Key Features
Since the very first iPhono launched in 2012, we have used our own in-house Subsonic Filter. As there is only minimal vertical modulation remaining at very low frequencies with an actual cut LP that is playable, we know that “vertical modulation” at low frequencies must be warp. By understanding fully how LP’s are cut and replayed, it is possible to filter record warp strongly without at the same time attenuating low bass or adding group delay.
Cartridges aren’t all the same. In fact, there are two main types, each designed to pick up sound from your records differently—and each requiring distinct amplification.
All of our phono stages, from budget-friendly models to flagship designs, support both cartridge types. This ensures that our products enhance the sound of almost any system and continue to deliver as your setup evolves over time.
Most records are recorded with an Inverse RIAA (Recording) Equalisation curve, that needs to be undone on playback in order for the record to sound 'normal'.
Our phono stages have an RIAA playback equalisation curve that falls within a staggering +/- 0.15dB tolerance from 20Hz to 20kHz – allowing for truthful, accurate music playback.
As with many other iFi audio products, we’ve incorporated a custom OV Series operational-amplifier. This top-notch component contributes to the extremely low noise, low distortion (0.0001%) and wide bandwidth.
Purer still...
Listening to music on vinyl is good for the soul. It sounds purer than listening to a track via your phone or computer. Make this experience purer still by reducing hiss, noise and rumble on your records with the ZEN Air Phono.
MC and MM
There are two kinds of turntable cartridge – Moving Magnet and Moving Coil – and the ZEN Air Phono works with both of them. The MM setting is for cartridges with an output voltage of 2mV and higher. The MC setting for outputs less than 2mV. You use the gain switch on the rear to change this setting.
Engage warp drive
As we all know, records can become warped with age. With the ZEN Air Phono any warp on your records will be driven away by our ‘subsonic filter’. Normal subsonic filters remove ‘rumble’ AND bass and cause phase issues. Our unique AI phono sub-sonic filter removes ‘rumble’ only.
Specifications
CHANNEL SEPARATION | > 75dB (1kHz all modes) |
DIMENSIONS | 158 x 117 x 35 mm 6.2" x 4.6" x 1.4" |
EIN EQUIVALENT INPUT NOISE | 0.6nV | /Hz (unweighted) 6.5nV | /Hz (unweighted) MC: -151dBV (A-weighted) MM: -130dBV (A-weighted) |
FREQUENCY RESPONSE | 20Hz -20kHz (±0.15dB) |
GAIN | MM 40dB / MC 64dB |
INPUT IMPEDANCE | MM 47k / MC 1k |
MAXIMUM OUTPUT VOLTAGE | RMS6.5V RMS 600Ω(<1% THD & N) |