With the NEO Stream 3 and the ZEN Stream 3, iFi Audio is expanding its streaming portfolio with two new network players for discerning music lovers. While the NEO Stream 3 serves as a complete streaming hub with a built-in D/A converter and preamplifier, the ZEN Stream 3 is designed for owners of high-quality external DACs who want to add modern streaming capabilities to their existing systems.
What both devices have in common is support for virtually all major streaming platforms, as well as a consistent focus on high-resolution music playback.
NEO Stream 3: Streamer, DAC, and Preamplifier All in One
The NEO Stream 3 is designed to serve as a complete control center for high-end hi-fi systems. In addition to its network streaming capabilities, it features a built-in D/A converter and a preamp section, allowing active speakers or power amplifiers to be connected directly.
The converter uses an advanced Burr-Brown DAC design derived from the multi-award-winning NEO iDSD 2. iFi employs a four-channel True Native DAC concept with support for PCM up to 768 kHz and DSD512. Digital signal processing is handled by a powerful 16-core XMOS processor, which offers ample headroom for high-resolution audio formats.
Support for virtually all streaming services
When it comes to software, iFi is particularly open. Both streamers support numerous current streaming protocols and platforms: Qobuz Connect, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect (Lossless), Apple AirPlay 2, and DLNA/UPnP. Both devices are also Roon Ready.
Qobuz Connect, in particular, is sure to delight many audiophiles. While many manufacturers do not yet offer this feature, iFi already integrates the new standard right out of the box.
Technologies to Combat Interference and Network Noise
iFi places special emphasis on ensuring that signal transmission is as interference-free as possible.
To achieve this, the manufacturer relies, among other things, on OptiBox technology, which optically isolates the network connection from the audio section, thereby minimizing electrical interference. The design is complemented by Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for the USB and power supply, as well as exceptionally low-noise FET circuits.
In addition, the NEO Stream 3 supports K2HD technology developed by JVCKENWOOD. It is designed to reconstruct harmonic information lost in digital music files and upconvert the signal to at least 192 kHz to achieve a more natural sound.
ZEN Stream 3 for Owners of External DACs
With the ZEN Stream 3, iFi is targeting a different audience. The device deliberately omits a built-in D/A converter and focuses entirely on its role as a high-quality streaming transport.
It is designed to be the ideal complement to existing DACs or amplifiers with digital inputs, such as the company’s own ZEN DAC 3 or NEO iDSD 3.
Supported audio formats include PCM at 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD256. Digital outputs include USB with active noise cancellation, as well as coaxial and optical S/PDIF interfaces.
Two Concepts for Different Hi-Fi Systems
With these two devices, iFi Audio meets a variety of needs.
The NEO Stream 3 is ideal as a complete streaming solution for traditional stereo systems or active speakers, while the ZEN Stream 3 is primarily aimed at owners of high-end DACs who simply want to add a modern streaming platform to their setup.
Both devices combine the latest streaming services with audiophile technology, while relying on a platform that is as open as possible and not tied to any specific ecosystem.
STEREO GUIDE says
Streaming has long been a part of everyday life for high-end hi-fi systems. It’s interesting to note that iFi Audio doesn’t just focus on the highest possible resolutions, but also meets many of the needs of audiophiles with features like Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, and comprehensive measures to prevent network interference. The NEO Stream 3, in particular, is likely to be an attractive all-in-one solution for owners of high-end active speakers or traditional power amplifiers.
Technical data
iFi Audio NEO Stream 3
- Network streamer with built-in DAC and preamp
- Burr-Brown True Native DAC
- PCM up to 768 kHz
- DSD512
- 16-core XMOS processor
- Qobuz Connect
- Tidal Connect
- Spotify Connect (Lossless)
- Apple AirPlay 2
- Roon Ready
- DLNA/UPnP
- K2HD Upsampling Technology
- Optical LAN Isolation (OptiBox)
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
- Analog Outputs
- Digital Streaming Hub for Hi-Fi Systems
iFi Audio ZEN Stream 3
- Pure Network Streaming Transport
- PCM up to 384 kHz / 32-bit
- DSD256
- Qobuz Connect
- Tidal Connect
- Spotify Connect (Lossless)
- Apple AirPlay 2
- Roon Ready
- DLNA/UPnP
- USB Output with Active Noise Cancellation
- Coaxial and optical S/PDIF output
- K2HD Technology
- Optimized for external DACs
Prices and availability
Both streaming solutions are now available at specialty retailers. The ZEN Stream 3 costs 399 euros, while the NEO Stream 3, which features a built-in DAC and preamp, is priced at 999 euros.
