IFI ZEN AIR PHONO 2

Phono preamplifier designed to handle the signal from turntables equipped with Moving Magnet (MM) or Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, providing an alternative to the phono stages integrated into turntables and amplifiers. The circuit is designed to preserve the information contained in the analogue signal and to adapt to the different amplification requirements of the two cartridge types.

The equalisation section uses a highly accurate RIAA curve, with a tolerance of ±0.15 dB between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. Accurate RIAA equalisation plays a fundamental role in correctly reconstructing the signal cut onto the record, maintaining a response consistent with that intended during the recording and production of the vinyl.

To handle low-frequency rumble generated mainly by warped records, it incorporates an Intelligent Subsonic Filter. The system distinguishes the vertical components of the groove movement, associated with record warping, from the lateral components that contain the musical signal, reducing noise without significantly attenuating low frequencies. The filter also operates without introducing group delay, preserving the depth and extension of the low-frequency range.

Compatibility with MM and MC cartridges is managed through a gain selector located on the rear panel, allowing the amplification level to be adjusted to the type of cartridge being used. The internal architecture also features a symmetrical channel layout, a configuration that helps reduce noise and improve channel separation.

Particular attention is paid to reducing background noise, with a specified EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) of -151 dBV. The low noise level helps preserve low-level information contained in the vinyl signal, contributing to a more transparent reproduction of recordings and their nuances.

Technical specifications:

• Equivalent Input Noise EIN: MM 6.5 nV/√Hz (unweighted); -126 dBV (A-weighted); MC 0.6 nV/√Hz (unweighted); -146 dBV (A-weighted)
• THD+N: MM <-90 dB / 0.005% referred to 1 V; MC <-80 dB / 0.036% referred to 1 V
• Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 kHz (±0.15 dB)
• Maximum output voltage: 6.5 V RMS
• Signal-to-noise ratio SNR: MM 86 dB (A-weighted) at 1 V; MC 40 dB (A-weighted) at 1 V
• Dimensions: 158 × 117 × 35 mm
• Net weight: 323 g