iFi Audio - ZEN Stream
Desktop WiFi StreamerUnfortunately, even if we desire to, we won't be able to resurrect this product. The Museum is where we pay our respects to end-of-life, old, archived, but not forgotten products. This page was made with a lot of love and will live on for posterity. What to say, we're sentimental people. 😔
While this product is gone forever, here are others we recommend
This product is rated 4.5 of 5.0 stars.
It has received 2 reviews.
Customer Reviews
This is my first dedicated streamer. I have it connected to the Chord Hugo 2 and it really makes it sing! A huge jump in sound quality from the usb out of my laptop- even better than the sp1000 connected by optical to the hugo 2. If you don't need a mobile unit- i don't think this streamer can be beat at this cost.
Nice little box. Started using it just a week back and presently using for HDD playback of FLAC and WAV files and using as Spotify connect.
Nice clean sound. Still to explore other options.
Hey Aarvind,
We thank you for this lovely review & we are glad you are enjoying it! Keep the music playing.
I was impressed the moment I held the streamer in my hand, a solid build quality.
Apart from build it has it purify tech in both coax n usb audio out. Sound quality can easily be compared to Rs 1 lac streamers. I wish Ifi makes their own app, which will make this a killer at this price point.
Hey Vivek, thank you so much for the amazing review! We're glad that you have such positive thoughts about the product and we'll share your thoughts with the brand as well.
This is my first streamer and it has held up well against the rave reviews it has had. The set up was quick and it captured my wifi very quickly. You need to be aware of the sound mode settings as early on, you might not get the volume level. However, once the sound was sorted, it has worked like a charm. No system setting revisits, no relinking to wifi etc. It goes into the background of my music set up which is the idea. Great built quality to accompany the ease of usage.
Hey Rishi, thank you so much for the awesome review!
Thanks headphone zone for bringing this product to Indian market. As always excellent service by headphonezone. I received the product the 2nd day.
I primarily use laptop or mobile phone to connect to dac and listen music. I've been reading a lot about streamers and was interested to try it myself. Anyhow i was not expecting this to improve sound drastically. But i was wrong, the moment I connected my dac to Zen Steam and listened to my favorite tracks, I was surprised by what i heard. There is an audible improvement compared to laptop or phone.
Soundstage becomes well define and so is imaging. The background was dead silent (black background) and this improved the details. Details were more evident and clear. Changes are easy audible. I used WiFi and didn't face any dropouts. But make sure to use 5Ghz band. So Zen Stream is actually doing what it claims. I am happy with the purchase.
Cons: iFi app is in initial stage of development and not too stable. Setup was a bit rough as I had to use the web link to set it up as the app was not allowing me to add stream to home network. However once connected I found no issues with Tidal/Spotify connect.
Hey Karthik,
Thank you for the detailed review! Happy to know you are loving the product.
Designed in the
UK
Ideal for Audiophiles
Ideal for
Indoor Use
Connect With
Wi-Fi, Ethernet & USB HDD
Metal
Build
DESCRIPTION
UPGRADE TO THE STATE-OF-THE-ART HI-RES WI-FI STREAMING EXPERIENCE
If you are new to music streaming and willing to get into the world of audio streaming then the iFi Audio Zen Stream is a perfect match for you. Featuring a powerful 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex microprocessor, the ZEN Stream is Hi-Res compatible and provides up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and 11.2MHz DSD256 over Wi-Fi and Ethernet connection. It is a flexible open-source Wi-Fi audio transport that acts as a bridge between your audio system and the Wi-Fi network to deliver high-quality wireless sound. It also houses High-PSRR, low idle current, low-dropout voltage regulators with soft start, that empowers the ZEN Streamer to enhance efficiency and reduce the system noise. Pair the Zen Stream with the Zen DAC and ZEN CAN or any other DAC for a high-performance Wi-Fi streaming audio system.
A VERSATILE, POWER-EFFICIENT AND FUTURE-READY HI-RES AUDIO STREAMER
Being a Volumio open-source streamer, the ZEN Stream is coded and optimised for purest streaming. It is compatible with almost any streaming platform or application and is carefully designed to be future proof, ensuring that additional features and functions can be added to the Streamer over time with OTA (Over-The-Air) updates. Access optimised power supply with a Synchronous 1.5MHz high-speed precision power supply controller. Engineered thoroughly with custom-designed hardware & software, the ZEN Stream is your one-stop solution for high-quality audio streaming.
DEDICATED NETWORK STATUS & AUDIO FORMAT LED INDICATOR
You can keep a constant check on the status of your Wi-Fi network with the dedicated Network status LED that changes the colour based on the strength of your network. Similarly, there is an audio format LED indicator that changes colour based on the format of the audio that you are currently playing.
TRANSFORM ANY DAC INTO A ROON-COMPATIBLE DAC USING THE ZEN STREAMER
Using a DAC that isn't Roon compatible? The ZEN Streamer has got your back. Using the ZEN Streamer is the convenient way to transform any DAC into a Rooncompatible DAC. To make it more seamless, the ZEN Streamer supports Roon Bridge software making the entire setup suitable for the Roon environment. Full Roon certification is a work in progress. While you can easily stream music from Apple and Android devices, the ZEN Streamer is compatible with NAA and DLNA as well.
FEMTO-PRECISION GMT CLOCK, ANC AND PURIFIER TECH FOR NOISE AND JITTER-FREE AUDIO
The use of the Femto-precision GMT (Global Master Timing) clock plays a crucial role in managing dual SuperSpeed asynchronous USB3.0, coaxial S/PDIF interfaces and eliminating jitter. The USB3.0 is equipped with Active Noise Cancellation, while the SPDIF comes with iPurifier built-in, allowing the ZEN Streamer to remove any sort of distortion from the audio signal. Additionally, the power supply supports Silent Power tech, leaving no stone unturned for pure and high-quality audio. There is the ‘hotspot’ button on the front of the ZEN Stream to join a Wi-Fi network. Get Dual-band Wi-Fi reception (2.4GHz and 5GHz) with 802.11a/b/g/n/ac support via future firmware update. Moreover, the ZEN Stream is coupled with TDK C0G multilayer ceramic capacitors and Taiyo Yuden and Murata low ESR inductors.
FUNCTIONS AS A FUSS-FREE NETWORK AUDIO ADAPTOR
In conjunction with HQPlayer software developed by Sygnalist, the iFi Audio ZEN Streamer can also function as an NAA (network audio adapter). This simply allows the Streamer to deliver audio data, which it gets from the Wi-Fi or the ethernet cable, directly to the DAC without the need for processing.
ACHIEVE THE PUREST PERFORMANCE FOR ANY GIVEN OPERATION USING 'EXCLUSIVE MODES'
Get the best possible performance out of the ZEN Streamer using ‘exclusives modes’ that are designed for specific modes of operation. 1. All-in-one: For all platforms, audio formats and devices 2. Roon Bridge streaming: For connecting ZEN Stream into the Roon environment. 3. Tidal streaming: For subscribers of Tidal’s Masters Tier 4. NAA streaming: For the Network Audio Adapter mode in conjunction with HQPlayer software. 5. DLNA streaming: For optimised performance with DLNA-compatible apps and devices.
HOSTS A WIDE RANGE OF INPUTS & OUTPUTS AND EXTENDS SUPPORT TO TIDAL & SPOTIFY
The ZEN Streamer comes with a host of inputs and outputs. This includes the antenna input for Wi-Fi and an intelligent Ethernet switch controller with a low-power integrated 5-Port Giga-PHY, to connect the router. It also has a power input, USB output to pair it with other DACs, USB input to connect with storage devices and a Coaxial SPDIF output for AIO, Roon, Tidal, NAA and DLNA. You can use the ZEN Stream music on Spotify, Spotify Connect Tidal, Tidal Connect, YoutubeMusic, QQMusic, Airplay and Chromecast.
SPECS
| INPUT VOLTAGE | DC 9V/1.8A-15V/0.8A AC 100 -240V, 50/60Hz |
| INPUT | Wi-Fi / Ethernet / USB HDD |
| FORMATS | PCM384 DSD256 |
| OUTPUT | USB3.0 (Type-A Socket) x2 SPDIF (Coaxial) |
| POWER CONSUMPTION | No Signal ~6W Max Signal ~10W |
| DIMENSIONS | 158 x 100 x 35 mm 6.2" x 3.9" x 1.4" |
| WEIGHT | 578g (1.14 lbs) |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. iFi Audio ZEN Stream |
| 2. 1 x Ethernet Cable | |
| 3. 1 x Plastic screwdriver | |
| 4. 1 x Instruction card | |
| 5. 1 x Power Adapter | |
| 6. 1 x Antenna | |
| 7. 1 x User Manual |
User Manual | ZEN Stream
Desktop WiFi Streamer
Tech Lowdown | ZEN Stream
Hi-Res Streamer
Quick Start Guide | ZEN Stream
Connection Guide
|
FAQs
What is the warranty period and how to claim warranty?
iFI Audio comes with 1 year warranty. To claim warranty click here.
Does iFi Audio ZEN Stream support MQA?
No, iFi Audio ZEN Stream doesn't support MQA.
What is the ZEN Stream and what does it do?
The ZEN Stream is a flexible open-source Wi-Fi audio transport that enables your audio system to access Wi-Fi and to stream high-quality wireless music.
Which streaming services are compatible with the ZEN Stream?
The ZEN Stream is compatible with Spotify, Tidal, YoutubeMusic, QQMusic, ROON, Airplay, Chromecast (coming soon) and more.
UPGRADE TO THE STATE-OF-THE-ART HI-RES WI-FI STREAMING EXPERIENCE
If you are new to music streaming and willing to get into the world of audio streaming then the iFi Audio Zen Stream is a perfect match for you. Featuring a powerful 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex microprocessor, the ZEN Stream is Hi-Res compatible and provides up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and 11.2MHz DSD256 over Wi-Fi and Ethernet connection. It is a flexible open-source Wi-Fi audio transport that acts as a bridge between your audio system and the Wi-Fi network to deliver high-quality wireless sound. It also houses High-PSRR, low idle current, low-dropout voltage regulators with soft start, that empowers the ZEN Streamer to enhance efficiency and reduce the system noise. Pair the Zen Stream with the Zen DAC and ZEN CAN or any other DAC for a high-performance Wi-Fi streaming audio system.
A VERSATILE, POWER-EFFICIENT AND FUTURE-READY HI-RES AUDIO STREAMER
Being a Volumio open-source streamer, the ZEN Stream is coded and optimised for purest streaming. It is compatible with almost any streaming platform or application and is carefully designed to be future proof, ensuring that additional features and functions can be added to the Streamer over time with OTA (Over-The-Air) updates. Access optimised power supply with a Synchronous 1.5MHz high-speed precision power supply controller. Engineered thoroughly with custom-designed hardware & software, the ZEN Stream is your one-stop solution for high-quality audio streaming.
DEDICATED NETWORK STATUS & AUDIO FORMAT LED INDICATOR
You can keep a constant check on the status of your Wi-Fi network with the dedicated Network status LED that changes the colour based on the strength of your network. Similarly, there is an audio format LED indicator that changes colour based on the format of the audio that you are currently playing.
TRANSFORM ANY DAC INTO A ROON-COMPATIBLE DAC USING THE ZEN STREAMER
Using a DAC that isn't Roon compatible? The ZEN Streamer has got your back. Using the ZEN Streamer is the convenient way to transform any DAC into a Rooncompatible DAC. To make it more seamless, the ZEN Streamer supports Roon Bridge software making the entire setup suitable for the Roon environment. Full Roon certification is a work in progress. While you can easily stream music from Apple and Android devices, the ZEN Streamer is compatible with NAA and DLNA as well.
FEMTO-PRECISION GMT CLOCK, ANC AND PURIFIER TECH FOR NOISE AND JITTER-FREE AUDIO
The use of the Femto-precision GMT (Global Master Timing) clock plays a crucial role in managing dual SuperSpeed asynchronous USB3.0, coaxial S/PDIF interfaces and eliminating jitter. The USB3.0 is equipped with Active Noise Cancellation, while the SPDIF comes with iPurifier built-in, allowing the ZEN Streamer to remove any sort of distortion from the audio signal. Additionally, the power supply supports Silent Power tech, leaving no stone unturned for pure and high-quality audio. There is the ‘hotspot’ button on the front of the ZEN Stream to join a Wi-Fi network. Get Dual-band Wi-Fi reception (2.4GHz and 5GHz) with 802.11a/b/g/n/ac support via future firmware update. Moreover, the ZEN Stream is coupled with TDK C0G multilayer ceramic capacitors and Taiyo Yuden and Murata low ESR inductors.
FUNCTIONS AS A FUSS-FREE NETWORK AUDIO ADAPTOR
In conjunction with HQPlayer software developed by Sygnalist, the iFi Audio ZEN Streamer can also function as an NAA (network audio adapter). This simply allows the Streamer to deliver audio data, which it gets from the Wi-Fi or the ethernet cable, directly to the DAC without the need for processing.
ACHIEVE THE PUREST PERFORMANCE FOR ANY GIVEN OPERATION USING 'EXCLUSIVE MODES'
Get the best possible performance out of the ZEN Streamer using ‘exclusives modes’ that are designed for specific modes of operation. 1. All-in-one: For all platforms, audio formats and devices 2. Roon Bridge streaming: For connecting ZEN Stream into the Roon environment. 3. Tidal streaming: For subscribers of Tidal’s Masters Tier 4. NAA streaming: For the Network Audio Adapter mode in conjunction with HQPlayer software. 5. DLNA streaming: For optimised performance with DLNA-compatible apps and devices.
HOSTS A WIDE RANGE OF INPUTS & OUTPUTS AND EXTENDS SUPPORT TO TIDAL & SPOTIFY
The ZEN Streamer comes with a host of inputs and outputs. This includes the antenna input for Wi-Fi and an intelligent Ethernet switch controller with a low-power integrated 5-Port Giga-PHY, to connect the router. It also has a power input, USB output to pair it with other DACs, USB input to connect with storage devices and a Coaxial SPDIF output for AIO, Roon, Tidal, NAA and DLNA. You can use the ZEN Stream music on Spotify, Spotify Connect Tidal, Tidal Connect, YoutubeMusic, QQMusic, Airplay and Chromecast.
| INPUT VOLTAGE | DC 9V/1.8A-15V/0.8A AC 100 -240V, 50/60Hz |
| INPUT | Wi-Fi / Ethernet / USB HDD |
| FORMATS | PCM384 DSD256 |
| OUTPUT | USB3.0 (Type-A Socket) x2 SPDIF (Coaxial) |
| POWER CONSUMPTION | No Signal ~6W Max Signal ~10W |
| DIMENSIONS | 158 x 100 x 35 mm 6.2" x 3.9" x 1.4" |
| WEIGHT | 578g (1.14 lbs) |
| BOX CONTENTS | 1. iFi Audio ZEN Stream |
| 2. 1 x Ethernet Cable | |
| 3. 1 x Plastic screwdriver | |
| 4. 1 x Instruction card | |
| 5. 1 x Power Adapter | |
| 6. 1 x Antenna | |
| 7. 1 x User Manual |
|
User Manual | ZEN Stream
Desktop WiFi Streamer
Tech Lowdown | ZEN Stream
Hi-Res Streamer
Quick Start Guide | ZEN Stream
Connection Guide
|
What is the warranty period and how to claim warranty?
iFI Audio comes with 1 year warranty. To claim warranty click here.
Does iFi Audio ZEN Stream support MQA?
No, iFi Audio ZEN Stream doesn't support MQA.
What is the ZEN Stream and what does it do?
The ZEN Stream is a flexible open-source Wi-Fi audio transport that enables your audio system to access Wi-Fi and to stream high-quality wireless music.
Which streaming services are compatible with the ZEN Stream?
The ZEN Stream is compatible with Spotify, Tidal, YoutubeMusic, QQMusic, ROON, Airplay, Chromecast (coming soon) and more.
Don't sweat it, this
iFi Audio - ZEN Stream comes with a 1 Year warranty
from iFi Audio that covers manufacturing defects.
All products featured on Headphone Zone are backed by an original manufacturer's warranty.
Read more about iFi Audio's warranty in India.
"I think the ZEN Stream fufills a sorely unmet need within the Hi-Fi market, and it’s Highly-Recommended for those looking for a value-priced alternative to megabuck streamers."
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