Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

ZC ZPre3

reviews

[{"title":"Parasound Zpre3 Stereo Preamplifier, and Making a Ventilated Riser For It","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXfGpGhow7w","source":"youtuuba","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 40 kHz, +0/-0.5 dB
  • Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.015% (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
  • Interchannel Crosstalk: 62 dB at 20 kHz
  • Input Sensitivity: 250 mV = 1 V output
  • Total gain: 12dB (volume set to 100)
  • Maximum Output: 3.5 V
  • Input Impedance: 24k Ω
  • Output Impedance: 470 Ω
  • S/N Ratio: >100 dB (input shorted, IHF A-weighted), >90 dB (input shorted, unweighted)
  • DC Trigger Output: 12Vdc, 50ma
  • Power Consumption: 5 Watts powered on, 0.5 Watts in standby
  • Power Requirement: 100 - 250 VAC 50/60 Hz
  • Dimensions (WxDxH): 8.5" x 10" x 2" (220mm x 254mm x 51mm)
  • Weight: 4.0 lbs (1.8 kg) net, 7.0 lbs (3.1 kg) shipping
The Parasound Zpre3 is a compact stereo preamplifier, designed to deliver detailed sound and versatile control in a space-saving form. With both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs and outputs, the Zpre3 is ideal for custom installations or compact audio setups where sound quality and flexibility are essential.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • Parasound partners with legendary designer John Curl to create high-performing, reliable audio equipment known for its exceptional value.
  • The brand meticulously selects high-quality components to minimize noise and distortion, often using parts that are no longer widely available, demonstrating a commitment to sonic neutrality.
  • They offer versatile products with extensive input/output options, including unique features like adjustable subwoofer crossovers and gain matching capabilities.
  • Parasound carefully balances high power output with finesse, resulting in a sound signature that is both dynamic and easy to listen to for extended periods.

HALO A23+

  • Positioning: The entry-level power amplifier in Parasound's lineup.
  • Description: Offers a compelling audio experience with its high bias Class A/AB operation, delivering 160 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It stands out with its direct-coupled design, which maintains signal purity and enhances transparency, unlike the more powerful A21+ which offers higher wattage and larger transformer capacity. This makes it ideal for smaller rooms or those on a tighter budget who still want high-quality sound.

HALO HINT6

  • Positioning: An integrated amplifier that combines preamp and power amp functions in one unit.
  • Description: Provides high-end performance with 160 watts per channel into 8 ohms, featuring a Burr Brown analog resistor ladder volume control for precise adjustments. It offers more connectivity options and a built-in DAC compared to the A23+, making it suitable for users needing an all-in-one solution with digital inputs and phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts.

HALO A21+

  • Positioning: A mid-tier power amplifier offering more power and features than the A23+.
  • Description: Delivering 300 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the A21+ is designed for those seeking more power and dynamic range. It features a larger transformer and higher filter capacitance than the A23+, providing better performance for larger rooms or more demanding speakers.

JC5

  • Positioning: A high-end stereo power amplifier in the Parasound lineup.
  • Description: Combines the power of monoblocks in a stereo amplifier, delivering 400 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It offers ultra-high bias Class A/AB operation, providing a more refined sound compared to the A21+, with a dual-mono design for superior channel separation.

JC1

  • Positioning: The flagship monoblock power amplifier in Parasound's lineup.
  • Description: Represents the pinnacle of Parasound's engineering, delivering 450 watts into 8 ohms with the first 25 watts in pure Class A. It features Bybee Music Rails for noise reduction and a custom R-core transformer, offering unmatched power and precision compared to the JC5. This groundbreaking amplifier makes it perfect for the most discerning audiophiles with large budgets and high-performance loudspeakers.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
243
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
20
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
28
Founding Year
1981

Our take on the brand

Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Gold Note
PH-5
999
999
/
4
Reviews
Gold Note is an Italian hifi brand that manufactures all components in-house, with their DS-10 DAC offering 192 setup options to adapt to different music genres and listener preferences. Their products, including the IS-10 and IS-1000 integrated amplifiers, combine multiple functions like streaming, DAC, and phono stages in single units, delivering a rich, tube-like sound signature.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Offers a versatile range of adjustments, including nine input impedance choices and four gain options, to match various cartridges
  • Offers three different equalization curves (RIAA, Decca London, and American Columbia), unusual for phono stages in its price range
  • Produces a clean, smooth, lucid, and well-balanced sound that is uncolored and neutral, allowing for greater transparency and speed
  • Musical, smooth, coherent and dynamic, with a very good pace, rhythm, and timing
  • Touchscreen interface is easy and intuitive to use

Product Considerations

  • Moving magnet capacitance is set at 220pF and is not adjustable
  • Some reviewers express concern about potential RF interference from the digital display affecting the analog circuitry, particularly with sensitive MC cartridges
  • Instrumental images may be smaller than with other phono stages
  • May sound a little weightless compared to significantly more expensive phono preamps
  • Reviewers note the forthcoming PSU-5 power supply

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to a similarly priced phono stage, the Gold Note PH-5 provided greater insights into how Miles Davis played each note, and was more full-bodied and dynamic
  • The Pathos In the Groove was more spacious and shapely sounding but lacked the PH-5's sense of control and smoothness
  • Compared to the Gold Note PH-10, there's a remarkably similar sound, with a tad more weight to recordings played through the more expensive PH-10
  • The PH-5 sounds closer to the GrandiNote Celio MK IV—a bit richer, smoother, and more saturated—whereas the ESE Lab Nibiru is more about speed, precision, and transparency

Takeaway: The Gold Note PH-5 is a versatile phono stage that sounds musical and natural. It provides many options to adjust the sound, and it is an affordable way to get great performance from vinyl records.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Gold Note is an Italian hifi brand that manufactures all components in-house, with their DS-10 DAC offering 192 setup options to adapt to different music genres and listener preferences. Their products, including the IS-10 and IS-1000 integrated amplifiers, combine multiple functions like streaming, DAC, and phono stages in single units, delivering a rich, tube-like sound signature.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
ADCOM
GFP-915
999
999
/
3
Reviews
ADCOM is a hifi brand that pioneered high-current amplifier designs with their GFA-1 model in 1979, and their Nelson Pass-designed GFA-555 became a milestone in budget amplifiers. The brand caters to audiophiles who prefer physical media, offering features like phono stages for vinyl enthusiasts, while maintaining a trade-in program for older ADCOM gear that reflects their commitment to product longevity.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Straightforward, high-quality preamp that does everything asked of it, very well
  • Includes tone control knobs for bass and treble to personalize the listening experience
  • Allows turntable users to switch between moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) modes
  • Features seven source audio inputs, a front-panel 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.1, optical and USB inputs, as well as a phono stage for turntables

Product Considerations

  • Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, while present, is not super high resolution compared with Wi-Fi and may not appeal to those seeking a more robust streaming experience
  • Has no balanced inputs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Against Rotel's RC-1572 MKII, the Adcom GFP-915 wins in many audiophile categories, such as a lower reported total harmonic distortion and noise floor
  • The Schiit Freya S stereo preamp at $599 is another solid, no-frills audiophile option that can compare to the Adcom GFP-915
  • The NAD C 3050 integrated amp's HDMI switching, internal DAC, Bluetooth 5.4 and phono stage might sway one to spend a few hundred more dollars than the Adcom

Takeaway: The Adcom GFP-915 is a traditional stereo preamp that delivers quality performance and offers a range of useful features for audiophiles. It is a worthwhile option for those seeking a simple and effective way to manage audio sources and volume control.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ADCOM is a hifi brand that pioneered high-current amplifier designs with their GFA-1 model in 1979, and their Nelson Pass-designed GFA-555 became a milestone in budget amplifiers. The brand caters to audiophiles who prefer physical media, offering features like phono stages for vinyl enthusiasts, while maintaining a trade-in program for older ADCOM gear that reflects their commitment to product longevity.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Schiit
Kara F
799
799
/
3
Reviews
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Features a fully discreet headphone amplifier built-in that sounds good
  • Offers flexibility with passive, low gain, and high gain settings, not commonly found at its price point
  • Build quality feels good, with a nice textured black finish
  • Features a precise 128-step attenuator for accurate left-right balance, unusual for a $699 preamplifier
  • Features a metal remote with volume, mute, and input selection

Product Considerations

  • One reviewer experienced the Kara going into protection mode and muting the sound when adjusting the volume quickly—requiring a power cycle to resolve
  • One reviewer said they prefer the RCA input and output sound
  • XLR inputs for stereo mode are not available

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Schiit Freya S: It replaces the Freya S and has significant upgrades, including a headphone jack and a more powerful power transformer
  • Vs Pass Labs HPA1: The Pass Labs is a better-sounding pre-amplifier and headphone amplifier overall, but is significantly more expensive

Takeaway: The Kara preamplifier offers great flexibility with gain options and a good-sounding headphone amplifier. It's a well-built component that could be a good addition to an audio setup, especially if clarity is valued.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Pro-Ject
Phono Box DS3 B
799
799
/
3
Reviews
Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Balanced connections improve sound, though stellar audio is available via RCA inputs
  • Tighter and continuous control over load impedance via a potentiometer control
  • Discrete circuit design offers a more neutral sound than integrated circuits
  • Two turntables can be connected at once, one with XLRs and one with RCAs
  • Expanded soundstage and individual instrument placement both horizontally and vertically

Product Considerations

  • Turntable with XLR outputs needed to experience its best features
  • More expensive if balanced connection features are not being used
  • Tube box will push coloration into the mix, so tubes need careful system matching
  • Balanced outputs and moving coil cartridge are needed to reveal the sort of detail that vinyl aficionados champion

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs NAD Phono Preamp PP-1: Allows for markedly more detail and separation between instruments
  • Vs Phono Box S3 B: Integrates all the technology from the SB3 and adds in a few extra features, as well as a potentiometer
  • Vs Projects Tubebox DS3: The sound is far more clear, and the weighted treble and upper spectrum sound more pronounced

Takeaway: The Pro-Ject Phono Box DS3 B unlocks the potential of a turntable, enhancing the listening experience with more dynamics, details, and soundstage. It's a versatile phono preamp with remarkably neutral and detailed sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Parasound
NC 200 Preamplifier
499
/
Released
The Parasound New Classic 200 Pre is a high-performance preamplifier designed for discerning audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality and modern features. With its sleek, minimalist design, the 200 Pre integrates seamlessly into any audio system while delivering precise control and versatility.
Check Amazon
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DAC, providing quality digital audio conversion
  • Includes a phono stage compatible with both MM and MC cartridges, offering flexibility for vinyl enthusiasts
  • Features a built-in subwoofer crossover network, making it easy to integrate a subwoofer and optimize bass performance
  • Provides a dedicated headphone amplifier for personal listening
  • Offers input level matching to ensure consistent volume levels when switching between different sources

Product Considerations

  • The small display with green characters on a lighter green background can be difficult to read
  • One review noted a darker sound presentation initially, although this improved after some listening time
  • The built-in DAC sounded a bit constrained compared to the Cambridge CXN's analog output
  • Reviewers would like to see more digital inputs

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • When the 200 Pre was bypassed, the control over the sound was looser, less definitive, and dynamic variations were also lessened
  • Used as a preamp, the NAD C 356BEE fell between the Cambridge CXN (V2) and the Parasound NewClassic 200 Pre, but closer to the latter
  • The NewClassic 200 Pre's phono stage afforded a deeper, wider soundstage and warmer tonality than the Cambridge Audio 540P

Takeaway: The Parasound NewClassic 200 Pre is a versatile and well-featured preamplifier-DAC that delivers excellent value. It is a great option for audiophiles looking to build a high-quality two-channel hifi system with both digital and analog sources, plus the ability to easily integrate a subwoofer.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Parasound
ZC ZPhonoXRM
279
/
Released
The Parasound ZphonoXRM takes vinyl playback to the next level, offering adjustable loading for both MM and MC cartridges, balanced outputs, and ultra-low noise. Designed for vinyl enthusiasts seeking superior sound quality and flexibility, the ZphonoXRM brings out the full potential of your turntable and records.
Check Amazon
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers versatility and convenience, informed by viewing it through the eyes of a vinyl enthusiast rather than an engineer
  • Has completely independent preamps for MM and MC cartridges, enabling sound quality optimized specifically for each input individually
  • Continuously variable load impedance via a rotary potentiometer
  • Has a rumble (high-pass) filter that can cut out low frequency noises without significantly affecting the music
  • Provides both unbalanced (RCA) and balanced (XLR) outputs

Product Considerations

  • RCA terminals are close together, which may cause issues if the plugs on the RCA leads are unusually bulky
  • The gain switch is located on the rear panel
  • Does not have a standby mode
  • Entry-level turntables may not improve appreciably with the addition of the XRM

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Parasound JC3 Jr: The JC3 JR has improved dynamics, vocals, guitars, and keys that pop a little more, and the bass is a little tighter

Takeaway: The Parasound Zphono XRM offers versatile features and improves the sound quality of mid-range turntables to provide a richer listening experience. It is a worthwhile upgrade for vinyl enthusiasts looking for more control and clarity in their analog setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Parasound
ZC ZPhono
149
/
Released
The Parasound Zphono is a high-performance yet affordable phono preamplifier, designed for vinyl enthusiasts who want to enjoy the rich sound of their records. With low noise and high-quality components, the Zphono delivers clear, detailed sound, bringing out the best in your turntable's performance.
Check Amazon
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality, versatility, and ease of use
  • Reduces noise and reveals detail in vinyl records
  • Delivers exceptional value for its price, especially considering its build quality and size
  • Compact and minimalist design that fits into any audio setup, with solid build quality
  • Features gold-plated RCA inputs/outputs for superior connectivity and minimizing signal loss, and a grounding post to eliminate hum and noise

Product Considerations

  • May not satisfy audiophiles who demand the absolute highest level of performance from their audio components
  • Not necessary for those who listen exclusively to digital music and do not use a turntable

Takeaway: The Parasound Z-Phono enhances vinyl listening by improving sound quality and reducing noise, making it a great value for those starting out with vinyl or building their first hifi system. Its versatile design fits easily into any setup and is a worthwhile investment.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Fosi
BOX X5
139
/
Released
2024
Fosi Audio BOX X5 Mini Phono Preamp supports MM and MC cartridges, provides 4-level gain adjustment, and provides RIAA equalization accuracy. Supporting MM/MC cartridges, BOX X5 is compatible with most turntables, along with 4 adjustable gain levels of 38/48/56/66 dB. It utilizes high-precision capacitors and resistors, ensuring minimal noise for audio purity.
Check Amazon
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Good sound quality, warm with lows and highs present, and a quiet noise floor
  • Supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
  • Adjustable gain settings to match different cartridge output levels
  • Metal construction for durability and shielding
  • Offers DIY upgradeability with a socketed op-amp that can be swapped to change the sound signature

Product Considerations

  • The ground post is positioned close to the power input, which can be inconvenient
  • To power it off, one must press and hold the power button instead of pressing it quickly to turn it on, which is not intuitive
  • Lacks a headphone jack
  • Does not have a subsonic filter or capacitive loading switch

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Schiit Audio phono preamp, the Fosi Audio Box X5 is on par or better than the Schiit Audio phono preamp generation one version

Takeaway: The Fosi Audio Box X5 is a great value phono preamp that provides good sound quality and versatile features for both MM and MC cartridges. It is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a built-in preamp or start with their first turntable.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
ZEN Phono 3
249
/
Released
2024
For record lovers, new and old. The ZEN Phono 3 redefines what your turntable can do. Its intelligent subsonic filter corrects warped LPs, while an ultra-quiet noise floor and adaptable loading options unlock a new level of clarity from your cartridge.
Check Amazon
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • A very low noise floor, even with high gain settings for moving coil cartridges
  • Various gain settings for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, making it versatile
  • An 'intelligent' subsonic filter effectively reduces rumble without negatively impacting bass frequencies
  • A balanced 4.4mm output, which is uncommon in phono stages at this price point
  • Impressive sound quality for its price, including a wide soundstage and good dynamics

Product Considerations

  • Large diameter RCA plugs may not fit due to the small chassis
  • The number of load settings is stated inconsistently across sources, with some stating four and others stating three
  • Connecting RCA and balance output together simultaneously to two different amplifiers can result in noticeable humming noise
  • One reviewer mentioned a 'clinical' sound that might pair better with warmer cartridges, though this was addressed by changing the setup

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The ZEN Phono 3 has a wider soundstage and better dynamics than the iFi Zenfone Stage
  • The ZEN Phono 3 has deeper bass than the Accuphase AD-60, but slightly less clarity and definition in the bass region
  • The ZEN Phono 3 delivers a larger, beefier—and more rhythmic sound than the built-in phono stage in the U-Turn Orbit Special
  • The ZEN Phono 3 produces significantly less noise than the Musical Fidelity M5SI phono stage

Takeaway: The ZEN Phono 3 is a valuable phono stage that provides a clean and dynamic sound, along with features typically found in more expensive units. It is especially useful for those looking to upgrade from a basic phono stage or for vinyl enthusiasts who want to explore different cartridge types.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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