iFi Zen Air Phono - External Turntable Preamplifier
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The iFi Zen Air Phono is a high-performance external phono preamplifier that brings the warmth and depth of vinyl records to life with precision. Designed to enhance audio quality for both MM (moving magnet) and MC (moving coil) cartridges, it’s ideal for vinyl enthusiasts looking to elevate their turntable setup with richer, more detailed playback.
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Good
So I'm doing the dip my toes into vinyl thing- got an At-LP60x starter deck and looking to take it to the next step. This gives a lot more oomph than the built in preamp.I upgraded the stylus with the upgrade that LP Gear sells and it's been really interesting to hear the difference between the stock stylus and the elliptical needle of the upgrade on this external preamp. It really magnifies the good and the bad. A certain hollow tinny sound could hide behind the muddled soundstage of the built in preamp. On the Zen Air the old needle almost sounded worse because the bad elements came through clearer. But with the new needle and preamp it's much more clear and louder to boot. My clean and well-mixed records sound an order of magnitude better.I don't have a lot to compare this to but it gives me a nice, clear, crisp, louder sound and I think if I got a nicer turntable down the road I could still use this and be satisfied given my little A-B test results with cheap equipment. I feel this was a good choice compared to a cheaper standalone preamp that I wouldn't want to use with an expensive turntable. Good in, good out.There are links to a wall wart power supply in other reviews that I recommend, I think it contributes to a little more power from the unit.
Great sounding phono pre-stage. Can’t go wrong with this one.
This unit exceeded my expectations for the price. Not sure why MC input was important at this price as I think audiophiles will opt for a much higher phono preamp. I really do like a subsonic filter as this is a terrific feature ... just leave it on. I also suggest leaving this on all the time .. draws little wattage anyway. This is important, it only comes with a very short USB to DC cable so you will need a USB port somewhere to operate and likely a USB extension cable. I highly recommend a Linear Power Supply (not switching) just make sure the voltage matches and has enough amperage ... do your research if you go this route. I bought this from amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B88EP1I?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
Price and function are excellent! Not audiophile worthy, but then it would need to be secretly over priced! Definitely recommend for the average vinyl person
