Reference-Level Quiet, Dynamics, and Resolution: iFi iPhono3 Black Label MM/MC Phono Preamplifier Makes Vinyl Jump to Life, Features EQ Curves and Class A TubeState Buffer

It's virtually impossible to overstate how quiet (A-weighted noise floor of 89dB) the iFi iPhono3 Black Label MM/MC phono preamplifier is during operation. Or to exaggerate its dynamic range (out to an eye-popping 111dB A-weighted), reference-grade output impedance (20 ohm), or flexibility with all types of vinyl (five equalization curves to mate with practically any LP). A beauty and beast, iPhono3 Black Label makes analog jump to life with incredible clarity, quickness, accuracy, and detail. You'll hear your LP collection reproduced with a more natural, lifelike sound enriched with lower distortion, increased resolution, and remarkable transient response. Factor in the supplied iPOWER X outboard power supply (less than 0.1uF noise floor) that adds 4dB to the overload margin, and you have a phonostage that fully understands the importance of black backgrounds, immeasurably low distortion, and uninterrupted quiet when spinning records.

With Decca, RIAA, Columbia, RIAA, and IEC curves at the ready, iPhono3 Black Label ensures accurate playback for all types of music and all eras of records. You will never have to worry about playing another LP with the wrong EQ and tolerate inferior sonics. iPhono3 Black Label also comes with a subsonic filter, handy when dealing with a warped track or record. To further enhance the audiophile experience, iPhono3 Black Label employs a simple Class A TubeState buffer circuit that minimizes the loading of the amplifier circuit while simultaneously biasing the output stage of the integrated circuit amplifier into single-ended Class A. The result: Sonics that combines the best of tube sound (lack of grain and edginess, organic naturalism) with the benefits of modern solid state (low distortion, low noise).

The secrets to such breathtaking performance lie with the reference-level build, engineering, and parts quality. Compatible with practically any moving-magnet or moving-coil phono cartridge, iPhono3 Black Label features hand-matched Burr-Brown Soundplus OV4627S J-FET op-amps complemented by Japan-made Panasonic ECPU film capacitors touting a vanishingly low distortion of <0.00005%. Hello, dynamics. Working in concert, computer-matched planar, high-gain, bi-polar input transistors translate to lower output noise. The planar transistor is constructed by an etching and diffusion technique in which the junction never sees exposure during processing, and the junctions reach the surface on one plane, protecting against current leakage and ensuring high gain. An audiophile-grade Nichicon 470uF/6.3v/UFW0J471MED capacitor provides lower ESR, faster speed, and deeper bass in comparison to the preceding model, while new FMMT618A transistors increase the power from 350mW to 625mW.

Employing a Direct Drive Servoless "DC Infinity" circuit that adds no noise or distortion to the signal path, the sleek, 0.44-pound iPhono3 Black Label also counts Japan-made TKD COG-type capacitors for the equalization and power-supply bypass, ELNA Japan-made Silmic capacitors for the power supplies, MELF-type think film resistors for all critical positions, and a Panasonic OSCON totaling 14,800uF for ultra-low Equivalent Series Resistance, superb noise reduction, and stellar frequency characteristics.

Factor in iPhono3 Black Label's petite 1.1 x 2.3 x 6.2-inch (HWL) footprint that allows it to sit virtually anywhere without taking up precious space, and this U.K.-designed analog instrument is a musical and ergonomic champion. 100% Music Direct Satisfaction Guaranteed.

"[I]f you've got $1,000 to spend on a fully adjustable, compact, MM/MC phono preamplifier, I don't see how you can possibly buy an iPhono 3 and regret your decision."
– Michael Fremer, Analog Planet

"The iPhono3 does nothing wrong. None of the tonal spectrum is exaggerated or ignored.... Within the price constraints, analog doesn't get any better than this.... [The iPhono3] is an excellent product in every way."
—TONE