Argon Audio BT3 Bluetooth Receiver & Transmitter

The Argon Audio BT3 is a Bluetooth device with three functions: receiver, transmitter and D/A converter in one compact housing. If you have an older stereo system without Bluetooth — or conversely want to bring wireless headphones to a classic TV — you don't need three devices for that, just one.

Why the BT3?

Inside is an ESS Sabre D/A converter resolving up to 24-bit/96kHz — not a budget chip like you'll find in many dongles at this price point. Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX and HD Audio delivers a connection that won't bother even more demanding ears. A TX/RX switch sets which direction the signal flows — during playback, Bluetooth reception always takes priority over the converter function.

What you get

As a receiver (RX), the BT3 streams from a Bluetooth device to your stereo system, with RCA and optical outputs. As a transmitter (TX), it takes in an analogue RCA or optical signal and sends it to Bluetooth headphones or speakers. In converter mode, it turns the optical digital signal into a clean analogue RCA signal for your amplifier. It's operated via power and pair buttons, powered via the included 5-volt power supply — there's no battery on board, but also no charging cycles to worry about.

Who is the BT3 for — and who is it not for?

Plain talk: if you already have an amplifier or speaker with built-in Bluetooth, you don't need the BT3 as well. If, on the other hand, you want to retrofit an existing system wirelessly — in either direction, as needed — the BT3 gives you a compact, hard-wired solution with no battery maintenance.

Our verdict

The BT3 turns a three-device question into a one-device answer: receiving, sending, converting — with a genuinely usable converter chip instead of a token DAC. Whether the receiver or transmitter function suits your setup is something we're happy to work out with you — HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, 044 680 22 00 or WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls).

Technical data

• Type: switchable Bluetooth receiver, transmitter and D/A converter
• Bluetooth: version 5.0 with aptX and HD Audio
• D/A converter: ESS Sabre, up to 24-bit/96kHz
• Inputs: 1× RCA analogue, 1× optical digital (up to 24-bit/96kHz)
• Outputs: 1× RCA analogue, 1× optical digital
• Output level: fixed
• Headphone output: not present
• Controls: power button (LED), pair button, TX/RX switch
• Power supply: 5V power adapter, mains-powered, no battery
• Dimensions (W×H×D): approx. 12.9 × 8.0 × 5.5 cm
• Weight: approx. 350 g
• Finish: Black
• In the box: BT3, 5V power adapter, quick guide

Frequently asked questions

Can I use wireless headphones with my TV using the BT3?

Yes. In TX mode, the BT3 takes in the TV's optical or analogue signal and sends it to Bluetooth headphones or speakers. That way you listen wirelessly without the TV itself needing Bluetooth.

Does the BT3 need a battery?

No. The BT3 runs exclusively off the included 5V power adapter; there's no internal battery. That means it's permanently ready to use with no charging cycles, as long as it's plugged in.

Does the BT3 have a headphone output?

No, the BT3 has no headphone output. It's designed purely as a Bluetooth receiver, transmitter and converter between sources and your system, not as a standalone listening device.

What happens if I receive Bluetooth and use the converter function at the same time?

Bluetooth reception automatically takes priority over the converter function during playback. As soon as a Bluetooth device is actively sending music, you hear that signal, and the optical conversion takes a back seat.

Why buy the Argon Audio BT3 at HD Zürisee?

Because the choice between receiver, transmitter and converter function depends on the rest of your system — and we'll tell you which wiring actually makes sense for you. Authorised dealer, our own technician, personal advice on-site or via WhatsApp.

Goes well with

A wireless detour needs good ears at the other end: our headphones, plus a look at other Bluetooth receivers — or the whole Argon Audio world.