KECES S3 DAC & Headphone Amplifier

The KECES S3 is a compact audio hub: a high-resolution D/A converter, a powerful headphone amplifier and an adjustable preamp in one housing.

A single device for the desktop and headphone setup that converts digital sources, drives headphones and can directly power active speakers when needed. Supplied as a single unit with a metal remote control.

Why the KECES S3?

Because it cleanly combines three tasks. An ESS SABRE converter handles PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256, a relay-based volume control ensures exact channel matching even at low levels, and massive toroidal transformers deliver stable power. Both headphones and active speakers can be driven via XLR and RCA.

What you hear

Calm and drive: a stable, dynamic sound picture that loses no detail even at room volume. The OLED display shows the sample rate, and switchable gain adapts the S3 to sensitive in-ears as well as to power-hungry planar magnetic headphones.

Who is the S3 suited for – and who isn't it for?

Plain talk: if you're just after a stylish mini device, more compact solutions exist. If you want a genuine hub with reserves for demanding headphones, this is the right place. It's not suited as a standalone power amp – for that, there's the S300+.

Our verdict

A versatile centrepiece for headphone enthusiasts and desktop setups: DAC, headphone amp and preamp in one, cleanly built. The trade press sees it similarly: hifitest.de rated the S3 4 out of 5 stars and placed it in the top class (issue 2/2018). At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we advise you on the right headphone combination.

Technical Data – KECES S3

• Type: D/A converter with headphone amplifier and preamp
• Converter: ESS SABRE (PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz, DSD up to DSD256)
• Inputs: USB, coaxial (RCA), optical (Toslink)
• Outputs: 4-pin XLR & 6.3 mm jack (headphones), RCA & XLR pre-out (adjustable)
• Volume: relay network; switchable gain; OLED display
• Housing: brushed aluminium, black
• Dimensions (W×D×H): 300 × 220 × 66 mm
• Weight: 4 kg
• Included: S3, metal remote control, mains cable, USB cable, manual

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the S3 as a preamp for active speakers?

Yes, it has a pre-amp mode with adjustable RCA and XLR outputs – volume via the device or remote control.

Which headphones does it suit?

From easy-to-drive dynamic headphones to power-hungry, high-impedance models – thanks to high output power and switchable gain.

Why buy the KECES S3 from HD Zürisee?

Because DAC, headphones and source need to match. We advise you on the right combination and integrate the S3 cleanly into your chain – in Wädenswil. Free shipping from CHF 190.

Goes well with

A KECES linear power supply, more headphone amplifiers and good cables.