It’s a great DAC with room for improvement. Power supply, super capacitor bank, discrete op-amps give you a lot of flexibility to really fine tune the sound and elevate its performance. To best its performance after mods, you need to go 1K plus territory IMO. PS. You need to get your hands on Staccato op-amps some day. 😉
I've got Staccato op-amps already, but I prefer the Bursons and Sparkos. I also don't think the ZD3 performs anywhere above its price. It's solid for what it offers, but doesn't scale as well as their amplifier products
Lachlan, thank you for a very thorough review! I’ve often wondered how different circuits will react to different op amps. The fact that most Fosi amps include the NE5532 and the ZD3 includes the LME49720 tells me the circuits are different, and the fact the Burson V7 detracts from the SQ compared to the ZA3 which benefits from it (as reviewed by you) basically confirms this. DAC chips that are current-based (AKM 4499/4191 for example) are apparently more susceptible to changes in op amps than voltage based chips. Information about the technical pairing of op amps and gear is thin at best… it feels like a very new concept that will evolve rapidly with a much greater understanding of how these interactions work and a better ability to predict more successful outcomes. Cheers! 🍻
It’s unusual and cool looking. Trigger outputs are a bit strange to see on a component like this, never used triggers myself but nice to be included. Not keen on this business of removing a switch though. Rather you than me. Appreciate the amount of work that went into this with all the op-amp switching, and how clear the differences are described and communicated.
Thanks Mark. Yes, it's a little bit fiddly for sure. The 12V triggers are becoming common on a lot of the products from SMSL, Topping and Fosi. I prefer auto signal sensing systems like those on the V3 Monos though.
@ meaning the feature some things have when it picks up that a signal is going through it and then switches itself on? That is surely a better idea yes, because I’ve had 12v triggers on lots of things over the years, big things like av receivers and power amps, but for the amount of hassle to dig out an extra cable and plug it in just so everything switches on with one button press instead of say two buttons presses, it seems counterintuitive. Never used the feature, so I agree, I prefer when they sense a signal too.
Thank you for the informative video, Lachlan. On the budget end of DACs, I highly recommend the SMSL DO100 PRO. It has an HDMI ARC input and a wider soundstage, superior imaging, and overall cleaner sound than the original DO100. Also, at its maximum level, the DO100 PRO operates at a higher Voltage for a bit more sonic pizzaz. (XLR: 5.2Vrms；RCA: 2.5Vrms)
Thanks for the tip! HDMI ARC is becoming much more common on DACs, even at the lower prices it seems. That's great to see. As for the higher voltage outputs, don't be tricked into thinking that's necessarily better because it can leave you with less volume range to work with if you have sensitive headphones and it can actually cause distortion by overloading the input stage of some preamps/amps. It's not a bad thing, but not inherently good either. 🙂
@@PassionforSound Yes, I discovered that first-hand on some of my amp/headphones combinations when the source is loud. To compensate, I turn down the output level of the DAC to around 90%. But I like having the option to crank it to '11'... or in this case, 5.2 Volts.
Did you ever get the chance to review the nitsch pietus Maximus? Been looking at the pietus , Jot2 and geshelli a3 would one be a better match for atriums or similar with different flavors?
I've got one here, but we're holding back the review while Nitsch get more stock ready. I have briefly listened, but not enough to form any firm thoughts about it. There were some parts delays while Schiit were relocating their factory, I believe.
Wow! After seeing this i swapped the sparkos from zd3 to za3(x 2 in mono) and then set my zd3 up with those op amps that fosi threw in with preorder. This arrangement no longer sounds like a class d set up. Thanks for the honesty and letting us know your discovery. Great stuff!
@@PassionforSound you bet. I have a pair of ELAC Debut reference DBR62 to be delivered tomorrow and I am thrilled to have a sit down listen asap. Currently have a set of overnight sensations that i built about ten years ago. Very detailed but only 4” driver. Question. Do you hear a “pop” when using this dac with wiim ultra. Its usually between tracks when streaming Tidal and i think its when the ending track and new track have different bit rate though i cant be certain of that.
@JeffreyMann-qq6yj I haven't experienced any popping from the ZD3, but I only used it from my PC via USB or via the Singxer SU-6 DDC to optical/coaxial.
@ wiim got a firmware update yesterday and the pop has vanished. I also set up a new pair of speakers. I got the ELAC Debut Reference DBR62…so I am in a very happy place at the moment. Im very VERY pleased with the set up. Tons of headroom and fine detail that doesnt call attention to itself. Ive owned quite a few class D amps in the past and never thought they would ever sound this rich.
*Swappable op amps is a hugely critical feature.* I follow Hi-Fi so I know what is going on while I dig my heels back into the ground to continue work in launching my own audio design and manufacturing company. The reason it matters is because say for example I design a preamp for DAC or an analog go between within your chain and I design around op amp X, I am going to tailor it's bandwidth filters around that chip. This means if chip X lacks highs for what I desire and see on test equipment, I will adjust it in my design. *The boil down is that when you switch op amps, the critical shifts in tone magnitude and all around sound color texture will be bold and as it is, many people have preferred chips.* Whether it's guitar and musician's gear or home and mobile audio, I'm an OPA2228 in almost every example. *It's outrageous to me that it's yet another "obsolete" model and now quite expensive to get authentic ones.* The 5532 is pretty much the standard for consumer audio as well as many pro audio products, but there are better and they do matter.
Really good DAC chips use to be expensive and now they are cheap... it was then the quality of the compensates around them... this has also come down dramatically... but you still need to be sure it's good quality compensate around them otherwise it's not a good DAC... Fosi are one of these companies that find the right cheap components
That's generally accurate, but I think the design could be further improved to allow for greater scalability with higher end op-amps. It sounds to me like the maximum sound quality is being limited by something in the design.
When i use the XLR connection to a power amp and also use the RCA connection to a subwoofer. Would this degrade the sound on the speakers when both connections are used?
@@tessie4204 your comment has ruined me. I cant help thinking that with one more ZA3 I could set up a center channel for tv and use a switch(that i already have) to swap to an additional rear set of speakers for fill when listening to music. Here we go again!
@PassionforSound : What is really excellent with your reviews, and in particular with this one on the ZD3, is the story line development. It really develops as Sherlock Holmes would act on an unclear situation, and find out more and eventually solve the case. Anyway, it’s done in a way with maintaining suspense, and wanting to hear unfold the story. Thanks.
Things have gotten to the point that to be better than the average DAC/Amp I need something better than manual opamp switching like it's 2005. Ironically back to the iFi differentiation of features - DAC with PEQ, Amp with meaningful Op Amp rolling, or switchable with a switch, tone controls, and crossfeed, etc
I don't entirely agree because there are some brilliant DACs with excellent performance for a reasonable price and without op-amp swapping. The challenge is more that they tend to all use the same DAC chips and similar, high feedback designs that end-up sounding quite similar.
@@PassionforSound that's fair, you listen in a way you find more signal chain differences that matter to you than I do. For me I'm indifferent to my Topping dx3pro, nx7, D50/thx789, 5 or even qudelux 5k. I have the original modi multibit and I agree it sounds a little different but I don't think I would pay extra for that again.
@zmmmzmmmz I think that's a really good point. They're definitely interchangeable now to the point that you won't spot the differences if you're not directly comparing them.
Their tuning is interesting and it does mean that finding an amp with the right tonality is important, but I agree that they can sound great. They have outstanding staging.
@PassionforSound when you find an amp that can drive them with quality, the bass is outstanding. I think Yamaha made them too sensitive to amplification (they also said so in an interview) so that's why there are so many mixed experiences
@djhmax09 being planar magnetic means that the amplifier doesn't have much influence over the driver behaviour, but their tonality definitely requires some help...
I have come to really appreciate your reviews so thank you 🙏 Kind of frustrated with Fosi as they actively seek feedback and pre-production suggestions from consumers I respect and applaud this and admire Fosi Many suggestions were made and largely ignored by Fosi on this DAC. I am rooting for Fosi but wonder what will be their future if they try and compete with ultra competitive niche components The $200 +/- DAC market is not a place to take for granted. Come on Fosi, do better. Let’s see what comes out of their pipeline. For example they have been talking about a CD player for a long freaking time I have begged them to do a simple quality CD transport If they do that count me in I got tired of waiting and got the new Shingling CD60 transport for $270 for my desktop It can rip which I find to be useless so that is my only criticism Otherwise, Shangling did a great job on it I made suggestions on another product they are doing I explained in detail where I saw the market opportunity in a difficult component space Let’s see what they do but I know if they go in a certain direction it will not get market share
I think a part of the process for Fosi will be to gather some easy-to-implement feedback and release a version to gauge how it performs and then create a new one with further time and feedback
4493 vs 4499 DAC chip. Even with more expensive DACs that use the 4493, the sound differences rolling with the 4443 isn’t much. Even this own channel has done test to show this with other products. In contrast, it’s the 4499 that lends itself to be the best candidate for OPAMP rolling, and again this channel has shown this in the past. I think in the case of Fosi, they are making a point to add this feature whenever possible because there is demand for it. However because of price points, their implementation in this case isn’t the most ideal for it.
I love that Fosi give us the chance to swap the op-amps. I just like to ensure that people know it doesn't immediately make every product a giant killer.
This is the problem with thinking there are "Best" this or that component, Chocolate IS the BEST food - so why are there no Chocolate-Covered-Steak-On-A-Stick stands??? Because just because the individual components are great does not mean that they blend well.
Sadly, no. I can't get my hands on Holo Audio gear ever since I didn't rave about the Spring 3. Apparently, they only like one-sided and positive reviews...
@@PassionforSound Shame, maybe a viewer can send you one. Would be great to hear you compare it with your Yggy OG. Gumby 2 as well when that arrives :)
It’s pretty obvious from your recommendations which companies are paying you to shill for them. And you’re not the only one. The so-called cheap audio man (Randy) has been a hypocrite for hire for some time now, just as you are. I wouldn’t mind it so much, if you all weren’t constantly insisting that you’re sincere, and we’re getting your unbiased opinion! None of you are any better than a big box store sales man. I feel bad for people that don’t know better.
How exactly have you drawn that conclusion? I've both recommended and not recommended Fosi Audio products AND SMSL products. You've clearly not watched enough of my reviews to draw an informed conclusion.
By Didi Tang | The Associated Press • Published October 2, 2024 The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Wednesday that it would ban the import of goods from China's far-west region of Xinjiang. The action broadens the scope of the U.S. effort to counter products from entering the country that the government says are tied to human rights abuses. “Today’s actions reaffirm our commitment to eliminating forced labor from U.S. supply chains and upholding our values of human rights for all,” said Robert Silvers, undersecretary of Homeland Security for policy. “No sector is off-limits. We will continue to identify entities across industries and hold accountable those who seek to profit from exploitation and abuse.” Acid Jazz, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
Fosi are making great sounding products at very low prices that will help beginners to access better sound. To me, that's a wonderful thing. @TriAmpHiFi are you suggesting that Fosi comes from that part of China and is guilty of exploitation? I haven't looked into where in China they're made. (Edit: Fosi are based in Shenzhen)
It’s a great DAC with room for improvement. Power supply, super capacitor bank, discrete op-amps give you a lot of flexibility to really fine tune the sound and elevate its performance. To best its performance after mods, you need to go 1K plus territory IMO.
PS. You need to get your hands on Staccato op-amps some day. 😉
I've got Staccato op-amps already, but I prefer the Bursons and Sparkos. I also don't think the ZD3 performs anywhere above its price. It's solid for what it offers, but doesn't scale as well as their amplifier products
Lachlan, thank you for a very thorough review!
I’ve often wondered how different circuits will react to different op amps. The fact that most Fosi amps include the NE5532 and the ZD3 includes the LME49720 tells me the circuits are different, and the fact the Burson V7 detracts from the SQ compared to the ZA3 which benefits from it (as reviewed by you) basically confirms this.
DAC chips that are current-based (AKM 4499/4191 for example) are apparently more susceptible to changes in op amps than voltage based chips.
Information about the technical pairing of op amps and gear is thin at best… it feels like a very new concept that will evolve rapidly with a much greater understanding of how these interactions work and a better ability to predict more successful outcomes.
Cheers! 🍻
It’s unusual and cool looking. Trigger outputs are a bit strange to see on a component like this, never used triggers myself but nice to be included. Not keen on this business of removing a switch though. Rather you than me. Appreciate the amount of work that went into this with all the op-amp switching, and how clear the differences are described and communicated.
Thanks Mark. Yes, it's a little bit fiddly for sure.
The 12V triggers are becoming common on a lot of the products from SMSL, Topping and Fosi. I prefer auto signal sensing systems like those on the V3 Monos though.
@ meaning the feature some things have when it picks up that a signal is going through it and then switches itself on? That is surely a better idea yes, because I’ve had 12v triggers on lots of things over the years, big things like av receivers and power amps, but for the amount of hassle to dig out an extra cable and plug it in just so everything switches on with one button press instead of say two buttons presses, it seems counterintuitive. Never used the feature, so I agree, I prefer when they sense a signal too.
Thank you for the informative video, Lachlan. On the budget end of DACs, I highly recommend the SMSL DO100 PRO. It has an HDMI ARC input and a wider soundstage, superior imaging, and overall cleaner sound than the original DO100. Also, at its maximum level, the DO100 PRO operates at a higher Voltage for a bit more sonic pizzaz. (XLR: 5.2Vrms；RCA: 2.5Vrms)
Thanks for the tip! HDMI ARC is becoming much more common on DACs, even at the lower prices it seems. That's great to see.
As for the higher voltage outputs, don't be tricked into thinking that's necessarily better because it can leave you with less volume range to work with if you have sensitive headphones and it can actually cause distortion by overloading the input stage of some preamps/amps. It's not a bad thing, but not inherently good either. 🙂
@@PassionforSound Yes, I discovered that first-hand on some of my amp/headphones combinations when the source is loud. To compensate, I turn down the output level of the DAC to around 90%. But I like having the option to crank it to '11'... or in this case, 5.2 Volts.
Perfect!
Did you ever get the chance to review the nitsch pietus Maximus? Been looking at the pietus , Jot2 and geshelli a3 would one be a better match for atriums or similar with different flavors?
I've got one here, but we're holding back the review while Nitsch get more stock ready. I have briefly listened, but not enough to form any firm thoughts about it. There were some parts delays while Schiit were relocating their factory, I believe.
@ yeah I’ve been watching nitsch website
Wow! After seeing this i swapped the sparkos from zd3 to za3(x 2 in mono) and then set my zd3 up with those op amps that fosi threw in with preorder. This arrangement no longer sounds like a class d set up. Thanks for the honesty and letting us know your discovery. Great stuff!
Yay! That's awesome news and nice confirmation that I'm not the only one hearing what I described. Thanks for sharing.
@@PassionforSound you bet. I have a pair of ELAC Debut reference DBR62 to be delivered tomorrow and I am thrilled to have a sit down listen asap. Currently have a set of overnight sensations that i built about ten years ago. Very detailed but only 4” driver. Question. Do you hear a “pop” when using this dac with wiim ultra. Its usually between tracks when streaming Tidal and i think its when the ending track and new track have different bit rate though i cant be certain of that.
Streamer connected via optical.
@JeffreyMann-qq6yj I haven't experienced any popping from the ZD3, but I only used it from my PC via USB or via the Singxer SU-6 DDC to optical/coaxial.
@ wiim got a firmware update yesterday and the pop has vanished. I also set up a new pair of speakers. I got the ELAC Debut Reference DBR62…so I am in a very happy place at the moment. Im very VERY pleased with the set up. Tons of headroom and fine detail that doesnt call attention to itself. Ive owned quite a few class D amps in the past and never thought they would ever sound this rich.
*Swappable op amps is a hugely critical feature.* I follow Hi-Fi so I know what is going on while I dig my heels back into the ground to continue work in launching my own audio design and manufacturing company.
The reason it matters is because say for example I design a preamp for DAC or an analog go between within your chain and I design around op amp X, I am going to tailor it's bandwidth filters around that chip. This means if chip X lacks highs for what I desire and see on test equipment, I will adjust it in my design.
*The boil down is that when you switch op amps, the critical shifts in tone magnitude and all around sound color texture will be bold and as it is, many people have preferred chips.*
Whether it's guitar and musician's gear or home and mobile audio, I'm an OPA2228 in almost every example. *It's outrageous to me that it's yet another "obsolete" model and now quite expensive to get authentic ones.* The 5532 is pretty much the standard for consumer audio as well as many pro audio products, but there are better and they do matter.
0:53 “weird shape”…looking at you IFI 🤣
Haha. I was actually thinking of Aune. 😂😂
Really good DAC chips use to be expensive and now they are cheap... it was then the quality of the compensates around them... this has also come down dramatically... but you still need to be sure it's good quality compensate around them otherwise it's not a good DAC... Fosi are one of these companies that find the right cheap components
That's generally accurate, but I think the design could be further improved to allow for greater scalability with higher end op-amps. It sounds to me like the maximum sound quality is being limited by something in the design.
This is why I didn't preorder the ZD3 - I wanted to wait for comparison reviews. I hope you can compare it with the Fiio K11 which I recently bought.
I have the K11 here, but haven't unpacked it yet
Which Fiio K11? I owned the R2R version.
R2R 🙂
When i use the XLR connection to a power amp and also use the RCA connection to a subwoofer. Would this degrade the sound on the speakers when both connections are used?
Generally speaking, it shouldn't as both outputs are running their own op-amps to drive the outputs independently.
@@tessie4204 your comment has ruined me. I cant help thinking that with one more ZA3 I could set up a center channel for tv and use a switch(that i already have) to swap to an additional rear set of speakers for fill when listening to music. Here we go again!
@PassionforSound : What is really excellent with your reviews, and in particular with this one on the ZD3, is the story line development. It really develops as Sherlock Holmes would act on an unclear situation, and find out more and eventually solve the case. Anyway, it’s done in a way with maintaining suspense, and wanting to hear unfold the story. Thanks.
I'm so glad you like the approach. I try to make each video a little story of its own. 🙂
Things have gotten to the point that to be better than the average DAC/Amp I need something better than manual opamp switching like it's 2005. Ironically back to the iFi differentiation of features - DAC with PEQ, Amp with meaningful Op Amp rolling, or switchable with a switch, tone controls, and crossfeed, etc
I don't entirely agree because there are some brilliant DACs with excellent performance for a reasonable price and without op-amp swapping. The challenge is more that they tend to all use the same DAC chips and similar, high feedback designs that end-up sounding quite similar.
@@PassionforSound that's fair, you listen in a way you find more signal chain differences that matter to you than I do. For me I'm indifferent to my Topping dx3pro, nx7, D50/thx789, 5 or even qudelux 5k. I have the original modi multibit and I agree it sounds a little different but I don't think I would pay extra for that again.
@zmmmzmmmz I think that's a really good point. They're definitely interchangeable now to the point that you won't spot the differences if you're not directly comparing them.
Yammy!! My favorite 🎧
Hope you find good synergy with that, they are picky as heck ime
Their tuning is interesting and it does mean that finding an amp with the right tonality is important, but I agree that they can sound great. They have outstanding staging.
@PassionforSound when you find an amp that can drive them with quality, the bass is outstanding. I think Yamaha made them too sensitive to amplification (they also said so in an interview) so that's why there are so many mixed experiences
@djhmax09 being planar magnetic means that the amplifier doesn't have much influence over the driver behaviour, but their tonality definitely requires some help...
I have come to really appreciate your reviews so thank you 🙏
Kind of frustrated with Fosi as they actively seek feedback and pre-production suggestions from consumers
I respect and applaud this and admire Fosi
Many suggestions were made and largely ignored by Fosi on this DAC.
I am rooting for Fosi but wonder what will be their future if they try and compete with ultra competitive niche components
The $200 +/- DAC market is not a place to take for granted.
Come on Fosi, do better.
Let’s see what comes out of their pipeline.
For example they have been talking about a CD player for a long freaking time
I have begged them to do a simple quality CD transport
If they do that count me in
I got tired of waiting and got the new Shingling CD60 transport for $270 for my desktop
It can rip which I find to be useless so that is my only criticism
Otherwise, Shangling did a great job on it
I made suggestions on another product they are doing
I explained in detail where I saw the market opportunity in a difficult component space
Let’s see what they do but I know if they go in a certain direction it will not get market share
I think a part of the process for Fosi will be to gather some easy-to-implement feedback and release a version to gauge how it performs and then create a new one with further time and feedback
4493 vs 4499 DAC chip. Even with more expensive DACs that use the 4493, the sound differences rolling with the 4443 isn’t much. Even this own channel has done test to show this with other products.
In contrast, it’s the 4499 that lends itself to be the best candidate for OPAMP rolling, and again this channel has shown this in the past.
I think in the case of Fosi, they are making a point to add this feature whenever possible because there is demand for it. However because of price points, their implementation in this case isn’t the most ideal for it.
I love that Fosi give us the chance to swap the op-amps. I just like to ensure that people know it doesn't immediately make every product a giant killer.
This is the problem with thinking there are "Best" this or that component, Chocolate IS the BEST food - so why are there no Chocolate-Covered-Steak-On-A-Stick stands??? Because just because the individual components are great does not mean that they blend well.
Great point!
Holo Cyan 2 review on the horizon?
Sadly, no. I can't get my hands on Holo Audio gear ever since I didn't rave about the Spring 3. Apparently, they only like one-sided and positive reviews...
@@PassionforSound Shame, maybe a viewer can send you one. Would be great to hear you compare it with your Yggy OG. Gumby 2 as well when that arrives :)
@Reeeepicheep I'm not particularly inclined to give airtime to a brand that suppresses negative reviews by preventing future access to their gear...
smsl aims to please
Consistently solid these days.
It’s pretty obvious from your recommendations which companies are paying you to shill for them. And you’re not the only one. The so-called cheap audio man (Randy) has been a hypocrite for hire for some time now, just as you are. I wouldn’t mind it so much, if you all weren’t constantly insisting that you’re sincere, and we’re getting your unbiased opinion! None of you are any better than a big box store sales man. I feel bad for people that don’t know better.
How exactly have you drawn that conclusion? I've both recommended and not recommended Fosi Audio products AND SMSL products. You've clearly not watched enough of my reviews to draw an informed conclusion.
please don't fund people's liberation army no more please
I don't know who would buy products from Fosi besides people that aren't audiophile and don't care so much about SQ
Did you even listen to this DAC? Or are you one of those know it all but tested/listened to non of it experts? 😂
This main comment is hilariously judgmental. Is “not audiophile” an insult? Who cares?
Fosi says they are audiophiles and I can see them working their way up the food chain
I am rooting for them
By Didi Tang | The Associated Press • Published October 2, 2024
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Wednesday that it would ban the import of goods from China's far-west region of Xinjiang. The action broadens the scope of the U.S. effort to counter products from entering the country that the government says are tied to human rights abuses.
“Today’s actions reaffirm our commitment to eliminating forced labor from U.S. supply chains and upholding our values of human rights for all,” said Robert Silvers, undersecretary of Homeland Security for policy. “No sector is off-limits. We will continue to identify entities across industries and hold accountable those who seek to profit from exploitation and abuse.”
Acid Jazz, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
Fosi are making great sounding products at very low prices that will help beginners to access better sound. To me, that's a wonderful thing.
@TriAmpHiFi are you suggesting that Fosi comes from that part of China and is guilty of exploitation? I haven't looked into where in China they're made. (Edit: Fosi are based in Shenzhen)