SPL Phonitor x Balanced Headphone Amp/Preamp
Best high-fidelity amplifier for discerning audiophiles and professional studio engineers.
Experience unparalleled audio with the SPL Phonitor x Balanced Headphone Amp/Preamp. This high-fidelity device features a 120 V rail headphone amplifier, delivering exceptional clarity and power. It offers separate connections for both balanced and unbalanced headphones, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio gear. With a maximum output power of 2 x 3.7 W into 120 ohms and an impressive frequency response from 10 Hz to 300 kHz (-3 dB), the Phonitor x provides a rich and detailed listening experience. Its low total harmonic distortion ensures pristine sound reproduction. The SPL Phonitor X is a premium dual headphone amplifier and preamplifier featuring revolutionary 120V rail technology for exceptional dynamic range and clarity. It offers versatile connectivity, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs, and supports up to five stereo sources with optional digital inputs (USB, coaxial, optical) and an integrated DAC. The innovative Phonitor Matrix provides a realistic speaker-like listening experience on headphones, while features like laterality control and remote volume adjustment enhance usability. This German-made device is ideal for both professional audio engineers and discerning Hi-Fi enthusiasts seeking uncompromised sound reproduction.
$1899.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
388
/ 733
#388 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
+36%
Above average
Who it's for
- Listeners seeking a natural, speaker-like soundstage for long sessions
- Audiophiles powering high-impedance headphones requiring significant clean energy
- Desktop users needing a unified preamp and headphone amplifier solution
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level audio equipment
- Users preferring a simple plug-and-play experience without complex adjustments
- Mobile listeners requiring a portable device for travel
Performance breakdown
Dynamic Range
The 120V rail technology delivers unparalleled headroom and sonic clarity.
Soundstage Simulation
Phonitor Matrix creates a remarkably realistic speaker-like experience on headphones.
Drive Capability
Effortlessly powers even the most demanding high-impedance headphone models.
Connectivity Versatility
Extensive analog and optional digital inputs handle complex multi-source setups.
Build Integrity
German engineering ensures a robust, professional-grade chassis built to last.
Usability
Intuitive controls and IR learning make daily operation seamless and convenient.
Key Specs
120V rail headphone amplifier and preamplifier
Separate connections and power amplifiers for headphone driven balanced and unbalanced
Suited for all headphones with impedances >10 ohms
Balanced and unbalanced analog inputs (XLR and RCA)
Optional digital inputs
USB, coaxial and optical
Optional DAC
192 kHz and 24 Bit
Balanced and unbalanced analog outputs (XLR and RCA)
Maximum output power
2 x 3.7 W (into 120 ohms)
Features
- Dual power amp for balanced headphones with twice the power
- Optional DA converter supports up to 192 kHz and 24 bit
- Optimized Phonitor-Matrix for speaker-equivalent listening
- Crossfeed and Angle controls for stereo image simulation
- Full-fledged stereo preamplifier with five stereo source connections
- Learns any IR remote control for volume adjustment
- AMP CTL for coupled On/Off switching with Performer power amplifier
- Part of the Professional Fidelity (Pro-Fi) series
- High-fidelity audio amplification
- Supports both balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Exceptional power and clarity
- Wide frequency response for detailed sound
- Low distortion for pure audio reproduction
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the SPL Phonitor x for its exceptional build quality and sophisticated design. Owners frequently highlight the robust construction and premium materials, noting a sense of lasting durability. The aesthetic appeal and thoughtful layout of controls also receive high marks, contributing to a premium user experience. Many feel the product embodies a high standard of craftsmanship, making it a standout piece in any audio setup. This amplifier is widely regarded as a top tier offering, reflecting meticulous attention to detail in both form and function.
Know before you buy
The 120V rail technology provides a significantly higher dynamic range and headroom compared to standard audio components. This allows the amplifier to handle complex musical transients with greater clarity and less distortion, resulting in a more natural and effortless sound.
Yes, the Phonitor x features dedicated outputs for both balanced and unbalanced headphones. It includes separate power amplifiers for each, ensuring that both connection types receive optimal power and performance.
The Phonitor Matrix simulates the acoustics of a room by adjusting the crossfeed and stereo angle, which mimics the experience of listening to speakers. This reduces the 'in-your-head' effect common with headphones and creates a more natural, spatial soundstage.
Yes, it serves as a full-fledged stereo preamplifier. You can connect up to five stereo sources and use the balanced or unbalanced outputs to drive your power amplifiers or active speakers.
The amplifier is designed to drive virtually any headphone with an impedance greater than 10 ohms. Whether you have high-impedance studio cans or sensitive low-impedance models, the device provides sufficient power and control.
Yes, the Phonitor x features a learning function that allows it to be programmed to work with almost any infrared remote control you already own. This makes it easy to integrate into your existing home audio setup.
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