And it’s not all TikTok-able looks!
Merely a trifle it is not, this thing comes from strong stock.
As the name suggests, hip-dac 3 is the third in a lineup of excellent hip-prefixed DACs.
Yes, it does look like a fine single malt should be involved
And this iteration is by far the best.
What are you getting for the 2023 update, aside from my favorite finish yet?
None are built quite like this though and honestly, few sound like it either.
The dedicated USB-C charging port that also gives battery life is game-changing
iFi hip-dac 3 review: Features
Let’s get granular (gran-u-lar!
Why is the Southport UK firm’s IEMatch tech a great feature?
You still get the fan-favorite XBass button too.
And you’re in for a treat at this level.
although that’s the issue at its most simplistic and something we could all muse on at length.
I favor the detail and extra insight here.
iFi’s new IEMatch switch is another excellent addition
Do I like this DAC for this money?
Then, I switched it on by turning its rotary power and volume knob clockwise.
The lights come on, the DAC is home.
It does look good next to a smartphone, no?
Now, connect to a sound source by USB-C the one on the adjacent to the charging port.
That’s all folks.
And the sound is as detailed as this money can buy, by quite a margin.
Of course, iFi can sell you something cheaper still if you’d prefer, see theiFi Uno.
Given this cheaper DAC’s five-star review, that could put the cat among the pigeons somewhat.
Value score: 5 / 5
Should you buy the iFi hip-dac 3?
You pay for a top-tier music streaming serviceThe highest of hi-res audio files can be happily dealt with here.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re off the sauceHow to put this?
You probably don’t want to be reminded of a quick nip of the hard stuff.
It was a Peter Gabriel kind of day
Your smartphone doesnt have a USB-C socketNot unless you want to pay for an adapter, anyway.
iFi hip-dac 3 review: Also consider
Helm Audio BoltWant to get rid of the bulk?
No gain function to optimise playback for your chosen in-ears or XBass whistles and bells, mind.
Read ourHelm Audio Boltreview for more.
Still, a fantastic entry-level buy.
See our fulliFi Uno reviewfor more details.
First reviewed in December 2023
