The iFi audio ZEN CAN 3 is an all-analog, balanced desktop headphone amp rated at up to 2,000mW from its 4.4mm output, with three analog inputs, a volume-controlled 4.4mm line out and five analog EQ modes. It suits listeners who already own a DAC and want more power for planar or high-impedance headphones.
Who the iFi audio ZEN CAN 3 is for
Planar and high-impedance headphones: The balanced 4.4mm output is rated at over 11.5V/2,000mW into 64Ω and over 15.1V/385mW into 600Ω, with gain steps of 0dB, 6dB, 12dB and 18dB.
Desks with several sources: RCA, 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm analog inputs switch from a front-panel button.
Powered speakers: The rear 4.4mm balanced line output follows the volume knob, so the ZEN CAN 3 also works as a preamp for active speakers or another amplifier.
Games and movies: iFi says Game mode makes low-level effects such as footsteps clearer and Movie mode improves dialogue clarity; like XBass+ and XSpace, both run in analog circuitry with no DSP.
xMEMS earphones: A dedicated xMEMS mode (long-press the EQ button) drives xMEMS solid-state IEMs from the balanced 4.4mm output.
Skip it if: you need a DAC; the ZEN CAN 3 is analog-only, with no USB, optical or Bluetooth input, so it needs a separate DAC or other analog source.
iFi audio ZEN CAN 3 key specs
Circuit: Analog, balanced, Class A discrete (shifts to Class AB at high output); no DSP
Balanced 4.4mm output: Over 11.5V/2,000mW at 64Ω; over 15.1V/385mW at 600Ω
Single-ended 6.35mm output: Over 7.2V/1,600mW at 32Ω; over 7.6V/98mW at 600Ω
Inputs: RCA, 3.5mm single-ended, 4.4mm balanced
Line output: 4.4mm balanced, volume-controlled (preamp)
Gain and EQ: 0/6/12/18dB gain; XBass+, XSpace, both combined, Game and Movie modes; xMEMS mode
SNR and THD+N: SNR ≥125dB balanced, ≥122dB single-ended; THD+N under 0.006%
Power: External 5V/2.5A DC adapter, 100–240V AC
Size and weight: 158 × 117 × 35mm; 495g
In the box: ZEN CAN 3, RCA cable, power adapter, 3.5mm-to-6.35mm adapter, quick start guide
Genuine iFi audio stock. Free shipping on every order, 45-day returns.
iFi audio ZEN CAN 3 vs similar options
vs FiiO CLASS A: Adds ≥4000mW per channel balanced at 32Ω, a 4-pin XLR headphone jack and ±10dB bass and treble controls; pick the ZEN CAN 3 for its 495g, 158mm-wide chassis, XBass+ and XSpace analog modes and an xMEMS mode.
vs Aune N7: Adds an R2R pre-stage and an all-discrete signal path with no op-amps; pick the ZEN CAN 3 for its XBass+, XSpace, Game and Movie analog EQ modes and its xMEMS mode.
Yes. Every unit we sell is genuine and brand-new, shipped in its original packaging, and backed by our 1-year TonePier warranty and 45-day returns.
Where does my order ship from, and how long does it take?
Every order ships from our warehouse in China, with full tracking, and most orders ship within 3 business days. Shipping is free on every order; most US orders arrive within 7–15 business days and most orders to other countries within 7–20 business days — see our shipping policy for details.
What if it isn't for me?
You get 45 days to decide. Keep the packaging, keep it in like-new condition, and send it back for a refund. Ear tips unsealed for hygiene reasons are fine — we expect you to actually listen.
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