Setting a Standard for Entry-Level Audiophile MM/MC Phono Preamplifiers: Ultra-Quiet iFi ZEN 3 Features Four Gain and Loading Settings, Clean Power Supply, Intelligent Subsonic Filter

Why should you consider the iFi ZEN 3 MM/MC phono preamplifier if you’re looking at standalone phonostages in the sub-$500 range or still using a built-in model on your preamplifier or integrated amp? For starters, the incredible quiet. ZEN 3 features an Equivalent Input Noise (EIN) rating of -151dBV, which translates into the kind of noise floor that practically any vinyl enthusiast would love to have. Then there’s the flexible support for a wide variety of moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges thanks to four gain settings and four load settings. And the fact this compact device can slip into tight spaces and weighs just a pound.

But really, it all comes down to how ZEN 3 handles the delicate signal from your cartridge, and the results are spectacular especially when you factor in that it sells for the average price of about six or seven new LPs. Inside, ZEN 3 features a 1.2MHz clean power supply (20,000x mains frequency of 60Hz) that offers heightened noise filtration that rivals that of well-designed LC filtering circuits in classic tube amps. You also get an intelligent subsonic filter that removes only the ruinous low frequencies caused by warps. Factor in a balanced output, two RCA inputs, and two RCA outputs, and ZEN 3 has all the basics – and much more – covered. 

Experience the difference a separate phonostage can make with ZEN 3 today, or feel free to reach out to a Music Direct audio consultant at 312-433-0200 if you have any additional questions about this unit or phono preamplifiers in general.