iFi Audio iCAN Phantom

iFi Audio iCAN Phantom

iFi's new reference-class analog headphone amplifier, the iCAN Phantom, takes the Pro iCAN, refines and enhances every element of the circuit to further improve performance, incorporates technology from the Pro iESL - previously a separate component - for electrostatic headphones, and adds a new, advanced user interface and network-connected control system.

Exemplary build quality, advanced technology, unparalleled specification and remarkable versatility, expertly designed to allow every type of headphone to perform to its full potential. From ultra-sensitive IEMs, the finest dynamic driver and planar magnetic headphones, to the most power-hungry electrostatic designs, the iCAN Phantom delivers a truly exceptional headphone experience - perfectly tailored to the listener's requirements.

The iCAN Phantom also works as a high-end preamplifier - to feed a power amplifier and speakers (or powered speakers) - allowing listening to headphones and speakers to be combined into one high-quality audio system.

The Rolls Royce among flagships

The design of the iCAN Phantom is reminiscent of two units, but in fact it is one device with two levels, the full depth of which is fully utilized by the multi-layer circuit design. The housing is solidly made of aluminum, with front and rear cable connections on the bottom layer, and tactile controls and a colorful OLED screen on the top layer.

The top of the iCAN Phantom features a recessed glass panel that allows you to see the amplifier's circuitry and glowing audio tubes. Round aluminum vents keep the circuitry inside from overheating.

When not in use, the front or rear connections can be hidden by a neat aluminum panel that attaches magnetically. This panel also contains the data cards for electrostatic bias settings. The iCAN Phantom also comes with an attractive, easy-to-use, high-quality aluminum remote control.

A tale of two entrance steps

The iCAN Phantom has two input stages - one valve/tube-based and one solid-state - allowing the user to switch between the two in real time.

Indeed, it is like having three amplifiers in one, each with a different sonic presentation.

Solid-state offers speed and immediacy. Tube mode adds fluidity and a dynamic quality. Tube+ accentuates the sonic influence of tubes and delivers an enchanting romantic warmth that suits acoustic and vocal music styles, for example.

Electrostatic good!

Most headphones create sound by using dynamic (or moving coil) drivers to move air. A smaller number use planar magnetic diaphragms, which have a different shape and operation but still use magnetic fields to cause movement. At the upper end of the headphone market is another rare but great-sounding type of driver: electrostatic headphones.

Electrostatic drivers require a separate amplifier. The iCAN Phantom combines iFi's original standalone iESL energizer technology with ordinary amplifier technology into one amplifier that can handle any type of headphones with ease.

And all users benefit because the component quality and clever circuit design required to deliver such a high level of performance with electrostatic headphones improve the amplifier's performance with other headphone types as well.

Bias voltage simplified

Electrostatic headphones have different bias voltage requirements.

The iCAN Phantom has two outputs for electrostatic headphones - one set to the "normal" bias voltage of 230V, the other provides a variable bias voltage between 500V and 640V, selected by the user. If the wrong voltage is selected, it is possible to damage the headphones.

To make this much less likely, the iCAN Phantom has a range of data cards that specify different bias voltages (these are included with the amplifier). Simply select the card that matches the headphone specification and plug it into the card slot - there are cards for 500V, 540V 580V, 600V, 620V and 640V each with a handy guide on the back showing which brand of headphone is compatible with that voltage.

Every connection covered

The iCAN Phantom offers a wide range of balanced and single-ended connection options. The headphone outputs are on the front, with the source inputs and preamp outputs on the rear.

iFi Nexus - network connected control

The iCAN Phantom is the first product to include iFi Nexus, a module that, combined with an app, provides a comprehensive, scalable networked control system.

The features offered by Nexus will grow over time. At launch, the Nexus app enables your Android or iOS device to act as a "super remote control" for the iCAN Phantom, providing access to additional features not accessible through the amplifier's dashboard or the standard remote control.

The app can display diagnostic information and allow the user to monitor the operational state of the iCAN Phantom in real time - for example, voltages, the condition and expected life of the vacuum tubes and so on. The app can also be used to apply over-the-air updates to the iCAN Phantom's firmware by downloading and installing update files via your home Wi-Fi network.