ZEN Phono 3 Phono Stage For Turntables User Guide

ZEN Phono 3 Phono Stage For Turntables

Specifications:

• Power: DC 5V / ~ 0.5A (centre + ve)
• Analogue Outputs: RCA, Balanced 4.4mm
• Analogue Inputs: RCA
• Gain Settings: 36dB, 48dB, 60dB, 72dB
• Subsonic Filter: ON/OFF

Product Usage Instructions

1. Power ON/OFF:
   Press the POWER button to turn the device on or off. For prolonged use, double press the power button to ensure the unit is switched off completely.

2. MM and MC Gain Channel Display LED:
   The LED display indicates the selected gain mode. The gain modes are MM, MC HIGH, MC LOW, and MC V-LOW. Output voltages vary accordingly.

3. Load Mode Selector Switch:
   Use this switch to cycle between 4 load levels for MM/MC HIGH and MC LOW/MC V-LOW settings.

4. Subsonic Filter ON/OFF:
   This switch toggles the iFi-designed subsonic filter on or off. It intelligently detects subsonic frequencies to eliminate warps while preserving bass and mid-range frequencies.

5. Balanced 4.4mm Analogue Line Output:
   Connect this output to active speakers or amplifiers with volume control using a 4.4mm > XLR or balanced interconnects.

6. RCA Analogue Line Output:
   Use this output to connect to active speakers or amplifiers with volume control using RCA > RCA or single-ended interconnects.

7. Grounding:
   Connect the grounding post to the turntable’s grounding wire for proper operation.

8. RCA Analogue Line Input:
   Connect your turntable to the ZEN Phono 3 via the RCA analogue line input.

FAQ:

Q: How do I adjust the gain mode on ZEN Phono3?
A: Use the MM and MC gain channel display LED to select the desired gain mode by following the LED indicators for MM, MC HIGH, MC LOW, and MC V-LOW settings.

Quick Start Guide

ZEN Phono 3 User Manual_Ver1.01

• Thank you for purchasing the Phono from the ZEN series. The Phono 3 is a balanced MM/MC phono stage.
• Unleash the full potential of your favourite vinyl records with the ZEN Phono 3. It boasts an intelligent subsonic filter that transforms the sound of your warped vinyl records, a noise floor quieter than some Class A+ phono stages, providing greater dynamic range and supports four MC/MM gain selections to ensure compatibility with a wide range of cartridges. The ZEN Phono 3 creates a serene listening experience that allows every musical detail to shine through.

FEATURES

• Supports four MC/MM gain selections from 36dB to 72dB and four input impedance settings, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of cartridges
• Features intelligent subsonic filter to intelligently remove only the ultra-low frequencies caused by warps, not by the music, unlike typical bass-reducing filters
• With an EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) of -151dBV, this phono stage surpasses some Class A+ models by 20dBV, ensuring a super-silent noise floor
• Precise RIAA with balanced output, performance matches that of a $1,000 phono stage
• Internal high-tech 1.2MHz clean power supply, rivalling classic tube amplifiers’ LC filtering circuits

1. Power switch
2. 2. MM and MC gain channel display LED
3. Load Mode Selector Switch
4. SUBSONIC Filter ON/OFF
5. Balanced 4.4mm analogue line output
6. RCA analogue line output
7. Ground
8. RCA analogue line input
9. Gain channel switch
10. DC 5V Power Supply Connection

1. Power switch
   Power switch, short press to switch on/off.
   Note: If the device has been switched on for a period of time (≥10 min), you need to shut off the unit twice to turn it off. It only happens if the unit is on for a while. This is because the MCU will have switched out of the signal path so you get to enjoy the best sonics!

2. MM and MC gain channel display LED
   The LEDs indicate the currently selected gain mode (see item 9). LED| Gain mode (9)| Output Voltage
   ---|---|---
   MM| 1 MM| ＞2mV
   HIGH| 2 MC HIGH| ≤2mV
   LOW| 3 MC LOW| ≤0.5mV
   V-LOW| 4 MC V-LOW| ≤0.25mV

3. Load Mode Selector Switch
   This button cycles between 4 load levels:Load| Mode
   ---|---
   200pF (Default is 100pF)| MM/MC HIGH
   1kΩ/400Ω/100Ω| MC LOW/MC V-LOW

Tips: ZEN Phono3 automatically enters the lock state after working for ≥10 minutes, it can not be adjusted after locking, you need to press the intelligent subsonic filter switch (4) briefly to unlock it, and it can be adjusted normally after unlocking.

4. SUBSONIC Filter ON/OFF
   This is the SUBSONIC filter switch.
   The iFi-designed subsonic filter will intelligently detect whether a subsonic frequency is a warp or a bass note. It will eliminate the warps and let all the bass and mid-range frequencies pass through untouched. Therefore, it will not affect the sound quality.

5. Balanced 4.4mm analogue line output
   This is an analogue output via 4.4mm > XLR or other balanced interconnects. You can use this to connect to active speakers or amplifiers that have a volume control.
   Tip: As ZEN Phono 3 is balanced, this is the recommended output.

6. RCA analogue line output
   This is an analogue output via RCA > RCA or other single-ended interconnects. You can use this to connect to active speakers or amplifiers that have a volume control.

7. Ground
   This is the ZEN Phono 3’s ground, please connect it to the turntable’s grounding wire.

8. RCA analogue line input
   This is an analogue input. Connect your turntable to the ZEN Phono 3 here.

9. Gain channel switch
   This switch switching between 4 gain levels: Gain Channel| Corresponds Gain
   ---|---
   1. corresponds to MM| (>2mV)
   2. corresponds to MC HIGH| (≤2mV)
   3. corresponds to MC LOW| (≤0.5mV)
   4. corresponds to MC V-LOW| (≤0.25mV)

Please adjust the gain channel switch in accordance with your preference and your turntable’s specifications.

10. DC 5V Power Supply Connection
    The ZEN Phono 3 is powered by a 5V supply only. Please connect the ZEN Phono 3 to the enclosed power supply.
    Tip: For best performance upgrade the enclosed power supply to a super- low noise power adapter such as iPower2 5V or iPower X 5V.

SPECIFICATIONS

*12 months typical or as permitted/required by local reseller laws.
**Specifications are subject to change without notice.
^See FAQ atifi-audio.com for more information.

ZEN Phono 3 Tech Lowdown

A Perfect Match for Your Cartridges
Supports four MM/MC gain selections from 36-72dB and four input impedance settings, ensuring optimum compatibility with a wide range of cartridges.

• MM/MC-High: 47kΩ, 100/200pF
• MC-Low/V-Low: 100/400/1kΩ

Combats Warped Records Intelligently
Features an intelligent subsonic filter designed to effectively remove ultra- low frequencies caused by warps, unlike typical bass-reducing filters.

Subsonic Filter Frequency Response

• Normal subsonic filters aren’t intelligent.
• They’re typically hated by audiophiles because they filter out the rumble from warped records – but also filter out the bass.
• Our intelligent subsonic filter knows the difference between the two, and only filters the warp, leaving the song intact. 

Rivals $1,000 Phono Amplifiers
Boasting a super-silent noise floor with an EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) of -151dBV, ZEN Phono 3 surpasses some Class A+ models by 20dBV.

Noise Floor Comparison Chart

• The noise floor of a typical phono stage is noticeable. This is because it sits above the level of the low-level textures and detail of the music.
• It gets in the way of the song.
• The ZEN Phono 3 is distinctly different.
• Hear your music as it was meant to be heard;-without the noise you associate with vinyl records. 

Exacting RIAA Equalisation

Hear Your Record Properly
Most records are recorded with an Inverse RIAA (Recording) Equalisation that needs to be undone on playback.
ZEN Phono 3’s RIAA playback equalisation curve is within a staggering +/- 0.15dB tolerance – allowing for truthful, accurate music playback.

Key Features

ZEN Phono 3 vs. ZEN Phono Looks

ZEN Phono 3 vs. ZEN Phono Comparison

| ZEN Phono 3| ZEN Phono
---|---|---
Cartridge Support| MM, MC| MM, MC
Gain Settings (dB)| 36, 48, 60 72| 36, 48, 60 72
Load Adjustment Max Output Voltage| 200pF/1kΩ/400Ω/100Ω 20v RMS @ 100k|

• 20v RMS @ 100k

---|---|---
Output Impedance| 200Ω Bal| 200Ω Bal
| 100Ω SE| 100Ω SE
Input Impedance| MM/MC High: 47kΩ (Load 100/200pF)| MM/MC High: 47kΩ (Load 110pF)
| MC Low: 1kΩ/400Ω/100Ω| MC Low: 1kΩ
| MC V Low: 1kΩ/400Ω/100Ω| MC V Low: 110Ω
Frequency Response| 20Hz-20kHz (+/- 0.15dB)| 20Hz-20kHz (+/- 0.15dB)
Equivalent Input Noise| -151dB(A)| -151dB(A)
Harmonic Distortion| 0.0027% MM re 2V Bal / 1V SE| 0.003% MM re 2V Bal / 1V SE
---|---|---
Net Weight| 456g (1.00lbs)| 515g (1.14 lbs)

Connection Guide

Box Contents

Specifications

Input| RCA
Gain Settings| MM MC High MC Low MC V Low| 36dB
48dB
60dB
72dB
Line Output| BAL 4.4mm/UnBAL RCA
Output Power (RMS)| Balanced UnBAL|

19.98V @ 100kΩ (THD+N<1%)

10.07V @ 100kΩ (THD+N<1%)

SNR| MM MC High MC Low MC V Low| 91dB(A)
71dB(A)
89.6dB(A)
78.6dB(A)
Equivalent Input Noise| MM MC High MC Low MC V Low| -127dBV(A)
-129dBV(A)
-149.6dBV(A)
-150.6dBV(A)
Harmonic Distortion| MM MC High MC Low MC V Low| < 0.0027% @ 600Ω
< 0.0095% @ 600Ω
< 0.031% @ 600Ω
< 0.022% @ 600Ω
Output Impedance| <200Ω BAL; <100Ω UnBAL
Frequency Response| 20-80kHz (-3dB) BAL; 20-20kHz (-0.15dB) UnBAL
Dimensions| 158x113x35mm (6.2” x 4.4” x 1.4”)
Weight| 456g (1.0 lbs)
Warranty period| 12 months

MQA Setup

( where applicable)
For MQA computer setup, please scan this QR code or type ‘ifi audio’ into search.

• You will find two setup videos:
  • MQA Decoder – eg Pro iDSD
  • MQA Renderer- eg nano iDSO BL
• Just select the correct video setup for your device.
• Any queries, please search the FAQs or open a support ticket here: https://support.ifi-audio.com/

Type A Connections

( where applicable)
This iFi device with a USB TypeA male port was designed for direct connection to mobile devices to extract the digital signal .
Phone connection via

• Apple (iOS) use Apple USB to USB-C/Lightning:
• *Android use On-The-Go (USB-C/USB-mocro):**

For further support FAQs and Support Ticket System: https://support.ifi- audio.com/
“Please ensure your Android is USB host mode compatible

Note for Charging

( where applicable)

• If the LED is BLUE when you first switch ON the machine, it means that it is sufficiently charged. If the LED is RED, please turn OFF the machine and charge until no LED is lit.
• If you cannot power ON or if there is no LED light, please insert a USB cable with USB power 3-5 times, then the LED should be BLUE.
• It should stay like this for a few hours (depending upon how flat the battery is). If not, please re-insert the USB cable (with USB power) 3-5 times again, and once the LED is BLUE, leave for at least 6 hours.
• After a long period on inactivity (say 3-6 months), please fully charge the machine again. Ideally, repeat this process once every 3 months.
• If you encounter any issues, please contact our technical support department at: https://support.ifi-audio.com/

ifi-audio.com

After-Sales

3 Easy Steps … Dear iFi custome r: Thankyou for purchasing this iFi product.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions surrounding our products/support.
https://support.ifi-audio.com/

Review the iFi Product Safety Guide before using your iFi Product. View the guide at ifi-audio.com/product-guides. Retain documentation for future reference.

Safety

Safety and Handling See “IFI Product Safety Guide” at ifi-audio.com /product-guides.

• Avoid Hearing Damage
  To prevent possible hearing damage, do not listen at high volume levels for long periods. Always check the actual output volume on your earphone, headphone, or loudspeakers before playing audio, as many music player software and operating systems do not appropriately apply industrial standards governing volume control (e.g. USB Device Class Definition for Human Interface Devices). if in doubt, before playing any music, turn off CyberSync or any other volume synchronization feature on the iFi Product and bring the volume down to the lowest setting.

• WARNING: To prevent possible hearing damage, do not listen at high volume levels for long periods.

• Medical Device Interference
  iF Product contains magnets that may interfere with medical devices. See “IFI Product Safety Guide” at Ifi-audio.com/product-guides.

• Prolonged Heat Exposure
  Your IF Product may become very warm during normal use. It is important to keep your iF Product on a hard, stable, and well ventilated work surface when in use of charging. Use common sense to avoid situations where your body Is in prolonged contact with a device or its power adapter when it is operating of plugged into a power source, as sustained contact with warm surfaces may cause discomfort or injury. Take special care if you have a physical condition that affects your ability to detect heat against the body.

• Regulatory information
  Regulatory certification information is available at ifi-audio.com/product- guides.

FCC and ISED Canada Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and ISED Canada licence exempt RSS standard (s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

EU / UK Compliance
IF hereby declares that this wireless device is in compliance with Directive 2014/53/EU and Radio Equipment Regulations 2017. A copy of the Declaration of Conformity is available at ifi-audio.com/product-guides. IF EU representative is A bi represent, Me Aborn 25 Are 6.79 casterdanes Rand Couthnart P99 611 Use Restriction (if applicable)

• This device is restricted to indoor use when operating in the 5150 to 5350 MHz frequency range. This restriction applies in: AT, BE, BG, CH, CY, CZ, DE, DIK, EE, EL, ES, FI, FR, HIR HU, IE, IS, IT, LI, LT, LU, L.V, MT, NL, NO, PL, PT, RO, SE, SI, SK, TR. UA, UKIND.
• As an ENERGY STAR partner, IF has determined that standard configurations of this product meet the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. The ENERGY STAR program is a partnership with electronic equipment manufacturers to promote energy-efficient products. Reducing energy consumption of products saves money and helps conserve valuable resources.

Disposal and Recycling Information

The symbol above means that according to local laws and regulations your product and/or its battery shall be disposed of separately from household waste. When this product reaches its end of life, take it to a collection point designated by local authorities. The separate collection and recycling of your product and/or its battery at the time of disposal will help conserve natural resources and ensure that it is recycled in a manner that protects human health and the environment.

• Battery and Charging Don’t attempt to replace or remove the battery yourself—-you may damage the battery, which could cause overheating, fire, and injury. The built-in battery should be replaced by iFi or an authorized service provider, and must be recycled or disposed of separately from household waste. Dispose of batteries according to your local environmental laws and guidelines, For information about charging, see iFi Product Safety Guide at ifi-audio.com/product-guides.
• Software License Agreement Use of IFI Product constitutes acceptance of the iFi and third-party software license terms found at ifi-audio.com.
• Accessories Standard and/or non-standard 3rd party accessories may be included with the iFi product. Only iFi products are compatible with those accessories. All accessories are given *as Is’. iFi offers no other explicit or implied assurances, and expressly disclaims all implied warranties, including any promise of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
• iFi Limited Warranty Summary iFi warrants the included hardware product and accessories against defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of original retail purchase (unless otherwise provided by law). ifi does not warrant against normal wear and tear, nor damage caused by accident or abuse, To obtain service, call ifi or an IFI Authorized Service Provider- available service options are dependent on the country in which service is requested and may be restricted to the original country of sale. Call charges and international shipping charges may apply, depending on the location. Subject to the full terms and detailed Information on obtaining service available at ifi-audio.com, If you submit a valid claim under this warranty, iFi will either repaid, replace, or refund your product at its own discretion, Warranty benefits are in addition to rights provided under local consumer laws. You may be required to furnish proof of purchase details when making a claim under this warranty. For Australian consumers: Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and for compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

© 2022 IF All rights reserved, IFi, the IF logo, and IFI Product are trademarks of Abbingdon Limited, Abbingdon Global Limited., registered in the U.S. and other countries. ENERGY STAR and the ENERGY STAR mark are registered trademarks owned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

References

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• iFi audio | the Award-Winning Audio Technology Company
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• Support Desk | iFi audio

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