iFi Audio Hip DAC 3 Portable DAC and Headphone Amp
Unlock true high-fidelity sound on the go with the iFi Audio Hip DAC 3 — the third-generation portable DAC and amplifier engineered for audiophiles who demand clarity, power, and precision from any device. Featuring a powerful Burr Brown DAC chipset, the Hip DAC 3 delivers Bit-Perfect True Native playback of all major formats, including PCM384, DXD384, and DSD256. Whether you're using high-end IEMs or demanding over-ear headphones, this sleek gold-anodized aluminum device enhances sound detail, bass depth, and dynamic range — thanks to iFi's exclusive XBass and iEMatch technologies. With both 4.4mm Balanced and 3.5mm S-Balanced outputs, the Hip DAC 3 delivers audiophile-grade performance from smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more.
Specifications
- DAC Chipset: Burr Brown Bit-Perfect DAC for DSD, DXD, PCM playback
- Inputs: USB-C (BC V1.2 compliant charging up to 1000mA)
- Supported Formats: DSD256 (11.3MHz), PCM384kHz, DXD384, MQA Full Decoder
- Outputs: 4.4mm Balanced | 3.5mm S-Balanced
- Power Output (BAL): 400mW @ 32Ω | 6.3V @ 600Ω
- Power Output (S-BAL): 280mW @ 32Ω | 3.2V @ 600Ω
- Output Impedance: ≤1Ω (BAL/S-BAL) | ≤4.5Ω with iEMatch on
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: BAL <109dBA @ 0dBFS | S-BAL <103dBA @ 0dBFS
- THD+N: BAL <0.006% | S-BAL <0.01%
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 45kHz (-3dB)
- Battery: 2200mAh Lithium-polymer | ~8 hours playback
- Power Consumption: <2W idle | 4W max
- Dimensions: 4.0" x 2.8" x 0.6"
- Weight: 0.3 lbs (137g)
- Included Accessories: USB-A to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-C cable, Quick Start Guide, 1-Year Warranty Card, User Manual
What It’s Great At
- Delivering true high-resolution audio from portable devices
- Driving both sensitive IEMs and demanding high-impedance headphones
- Enhancing bass response without sacrificing clarity
- Reducing background noise and hiss for ultra-clean playback
- Providing balanced audio performance in a compact, travel-ready design
Expanded Key Features List
- True Native High-Resolution Playback: Supports full decoding of DSD256, PCM384, DXD384, and MQA for lossless, studio-quality sound.
- Burr Brown DAC Chip: Delivers a warm, natural sound signature with low distortion and precise digital-to-analog conversion.
- Dual Output Options: Includes both 4.4mm Balanced and 3.5mm S-Balanced outputs to match a wide range of headphones and IEMs.
- Powerful Output: Up to 400mW @ 32Ω on Balanced out — capable of driving power-hungry headphones with ease.
- iEMatch Mode: Optimizes gain and reduces noise floor for ultra-sensitive IEMs, improving vocal clarity and dynamic range.
- XBass Enhancement: Boosts low-end response without muddying mids, ideal for bass-light headphones or genres like EDM and hip hop.
- Gold-Anodized Aluminum Body: Stylish, compact, and built for durability — perfect for mobile listening without compromise.
- All-Day Battery Life: 2200mAh battery delivers up to 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge.
Q&A Section
Q: What audio formats does the iFi Hip DAC 3 support?
A: The Hip DAC 3 supports DSD256, PCM384, DXD384, and full MQA decoding, offering high-resolution playback across all major audio formats.
Q: What makes the Hip DAC 3 different from previous versions?
A: It features a USB-C input for both data and charging, an upgraded anodized gold finish, and refined circuit topology for better power efficiency and sonic accuracy.
Q: Can I use the Hip DAC 3 with my smartphone or tablet?
A: Yes, it connects via USB-C and is compatible with most Android devices, iPhones (with an adapter), tablets, and laptops.
Q: What is iEMatch and how does it help?
A: iEMatch lowers output sensitivity to optimize playback with highly sensitive IEMs, reducing background hiss and improving overall audio clarity.
Q: Does it work with power-hungry headphones?
A: Absolutely. The 400mW Balanced output delivers ample power for high-impedance headphones up to 600Ω.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: The internal 2200mAh battery provides approximately 8 hours of continuous playback, depending on usage and load.
Q: Is the DAC chip in the Hip DAC 3 the same as in other iFi models?
A: The Hip DAC 3 uses a Burr Brown DAC, known for its natural and detailed sound, similar to other high-end iFi devices.
Q: What’s included in the box?
A: You’ll receive the Hip DAC 3, a USB-A to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-C cable, Quick Start Guide, User Manual, and Warranty Card.
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*While this applies to most orders, it does not apply to items that are drop-shipped from different warehouses or have to be shipped via an LTL carrier.
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Warranty
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