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Technical Performance
The distinguished technical features of the hip-dac 3 are detail, background darkness, overall control and clarity. Those factors are incrementally improved over the previous iterations.
The soundstage is not very wide and deep, so it’s somewhat average and boxy in this regard, just like the hip-dac 2. However, it’s better than my expectations at this price level. The depth is a bit improved as well as layering with this third version, although again, it’s not a dramatic difference. Yet, the device has a nice ability to separate the instruments and provide decent imaging.
The hip-dac 3 has a good bass recovery, but when you activate the xBass effect, the quality is not the same. This feature is fun, but it doesn’t improve the sound quality. However, this is just my opinion and you may feel differently.
The hip-dac 3 also impresses with its resolution and transparency. These two factors are very important to me and the hip-dac 3 is quite good from that standpoint. The mid-range is a bit forward, as I have, but there are no unnecessary peaks or lifts in the presentation at all. The separation is good with plenty of air and space. The tonality is realistic with good timbre as well, although not very special on the tonality side. Overall, the hip-dac 3 is quite likable with good technicalities.
Synergy
I didn’t recommend using the hip-dac 2 with very sensitive monitors, but this time there’s no problem with the hip-dac 3. Is it a crucial feature with a DAC/Amp? It’s not in my opinion, but if you like your music a bit quiet like me, then it’s important. So the improvement here is quite noticeable.
The device is wonderful and very powerful for full-size headphones as well. The output power is similar and I didn’t pick up any meaningful difference in pure power, but the small updates on the circuit board ensure a clean and detailed sound, with plenty of power.
Comparisons
If I sum up the remarks in the review between the 2nd and 3rd versions, the key differences are USB change, IEMatch addition, purer sound with more detail and better background darkness. The hip-dac 3 is definitely an improvement to the already successful hip-dac 2.
However, if you already have the hip-dac 2, it’s not crucial to switch to the new one, unless you have very sensitive IEMs and don’t plan to replace them at all. If you have the OG hip-dac, it might be worth considering the newest one because the difference is obviously much more meaningful.
What if you get a super compact DAP instead of a DAC/Amp unit? The HIBY R3II is a very nice unit with plenty of features inside a small chassis. However, it doesn’t have the premium build quality of the iFi unit, and I think the hip-dac 3 packs more output power. The sound quality is a bit better with sharper delivery and more clarity as well.
The advantage of the R3II is that it can operate itself from the screen, including stream services like Tidal and Qobuz. However, the screen is very small and the UI is a bit outdated. You might prefer using your smartphone’s big screen with a much faster, modern operation. Or you might as well open your PC. Very straightforward.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iFi Audio hip-dac 3 successfully builds upon its predecessor’s strengths, offering an improved sound experience in a portable form factor. With its engaging sound signature and enhanced design, it confidently earns its place as a recommended DAC/Amp combo for on-the-go music enthusiasts.
Beyond its sonic prowess, the hip-dac 3 prioritizes user convenience, offering plug-and-play functionality and thoughtful features like IEMatch and PowerMatch switches. While the xBass feature might not resonate with everyone, its inclusion adds versatility to cater to varied music preferences.
In the bustling arena of portable DAC/Amp combos, the iFi Audio hip-dac 3 confidently earns its stripes as a recommended choice.
Pros:
- Updated circuit board components for a more refined sound
- Good sonic performance for money
- Premium design with excellent build
- Extra iFi signature features
- Great background darkness
- Great output power for size and price
Cons:
- xBass feature is not natural sounding
- Super durable USB socket gone
