In the current edition (3/18) of Professional Audio magazine, you find an exclusive review about our Phonitor x:
“Ten years ago, SPL caused a stir at the pro market with with their first headphone amplifier Phonitor. However, many hifi fans also liked the unit and the Phonitor became an insider tip within the high-end community. The new Phonitor x now finally transfers this concept to your home.”
Design:
“Optically the original Phonitor acted as the model for the complete Professional Fidelity series. The design was downsized and upgrated. The front panel, just like with the other units of the series, is manufactured with nice anodized aluminium, available in black, silver or red.”
“All controlls are, as usual at SPL, high-quality parts, you can lietrally feel the quality while using the controls and switches. The metallic switches originate from measurement technology and deliver a precise click when you use them. The smaller detended switches for the Matrix parameters also precisely snap in with a perfect grip and feel. This also applies for the big motorized ALPS volume potentiometer. To control the volume you can use any IR remote control (not included in the scope of delivery). Of course the Phonitor x also features the famous SPL Voltair 120V technology. The built-in op-amps are powered with ± 60 volts and deliver a dynamic and, at the same time, relaxed sound.”
Sound:
“In a word: awesome. Of course, we did the listening test with and without the Matrix function …”
“The Phonitor x always delivered a spotless, honest and tremendously dynamic sound, with a controlled playback of any material. Even at intense impulses – in this rergard, it was even superior to the excellent Violectric headphone amp. Bass drum punches, rising string ensembles or a wild drum solo, the Phonitor x handled it all smoothly and without any effort – even offering more headroom. The resolution capability is flawless. There is no such thing as an disturbing individual sound to it: instead it sounds completely transparent and is able to highlight the various sound characteristics of different headphones. At first, experimenting with the Matrix was a bit unfamiliar, but evolved into big fun and delivered the desired result.”
“This increases the curiosity to experiment, which parameters to use in which situation to get the results you want to get – not least because of the pleasant feel of the control elements, working with the unit is big fun.”
“At the lab, the Phonitor once again delivered perfect measurement values.”
Résumé
“With the Phonitor x, SPL successfully transfers their pro audio classic to the home of hi-fi fans. This allows home users to enjoy the innovative Phonitor Matrix and experience a brand-new kind of listening on headphones. As a preamp with digital expansion option, the Phonitor x (even without the rest of the Professional Fidelity series) offers far more than the basic features of other headphone amplifiers and is universally usable as an excellent sounding preamp.”
You will find the complete review (in German) in the current edition (3/18) of the magazine or as an online review at mobilefidelity-magazin.de
