The Phantom Ultimate 98 dB embodies the new generation of connected speakers from Devialet, combining in a surprisingly compact format 400 watts of power and a frequency response extending from 18 Hz to 25 kHz. This mono speaker, designed and manufactured in France, represents ten years of technological evolution since the launch of the first Phantom in 2015, integrating the latest advances in digital signal processing and hybrid amplification. With its NXP i.MX 8M Nano quad-core processor running at 1.5 GHz and its new DOS 3 operating system, it offers extended connectivity including notably Tidal Connect and Google Cast, two protocols absent from previous generations.
Mechanical construction in service of acoustic purity
The structure of the Phantom Ultimate 98 dB demonstrates an approach where every element contributes to controlling parasitic vibrations. The speaker is based on a bi-injected composite design combining an inner layer of glass fiber-reinforced polycarbonate and an external ABS shell. This construction is built around a central injected aluminum core, a true backbone capable of withstanding the considerable forces generated by the lateral speakers during their excursions.
The speaker’s dimensions (157 × 219 × 168 mm for 4.3 kg) remain identical to those of the Phantom II it replaces, but several substantial modifications have been made. The full-range speaker grille now features an opening ratio increased by 13%, allowing better high-frequency propagation. The lateral aluminum woofers, visible for the first time without protective covers, offer a striking visual spectacle when in motion, with excursions that can reach several centimeters on the deepest notes.
The user interface has been redesigned with four capacitive touch controls positioned on the upper section: volume control, play/pause, and Bluetooth activation. An LED indicator communicates operating status through simple visual codes (off, blinking at startup, solid white during operation). Two finishes are available: Deep Forest, a deep green with black chrome reflections, and Light Pearl, a matte pearlescent white reminiscent of biscuit porcelain. A special Opéra de Paris edition, the result of a partnership initiated in 2017, features gold leaf contours applied by hand in the Gohard Workshops, requiring eight hours of artisanal work per unit.
Next-generation ADH: the perfect synthesis between analog and digital
At the heart of the Phantom Ultimate 98 dB beats the ADH (Analog Digital Hybrid), Devialet’s foundational technology perfected since 2004. This hybrid approach operates in parallel a Class A analog amplifier, renowned for its linearity and musicality, and Class D digital amplifiers, appreciated for their energy efficiency and compactness. The principle is similar to automotive power steering: the analog amplifier generates the output voltage and defines signal quality, while the digital amplifiers provide the current necessary to drive the speakers.
This new generation of ADH benefits from refined control algorithms enabling perfect synchronization between the two types of amplification, even at the highest frequencies. The analog amplifier maintains a natural bandwidth extending from DC to 5 MHz, guaranteeing flawless transient reproduction and zero phase shift in the audio band. The digital amplifier, devoid of output capacitor, achieves an effective efficiency of 90% with constant output impedance below one milliohm across the entire spectrum.
SAM (Speaker Active Matching) technology analyzes in real-time the electromechanical characteristics of the speakers through laser interferometry measurements performed in the laboratory. More than sixty parameters are modeled for each transducer: displacement, deformation, velocity, acceleration, resonances. This algorithmic processing corrects temporal delays between different speakers, particularly sensitive in the bass register where membranes react more slowly. The result translates into exceptional temporal coherence and bass frequency extension well beyond usual physical limits.
Acoustic performance that defies the laws of physics
The HBI (Heart Bass Implosion) system constitutes one of Devialet’s acoustic signatures. This suite of multiphysics innovations allows the two lateral 2 × 75 mm woofers to reach down to 18 Hz despite an internal volume of only 3.5 liters. The speakers operate in push-push configuration, their membranes moving symmetrically inward and outward in perfect synchronization. This arrangement cancels reaction forces that, in a conventional speaker, would generate parasitic cabinet vibrations.
The maximum sound pressure level of 98 dB SPL at 1 meter may seem modest compared to the 108 dB of the superior model, but it remains largely sufficient to fill rooms up to 40 m². Signal processing is performed at 32 bits / 96 kHz internally, preserving the resolution of high-definition files. Inputs accept signals up to 24 bits / 192 kHz, although streaming via certain protocols like AirPlay is limited to 16 bits / 44.1 kHz.
AVL (Adaptive Volume Level) technology, inherited from the Dione soundbar, dynamically adjusts equalization based on the content being played. This intelligent processing maintains tonal balance at all listening levels, compensating for human ear limitations at low volumes while preserving dialogue clarity in audiovisual content. Background noise, measured at 0 dB SPL at 1 meter, demonstrates the exceptional operating silence of the electronics.
Wireless connectivity designed for the modern ecosystem
The new DOS 3 operating system, powered by the NXP i.MX 8M Nano processor, marks a major evolution in the Phantom’s streaming capabilities. Native integration of Tidal Connect now allows subscribers to this service to stream their music directly from the mobile application, without going through the Devialet interface. Google Cast offers similar functionality for the Android ecosystem, facilitating multiroom streaming and voice control via Google Assistant.
AirPlay and Spotify Connect protocols, already present on previous generations, benefit from optimizations reducing latency and improving connection stability. Roon Ready (RAAT) compatibility will appeal to audiophiles with substantial music libraries, offering advanced metadata management and automatic upsampling. The UPnP protocol allows playback of files stored on a NAS server or network computer, with a maximum resolution of 24 bits / 96 kHz.
Physical connectivity is deliberately limited to one mini-TOSLINK optical input and an RJ45 Ethernet port. This apparent simplicity conceals thoughtful design: the optical input, compatible with 3.5 mm jack adapters, allows connection of an analog source via an external converter or direct connection of a television. Ethernet guarantees a stable link for multiroom installations comprising multiple speakers, with Devialet’s proprietary protocol enabling perfect synchronization of up to 16 units.
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) in 2×2 MIMO configuration operates on 2.4 and 5 GHz bands, automatically adapting to network conditions. Bluetooth 5.2, limited to SBC and AAC codecs, serves more as a backup solution than a preferred listening mode, with the absence of high-definition codecs like aptX HD or LDAC confirming this orientation.
The Devialet app: control and customization center
The Devialet mobile application, completely redesigned for this new generation, goes beyond the role of a simple remote control. Initial setup, mandatory even for Bluetooth use, guides the user through network configuration and firmware updates. The stereo pairing process automatically detects the presence of two Phantom Ultimate 98 dB units on the same network and proposes their association.
The six-band parametric equalizer allows adaptation of the sound signature to room acoustics or personal preferences. Three preset listening modes optimize processing according to content: Music Mode for faithful reproduction of the original recording, Cinema Mode with expanded spatialization and enhanced dynamics, Podcast Mode prioritizing vocal intelligibility. Night mode automatically reduces bass frequency amplitude to preserve neighborhood tranquility without sacrificing listening quality.
Advanced settings include latency adjustment for audio/video synchronization, particularly useful when watching content on a television connected via optical. Automatic shutdown programming, configurable from 30 minutes to 12 hours of inactivity, optimizes energy consumption. In standby, the speaker consumes only 2 watts while remaining instantly accessible via the network.
Wi‑Fi: Wi‑Fi 5 (802.11 a / b / g / n / ac) – 2×2 MIMO (2.4 and 5 GHz)
Ethernet: RJ45 (100 / 1000 Mbps)
Inter-speaker connection: Devialet DOS 3 protocol (96 kHz / 24-bit)
Optical input: 1 × mini‑TOSLINK
Streaming services
AirPlay
Google Cast
Spotify Connect
Tidal Connect
UPnP
Roon Ready (RAAT)
Bluetooth 5.2 (profiles A2DP and AVRCP, codecs SBC and AAC)
Power
Voltage: 100–240 V ~ 50 / 60 Hz
Power consumption
Off: < 0.5 W
Standby: < 2 W
Dimensions and weight
Speaker: 157 × 219 × 168 mm (W × D × H)
Weight: 4.3 kg
Packaging: 210 × 285 × 250 mm – 5 kg
In the box
Devialet Phantom Ultimate 98 dB
Power cable
Documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can two Phantom Ultimate 98 dB units be used in stereo configuration?
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Yes, the Devialet application allows easy pairing of two identical speakers to create a true stereo image. Synchronization occurs automatically via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, with imperceptible latency between the two channels. The soundstage gains considerably in width and depth, with instruments positioning precisely in space. For optimal results, space the speakers 1.5 to 2.5 meters apart and orient them 25 to 30 degrees toward the listening position.
What is the main difference between the Phantom Ultimate 98 dB and the 108 dB model?
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Beyond the maximum sound pressure level difference (10 dB represents a perceived doubling of volume), the 108 dB model adopts a three-way configuration with separate tweeter and midrange in coaxial mounting, versus a two-way configuration for the 98 dB. The superior model’s woofers use ABS membranes rather than aluminum, allowing greater excursion and extension down to 14 Hz. The 108 dB also integrates Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, versus Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2 for the compact version.
Does the Phantom Ultimate 98 dB require an app to function?
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The Devialet application is essential for initial setup, even if you plan to use only Bluetooth. Once configured, the speaker can be controlled via integrated touch controls or directly from compatible streaming applications (Spotify, Tidal, etc.). The application remains recommended for accessing advanced settings, firmware updates, and the customizable equalizer.
Can SAM technology damage the speakers?
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On the contrary, SAM integrates sophisticated protection mechanisms based on precise modeling of each transducer’s physical limits. The system continuously monitors membrane excursion and power dissipation, automatically limiting the signal before reaching critical thresholds. This dynamic protection paradoxically allows broader exploitation of speaker capabilities than with a conventional amplifier, while guaranteeing their integrity even during prolonged high-volume listening sessions.
User reviews
Farid
A real disaster for an audiophile. My wife wanted one and, listening to it in the showroom, I found it not bad. But after a few hours of listening at home I started to find it very mediocre. Good for going boom boom, but for musicality you can give it a miss. It’s going to end up on leboncoin.
Comment from May 13, 2026 — Experience from March 10, 2026
Automatically translated — Show original (French)
Un vrai désastre pour audiophile. Ma femme
en voulait une et a l’écoute au showroom, je l’ai trouvé pas mal. Mais après qq heures d’écoute chez moi j’ai commencé à la trouver très moyenne. Bien’pour faire boum boum mais pour la musicalité on peut passer son tour. Elle va finir sur le boncoin.
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