What is the primary function of the iFi iPhono3 Black Label?

It is a phono pre-amplifier designed to boost the low-level signal from a turntable cartridge to a line-level signal suitable for standard amplifiers, while applying accurate EQ curves.

Does this preamp support both MM and MC cartridges?

Yes, it features wide gain settings ranging from 36dB to 72dB, making it compatible with both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges.

What is the TubeState engine?

The Class A TubeState engine is a proprietary solid-state circuit designed to deliver the warm tonal richness of traditional vacuum tubes without the drawbacks of noise or maintenance.

How does the Direct Drive Servoless design improve audio?

This design removes coupling capacitors from the signal path, which eliminates a common source of distortion and ensures a clearer, more direct audio signal.

What is the noise floor of the iPhono3 Black Label?

The device features an ultra-low noise floor of 85dB, which helps eliminate background interference during quiet sections of a record.

Why are there six different EQ curves?

The six selectable curves allow the user to match the playback equalization to the specific mastering standard used on the record, which is useful for older or non-RIAA vinyl pressings.

Is the power supply included with the unit?

Yes, it comes with the iPower X power supply, which is specifically designed to provide high dynamic range and extremely low distortion.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The iPhono3 Black Label typically retails for approximately GBP 999.

Can I use this for studio microphone recording?

No, this is a dedicated phono pre-amplifier for turntables; for microphones, products like the Warm Audio WA273-EQ or TritonAudio FetHead would be appropriate.

How does this compare to the Behringer PP400?

The iPhono3 is a high-end audiophile component with much higher gain, lower noise, and selectable EQs, whereas the PP400 is a basic entry-level utility preamp.

Does the iPhono3 have built-in volume control?

The iPhono3 is a fixed-gain phono stage intended to be connected to an integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier that handles volume control.

What makes the 'Black Label' version different from standard models?

The Black Label designation signifies the use of premium internal components, the TubeState engine, and the inclusion of the high-end iPower X supply for superior performance.

Gear article

iFi Audio iPhono3 Black Label Phono Pre-Amplifier

The iFi Audio iPhono3 Black Label is a high-fidelity phono pre-amplifier designed for audiophiles seeking precise vinyl playback. It features a Class A TubeState engine and a Direct Drive Servoless design to provide a combination of vacuum tube warmth and low-distortion solid-state performance.

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Overview

The iFi Audio iPhono3 Black Label is a premium phono stage engineered to bridge the gap between technical transparency and musicality. Designed to sit between a turntable and a line-level amplifier, it specialises in amplifying the delicate signal from a phono cartridge while applying the necessary RIAA equalisation. It is notable for its compact form factor and sophisticated internal circuitry, which aims to provide high-end performance at a mid-tier price point.

Circuit Design and Key Features

The iPhono3 Black Label utilizes several proprietary technologies to ensure signal integrity. The Class A TubeState engine is a solid-state circuit designed to emulate the harmonic characteristics and tonal richness of traditional tube amplifiers without the associated noise or heat.

To ensure clarity, the device employs a Direct Drive Servoless design. This architecture eliminates the need for output coupling capacitors, which can often introduce distortion or phase shifts. Additionally, the unit is bundled with the iPower X power supply, which significantly reduces the noise floor and enhances the dynamic range by providing clean, regulated DC power.

Customisation and Compatibility

One of the most versatile aspects of the iPhono3 is its adaptability to different hardware configurations:

Gain Settings: With a range spanning from 36dB to 72dB, the unit is compatible with virtually any cartridge, from high-output Moving Magnet (MM) types to low-output Moving Coil (MC) models.
EQ Curves: It features six selectable EQ curves. This allows listeners to accurately reproduce records that may have been mastered using standards other than the modern RIAA curve, such as Columbia or Decca.
Ultra-Low Noise: The 85dB noise floor ensures that even during quiet passages or between tracks, the listener hears the recording rather than electronic interference.

Sonic Character

The sound profile of the iPhono3 Black Label is described as detailed and immersive. The TubeState engine provides a specific warmth and body to the music, preventing the clinical or 'thin' sound sometimes associated with entry-level solid-state preamps. Despite this warmth, the Direct Drive design maintains a high level of transparency, ensuring that transients are crisp and the soundstage remains undistorted.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the iFi Audio ecosystem, the iPhono3 Black Label serves as a significant upgrade over entry-level units like the Behringer PP400, offering vastly higher gain flexibility and lower noise. Unlike professional microphone preamps such as the Warm Audio WA273-EQ or the TritonAudio FetHead, which are designed for studio recording, the iPhono3 is purpose-built for vinyl playback standards. While guitar-centric preamps like the Vox Valvenergy or Boss BP-1W focus on creative coloration, the iPhono3 focuses on high-fidelity reproduction and specific EQ curve accuracy for archival-quality listening.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the iFi iPhono3 Black Label?: It is a phono pre-amplifier designed to boost the low-level signal from a turntable cartridge to a line-level signal suitable for standard amplifiers, while applying accurate EQ curves.
Does this preamp support both MM and MC cartridges?: Yes, it features wide gain settings ranging from 36dB to 72dB, making it compatible with both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges.
What is the TubeState engine?: The Class A TubeState engine is a proprietary solid-state circuit designed to deliver the warm tonal richness of traditional vacuum tubes without the drawbacks of noise or maintenance.
How does the Direct Drive Servoless design improve audio?: This design removes coupling capacitors from the signal path, which eliminates a common source of distortion and ensures a clearer, more direct audio signal.
What is the noise floor of the iPhono3 Black Label?: The device features an ultra-low noise floor of 85dB, which helps eliminate background interference during quiet sections of a record.
Why are there six different EQ curves?: The six selectable curves allow the user to match the playback equalization to the specific mastering standard used on the record, which is useful for older or non-RIAA vinyl pressings.
Is the power supply included with the unit?: Yes, it comes with the iPower X power supply, which is specifically designed to provide high dynamic range and extremely low distortion.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The iPhono3 Black Label typically retails for approximately GBP 999.
Can I use this for studio microphone recording?: No, this is a dedicated phono pre-amplifier for turntables; for microphones, products like the Warm Audio WA273-EQ or TritonAudio FetHead would be appropriate.
How does this compare to the Behringer PP400?: The iPhono3 is a high-end audiophile component with much higher gain, lower noise, and selectable EQs, whereas the PP400 is a basic entry-level utility preamp.
Does the iPhono3 have built-in volume control?: The iPhono3 is a fixed-gain phono stage intended to be connected to an integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier that handles volume control.
What makes the 'Black Label' version different from standard models?: The Black Label designation signifies the use of premium internal components, the TubeState engine, and the inclusion of the high-end iPower X supply for superior performance.