not crying you’re crying 😢
Hi Old-guy! I might try those SX52B or Sx45B on mine. The JRC they out in the box, people usu don’t like much. Everyone likes sparkos but they are spendy. So Grzegorz of Virtual HiFi just came out with his own op amps, which seem to be paralleled chip amps that he thinks sound even better than the discreets. But being paralleled they draw much more current and get hot-he’s got two 2-chip parallels, a 4-chip and an 8 chip that gets so hot he is really just experimenting. He doesn’t recommend the 4-chip to anything in a closed box either🤣 the 2-chip versions are about $30… I think these came about because in an earlier test he was impressed by the sound of just taking two cheap NE5532 and soldering them together in parallel -apparently you can t really just do this it requires some other circuit stabilization , but it gave him the idea. But I really want to know how you rate this vs the Geshelli J3. I think the Dayzee is a bit too big. I really like the functionality of the ZD3 with the HDMI in and remote. But if the geshelli is really way better… BTW I particularly like prog and Aretha Franklin. Don’t know Jade warrior. I used to listen to a ton of Yes… Speaking of how recordings interact-I have a bunch or recordings of 17th century music I kinda can’t listen to now-on older stereo equipment (I used to have an early Jeff Rowland amp, a Placette passive pre, and DACs by Audiomeca and dCS, and some of the lowest-priced Sonus Faber speakers) these recording sounded fine. But now there are many moments when a singer is singing high and loud, that it just distorts TERRIBLY-Im not talking “shrill” I’m talking plainly distorted-just never heard this before. Doesn’t show up on rock & jazz albums at all… either something’s wrong with the speakers, or it’s just new components are way more revealing of anything with high dynamic range…
@ this is one of the most helpful comments I have received. Ever! I am having a big problem with those recordings, and you have addressed it with this “ over modulated output stage of DACs” comment. I never really could figure out what the problem was, but it did start happening after I switched to an auralic audio DAC that had the ESS 9018 I believe. That was an expensive DAC- it’s just too bad. I didn’t realize the problem might have been the DAC. Because I also switched amplifiers at the time- I even tried out some Nelson pass firstwatt designs. I really liked. But everything always had this problem with high volume on those recordings distorting Tenor and soprano voices in particular (big bass voices are always fine), and I thought it was just the first watts didn’t have enough power rating… I seem to have the same problem with the ZD3- but I have not swapped the op amps. Is it likely the op amps in the output stage? Or the other topology issues in the output stage? I think im gonna get the SX52b or the SX45b and see what happens. If that doesn’t fix the issue-Grzegorz really liked that LAiV, and Old-guy really likes the Geshelli J3 and Dayzee, and I will probably try one of them… I have the Fosi V3 and I switched the op amps to muses02. But I am open to trying the Sx52 & 45 on these too- the sparkos are pricey- so they had better be a clear improvement for me to try them… what’s this about OEM on the sparkos? They’re called 8802 E+? Who makes them? I am a doctor and I *always* use generic drugs-same stuff, just cheaper🤣🤣 Ok I see $8.5 for SX52B, $21 for SX45b, and $38 for OP8802 (sparkos equivalent). Which one is better?!
I enjoyed the David Glimour suggestion… Suggestion for you , Three sisters from Mexico, The Warning, 4 albums released. First two independent, last two under Lava records … These sisters are the future of rock…. Daniela (Dany) lead guitarist and singer (24)….Paulina (Pow) drummer and vocalist (22) and Alejandra bassist and vocalist (Ale) only (19)…. Dany is the heart, Pau the fire and Ale is the foundation!
Luck and Strange is amazing. I watched the Rick Beato interview with David after his Madison Square Garden concert. David is the best! I am going to listen to the Jade Warrior on your recommendation.
I purchased a trio of the SX52B op amps you recommended. In the case of my unit given the large size of these op amps if I installed one in the single ended slot I did not have room to fully insert a SX52B in the XLR slot next to the single ended one, the chips are slightly too large. I could do the two XLR with no issue or the single ended, but in the case of the latter smaller op amps like the ZD3 comes with must be used. In my case I’m not using XLR so it’s not a big deal. I only listened briefly with the SX52B op amp, but could tell right away it offers more top end (I adjusted the treble EQ settings down in my WiiM Home app) and better defined bass than the stock op amps (which I think sound quite good).
I bought one yesterday for my PC desktop audio for £144. Was a bit surprised to find it came with 3 extra op-amps though I knew you could 'roll' them. Not sure I'll bother but who knows, not me today.
Good question. I like the Q11 only on the AKM chip. The Fosi team has done something special to the sonics. I normally don't like the way Sabre chips sound. This is the first ESS DAC I am ok with. That said, if push came to shove, I will go AKM in this price range. I would love to see Fosi do an AKM chip in a product like this. Thanks for asking.
AKM all the way. Their latest Velvet Sound chips, 4490REQ, 4493SEQ and the AK4499EXEQ+4191EQ Hybrid Multi-bit switched resistor chip set is truly a game changer. It is so close to that R2R sound. Very good.
Hello! I love your channel!!! And I just wonder about the Spl Director Mk2 in the background. Do you like it? And will you test it on your channnel? Greetings from Sweden
I'm guessing that you don't need to replace all three op-amps depending on your actual use case. Probably one for the unbalanced outputs and two for the balanced outputs. This is an important factor if you're swapping in expensive op-amps.
I have been going back and forth about buying one all day. I can get it for $146 black Friday. I already have a smsl su1 and I don't know if it's really going to sound much different. I am not sure if it will be worth buying one or wait until I can buy something a lot better.
A conundrum for sure. It does sound better than the SU-1 but, BUT, if you waited and got something like a Geshelli J2 AK4493 for $250, that would be a huge improvement. Let me know what you decide. Thx.
@OldGuyHifi I pulled the trigger on the fosi zd3 and I ordered some of those Alli op amps that you recommended, also I am going to upgrade the power supply. I needed to buy something new on black Friday and I can play with different op amps 😁. Thanks for the review!
@OldGuyHiFi, Hi, Absolute newbie to the arena of Hi-Fi. I have my fathers old Record Player and Amp. I have purchased some B&W 606 S3 on a sale. I am now trying to pair it to a Streaming and DAC setup. In your opinion which should I go for... WiiM Mini or Pro hooked up to either the S.M.S.L SU-1 or Topping D10s or Fosi Audio ZD3. Or should I just go for the Cambridge Audio MXN10 for both the streamer and DAC in a single package. If you could give me some advice it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Excellent question. Go with the WiiM if it's features fit your use case i.e., EQ, line in, Amazon music, etc.. If sonic performance is your goal than by all means go with the MXN10. It has most of the same streaming features like Tidal, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Spotify connect, Apple Airplay, Internet Radio, etc. The MXN10 has a very good internal DAC and the Stream Magic software is easy to use and very robust and stable. I have had mine for over a year and have had zero networking or connection issues. I did a couple of video on the MXN10 and a comparison of streamers. Let me know what you decide to do. Thank you and good luck in your journey.
@OldGuyHiFi Thank you for your response. If I was looking for sound quality does the MXN10s internal DAC beat all of the external DAC options I listed? Does the MXN10 have better quality of stream than the WiiMs? And if I was to swing the other way and go for saving money which out of the 3 DACs is the best bang for buck? It seems like you like the DZ3 a lot in your review is that your fav of the 3 external options? Again thank you so much for your help and insight ❤
@@SRawsonH The MXN10 is a superior streamer to anything under $1k. The MXN10's DAC is as good as or slightly better than the others. If it were me, and I did this, I would go with the MXN10 and live with it for a while and then if I felt the need, had the budget, or got the itch, then at that point add an external DAC. Keep in mind you would need to spend at $350 to $500 to get a better sounding DAC than what is already in the MXN10. I hope this helps. Thx.
Thanks for the review - especially the music recommendations, history, and emotional impact. Very much appreciated. The tutorial was very interesting as well, much more in-depth than others I have seen. I would ask maybe for a tutorial for what to look for, how to tell "good" opamp products and resellers on Ebay or AliExpress as they seem very similar and am afraid of getting knock-off or bum materials from overseas. Not specific dealers, as they change by the day, but the things you look for (I'm the kind of fellow that would answer 220, 221, whatever it takes when asked to wire a room) and avoid to pick a good op amp and seller.
Ok Mr. Mom. Honestly I just roll the dice. For brand name op-amps, TI, Burr Brown, JRC, Analog Devices, etc. try Mauser or Digikey. I also try to find eBay reseller located in the US if possible. Good hunting. Thanks for tuning in.
I agree but, I need to review products from all around the world as many viewers have interest in those categories. If you look at my channel more closely you will see reviews for Geshelli, Rouge, and Sparkos. I have some SVS speakers in for review which BTW are made in China. I have electronics made in Germany, Italy, Canada as well as the US. I don't judge a product or for that matter a person based on their country of origin. I judge products on their build quality and their ability to engage my and encourage me to listen longer and with a smile on my face. Thanks for commenting.
@@OldGuyHifi hey maybe you can answer my question with these Op Amps. I just bought (2) Outlaw 2220 monoblocks and Sparkos Labs verified for me that the amp also has Op Amps in them. So my Question is. If I run a Sparkos 2590 Op Amp in my Geshelli Labs J2S does that signal just get wiped out by the Op Amps on the new amps. This may be an issue everyone needs to think about when swapping Op Amps.
@@kevindillinger3699 No the op-amps serve differing purposes in each device. Op-amps are actually "operational amplifiers" and serve to, in the case of the J2S, one chip amplifies the internal signal to either the 2 volts needed for the single ended outputs or 2 op-amps to get to the 4 volts needed for balanced outputs. On the Outlaws the op-amps add additional amplification to drive the internal signals to get them to a voltage level where the main amp can make the best use of them. Does that make sense? I hope so. Great question. Thx.
I haven't yet done any critical listening to the Douk. I probably won't. I just found out the Douk is being discontinued and will be replaced by a new unit that has the same XMOS chip as the SMSL. They will be sending me one as soon as they are available. If you need something now go with the SMSL. Thx.
@OldGuyHifi can the Fosi ZD3 act as a DAC and reclocker? Does the SMSL PO100 have to be introduced between the source and DAC for it to have any benefit?
I am impressed with the Fosi. I like DAC Q11 but only on the AKM side. I think I would always choose an AKM DAC. The ZD3 with the SX52Bs got the closest to the AKM sound I prefer, for an ESS chip. I am a very spoiled boy getting to play with all this stuff. When I take my reviewers hat off, I always go back to my Bifrost or my Geshelli J2S AK4499EXEQ for my own pleasure. I know that probably doesn't answer your question. Sorry. Between the two, I would spend my own money on the Q11.
@@OldGuyHifi Thanks a lot! If it just wasn't for that darn HDMI arc input... I'm fascinated with the nuance differences between all of these. You do have a fun job!
If money was a consideration the ZD3. If I was only concerned about sound the K9 AKM. Also, the K9 is built like a vault. Thanks for asking. Happy Holidays!
Hello, Just curious, does this remotely match a Geshelli J3. I bought a Sparkos 2590 from Andrew for a single ended output only, but have not bought a DAC yet. Does fosi upset the apple cart?
On features yes. On sound quality not really. I think I said that it was the best Sabre chip based unit that I heard. I would go with any of the Geshelli units with an AKM chip in it. Either the 4493 or the 4499. Geno works some magic on those units and they to sound great. Pro tip: If you get one listen to it for a least 90 days before you swap op-amps. That way you get get a feel for the sound and will be better able to hear the difference. Let me know what you decide. Thx.
Thank you so much for your response to my question. I'm very impressed that you seem to answer everybody. Again thank you I will get the Geshelli, but I'll probably put the 2590 op amp in right away since I already own it, and I don't have the luxury of extra time to experiment with things
@ thanks, Ed! I don’t think I’ve mentioned this to you but I briefly talked to you at Axpona. I’m an OG subscriber and I think you only had about 400 or so subscribers back then if I’m thinking right. I said hi and mentioned I was a subscriber.
Sean, Dude! I think I remember you. Thank you so much for being an OG subscriber. It is viewers like you that helped this channel grow. I can't thank you, enough. I wish you and your a very Merry Christmas & a happy New Year.
Does anyone else find the recording quality of the one “original barn jam” track on “Luck and Strange” to be outstanding, leaving the other tracks weak in contrast? I’m sure there is an interesting explanation.
I just discovered this album because of Rick Beato's interview with David Gilmour. It's remarkable, isn't it? My 12 and 16-year-old daughters like it, too. Great songs: Between two points, Scattered, Yes I have ghosts. And the expected beautiful guitar.
So we dont need a DAC for 500 or 1000 or 3000$? Eq in a DAC is awesome cause you can do "room correction" without fancy stuff in your room and on the walls. Oh and now, another 189$ for the streamer And why open it change something when it is so good? Hype ? Yes. What? Hype. Yes.
I love you man! You're real and authentic with you gear reviews but I love your tangents into artist history and background. Awesome. Hey, quick questions about ZD3. Would the inputs, HDMI eArc & Coax In, would they be auto switching by chance. I bought the WiiM Ultra specifically for that reason but needed to add an external DAC to make it listenable. If this Fosi would switch between active inputs, I'd go back to the Sonos Port and take it Coax into the Fosi, put the TV into the Fosi and sell off the Ultra and a D30 Pro.
My reviews include the music I use. If you don't care for that then take your business elsewhere. Before you bugger off please comment as it helps the channels algorithm.
@@NoMoreGrace So aggressive. My, my. Remember you started it. I wish I was as impressed with you as you are with yourself. Keep replying. I can do this forever and it helps the channel grow.
I clicked on the eBay link. That seller has 17 negatives. Hard to trust especially because I’m overseas and returning anything is nearly impossible. Christmas cards sent from there US take 60 days to get here. The POST OFFICE is absolutely terrible. Workers sleep on their desks during lunch. That never happens in Japan where I used to live.
That's the link that Fosi have me. Sorry. I know what you are talking about. I used to work for a Chinese company and I retired from a Japanese company. I have no love for the PRC. That said people are still people.
You are removing the zd3's chassis wrongly. Please follow ruclips.net/video/3_Np3KyGyvg/видео.html . Btw great review but maybe cut down talking too much about the albums. Will try the SX52B once i get this.
This remarkable unit had me second guessing myself. At $180.00 and the ability to swap Op-amps it is an outstanding performer and value. Highly recommended. Please use my code below and save $30.00. FOSI ZD-3: www.ebay.com/itm/Fosi-Audio-ZD3-Fully-Balance-Desktop-DAC-Integrated-Amp-Converter-ES9039Q2M-/296757673959?nordt=true. Use Code: OLDGUYHIFICODE for additional discount. Now $149.99. If you wish to join the channel and become a member please click here: www.youtube.com/@OldGuyHifi/membership
I am liking your channel and just subscribed! Question, I am running a ZA3 with the Burson Vivid 7 Op Amps. I love the way they sound in there but if I add the ZD3 to my system...how does that affect the sound? Does one still need to add more Burson OP Amps to the sound chain? Or is that overkill? I am currently streaming a Wiim Pro through a Schitt Modi Dac into my ZA3 amp to a pair of Elac DB 6.2's... I like the form factor of the ZD3 and the remote and think it would complement the system overall. Was just wanting an educated opinion on the OP Amps...oh AND also, are the XLR in/outs that much better? Would you switch the Burson to the XLR OP Amps instead of the RCA's?
@@adrianriveraotr You only need to roll the op-amps if you want to. The ZD3 out of the box sounded very good with the stock op-amps. Give it a try and see. you can always roll the op-amps later. Thx for subscribing.
I'm interested to know what firmware version the ZD3 you listen to used. I recently upgraded from V1.05 to V1.06 and think the sound quality may have degraded. I'm planning to switch back if possible. Thanks.
@@boomerscs9193 I didn't know you could update the firmware. I have no idea which version it was. The unit is all boxed up. I am sorry I have no way of checking
Is it your daughter or spouse who does the intro music on your videos?
I just swapped the op amps with 5x52b and I also used a breeze super low noise 25 watt linear power supply and WOW. It turned a good DAC into something great. I have never heard my speakers sound so good! Just one tip you don't need to mess with the screws at the bottom, you can just unplug it from the board. It's way easier than mess with the switch.
Thx for the tip.
I love to see your passion and feelings that you have for music. Thanks for bringing us these albums along with showing us the new gear you listened to them on. Great Job Ed
Thanks John.
I always enjoy your music suggestions, I usually find myself looking up tracks after your review
same really look forward to the album reviews 👍
Glad to hear it! Thanks my friend.
one of the best things about following audio gear review channels, discovering new to us music!
@@agentm83 I am glad you think so.
i find myself stopping mid video to go check the recommendations out.
Really great review. I love the music histories as much as the hardware reviews. It is so refreshing to see folks who review hifi to get emotional because that is exactly why I spend so much time and money pursuing this hobby. Getting the best music possible in my home. When I first brought Sonus faber into my home a few months ago, I got emotional. The sound was amazing and it keeps amazing me every time I turn on my system. Thank you so much for your honest reviews.
You are so right. It is the music first for me always. Thx.
Your knowledge of music is as impressive as your knowledge of eletronics. Awesome review.
Thx.
I use two spoons, one on each side of the knob, to remove it. Put some painter's tape down to protect the finish, or just put the painter's tape on the spoons. Position the spoons, push down and the knob should slide off. This is a trick that's been used for decades to remove knobs from electric guitars.
Great tip. Thanks.
6:50 I think they designed it so you can slide it out halfway without unscrewing the bottom so you have enough room to switch out the OP amps without sliding out the PCB all the way out? Also this is the best review of this product I’ve seen so far! 👍🏽
You don’t need to remove the 2 little screws on the bottom to undo that slide switch. Instead, just remove the little white molex connector from the motherboard right by the front notch. Then the motherboard will pull out the back and the switch on the bottom stays attached to the chassis. Much easier! And this is the way that Fosi shows to do it. It work great in my ZD3. Nice video. Thanks!
Great review and disassembly instructions, which suits the techie in me greatly. Intriguing for me to hear your varied perspectives on all this equipment . Thank you as always for your time and efforts sharing this with us all. Take care, Sir.
Thank you my friend.
As a kid, I was raised on her 1967 Album (I Never Loved A Man the Way I Love You) as a kid and I absolutely love it. I listen all the time.
Great memory. Thank you for sharing it. Music can conjure up the most amazing feelings. Thx.
Great review on the ZD3. Much appreciated!
Glad you enjoyed it. Thx.
I rolled the op-amps. I unplugged the wire on the switch, no need to unscrew the two screws holding the switch.
Good suggestion. The unit isn't mine so...
Fosi published a video on disassembly showing that the wire should be unplugged from the circuit board too. This will save you all the grief of trying to get the switch back into the slot on the bottom.
I’m glad to see you showcase your chip puller. I’ve been advocating for its use whenever given the chance. Very inexpensive, worthwhile and lasts a lifetime.
Thanks for the review. The Schiit Modi+ has a Sabre DAC chip and has zero glare. Implementation of the analog output stage is very good, plus it uses the superb OPA1656 opamp, which provides a nice, overall tonal balance. Sabres are very good, if the rest of the circuitry is up to snuff.
Thanks for sharing
Thanks for the review. I'm curious though, are you anti-WiiM? I've noticed that you never mention them and have never reviewed any of them. I thought that it was just that you wouldn't review DAC'S below about a $1000, but this review makes me wonder. I own a WiiM Ultra for my main system, Pro Plus in my office and I have a Mini arriving today to hook up to some powered speakers in my bathroom. I like that I can turn them on all synced together as well.
I'm thinking about someday using my Ultra as a streamer only, running to another DAC. If you review the Ultra, then you could knowingly tell us how the DAC in it compares with this one and the others you review.
Thanks for what you do. I respect your opinions.
@@MLantier Maurice, I don't talk about WiiM much because lots of other channels have covered it extensively. I think it is a good product as a starting point. I have gone a different route in that 90% of my streaming is done through Audirvana which is bit perfect (WiiM's are not) feeding any number of out board DACs. It is the best fit for my listening habits well. If I use a streamer it is the Cambridge MXN10 which I believe is the best sounding sub $1k device available. It's software is simple and very stable & robust. I don't care about digital EQ or room correction. I do understand the convenience of whole house audio but I don't have that requirement. If you decide to use an outboard DAC on the Ultra at some point I might recommend you get a DDC like the SMSL PO 100 and connect it to the Ultra's USB and go SPDIF into the outboard DAC. It will sound far better. WiiMs are known for having jitter, latency and clocking issues. The DDC helps ameliorate those. It is a fine product and I have given them to several family members. They just don't fit my use case. Thanks for asking and thanks for being a part of the channel's community. I do appreciate it.
@@OldGuyHifi okay thanks. I'm happy I asked. Take care and enjoy your Thanksgiving with your family!
@@MLantier You as well my friend. Happy Thanksgiving.
Appears to me the switch can be left in place and the block connector unplugged instead. I believe the PCB is slotted to allow for this. Great review.
Good observation. Thx.
That Gilmore album was something! Thanks for the recommendation.
Appreciate the Jade Warrior suggestion! Never heard of them and am always amazed at the number of groups that were not played on our radios in the 70s. Am going to enjoy exploring their catalog 🤙
Thanks!
Thank you so much. That's very generous of you.
Excellent video and thanks for sharing, enjoyed the music suggestion segment also, the problem with the choice of Jade Warrior is after listening you will eventually purchase every single thing release in their catalog
Here, here. Sorry!
Another great review, I’ve been considering this fosi for some neighbor I’m helping put a new simple system together, appreciate your extensive knowledge in the equipment and enjoyed your educational review on the albums as well, just plain good all around thanx again!!
Thank you so much.
Well done Ed. Top of your game here as always. Depth of music knowledge is off the charts. What a nice product.
Holy moly. You mentioned Camel! After all these years I can still listen to their music and my two sons like it as well.
I am an old school prog rock fan. Thx.
@@OldGuyHifilike me
Nice review. Love when reviewers cover more budget stuff for us poor folk, lol. Also appreciate the music suggestions! :)
I am glad you enjoyed it. Thx.
Thanks so much for your review of the ZD3. After watching your video, I ordered the ZD3 and to my surprise, it came the very next day, I was quite surprised. I have only had it for one day right now. My Gear is (Denon 3802, Schiit Magni and Modi, and Fiio BTR7 for late-night movies and road trips, Sandara, Sennheiser 600, and Marshall Cans Closed back). I tried the Topping DX3 Pro+ and compared that I like the ZD3 much better. I had to return the DX3 Pro+ due to overheating and shut issues on the very first day. I tried driver updates, and checking firmware it still would shut down and was very warm to the touch. After seeing 3 other reports online of the same issue, I returned it, and boy I am glad. (Modi has USB short after 5 years, Denon 3802 is too big for my office, and heavy} Now using Denon X4800H in the media room). The office has Bose 601s Sires III Hardwoods and Yamaha Stereo Amp.
AGAIN THANKS SO MUCH
P.S. I am very sorry I did not order from your link (which was $20 cheaper). I am housebound for another 45 days due to surgery and my wife has to do a lot for me right now. She does not want to go anywhere else for returns if there is a problem.
Just checked the specs on the SX52B discreet opamp. They show it having a slew rate(conversion rate) of 120V/micro-second, which is very high, considering that most opamps usually slew 20-25V/micro-second. This could have something to do with your positive impression of the SX52B.
Thanks for info. Interesting for sure.
so a higher slew rate is considered better ? thank you
I've had the ZD3 for several weeks and have been very happy with the sound using the base Ti op amps it ships with. I have the bonus JRC op amps my early order shipped with but haven't tried them yet. I've ordered a set of the op amps you were so happy with to compare as well. My one issue with the ZD3 has been trouble with TV audio, both with HDMI ARC and Toslink connections. In both cases I've had the left channel drop out and also an intermittent echo or reverb effect. I just switched out the HDMI cable to one I had been using with my 4K disc player, and so far so good, we'll see how tonight's 2 hours of TV viewing plays out. I'll note that with my WiiM Pro Plus hooked up to the ZD3 with the same optical cable there have been no issues, it seems to only be an issue with the Vizio TV audio.
No HDMI ARC issues during this evening’s TV time, it was the cable, HDMI problem solved, Toslink TBD.
First of all, thanks for pulling it apart and swapping the opamps. I did the swap on my v3 monos and plan to do it on this too. Second, your comments echo my own experience. I fired mine up yesterday and couldnt understand where the extra low end was coming from. I guess it must be the Fosi since youre experiencing it too. Great video.
The folks at Fosi worked some magic on this one. Normally, I don't like Sabre DACs. This one I can and enjoy it. Yeah. The bass was very pleasing. It got better on the SX52B op-amps. Thanks for stopping by.
@@OldGuyHifi where did you acquire your SX52B op-amps from ?
@@phillipmorris9847 www.aliexpress.us/item/3256802172205329.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.1.48d014fdX4iRaH&algo_pvid=139f6f8f-c45d-4889-81f6-17ff4b49c5e1&algo_exp_id=139f6f8f-c45d-4889-81f6-17ff4b49c5e1-0&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21USD%2115.26%2112.36%21%21%2115.26%2112.36%21%402101ea8c17332489880294015e8a9e%2112000020276249129%21sea%21US%216171579276%21X&curPageLogUid=H8JvxKR3ygbX&utparam-url=scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3A
@@OldGuyHifi thank you
Thanks for the review of both the DAC and music. Agree with you about the David Gilmour album. He and his daughter together is beautiful. Thanks for the Jade Warrior recommendation. Listening to it on Qobuz. Keep up the great work and rock on!
No problem. Thank you.
Great review as usual. Definitely an interesting little unit. It looks to me like it would be possible to remove the two 2mm screws, knob and nut and then slide out the front panel. Grab the little plug for the bypass switch with a needle nose and unplug it, then slide the board and rear panel out the back, leaving the switch attached to the case. Probably how it’s assembled in the factory. In reverse order of course.
At 8:17… they’re *all* solid state. I think the word you were looking for is “discrete.” However the OPA1656 is NOT discrete. It is a surface mount monolithic chip on a tiny PC board with DIP8 pins out the bottom. The Sparkos and apparently the Ali Express opamps are indeed discrete in that there are individual components on them, not a monolithic IC.
For the uninitiated, solid state simply means “not a tube.” It’s a very old term dating back to the early introduction of the transistor.
You aren’t the only reviewer that has commented on the disassembly/reassembly process being a PIA due to that switch, but I’m just not sure it’s really the issue it’s being made out to be.
Thx for the info.
Excellent Review! 2 things I discovered those SX52Bs in 2020 burn them in 2nd even Denifrips recommends a DDC not that big of a controversy but requires a modified setup.
Last thing most MFGs don't add the 3db recommended by SABRE
Extra:SX52B lower current draw and 4 Volt DC to 18 operating range
Thanks Ed! As op amp rolling gets more coverage from more and more credible reviewers it seems the “synergy” you speak of is often difficult to predict, ie you prefer an op amp that’s less well known to the nearly universally praised SS3602. This is becoming a bit of a pattern where I’ve seen a few people describing outcomes that were less than favorable with highly regarded op amps.
I’ve been enjoying my ZD3 in its stock condition for now, looking for credible feedback before shooting the money cannon at various op amp options. I will be taking your feedback very seriously as I move forward.
Thanks again, Ed! 👍
I had swapped out the stock opamps in my V3 mono’s for more affordable and accessible IC opamps chips which made a nice improvement over the stock NE5532 opamps. I then recently bought a pair of the Sparkos SS3602 opamps to swap out position 2 opamps in the V3 monos. My system is very resolving and I’m a keen listener. The SS3602 made a pretty noticeable improvement and I couldn’t go without them now to be honest. It didn’t improve a handful of aspects or parts of the sound, it improved all aspects of the sound in every way. It brings a “maturity” to everything, a refinement, density, fullness across the spectrum and expansion of space throughout that the IC opamps couldn’t do. More affordable IC opamps absolutely make a difference over stock but the Sparkos discrete opamps do in fact take things up a few more notches.
“Shooting the $$$ cannon at it”, I gotta remember that one!
@@sean_heisler the SS3602 has been praised nearly universally when applied in Class D amplifiers. I’ve seen similar praise for the Burson V7V in those applications too, if perhaps slightly favoring the Sparkos.
Ed is the second well-regarded reviewer I’m aware of who didn’t think the SS3602 was a synergistic match with the ZD3, and one reviewer felt the V7V actually made the ZD3 sound much worse.
Perhaps the analog side of a DAC/preamp is not nearly as universal as that in an amplifier and the op amp requires a much more carefully matched environment to perform well? I’m hoping we get to understanding this phenomenon better so we can get to more predictable outcomes.
@Brian_Romska that’s an expression I stole from a buddy who shares my passion for DIY car repairs, describing people who lack troubleshooting skills and just start replacing parts. 😁
Let me know if you decide to try it out and what you thought. Thx.
I like gear that comes from the factory with carefully chosen complimentary op-amps selected by the designers. I think I get what the op-amp craze is about. $$$ Thanks for your informative, enjoyable videos..
BTW Ed, I checked out Luck and Strange - what a beautifully recorded song. That delicate high-hat tapping away comes from just outside of the left speaker, and the guitar work is so clean and sharp. A great listening song. Yes I have Ghosts, his voice is so full and effortless, and the whole package is well done. Thanks for the suggestions!
I am glad you enjoyed it. Thx.
The Cambridge MXN-10 which you were lyrical about als has a Sabre DAC chip inside by the way ;) Thanks for the heads up on the SX52B. Put it on my list.
I don't use the internal DAC on the MXN10. I use it as a transport only. Thx.
I got the audio lab Dac solely on your video, which I normally never do. But you sounded so sincere. You were absolutely correct on that so I’m assuming if you like this even better. Your word is gold on this one as well.
For the money the Fosi is very good. The M-DAC is a better built device over all. They sound very similar. I would be hard pressed to choose.
@
Add a linear power supply, and I would bet it sounds better
I have some on their way. I do the reviews as the device comes out of the box. I may do a review on power supplies. Thx.
Muscle Shoals,
Wow it's cool to hear that you mention this.
I've had a kind soul and friend, Ronnie Eads, Saxophone, that made music there... 😎👍
I hope that someone put this DAC among the so-called 'greats' or best' but more expensive DACs for a blind test. Just because it is cheaper, many 'audiophiles' just go for the more expensive ones. Hope some will take the challenge.
Great video Ed. Budget dac and opamp choice for $180 is great.
Thank you.
Hi from France,
I like your videos and their content
I also listened to and loved David Gilmour's latest solo album.
Kind regards
Merci beaucoup. J'apprécie votre point de vue et votre commentaire. J'espère que vous pourriez envisager de vous abonner.
Great review again Ed. I need to check out Luck and Strange - I'm a big fan of Gilmour's self titled LP!
It is very good. Thx.
Thanks for another great review. When you mentioned David Gilmour and Jade Warrior, Porcupine Tree came to mind. You might enjoy their twelve minute rollercoaster ride, Arriving Somewhere Not Here. 😎
I remember Porcupine Tree. It has been a long time since I thought of them. Going on the playlist for tonight. Thx.
I couldn't agree more with your comment about the quality of recordings. A great HiFi system will reproduce all the bad parts of a bad recording - and make them sound even worse! And of course the opposite is true too with good recordings
Jade Warrior was one of my favorite bands in the 70s. I will need to revisit their music. All hail Queen Aretha! Her Atlantic recordings are superb.
Agreed. Thanks for the view and coomment.
loved your review… both in terms of hardware and music… listening to Jade Warrior now! Thanks for the tip.
Hope you enjoy it!
Hi Ed, if you don't need balanced outputs, Bluetooth or HDMI I believe the Topping E30 ii Lite DAC/preamp, presently on sale at $84 (was $100) at Amz, is a better deal. It gets a great review on ASR. I've ordered one & will report back. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
I just got mine last week, I did the reorder also. I also have the ZA3 on the way. I plan to use this as the system for my 2 channel TV . I'm giving up on the sound bar. Time to buy op apms.
Let me know how it goes. Thx.
Great review! I just finished writing a review of the ZD3 for Fosi and yours makes me feel very validated. This DAC blew me away. I ended up comparing it to my Benchmark DAC1 USB and the sound was so close, when I came to the value/feature proposition, it was no contest. Spectacular work, once again 👏🏻
The DAD my be worth a try. Thanks for the album recommendations!
UK based Quad has long maintained that it is the implementation of the DAC chip that determines the qualities it provides. Rather than whether it is an ESS or AK chip. IMO that holds with R2R DACs as well.
Geoffrey, I do agree with that to some extend. Unfortunately most ESS implementations are using their 5 volt mobile DAC chip. Anything with a Q2M or K2M designation is a chip designed of dongle DACs, automotive use and low voltage applications, i. e., USB powered DACs. IMO I think there are compromises made to achieve the low power consumption. Quads premise is correct but maybe only in brands known for better engineering. I do think AKM is head and shoulders above ESS. Great comment. Thx.
Try the SX45B, more punchy, transparent and detailed. I have also have SX35B from Taobao. Both are worthy upgrades to the SX52B.
Thanks for the tip. Thx also for the view.
I just looked on aliexpress: SX52B going for $8.50. Sx45B is about $21. Didn’t see the SX35B
Are these all the same size?
My understanding when rolling on this unit is you need two op amps for XLR and one for the unbalanced- so you never need to roll all three unless you plan to go back-and-forth using XLR and RCA.
@old guy- again I’m interested in your thoughts on comparing the ZD3 with your favorite op amps vs the Geshelli J3
@@kineahora8736I don't think they are all the same. Not 100% sure. I would choose the J3 even with the stock op-amps. In my opinion the AKM 4499/4191 Chip set is far superior to anything ESS makes. I have 3 DACs with the chip set and 3 more with the baby brother AKM 4493SEQ. As I said it is the best ESS chip based DAC I have heard. Not the best I have ever heard. Remarkable for the money for sure. I do like it for it value.
@@kineahora8736 SX45B is bigger than the SX52. SX35B is slightly bigger than the SX45B, they are almost the same. I believe SX35B is only available on Taobao. SX45B is the more transparent out of the three, so best to pair with warm sounding gear.
@@OldGuyHifi aha so you do overall continue to prefer the better AKM implementations… helpful. No sense in my sinking a lot of time into spendy op amps then, but then again-I could always use them if I get a Geshelli! I mean there are SMSLs with the best AKM chips-but it’s the IMPLEMENTATION. People I trust have not really said great things about the SMSLs…with or without the AKM chips…
The thing is- I *REALLY* like the HDMI input and the remote function…
It seems that there are TWO bass guitars playing on Chain of Fools! Left and right channels; with fairly "hard pans" on both. Obvious on headphones; but hadn't noticed this on speakers over all these years.
And thank you for the heads up on the new David Gilmore album!
It is a very interesting album. Muscles Shoals magic?
Great DAC and if this blew your mind you have to try the Nuprime AMG DAC this is a nuclear blew up 🎉❤
@@stephannordmann5346 Better be good for 16x the price
Oh boy, I got one of these on preorder (for $144) mostly for the hdmi, kinda enjoyed it for awhile but I just swapped it out for the WiiM ultra so I can get my bass management and the built in streamer back. I never swapped op amps but I think the WiiM ultra sounds better, in part because I can just integrate the sub better I’m guessing? Or maybe the streamer in the ultra is better than the WiiM mini that I was using with the zd3? I do not have the clinically discerning audiophile ears that some of you guys have but I’ll keep the zd3 and try it out some more and probably toss a sparkos in there at some point too. Thanks again Ed!
Edit, I’ve been putting off listening to the new gilmour album, and wow it’s good, thanks again for that, I’m not crying you’re crying 😢
Great review - only thing I would-be like to know how this Dac performs as preamp…..
Like most of these inexpensive DACs it is ok. I only used as a preamp to run the Fosi mono blocks and it was ok. Thx.
Nice review of a product that will be a fantastic gift. Thanks as always for album tips. Have you seen an amp of this quality with builtin wifi?
I have never seen a DAC with wifi. Bluetooth yes.
Why isn't there a hinged door or a removable panel to get to the circuit board for quick and easy parts swapping?
Good question. I am sure they will think of the soon. Thx.
Hi Old-guy!
I might try those SX52B or Sx45B on mine. The JRC they out in the box, people usu don’t like much. Everyone likes sparkos but they are spendy. So Grzegorz of Virtual HiFi just came out with his own op amps, which seem to be paralleled chip amps that he thinks sound even better than the discreets. But being paralleled they draw much more current and get hot-he’s got two 2-chip parallels, a 4-chip and an 8 chip that gets so hot he is really just experimenting. He doesn’t recommend the 4-chip to anything in a closed box either🤣 the 2-chip versions are about $30… I think these came about because in an earlier test he was impressed by the sound of just taking two cheap NE5532 and soldering them together in parallel -apparently you can t really just do this it requires some other circuit stabilization , but it gave him the idea.
But I really want to know how you rate this vs the Geshelli J3. I think the Dayzee is a bit too big. I really like the functionality of the ZD3 with the HDMI in and remote. But if the geshelli is really way better…
BTW I particularly like prog and Aretha Franklin. Don’t know Jade warrior. I used to listen to a ton of Yes…
Speaking of how recordings interact-I have a bunch or recordings of 17th century music I kinda can’t listen to now-on older stereo equipment (I used to have an early Jeff Rowland amp, a Placette passive pre, and DACs by Audiomeca and dCS, and some of the lowest-priced Sonus Faber speakers) these recording sounded fine. But now there are many moments when a singer is singing high and loud, that it just distorts TERRIBLY-Im not talking “shrill” I’m talking plainly distorted-just never heard this before. Doesn’t show up on rock & jazz albums at all… either something’s wrong with the speakers, or it’s just new components are way more revealing of anything with high dynamic range…
@ this is one of the most helpful comments I have received. Ever! I am having a big problem with those recordings, and you have addressed it with this “ over modulated output stage of DACs” comment. I never really could figure out what the problem was, but it did start happening after I switched to an auralic audio DAC that had the ESS 9018 I believe. That was an expensive DAC- it’s just too bad. I didn’t realize the problem might have been the DAC. Because I also switched amplifiers at the time- I even tried out some Nelson pass firstwatt designs. I really liked. But everything always had this problem with high volume on those recordings distorting Tenor and soprano voices in particular (big bass voices are always fine), and I thought it was just the first watts didn’t have enough power rating…
I seem to have the same problem with the ZD3- but I have not swapped the op amps. Is it likely the op amps in the output stage? Or the other topology issues in the output stage? I think im gonna get the SX52b or the SX45b and see what happens. If that doesn’t fix the issue-Grzegorz really liked that LAiV, and Old-guy really likes the Geshelli J3 and Dayzee, and I will probably try one of them…
I have the Fosi V3 and I switched the op amps to muses02. But I am open to trying the Sx52 & 45 on these too- the sparkos are pricey- so they had better be a clear improvement for me to try them… what’s this about OEM on the sparkos? They’re called 8802 E+? Who makes them? I am a doctor and I *always* use generic drugs-same stuff, just cheaper🤣🤣
Ok I see $8.5 for SX52B, $21 for SX45b, and $38 for OP8802 (sparkos equivalent). Which one is better?!
I enjoyed the David Glimour suggestion… Suggestion for you , Three sisters from Mexico, The Warning, 4 albums released. First two independent, last two under Lava records … These sisters are the future of rock…. Daniela (Dany) lead guitarist and singer (24)….Paulina (Pow) drummer and vocalist (22) and Alejandra bassist and vocalist (Ale) only (19)…. Dany is the heart, Pau the fire and Ale is the foundation!
Thank you. I will give them a listen,
Cool video! It would be great if you had links to the op amps! What are the Ali express op amps again that you like so well? Thanks!
As discussed previously with Geshelli DACs, it seems ESS/Saber voltage-based DACs are more highly opamp-influenced than other current-based DACs are.
Agreed. That said the 2590s in the Dayzee on balanced sound really amazing.
Luck and Strange is amazing. I watched the Rick Beato interview with David after his Madison Square Garden concert. David is the best! I am going to listen to the Jade Warrior on your recommendation.
Let me know how you like it. Thx.
@@OldGuyHifi I did like it. Thanks for the suggestion.
Just checked the Ali Express app and there are several SX 52B opamps with as many different prices. Which ones did you get?
Thanks
www.aliexpress.us/item/3256802172205329.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.11.ad121802cXPQEs&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
I purchased a trio of the SX52B op amps you recommended. In the case of my unit given the large size of these op amps if I installed one in the single ended slot I did not have room to fully insert a SX52B in the XLR slot next to the single ended one, the chips are slightly too large. I could do the two XLR with no issue or the single ended, but in the case of the latter smaller op amps like the ZD3 comes with must be used. In my case I’m not using XLR so it’s not a big deal. I only listened briefly with the SX52B op amp, but could tell right away it offers more top end (I adjusted the treble EQ settings down in my WiiM Home app) and better defined bass than the stock op amps (which I think sound quite good).
How do you like this compared to the FIIO K11 R2R?
Different. As a DAC I like this s bit better but, the K11 R2R is also a good DAC and a very good headphone amp.
I bought one yesterday for my PC desktop audio for £144. Was a bit surprised to find it came with 3 extra op-amps though I knew you could 'roll' them. Not sure I'll bother but who knows, not me today.
Can you link us to the SX52B op amps? Great video thanks man.
www.aliexpress.us/item/3256802172205329.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.11.691f18029MpKjV&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
What did you use to pull the opamps, i want to try this project. Can you give us the link
Here you go: amzn.to/3CL9LOE
@@OldGuyHifi I imagine keycap tools that you use for rolling keycaps would work too
Did you test it using the smsl p0100 , thanks for the Mdac update from Audiolab
Yes, but not for the review. SMSL tightened things up very nicely.
How would you compare this vs the Douk Q11?
Good question. I like the Q11 only on the AKM chip. The Fosi team has done something special to the sonics. I normally don't like the way Sabre chips sound. This is the first ESS DAC I am ok with. That said, if push came to shove, I will go AKM in this price range. I would love to see Fosi do an AKM chip in a product like this. Thanks for asking.
Do you generally prefer AKM to ESS chips?
AKM all the way. Their latest Velvet Sound chips, 4490REQ, 4493SEQ and the AK4499EXEQ+4191EQ Hybrid Multi-bit switched resistor chip set is truly a game changer. It is so close to that R2R sound. Very good.
Hello! I love your channel!!! And I just wonder about the Spl Director Mk2 in the background. Do you like it? And will you test it on your channnel? Greetings from Sweden
I just got it. So far it is very good. Yes there will be a review of that and the amp it is sitting on. The Performer s900. Soon.
Another great review. I cannot wait for the Shanling ET3 CD Transport review 🙂. I also see a red SPL preamp in the background? 🙂
Eagle eye! All in good time. I have quite a queue of gear to get to first. Thanks.
I'm guessing that you don't need to replace all three op-amps depending on your actual use case. Probably one for the unbalanced outputs and two for the balanced outputs. This is an important factor if you're swapping in expensive op-amps.
Good point. I did run it both ways. So I didn't try that. Thanks.
Did you prefer this or the Fosi k11 r2r you also reviewed? Thanks for your channel and the music reviews also.
I did prefer the FiiO K11 a bit more as it was also a very good headphone amp. Thx.
I have been going back and forth about buying one all day. I can get it for $146 black Friday. I already have a smsl su1 and I don't know if it's really going to sound much different. I am not sure if it will be worth buying one or wait until I can buy something a lot better.
A conundrum for sure. It does sound better than the SU-1 but, BUT, if you waited and got something like a Geshelli J2 AK4493 for $250, that would be a huge improvement. Let me know what you decide. Thx.
@OldGuyHifi I pulled the trigger on the fosi zd3 and I ordered some of those Alli op amps that you recommended, also I am going to upgrade the power supply. I needed to buy something new on black Friday and I can play with different op amps 😁. Thanks for the review!
@@OldGuyHifi I didn't realize that the j2 was that much better.
@OldGuyHiFi, Hi, Absolute newbie to the arena of Hi-Fi. I have my fathers old Record Player and Amp. I have purchased some B&W 606 S3 on a sale. I am now trying to pair it to a Streaming and DAC setup. In your opinion which should I go for... WiiM Mini or Pro hooked up to either the S.M.S.L SU-1 or Topping D10s or Fosi Audio ZD3. Or should I just go for the Cambridge Audio MXN10 for both the streamer and DAC in a single package. If you could give me some advice it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Just FYI Current Pricing for each part:
WiiM Mini - £90
Pro - £150
SU-1 - £68
D10s - £92.5
DZ3 - £145
MXN10 - £350
Excellent question. Go with the WiiM if it's features fit your use case i.e., EQ, line in, Amazon music, etc.. If sonic performance is your goal than by all means go with the MXN10. It has most of the same streaming features like Tidal, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Spotify connect, Apple Airplay, Internet Radio, etc.
The MXN10 has a very good internal DAC and the Stream Magic software is easy to use and very robust and stable. I have had mine for over a year and have had zero networking or connection issues. I did a couple of video on the MXN10 and a comparison of streamers. Let me know what you decide to do. Thank you and good luck in your journey.
@OldGuyHiFi Thank you for your response. If I was looking for sound quality does the MXN10s internal DAC beat all of the external DAC options I listed? Does the MXN10 have better quality of stream than the WiiMs? And if I was to swing the other way and go for saving money which out of the 3 DACs is the best bang for buck? It seems like you like the DZ3 a lot in your review is that your fav of the 3 external options? Again thank you so much for your help and insight ❤
@@SRawsonH The MXN10 is a superior streamer to anything under $1k. The MXN10's DAC is as good as or slightly better than the others. If it were me, and I did this, I would go with the MXN10 and live with it for a while and then if I felt the need, had the budget, or got the itch, then at that point add an external DAC. Keep in mind you would need to spend at $350 to $500 to get a better sounding DAC than what is already in the MXN10. I hope this helps. Thx.
@@OldGuyHifiThank you so much for your help it is really appreciated 👌🏻
Another great review. I agree on Aretha’s Lady Soul. She can sing the Blues too. Check out “Aretha Sings the Blues”My favorite female singer.
I know that one. You are right it is great. Thx.
Thanks for the review - especially the music recommendations, history, and emotional impact. Very much appreciated. The tutorial was very interesting as well, much more in-depth than others I have seen. I would ask maybe for a tutorial for what to look for, how to tell "good" opamp products and resellers on Ebay or AliExpress as they seem very similar and am afraid of getting knock-off or bum materials from overseas. Not specific dealers, as they change by the day, but the things you look for (I'm the kind of fellow that would answer 220, 221, whatever it takes when asked to wire a room) and avoid to pick a good op amp and seller.
Ok Mr. Mom. Honestly I just roll the dice. For brand name op-amps, TI, Burr Brown, JRC, Analog Devices, etc. try Mauser or Digikey. I also try to find eBay reseller located in the US if possible. Good hunting. Thanks for tuning in.
Oh, there is some SPL gear in the pipeline. 👍
Yes, yes, yes!
I personally support our Small US company. Outlaw Audio, Emotiva, SVS, GR Research, Gesheiil Labs & Sparkos.
I agree but, I need to review products from all around the world as many viewers have interest in those categories. If you look at my channel more closely you will see reviews for Geshelli, Rouge, and Sparkos. I have some SVS speakers in for review which BTW are made in China. I have electronics made in Germany, Italy, Canada as well as the US. I don't judge a product or for that matter a person based on their country of origin. I judge products on their build quality and their ability to engage my and encourage me to listen longer and with a smile on my face. Thanks for commenting.
@@OldGuyHifi Yeah I know I just can't get on this Fosi band wagon.
@@kevindillinger3699 I understand. Thx.
@@OldGuyHifi hey maybe you can answer my question with these Op Amps. I just bought (2) Outlaw 2220 monoblocks and Sparkos Labs verified for me that the amp also has Op Amps in them. So my Question is. If I run a Sparkos 2590 Op Amp in my Geshelli Labs J2S does that signal just get wiped out by the Op Amps on the new amps. This may be an issue everyone needs to think about when swapping Op Amps.
@@kevindillinger3699 No the op-amps serve differing purposes in each device. Op-amps are actually "operational amplifiers" and serve to, in the case of the J2S, one chip amplifies the internal signal to either the 2 volts needed for the single ended outputs or 2 op-amps to get to the 4 volts needed for balanced outputs. On the Outlaws the op-amps add additional amplification to drive the internal signals to get them to a voltage level where the main amp can make the best use of them. Does that make sense? I hope so. Great question. Thx.
Do you have a link for the SX52B OpAmps from AliExpress? Thanks. 👍
Please check the comment section of this video as it is in a couple of the other responses. Sorry. I am working from my phone. Thx.
Found it. www.aliexpress.us/item/3256802172205329.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.11.ad121802cXPQEs&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
Hi, Thanks for your review. SInce I need a DAC and I've not the opportunity to try them, which one would you choose between Fosi ZD3 and FiiO K11 R2R?
K11 R2R. Thank you for your view and comment.
Overall, in your opinion, do you prefer to use the SMSL PO 100 or the Douk Audio U2Pro DDC? I need to pick one up for my system.
I haven't yet done any critical listening to the Douk. I probably won't. I just found out the Douk is being discontinued and will be replaced by a new unit that has the same XMOS chip as the SMSL. They will be sending me one as soon as they are available. If you need something now go with the SMSL. Thx.
@ thank you! I appreciate your sharing.
@OldGuyHifi can the Fosi ZD3 act as a DAC and reclocker? Does the SMSL PO100 have to be introduced between the source and DAC for it to have any benefit?
The ZD3 is only a DAC. PO 100 only works with a USB input.
@@OldGuyHifi reclocker aside, do you recommend using an external DAC with the Wiim Ultra or is the internal DAC good?
@@OldGuyHifi even though the ZD3 has a USB input and the same XMOS chip? Not being sassy just a question. LOL
Great review. How would you compare this unit with the Douk audio Q-11, dac performance wise?
I am impressed with the Fosi. I like DAC Q11 but only on the AKM side. I think I would always choose an AKM DAC. The ZD3 with the SX52Bs got the closest to the AKM sound I prefer, for an ESS chip. I am a very spoiled boy getting to play with all this stuff. When I take my reviewers hat off, I always go back to my Bifrost or my Geshelli J2S AK4499EXEQ for my own pleasure. I know that probably doesn't answer your question. Sorry. Between the two, I would spend my own money on the Q11.
@@OldGuyHifi Thanks a lot! If it just wasn't for that darn HDMI arc input... I'm fascinated with the nuance differences between all of these. You do have a fun job!
I know. Thx.
Hi Ed, how would you rate this ZD3 with SX52B OpAmps and a linear power supply VS the FiiO K9 AKM DAC? I am trying to decide which one to get.
If money was a consideration the ZD3. If I was only concerned about sound the K9 AKM. Also, the K9 is built like a vault. Thanks for asking. Happy Holidays!
@@OldGuyHifi
Thank you!
Hello,
Just curious, does this remotely match a Geshelli J3. I bought a Sparkos 2590 from Andrew for a single ended output only, but have not bought a DAC yet. Does fosi upset the apple cart?
On features yes. On sound quality not really. I think I said that it was the best Sabre chip based unit that I heard. I would go with any of the Geshelli units with an AKM chip in it. Either the 4493 or the 4499. Geno works some magic on those units and they to sound great. Pro tip: If you get one listen to it for a least 90 days before you swap op-amps. That way you get get a feel for the sound and will be better able to hear the difference. Let me know what you decide. Thx.
Thank you so much for your response to my question. I'm very impressed that you seem to answer everybody. Again thank you I will get the Geshelli, but I'll probably put the 2590 op amp in right away since I already own it, and I don't have the luxury of extra time to experiment with things
lol into song is mixed really nice. LOL sounds great
Ed - Is the DAC chip in this a multibit/delta sigma hybrid or not?
It is a Hybrid Multi Bit Delta Sigma chip set.
@ thanks, Ed! I don’t think I’ve mentioned this to you but I briefly talked to you at Axpona. I’m an OG subscriber and I think you only had about 400 or so subscribers back then if I’m thinking right. I said hi and mentioned I was a subscriber.
Sean, Dude! I think I remember you. Thank you so much for being an OG subscriber. It is viewers like you that helped this channel grow. I can't thank you, enough. I wish you and your a very Merry Christmas & a happy New Year.
Looks like in your most recent Topping video you are saying that the 9039 is in fact NOT a hybrid chipset then, correct?
Does anyone else find the recording quality of the one “original barn jam” track on “Luck and Strange” to be outstanding, leaving the other tracks weak in contrast? I’m sure there is an interesting explanation.
Ya I almost didn’t listen to it, figured it’d be a typical add on to pad the album time, that’s definitely a great track!
It is a very rewarding listen.
I just discovered this album because of Rick Beato's interview with David Gilmour. It's remarkable, isn't it? My 12 and 16-year-old daughters like it, too. Great songs: Between two points, Scattered, Yes I have ghosts. And the expected beautiful guitar.
@@davidkalil5698 I saw that interview as well. It is a wonderful album. Thanks for tuning in.
soft amp vs hardware?...please advice
I don't understand the question. Sorry.
@@OldGuyHifi amp soft exists..
Super !
Thank you! Cheers!
So we dont need a DAC for 500 or 1000 or 3000$?
Eq in a DAC is awesome cause you can do "room correction" without fancy stuff in your room and on the walls. Oh and now, another 189$ for the streamer
And why open it change something when it is so good?
Hype ? Yes. What? Hype. Yes.
I am not sure what your point is. Thank you for watching.
I love you man! You're real and authentic with you gear reviews but I love your tangents into artist history and background. Awesome. Hey, quick questions about ZD3. Would the inputs, HDMI eArc & Coax In, would they be auto switching by chance. I bought the WiiM Ultra specifically for that reason but needed to add an external DAC to make it listenable. If this Fosi would switch between active inputs, I'd go back to the Sonos Port and take it Coax into the Fosi, put the TV into the Fosi and sell off the Ultra and a D30 Pro.
Thank you. Sorry. You r have to manually switch inputs..
@@OldGuyHifi Thank You.
Remove the OPA LME49720, insert OPA 2134pa. 🤨
there's more talk on recordings that the equipment
My reviews include the music I use. If you don't care for that then take your business elsewhere. Before you bugger off please comment as it helps the channels algorithm.
That's how you can tell he is a real audiophile and not a paid ad
great attitude yeah now i'm buggering you off
@@NoMoreGrace So aggressive. My, my. Remember you started it. I wish I was as impressed with you as you are with yourself. Keep replying. I can do this forever and it helps the channel grow.
@@chrisharris1522 Thank you. Who knows. Some people...
,,😱😱😱😱
You'll be getting your check.from china soon pop
💩
Haha
Seriously? Take your views somewhere else please, but reply as it helps the algorithm.
I clicked on the eBay link. That seller has 17 negatives. Hard to trust especially because I’m overseas and returning anything is nearly impossible. Christmas cards sent from there US take 60 days to get here. The POST OFFICE is absolutely terrible. Workers sleep on their desks during lunch. That never happens in Japan where I used to live.
That's the link that Fosi have me. Sorry. I know what you are talking about. I used to work for a Chinese company and I retired from a Japanese company. I have no love for the PRC. That said people are still people.
You are removing the zd3's chassis wrongly. Please follow ruclips.net/video/3_Np3KyGyvg/видео.html . Btw great review but maybe cut down talking too much about the albums. Will try the SX52B once i get this.
Thank you.