Key Features
MQA is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream or download. The ZEN Stream adopts MQA technology to receive and decode MQA audio and provide master-level sound.
Our ‘exclusive modes’ give you individual settings dedicated to specific modes of operation to deliver the purest possible performance.
All-in-one
This non-specific mode is great for all platforms, audio formats and devices.
DLNA streaming
Select this mode to optimise performance when using the ZEN Stream with DLNA-compatible apps and devices.
NAA streaming
Select this mode when using the ZEN Stream as a Network Audio Adapter in conjunction with Signalyst HQPlayer software.
Roon Ready
Select this mode when integrating the ZEN Stream into a ROON environment.
Tidal streaming
If you are a subscriber to Tidal’s Masters Tier, this is the mode for you.
Intelligent Ethernet. The device uses a high-performance Ethernet switch with a low-power integrated 5-Port Giga-PHY.
This is a true hi-res device. It uniquely supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz over Wi-Fi as well as Ethernet cable, plus DSD up to 11.2MHz (DSD256). Highly unusual in a Wi-Fi streamer.
Just add Remote Control
Beneath its classy exterior, the ZEN Stream is a technological streamer-de-force. It has one purpose – to send music simply from the Internet to your DAC with no loss of quality. True hi-res performance of PCM384/DSD256 via WiFi/LAN. Just add your smart device as a remote and away you go. Ease of use + audiophile implementation. Follow our simple set-up guides on YouTube. It is the bee’s knees of Streamers.
Warp speed tech
ZEN Stream is a true ground-up design by iFi — the hardware and software implementation is quite exceptional: Two SuperSpeed USB3.0 ports with Active Noise Cancellation II, S/PDIF out with the iPurifier built-in, iFi software developed with Volumio open-source as the starting point, then coded and optimised by us to achieve the purest streaming software bar none. These are some of the factors behind why the ZEN Stream is at the cutting-edge handling PCM384/DSD256 on LAN and WiFi (802.11n, with 100Mbps on 5Ghz).
Tech savvy
Beneath the unassuming casework sits some serious horsepower in terms of both technologies and components:
- Powerful 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex microprocessor
- USB and S/PDIF interfaces regulated by femto-precision GMT clock to eradicate jitter
- Active Noise Cancellation II and iPurifier technologies for USB and S/PDIF interfaces respectively
- Intelligent Ethernet switch controller
- High-PSRR, low idle current, low-dropout voltage regulators with soft start
- Synchronous 1.6MHz high-speed precision power supply controller
- C0G capacitors and Taiyo Yuden and Murata low ESR inductors
‘Exclusive’ for your ears only
The ZEN Stream features a fully optimised software platform, from drivers and kernel to applications and user interface, ensuring seamless operation and superb sonic performance.
Its ‘Exclusive’ modes focus on specific functions like ROON Ready, Tidal, NAA, and DLNA streaming, removing unnecessary programs to reduce ‘software jitter’ for pure performance. All-in-one (AIO) mode covers all functions, making the ZEN Stream a master of all.
Superb sound, no matter how you stream
The ZEN Stream’s hi-res audio credentials are top-notch, supporting PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD up to
11.2MHz (DSD256) over Wi-Fi – highly unusual – as well as over Ethernet cable. There are multiple ways in which the device can interface with your music collection or favourite streaming service, depending on the user’s preference, and thanks to the ZEN Stream’s open-source architecture these will expand over time.
DAC’s your perfect partner
Because the ZEN Stream is a network audio ‘transport’, as opposed to a ‘player’ – it outputs a digital signal rather than an analogue one – it can be combined with whichever DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Converter) the user prefers.
An obvious partner is iFi’s ZEN DAC – an affordable, multi-award-winning USB DAC with balanced circuit design and the same 158x35x100mm aluminium enclosure.
Specifications
| DIMENSIONS | 158 x 100 x 35 mm 6.2" x 3.9" x 1.4" |
| FORMATS SUPPORTED | PCM384 DSD256 (MQA passthrough) |
| INPUT | Wi-Fi / Ethernet / USB HDD
(Firmware updates via OTA and USB-C at rear) |
| INPUT VOLTAGE | DC 9V/1.8A-15V/0.8A AC 100 -240V, 50/60Hz |
| NET WEIGHT | 578g (1.14 lbs) |
| OUTPUT | USB3.0 (Type-A Socket) x2 SPDIF (Coaxial) |
| POWER CONSUMPTION | No Signal ~6W Max Signal ~10W |
What's in the Box
1x ZEN Stream
1x Ethernet Cable
1x Antenna
1x Power Adapter
1x Quick Start Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the most frequently asked questions about this product. For more product information please contact us through Contact
Can I keep the USB drive connected while streaming from the Internet?
Yes. When you plug a USB source into the rear USB socket, the ZEN Stream will automatically sync its contents, and you can view them on the iFi portal http://ifi.local under Sources.
Can I use the ZEN Stream in a mobile setting?
Yes. Connecting your phone or portable device with the ZEN Stream’s hotspot can be useful for yachts, motorhomes and other portable setups.
This allows you to control a connected USB drive to playback its contents. Your portable device can also playback stored music files this way.
If using a streaming service such as Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify etc. and sending it to the DAC via the Stream’s hotspot connection, the portable device is forced to use mobile data and data charges may apply – check with your mobile service provider.
Do I need a Wi-Fi network router?
No, you can use your phone network to connect to the ZEN Stream using its built-in Wi-Fi hotspot facility, eliminating the need for a computer or Wi-Fi router.
Can the ZEN Stream power my DAC via USB output?
If your DAC can be run from USB power, yes. The ZEN Stream incorporates Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) on the 5v USB power output to provide the DAC, and/or USB music source, with noise-free power. The ZEN Dac, ZEN Dac V2, and the iFi Neo iDSD can both be run from this high-quality power source if appropriate.
Do the ZEN Stream and computer need to be on the same Wi-Fi network?
Yes. Alternatively, use the Wi-Fi hotspot.
Is it better to use an Ethernet or a Wi-Fi connection?
If your ZEN Stream is near a router/modem, you can use an Ethernet connection. This may give you a more secure connection to your internet service.
What determines a fast or slow connection?
Local Network Connection:
White LED – Network Connection
Green LED – No Connection
Wi-Fi Connection (Network):
Green LED – Speed < 10mbps
White LED – Speed > 10mbps
Wi-Fi Connection (No Network):
Green LED – Speed < 10mbps
Yellow LED – Speed > 10mbps
Red LED – No Connection
