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Key Features
Product Ref: 311298
Zen Stream is a true ground-up design by iFi — the hardware and software implementation is quite exceptional. The Zen Stream has one of the most fully-optimised software platforms in the world, this ensures that the Zen Stream is not merely a ‘jack of all trades’, but a master of all too. Beneath the unassuming casework sits some serious horsepower in terms of both technologies and components.
From the device’s drivers, to the kernel (the heart of the operating system), to the shell (which interfaces with the kernel), to the applications and the user interface — everything is fully optimised for seamless operation and excellent sonic performance. An ingenious part of the ZEN Stream’s design is the ability to select between ‘Exclusive’ modes – individual settings dedicated to specific modes of operation to deliver the purest possible performance. All other programs are shut down – to minimise ‘software jitter’ — an often overlooked aspect that negatively impacts the quality of computer audio playback.
Beneath its classy exterior, the ZEN Stream is a technological streamer-de-force. It has one purpose – to send music from the Internet to your DAC with no loss of quality. True hi-res performance of PCM384/DSD256 via WiFi/LAN. Just add your smart device as a remote and away you go. Optimised open-source architecture – works with multiple dedicated platforms, completely and perfectly future-proofed as it is constantly updated. Ease of use + audiophile implementation. It is the bee’s knees of Streamers.
Our ‘exclusive modes’ give you individual settings dedicated to specific modes of operation to deliver the purest possible performance. This non-specific mode is great for all platforms, audio formats and devices. Select this mode to optimise performance when using the ZEN Stream with DLNA-compatible apps and devices. Select this mode when using the ZEN Stream as a Network Audio Adapter in conjunction with Signalyst HQPlayer software. Select this mode when integrating the ZEN Stream into a ROON environment. If you are a subscriber to Tidal’s Masters Tier, this is the mode for you.
both input and output – support the SuperSpeed USB3.0 standard and benefit from iFi’s Active Noise Cancelling technology to remove distortion from the audio signal. Similarly, the coaxial S/PDIF output incorporates iFi’s iPurifier signal purifying technology.
Asynchronous USB and coaxial S/PDIF – that provide connectivity to an external DAC or an amp with digital inputs are regulated by iFi’s femto-precision GMT (Global Master Timing) circuitry to eradicate jitter from the digital audio signal.
Carefully chosen circuit components including discrete, high-grade surface-mounted devices such as TDK C0G multilayer ceramic capacitors and inductors from Taiyo Yuden and Murata add to the quality build of this product.
This is a true hi-res device. It uniquely supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz over Wi-Fi as well as Ethernet cable, plus DSD up to 11.2MHz (DSD256). Highly unusual in a Wi-Fi streamer.
The circuit design has been painstakingly engineered to deliver superb sound, with processing muscle supplied by a 64-bit, quad-core ARM Cortex microprocessor.
Use the ‘hotspot’ button on the front to join a Wi-Fi network. Dual-band Wi-Fi reception supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac for a fast, reliable wireless connection.
We’ve utilised high-PSRR, low idle current, low-dropout voltage regulators with soft start. This means maximised efficiency and minimised system noise.
The device uses a high-performance Ethernet switch with a low-power integrated 5-Port Giga-PHY.
Add to this, a synchronous 1.5MHz high-speed power supply controller for even great noise reduction and even less distortion_
Input voltage | DC 9V/1.8A-15V/0.8A, AC 100 -240V, 50/60Hz |
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Input | Wi-Fi / Ethernet / USB HDD (Firmware updates via OTA and USB-C at rear) |
Formats | PCM384, DSD256, (MQA-fully compatible) |
Output | USB3.0 (Type-A Socket) x2 SPDIF (Coaxial) |
Power consumption | No Signal ~6W, Max Signal ~10W |
Dimensions | 158 x 100 x 35 mm, 6.2" x 3.9" x 1.4" |
Net weight | 578g (1.14 lbs) |