The MOONDROP MOONRIVER 3 is a pocket USB-C DAC/amp with dual Cirrus Logic CS43198 chips, 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs, PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256, and a rated 131dB dynamic range on the balanced jack. It suits phone and laptop listeners who want a balanced output, a physical volume knob and onboard DSP tuning.
Who the MOONDROP MOONRIVER 3 is for
Balanced IEMs and headphones: Moondrop rates the 4.4mm jack at a 4Vrms line level against 2Vrms on the 3.5mm, and says it delivers twice the single-ended output power.
Charging while you listen: A second USB-C port takes PD power, up to 60W per Moondrop, to run the MOONRIVER 3 and charge your phone or tablet during playback.
Hands-on control: A push-action knob gives 100-step volume separate from the phone, and presses handle play/pause, next and previous track.
Custom tuning: A physical switch turns the saved DSP tuning on or off; tunings are written through the MOONDROP Android app or Moondrop’s web tuning console.
Gaming and calls: The 3.5mm output supports CTIA headset mics, so a mic cable works for chat and calls.
Skip it if: you need Bluetooth — MOONRIVER 3 is a wired USB-C DAC/amp, and the box includes a USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-A adapter but no Lightning cable.
MOONDROP MOONRIVER 3 key specs
DAC: Dual Cirrus Logic CS43198
Amplifier and power: Two independent dual-channel amp chips; five independent power-supply chips
Formats: PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz; DSD256
Outputs: 3.5mm single-ended (CTIA mic support), 4.4mm balanced
Line output level: 2Vrms (3.5mm), 4Vrms (4.4mm)
SNR and dynamic range: 126dB (3.5mm), 131dB (4.4mm)
THD+N: 0.00018% (3.5mm and 4.4mm)
Ports and controls: USB-C audio input, USB-C PD charging port (up to 60W), 100-step push knob, DSP on/off switch
In the box: MOONRIVER 3, USB-C to USB-C cable, USB-C to USB-A adapter, manual, certificate
Genuine MOONDROP stock. Free shipping on every order, 45-day returns.
MOONDROP MOONRIVER 3 vs similar options
vs FiiO QX11: Adds a color screen, gaming modes with a built-in mic and up to 800mW balanced in Desktop Mode; pick the MOONDROP MOONRIVER 3 for 60W PD charging versus 45W, a stainless steel body and a physical DSP switch.
vs TANCHJIM LUNA: Uses the same dual CS43198 DAC chips but has a 4.4mm balanced output only; pick the MOONDROP MOONRIVER 3 for its added 3.5mm jack, PD charging port and DSP switch.
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.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
