iFi Audio Zen Phono 3 black

iFi Zen Phono: An affordable and high-performance MM/MC phono preamplifier

The iFi Audio Zen Phono 3 is a state-of-the-art phono preamplifier designed to elevate the vinyl listening experience. This compact and affordable device is packed with advanced features and technologies, making it an excellent choice for both audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Design and build quality

The Zen Phono 3 boasts a sleek, minimalist design that seamlessly integrates into any audio setup. Its sturdy metal chassis ensures durability and helps minimize interference for cleaner, more accurate sound. The front panel features a simple layout with a power button and a subsonic filter switch, while the rear panel houses the input and output connections.

Compatibility and versatility

One of the standout features of the Zen Phono 3 is its compatibility with both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. This versatility allows users to pair the preamplifier with a wide range of turntables and cartridges, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the setup. The adjustable gain settings (36 dB to 72 dB) further enhance its adaptability to different cartridge types.

Balanced circuit design

The Zen Phono 3 employs a balanced circuit design, which effectively reduces unwanted noise and interference. This design choice contributes to the preamplifier’s exceptionally low noise floor of -151 dBV, resulting in clean, distortion-free sound that allows the nuances of your vinyl collection to shine through.

RIAA equalization and subsonic filter

Accurate RIAA equalization is crucial for precise vinyl playback, and the Zen Phono 3 delivers in this regard. Its meticulously implemented RIAA curve ensures that music is reproduced as intended, with a level of performance rivaling phono stages costing well over €1,000. Additionally, the intelligent subsonic filter helps eliminate low-frequency rumble caused by warped records without compromising bass response or introducing phase issues.

Audiophile-grade components

iFi Audio has spared no expense in selecting high-quality components for the Zen Phono 3. The preamplifier features specially designed OV-series op-amps, which boast an impressive distortion of just 0.0001%. These op-amps, combined with carefully chosen capacitors and resistors, contribute to the device’s exceptional sonic performance.

Connectivity options

The Zen Phono 3 offers both unbalanced RCA and balanced outputs, providing great flexibility when connecting to various amplifiers or receivers. The balanced output is particularly noteworthy, as it allows for longer cable runs without compromising signal integrity and offers better noise rejection compared to unbalanced connections.

Sound quality

The iFi Audio Zen Phono 3 delivers an astonishingly clear, dynamic, and detailed sound that breathes new life into vinyl recordings. Its wide soundstage, precise imaging, and natural tonality create an immersive listening experience that draws the listener into the music. The phono preamp’s ability to render subtle details and convey the emotional content of the performance is truly remarkable, especially considering its affordable price point.

Advantages

• Exceptional sound quality with low noise and minimal distortion
• Compatibility with both MM and MC cartridges
• Adjustable gain settings for optimal performance
• Accurate RIAA equalization for faithful vinyl playback
• Intelligent subsonic filter to reduce low-frequency rumble
• Balanced circuit design to minimize noise and interference
• Audiophile-grade components
• Balanced and unbalanced output options for connectivity flexibility
• Compact, durable, and stylish design
• Affordable pricing, offering excellent value for money

Technical Specifications

Key Features

• Phono preamplifier compatible with moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges
• Four MC/MM gain levels from 36 dB to 72 dB
• Four input impedance settings
• Intelligent subsonic filter for ultra-low frequency elimination
• Equivalent Input Noise (EIN): -151 dBV
• High-frequency internal power supply 1.2 MHz

Audio Specifications

Gain

• MM: 36 dB
• High MC: 48 dB
• Low MC: 60 dB
• Very Low MC: 72 dB

Maximum Output Voltage (RMS)

• Balanced
  • 100 kΩ: ≥ 19.98 V (THD+N < 1%)
  • 600 Ω: ≥ 12.75 V (THD+N < 1%)
• Unbalanced
  • 100 kΩ: ≥ 10.07 V (THD+N < 1%)
  • 600 Ω: 7.94 V (THD+N < 1%)

Impedances

• Output
  • Balanced: 200 Ω
  • Unbalanced: 100 Ω
• Input
  • MM: 47 kΩ (100, 200 pF)
  • High MC: 47 kΩ (100, 200 pF)
  • Low MC: 1 kΩ, 400 Ω, 100 Ω
  • Very Low MC: 1 kΩ, 400 Ω, 100 Ω

Audio Performance

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio

  • MM: 91 dB(A) / 82 dB (unweighted bandwidth 80 kHz)
  • High MC: 81 dB(A) / 72 dB
  • Low MC: 89.6 dB(A) / 80 dB
  • Very Low MC: 78.6 dB(A) / 69 dB

• Total Harmonic Distortion (2 V balanced, 1 V unbalanced at 600 Ω)

  • MM: < -91 dB / 0.0027%
  • High MC: < -80 dB / 0.0095%
  • Low MC: < -70 dB / 0.031%
  • Very Low MC: < -73 dB / 0.022%

• Channel Separation: > 75 dB (1 kHz all modes)

• Frequency Response

  • Balanced: 20 Hz - 80 kHz (-3 dB)
  • Unbalanced: 20 Hz - 20 kHz (-0.15 dB)

Physical Characteristics

• Power Supply: DC 5 V / 0.5 A (center positive)
• Power Consumption
  • No signal: ~ 1.5 W
  • Maximum signal: ~ 1.8 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 158 × 35 × 115 mm
• Net Weight: 456 g

Package Contents

• ZEN Phono 3
• RCA Cable
• Power Adapter
• Quick Start Guide
• Instruction Card