




iFi micro iPhono3 Black Label
Description
The iFi micro iPhono3 Black Label is a high-performance phono preamplifier designed for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. With 13 configurable cartridge loading options, a wide 36dB to 72dB gain range, and six selectable EQ curves, it provides the flexibility to match a wide variety of turntables, cartridges, and record collections.
Inspired by the AMR PH-77 reference phono stage, the iPhono3 Black Label incorporates iFi's Class A TubeState and DirectDrive Servoless technologies along with carefully selected audio-grade components. Its configurable loading and gain settings allow the phono stage to be matched more precisely to the electrical requirements of the connected cartridge.
For listeners with older record collections, the iPhono3 Black Label also provides selectable equalisation options beyond conventional RIAA playback. Six EQ curves — including RIAA variants, Columbia, and Decca — provide additional flexibility for records produced using different historical equalisation standards.

Despite its compact chassis, the iPhono3 Black Label delivers a dynamic range of more than 108dB at its 36dB MM gain setting, THD+N below 0.005%, and a frequency response extending from 10Hz to 100kHz. The included iPower X external power supply provides dedicated low-noise power for the phono stage.
For vinyl listeners who want greater cartridge-matching flexibility than a typical built-in phono input provides, the micro iPhono3 Black Label combines adjustable loading, wide gain capability, selectable EQ curves, and dedicated phono amplification in a compact component.
Flexible MM & MC Cartridge Matching
The micro iPhono3 Black Label supports both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges, with 13 configurable loading options and gain settings ranging from 36dB to 72dB.
Settings are adjusted using switches on the underside of the unit, allowing the phono stage to be configured according to the cartridge manufacturer's recommended loading and output requirements.
Six Selectable EQ Curves
In addition to standard RIAA equalisation, the iPhono3 Black Label provides six EQ curve options designed to accommodate records produced using different historical equalisation standards.
RIAA, Columbia, and Decca selections are available from the external EQ selector, with additional curve variations configured through the underside settings.
This feature is particularly useful for vinyl collectors with older pressings that may have been produced before RIAA equalisation became widely adopted.
Class A TubeState & DirectDrive Servoless
The analogue circuitry incorporates iFi's Class A TubeState and DirectDrive Servoless technologies, derived from design concepts developed by AMR.
The circuit operates in Class A and uses a direct-coupled, servoless architecture designed to maintain a direct signal path while providing the low-noise amplification required for small phono-cartridge signals.
iPower X Included
The micro iPhono3 Black Label includes iFi's iPower X external power supply. Because phono cartridge signals operate at very low levels, maintaining a low-noise power environment is particularly important in a phono preamplifier.
KEY FEATURES
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13 MM/MC Loading Options — Configurable cartridge loading provides flexible matching for a wide range of Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges.
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36dB–72dB Gain Range — Wide gain adjustment accommodates cartridges ranging from higher-output MM designs to low-output MC cartridges.
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Six Selectable EQ Curves — Supports RIAA variants, Columbia, and Decca equalisation options for modern and historical record playback.
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Class A TubeState Circuitry — iFi's Class A analogue circuit technology is designed specifically for low-level phono amplification.
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DirectDrive Servoless Design — Direct-coupled, servoless circuit architecture keeps the phono signal path focused and direct.
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High Dynamic Range — More than 108dB dynamic range at the 36dB MM gain setting.
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Low Distortion — THD+N is specified at below 0.005% under iFi's stated test conditions.
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Wide Frequency Response — 10Hz to 100kHz (±0.3dB).
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Compact Chassis — Measures 158 × 58 × 28mm and weighs 265g.
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iPower X Included — Supplied with iFi's low-noise external power supply.
CONNECTIVITY & COMPATIBILITY
Phono Inputs
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Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge input
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Moving Coil (MC) cartridge input
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Turntable ground connection
Analogue Output
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Stereo RCA line-level output
Cartridge Configuration
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13 MM/MC loading options
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Gain range: 36dB–72dB
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Loading, gain, and EQ settings configured using underside switches
EQ Options
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Six selectable EQ curves
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RIAA variants
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Columbia
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Decca
Performance
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Dynamic range: >108dB (MM, 36dB gain)
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SNR: >85dB
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THD+N: <0.005%
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Crosstalk: <-71dB at 1kHz
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Frequency response: 10Hz–100kHz (±0.3dB)
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Maximum undistorted output: 7V
Power
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iPower X included
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15V DC operation
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Power consumption: <5W
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I need a standalone phono preamplifier if my amplifier already has a phono input?
What are the historical EQ curves?
Does the iPhono3 Black Label work with both MM and MC cartridges?
How do I choose the correct cartridge loading and gain?
What power supply should I use?
What are Class A TubeState and DirectDrive Servoless?
How do I know which EQ curve to use for an older record?
Specifications
| TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Crosstalk | <-71dB (1KHz) |
| Dimensions | 6.2" x 2.3" x 1.1" / 158 x 58 x 28 mm |
| DNR |
MM (36dB): > 108dB (A-Weighted) MC (60dB): > 106dB (A-Weighted) |
| Frequency Response |
10Hz – 100KHz (±0.3dB) 20Hz – 20kHz (±0.2dB) |
| Input Voltage | 9V, 12V, 15V DC; AC 100 – 240V, 50/60Hz |
| Maximum Undistorted Output | 7V (Load ≥ 600 Ohm, THD ≤1%) |
| Net Weight | 0.58 lbs / 265 g |
| Output Impedance | <100Ω |
| Overload Margin |
MM (36dB): > 26dB (re. 5mV, @ 1% THD) MC (60dB): > 22dB (re. 0.5mV, @ 1% THD) |
| Power Consumption | <5W. Use with iPower series power supplies only. |
| SNR |
MM (36dB): > 85dB (A-Weighted re. 5mV) MC (60dB): > 85dB (A-Weighted re. 0.5mV) |
| THD+N | <0.005% (MM 36dB 1V Out 600R Load) |
| WHAT'S INCLUDED | |
| In the Box |
1x iPhono3 Black Label 1x RCA Cable 1x iPower X 1x Plastic Screwdriver 1x User Manual |
| DOWNLOADS | |
| User Manual | Download PDF |
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