iFi micro iPhono3 Black Label

Precision Phono Stage with 13 Cartridge Loading Options and Selectable EQ Curves
Sale price$999

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.

iFi micro iPhono3 Black Label Phono Preamplifier

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

  • 13 MM/MC Loading Options — Configurable cartridge loading provides flexible matching for a wide range of Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges.

  • 36dB–72dB Gain Range — Wide gain adjustment accommodates cartridges ranging from higher-output MM designs to low-output MC cartridges.

  • Six Selectable EQ Curves — Supports RIAA variants, Columbia, and Decca equalisation options for modern and historical record playback.

  • Class A TubeState Circuitry — iFi's Class A analogue circuit technology is designed specifically for low-level phono amplification.

  • DirectDrive Servoless Design — Direct-coupled, servoless circuit architecture keeps the phono signal path focused and direct.

  • High Dynamic Range — More than 108dB dynamic range at the 36dB MM gain setting.

  • Low Distortion — THD+N is specified at below 0.005% under iFi's stated test conditions.

  • Wide Frequency Response — 10Hz to 100kHz (±0.3dB).

  • Compact Chassis — Measures 158 × 58 × 28mm and weighs 265g.

  • iPower X Included — Supplied with iFi's low-noise external power supply.

CONNECTIVITY & COMPATIBILITY

Phono Inputs

  • Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge input

  • Moving Coil (MC) cartridge input

  • Turntable ground connection

Analogue Output

  • Stereo RCA line-level output

Cartridge Configuration

  • 13 MM/MC loading options

  • Gain range: 36dB–72dB

  • Loading, gain, and EQ settings configured using underside switches

EQ Options

  • Six selectable EQ curves

  • RIAA variants

  • Columbia

  • Decca

Performance

  • Dynamic range: >108dB (MM, 36dB gain)

  • SNR: >85dB

  • THD+N: <0.005%

  • Crosstalk: <-71dB at 1kHz

  • Frequency response: 10Hz–100kHz (±0.3dB)

  • Maximum undistorted output: 7V

Power

  • iPower X included

  • 15V DC operation

  • Power consumption: <5W

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I need a standalone phono preamplifier if my amplifier already has a phono input?
A dedicated phono stage can provide greater flexibility in cartridge loading and gain than many built-in phono inputs. The iPhono3 Black Label offers 13 MM/MC loading options, gain from 36dB to 72dB, and selectable EQ curves, allowing it to be configured for a wide range of cartridges.
What are the historical EQ curves?
Before RIAA equalisation became widely adopted, record labels used several different equalisation standards. The iPhono3 Black Label provides six EQ curve options, including RIAA variants, Columbia, and Decca, allowing compatible older records to be played using an appropriate equalisation setting.
Does the iPhono3 Black Label work with both MM and MC cartridges?
Yes. It supports both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges, with configurable loading and gain settings for matching different cartridge requirements.
How do I choose the correct cartridge loading and gain?
Start with the cartridge manufacturer's recommended loading and output specifications, then configure the iPhono3 Black Label using the switches on the underside of the unit. iFi also provides documentation to assist with setup.
What power supply should I use?
The iPhono3 Black Label is supplied with an iFi iPower X 15V power supply. iFi specifies using the included 15V iPower X for best performance.
What are Class A TubeState and DirectDrive Servoless?
These are iFi/AMR analogue circuit technologies used in the iPhono3 Black Label. The phono stage uses a direct-coupled, servoless Class A architecture designed for low-noise amplification of phono cartridge signals.
How do I know which EQ curve to use for an older record?
The appropriate EQ curve depends on factors such as the record label, pressing era, and original equalisation standard. iFi provides guidance for selecting EQ settings for different records. For most modern records, the appropriate RIAA setting should be used.

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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