iFi micro iPhono3 Black Label
Best phono preamp for vinyl enthusiasts seeking audiophile-grade sound precision.
The iFi micro iPhono3 Black Label is a high-fidelity phono preamplifier designed to extract every nuance from your vinyl collection. It features a unique Class A TubeState® circuit that combines the sonic benefits of vacuum tubes with the reliability of solid-state components, all while maintaining an exceptionally low noise floor of 85 dB. With precise equalization capabilities offering 6 popular stereo EQ curves and configurable gain and load settings, it ensures optimal performance for both MM and MC cartridges. The Direct Drive Servoless® design with DC-Infinity technology provides a clean, direct-coupled output, and it comes bundled with the advanced iPower X power supply.
$999.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
376
/ 466
#376 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-85%
Below average
Frequency Response
101000.320200.2
/ Hz – KHz (± dB), Hz – kHz (± dB)
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute clarity and minimal background noise
- Vinyl collectors using diverse moving magnet and moving coil cartridges
- Record enthusiasts with extensive collections of historical pressings
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners looking for entry-level phono amplification
- Beginners preferring a simple, plug-and-play audio setup
- Casual listeners who do not require advanced technical adjustments
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Ultra-low noise floor ensures your vinyl records sound pristine and clear.
Cartridge Versatility
Highly configurable settings accommodate a vast range of MM and MC cartridges.
Equalization Precision
Six distinct EQ curves offer authentic playback for diverse vintage record pressings.
Signal Integrity
Direct-coupled design preserves the delicate signal path from stylus to output.
Power Efficiency
Included iPower X supply provides clean, stable energy for optimal circuit performance.
Harmonic Character
TubeState technology successfully blends vacuum tube warmth with solid-state reliability.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
10 Hz – 100 KHz (±0.3 dB), 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.2 dB)
Dynamic Range
MM (36dB): > 108dB (A-weighted), MC (60dB): > 106dB (A-weighted)
Signal to Noise Ratio
MM (36dB): > 85dB (A-weighted re. 5mV), MC (60 dB): > 85 dB (A-weighted re. 0.5mV)
Overload Margin
MM (36 dB): > 26 dB (re 5mV, at 1% THD), MC (60 dB): > 22 dB (re 0.5mV, @ 1% THD)
Crosstalk
<-71 dB (1 KHz)
Max. Output (unclipped)
7 V (>= 600 Ohm load, <= 1% THD)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
<0.005% (MM 36 dB 1V output 600 R load)
Output Impedance
<100 Ω
Features
- Solid-state 'magic' with Class A TubeState® technology for enhanced sound quality.
- Precise LP equalization with 6 popular stereo EQ curves for accurate playback.
- Direct Drive Servoless® design with DC-Infinity circuit for a direct-coupled output.
- Ultra-low noise floor of 85 dB for a whisper-quiet background.
- High-gain Class A solid-state circuitry with audiophile-grade components.
- Configurable gain and load settings to match your specific cartridge.
- Includes the iPower X power supply for optimal performance.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the iFi micro iPhono3 Black Label for its exceptional sound quality, often describing it as transformative for their vinyl listening experience. Users highlight its ability to extract incredible detail and dynamic range, bringing new life to their record collections. The robust build and sophisticated design also receive high marks, reinforcing a sense of premium craftsmanship. While a significant investment, many reviewers feel its performance justifies the cost, making it a highly regarded component for serious audiophiles seeking sonic excellence.
Know before you buy
Yes, the iPhono3 Black Label is fully compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. It features configurable gain and load settings, allowing you to fine-tune the preamp to match the specific requirements of your cartridge.
This technology is designed to provide the warm, natural sonic characteristics associated with vacuum tubes while maintaining the reliability and low-noise performance of a solid-state circuit.
Yes, it offers six popular stereo EQ curves, including RIAA, Columbia, Decca, NAB, and FFRR. This allows you to accurately play back vintage vinyl pressings that were mastered using different equalization standards.
No, you must use the included iPower X power supply. The unit is specifically engineered to work with this 15V power source, and using a different supply may compromise performance or damage the device.
The DC-Infinity circuit, part of the Direct Drive Servoless® design, ensures a clean, direct-coupled output. By removing the need for coupling capacitors in the signal path, it helps maintain signal purity and improves low-frequency response.
Absolutely. With an ultra-low noise floor of 85 dB, the iPhono3 Black Label is engineered to provide a whisper-quiet background, ensuring that even the most subtle nuances in your vinyl recordings are preserved.
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$1000