Uploaded September 2024 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
iFi Audio's ZEN Blue 3 features some key upgrades over previous models. It can now also transmit audio to other Bluetooth devices, and you can now stream music in the highest-resolution version of Bluetooth yet: aptX Lossless.
iFi ZEN Blue 3: crutchfield.com/i-rYTVc31J/p_246ZENBLU3/iFi-Zen-Blue-3.html
The ZEN Blue 3 is more than just a Bluetooth transmitter and receiver; it's a multi-tool for your audio system. Connect to one of its many digital inputs, and you can take advantage of the ESS Sabre Hyperstream digital-to-analog converter inside. There's also an RCA analog input for connecting older gear. And no matter what's connected, you can send that music to other Bluetooth devices like powered speakers or headphones.
The iFi logo in the center of the ZEN Blue 3 lights up in different colors to indicate what Bluetooth codec is streaming. It's compatible with different Bluetooth codecs like AAC, LDAC, and various aptX versions: aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, and the new aptX Lossless, which streams music at near-CD quality.
If you want to add Bluetooth streaming to your home system, it's hard to go wrong with the iFi ZEN Blue 3. The transmitter alone is nice to have, and you'll be able to take advantage of higher-quality Bluetooth streams as they become more common. Think of it as future-proofing your setup for Bluetooth...and it's got a nice DAC inside, too.
Crutchfield, America's trusted electronics specialist since 1974, has award-winning customer service, free lifetime tech support, and free shipping on most orders. Shop for all your audio and video needs at Crutchfield.com and sign up for the catalog and email newsletter at crutchfield.com
See more home and car electronics videos on our channel: youtube.com/user/crutchfieldtv
0:00 The future of music is wireless
0:22 What does the iFi ZEN Blue 3 do?
0:45 Physical connections
1:18 Works great as a DAC
2:07 iFi logo color indicates sample rate or codec
2:41 Transmitting Bluetooth to other gear
3:19 Why do I want this, if I already have Bluetooth?
3:44 aptX Lossless
4:59 Ready for the future
5:27 Other 3rd-gen iFi products
5:51 Recap and conclusions
iFi Audio's ZEN Blue 3 features some key upgrades over previous models. It can now also transmit audio to other Bluetooth devices, and you can now stream music in the highest-resolution version of Bluetooth yet: aptX Lossless.
iFi ZEN Blue 3: crutchfield.com/i-rYTVc31J/p_246ZENBLU3/iFi-Zen-Blue-3.html
The ZEN Blue 3 is more than just a Bluetooth transmitter and receiver; it's a multi-tool for your audio system. Connect to one of its many digital inputs, and you can take advantage of the ESS Sabre Hyperstream digital-to-analog converter inside. There's also an RCA analog input for connecting older gear. And no matter what's connected, you can send that music to other Bluetooth devices like powered speakers or headphones.
The iFi logo in the center of the ZEN Blue 3 lights up in different colors to indicate what Bluetooth codec is streaming. It's compatible with different Bluetooth codecs like AAC, LDAC, and various aptX versions: aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, and the new aptX Lossless, which streams music at near-CD quality.
If you want to add Bluetooth streaming to your home system, it's hard to go wrong with the iFi ZEN Blue 3. The transmitter alone is nice to have, and you'll be able to take advantage of higher-quality Bluetooth streams as they become more common. Think of it as future-proofing your setup for Bluetooth...and it's got a nice DAC inside, too.
Crutchfield, America's trusted electronics specialist since 1974, has award-winning customer service, free lifetime tech support, and free shipping on most orders. Shop for all your audio and video needs at Crutchfield.com and sign up for the catalog and email newsletter at crutchfield.com
See more home and car electronics videos on our channel: youtube.com/user/crutchfieldtv
0:00 The future of music is wireless
0:22 What does the iFi ZEN Blue 3 do?
0:45 Physical connections
1:18 Works great as a DAC
2:07 iFi logo color indicates sample rate or codec
2:41 Transmitting Bluetooth to other gear
3:19 Why do I want this, if I already have Bluetooth?
3:44 aptX Lossless
4:59 Ready for the future
5:27 Other 3rd-gen iFi products
5:51 Recap and conclusions
