SPL Phonitor Xe (with DAC) red

SPL Phonitor Xe: the pinnacle of headphone amplification

The SPL Phonitor Xe represents the culmination of German expertise in high-end headphone amplification. This preamplifier combines advanced technology with meticulous build quality. Featuring proprietary VOLTAiR 120V technology and the Phonitor Matrix, it transforms headphone listening into an experience close to listening through loudspeakers, while retaining the privacy that headphones provide. Its versatile connectivity and power allow it to drive virtually every headphone model on the market with great precision

Uncompromising design

The Phonitor Xe has a design that is both elegant and robust, with an aluminum chassis available in three finishes: silver, black, or red. Weighing 5.1 kg, its solid construction immediately conveys its premium quality. The front panel is dominated by two retro-style analog VU meters that display the input levels of the left and right channels. These indicators are not merely decorative; they provide a precise visual representation of the audio signals.

Volume is controlled by a substantial 45 mm potentiometer fitted with the renowned Alps RK27 “Big Blue”, offering an exceptional tactile feel. This motorized potentiometer can be operated remotely with any infrared remote control, a convenient feature that sets this model apart from many competitors.

VOLTAiR technology: the heart of sonic excellence

VOLTAiR technology is the Phonitor Xe’s key innovation. Unlike conventional amplifiers, which typically operate at ±15V or ±18V, the Phonitor Xe uses an internal voltage of ±60V. This approach delivers exceptional technical performance, with an impressive dynamic range of 135.5 dB from the standard jack output and 130.5 dB from the balanced XLR output.

This proprietary technology produces remarkably transparent sound, with natural transient reproduction and no compression whatsoever, even during the most complex musical passages. The extended frequency range of 10 Hz to 300 kHz (-3 dB) ensures faithful reproduction of every sonic detail.

The Phonitor Matrix: redefining headphone listening

One of the Phonitor Xe’s most innovative features is its Phonitor Matrix, which addresses a fundamental issue with headphone listening. Almost all music productions are mixed and mastered on loudspeakers, but listening through headphones presents significant acoustic differences.

The Phonitor Matrix recreates loudspeaker listening conditions by simulating:

• Natural crossfeed (sound from the left loudspeaker reaching the right ear and vice versa)
• High-frequency filtering caused by human anatomy
• Different listening angles depending on loudspeaker placement

This analog technology eliminates the “super stereo” effect often experienced with headphones, where channel separation is artificially exaggerated. The result is a more natural and less fatiguing soundstage, even during long listening sessions. Four different listening angles can be selected, allowing you to tailor the sound presentation to your preferences.

Exceptional connectivity and versatility

The Phonitor Xe offers comprehensive connectivity for seamless integration into any high-end audio system. It has multiple analog inputs, including balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connections. The version with the optional DAC768v2 module adds USB, coaxial S/PDIF, optical Toslink, and AES/EBU digital inputs, allowing a direct connection to virtually any digital source.

For outputs, the Phonitor Xe provides a 6.35 mm jack connection for standard headphones and 4-pin XLR connections for balanced headphones, available on both the front and rear of the unit. This configuration allows different types of headphones to be used without constantly unplugging and reconnecting them.

Power and control for every pair of headphones

With an impressive output power of up to 2 x 8 watts, the Phonitor Xe can effectively drive every pair of headphones on the market, from low-impedance models to the most demanding ones. This power reserve delivers exceptional dynamics and no compression whatsoever, even with the hardest-to-drive headphones.

The laterality control, a unique feature, allows fine adjustment of the left-right balance to compensate for any asymmetry in hearing or headphones. A mode selector also lets you switch between stereo and mono reproduction, useful for checking a recording’s mono compatibility or identifying phase issues.

DAC768v2 module: the reference digital option

For those seeking an all-in-one solution, the Phonitor Xe can be equipped with the optional DAC768v2 module. This high-precision digital-to-analog converter uses the AK4493 SEQ chip, capable of processing PCM signals up to 32-bit/768 kHz as well as DSD up to DSD256.

This module turns the Phonitor Xe into a complete solution for digital sources, eliminating the need for a separate external DAC. Its conversion quality matches the rest of the unit, with remarkable transparency and precision that preserve the integrity of the original digital signal.

Comparison with other models in the range

The Phonitor Xe is the flagship model in SPL’s range dedicated exclusively to headphone amplification. Unlike the Phonitor X, which can also serve as a preamplifier for loudspeakers thanks to its balanced outputs, the Xe focuses solely on excellence in headphone reproduction.

Compared with the less expensive Phonitor se, the Xe offers even more impressive build quality, superior technical performance, and greater flexibility of use, justifying its price tag, which is twice as high. It also stands apart from the entry-level Phonitor One and One D through its substantially greater power and expanded features.

Professional and audiophile applications

Although designed primarily for audiophiles, the Phonitor Xe also has a place in professional studios. Its origins lie in the needs of sound engineers and producers seeking a tool that would let them mix on headphones with the same precision as on studio monitors.

The Phonitor Matrix is particularly useful for professionals, as it lets them hear how a mix would sound on different listening systems. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for music production, mastering, and any situation where accurate sound reproduction is essential.

Headphone Amplifier

Controls and Display

• Mechanical VU meters: Precise visualization of left and right input levels.
• Laterality control: Fine adjustment of the sound center to balance left/right hearing.
• Adjustment via infrared remote control or 45 mm rotary knob for optimal precision.

General Concept

• Phonitor Matrix technology, VOLTAiR, and retro design with VU meter.
• Multiple inputs: XLR and RCA for extended compatibility with various headphones.
• High output power: Suitable for all headphones, from the lowest to the highest impedance.
• Sound quality: Neutrality, precision, and musicality for a perfect listening experience.
• Transforms headphone listening into an experience close to speakers, with detailed sound.
• Multiple stereo sources: Up to 6 sources, including digital inputs with the optional DAC (USB, COAX, OPTICAL, AES).

Connectivity

Inputs

• XLR inputs (Neutrik, balanced):
  • Impedance: 20 kohms
  • Common-mode rejection: -82 dBu (1 kHz)
  • Maximum input level: +32.5 dBu
• RCA inputs (Unbalanced):
  • Impedance: 10 kohms
  • Maximum input level: +32.5 dBu
• Digital inputs (optional):
  • SPDIF coaxial (RCA): PCM up to 192 kHz
  • TOSLINK optical (F06): PCM up to 96 kHz
  • USB (B): PCM up to 768 kHz and DSD (1, 2, and 4)
  • AES: PCM up to 192 kHz

Outputs

• Balanced headphone output (XLR 4-pin):
  • Impedance: 0.36 ohms
  • Frequency range: 10 Hz to 300 kHz (-3 dB)
  • Dynamic range: 130.5 dB
  • Damping factor: 180 at 40 ohms
• Standard headphone output (TRS 6.35 mm):
  • Impedance: 0.18 ohms
  • Frequency range: 10 Hz to 300 kHz (-3 dB)
  • Dynamic range: 135.5 dB
  • Damping factor: 180 at 40 ohms

Output Power

• Maximum power (at +30 dBu @ 1 kHz):
  • 2 x 1 W at 600 ohms
  • 2 x 2 W at 300 ohms
  • 2 x 3.7 W at 120 ohms
  • 2 x 2.9 W at 47 ohms
  • 2 x 2.7 W at 32 ohms

Advanced Technologies

• Phonitor Matrix:
  • Stereo correction for headphones, eliminates the “super stereo” effect.
  • Crossfeed and angle: Adjusts the signal for natural, fatigue-free listening.
  • Center focus: Adjusts the volume of the stereo image center for an authentic soundstage.
• VOLTAiR:
  • Proprietary technology for detailed, distortion-free sound.
  • High-quality components for precise and vibrant sound reproduction.

DAC768v2 (optional)

• AK4493 SEQ DAC chip: 32-bit resolution, sampling rate up to 768 kHz.
  • Supports DSD up to DSD512.
  • SLP120 analog filter for smooth and precise reproduction.

Power Supply and Voltages

• Internal voltages:
  • Analog: +/- 60 V
  • Digital: +5 V and +3.3 V (optional DAC768)
• Power supply:
  • Mains voltage: 230 V AC / 50 Hz or 115 V AC / 60 Hz
  • Fuses: 230 V: T 500 mA; 115 V: T 1 A
  • Consumption: max 40 VA
  • Standby consumption: 0.7 W

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions (incl. feet): 278 x 100 x 330 mm
• Weight:
  • Unit: 5.1 kg
  • Shipping: 6.25 kg