iFi Audio Hip-DAC 3 – Stylish Pocket DAC/Amp with Balanced Power

The iFi Audio Hip-DAC 3 delivers true audiophile-level sound in a sleek, compact aluminum body. Featuring Burr-Brown True Native DAC, dual USB-C ports, iEMatch, and PowerMatch controls, this portable powerhouse brings refined audio performance wherever you go.

Key Features

• Burr-Brown True Native architecture: Bit-perfect playback for PCM up to 384 kHz, native DSD256, DXD384, and full MQA decoding
• Balanced design with dual outputs: 4.4 mm balanced and S-Balanced 3.5 mm outputs deliver clean, distortion-free audio
• PowerMatch & iEMatch: Tailor gain for high-impedance headphones or mute hiss on sensitive IEMs
• XBass analog bass enhancement: Adds low-end warmth without muddiness, richening open-back or bass-light headphones
• Enhanced circuitry & GMT clock: Metal film capacitors and improved oscillator reduce phase noise for cleaner sound
• Two USB-C inputs: One for audio, one for charging—use it while charging without interrupting playback

Customer Benefits

Whether you’re commuting, working remotely, or enjoying music at your desk, the Hip-DAC 3 elevates your listening with detailed, dynamic sound and intuitive control. Its pocket-ready design, thoughtful gain options, and long battery life deliver premium playback tailored to your gear.

Quick Specs

• Dimensions: 10.2 × 7.0 × 1.4 cm
• Weight: 135 g
• Battery: 2,200 mAh lithium-polymer, up to ~12 h playtime
• Formats: PCM up to 384 kHz, DSD up to 256, DXD up to 384 kHz, full MQA decoding
• Output power: Balanced: 400 mW @32 Ω; 6.3 V @600 Ω. S-Balanced: 280 mW @32 Ω; 3.2 V @600 Ω
• SNR / DNR: Balanced <109 dB(A); S-Balanced <103 dB(A)
• THD+N: Balanced <0.006 % (360 mW @600 Ω); S-Balanced <0.01 % (100 mW @16 Ω)
• Power consumption: <2 W idle, <4 W max

What’s in the Box

• iFi Audio Hip-DAC 3 unit
• USB-C to USB-C cable
• USB-C to USB-A cable
• USB-C to Lightning cable
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty Card

Use Cases / Ideal For

Perfect for music lovers on the move, creators working across devices, and anyone upgrading laptop or smartphone audio—delivering high-resolution performance in a pocket-sized form.

Compatibility

Connects via USB-C to smartphones, tablets, or computers—use one port for charging, one for data. Supports both balanced (4.4 mm) and single-ended (3.5 mm) headphones, with iEMatch to reduce hiss and PowerMatch for dynamic output tuning.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Compact, stylish, and portable with premium build quality
• Tailored gain and noise-control options for a wide range of headphones
• Rich, flexible sound with true high-res format support
• Two USB-C ports for simultaneous charging and playback

⚠️ Cons:

• Volume knob is sensitive—can change level if jostled in pockets
• Battery life varies significantly with gain and tuning mode usage

The iFi Audio Hip-DAC 3 mixes luxurious audio tuning, balanced audio power, and everyday practicality in a stylish, flask-inspired shell.