iFi hip-dac 3: Mini DAC + Headphone Amplifier for Hi-Res sound anywhere (Viseu)

The iFi hip-dac 3 is a mini DAC and headphone amplifier built for anyone who wants a real step up in audio quality from a phone, laptop, or tablet — with zero fuss and true portability. If you listen to streaming, Hi-Res files, or use more demanding headphones, this is the kind of upgrade you’ll notice within minutes: more detail, more dynamics, tighter bass control, and a cleaner overall presentation. At MestresDaMúsica in Viseu, it’s a popular choice for anyone who wants a serious headphone setup without being tied to a desk.

Burr-Brown True Native DAC: musicality and “bit-perfect” playback

At the heart of the hip-dac 3 is the Burr-Brown True Native chipset, known for its natural sound and its bit-perfect approach (the file format remains unchanged). The result is a more organic, engaging sound with excellent separation and texture, especially on vocals and acoustic instruments. The hip-dac 3 supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz, DXD384, and DSD up to DSD256, making it a very complete solution for high-resolution audio.

Real power (with 4.4mm balanced output) + control for any headphones

Despite its compact size, the hip-dac 3 delivers power for a wide range of headphones. It features a truly balanced circuit and offers a 4.4mm balanced output plus a 3.5mm output with S-Balanced technology. To fine-tune the match to your setup, you also get:

PowerMatch (switchable gain) to adapt output for easy-to-drive or more demanding headphones; and iEMatch for sensitive IEMs, reducing hiss and improving micro-detail.

Analog XBass + internal upgrades for a purer sound

XBass works in the analog domain, boosting bass in a controlled, musical way (without muddying the sound) — great for open-back headphones or IEMs with less sub-bass extension. Internally, the hip-dac 3 includes circuit and component upgrades (including metal film capacitors) plus an updated clock/oscillator system to help reduce phase noise and preserve signal naturalness.

Modern USB-C and all-day battery

The hip-dac 3 uses USB-C for audio input and also provides a dedicated USB-C port for charging, making everyday use easier. The 2,200mAh battery delivers up to 12 hours of playback (depending on volume and headphones), ideal for work, travel, or simply keeping a serious DAC/amp with you at all times.

What’s in the box

Includes the hip-dac 3, a USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-A to USB-C cable, a quick start guide, and a warranty card.

Buy iFi in Portugal with specialist support in Viseu

If you’re looking for iFi Portugal with tailored advice (IEMs, planar or dynamic headphones, smartphone/PC use), the iFi hip-dac 3 is a very balanced solution in terms of price, power, and sound quality. See the product here: https://www.mestresdamusica.com/pt/amplificador-de-headphones/ifi-hip-dac-3-mini-dac-c-amp-de-auscultadores

Main specifications (summary)

- DAC: Burr-Brown True Native (bit-perfect)

- Formats: PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz, DXD384, DSD up to DSD256

- Inputs: USB-C (audio)

- Outputs: 3.5mm (S-Balanced) and 4.4mm balanced

- Features: PowerMatch (gain), iEMatch (IEMs), XBass (analog)

- Battery: 2,200mAh, up to 12 hours

Official reference: https://ifi-audio.com/products/hip-dac-3