iFi Audio ZEN Air Phono 2

A Real Phono Stage, Priced Like an Accessory

The iFi Audio ZEN Air Phono 2 is an entry-level MM/MC phono preamp. It takes over RIAA equalization from your turntable's built-in phono stage, or adds one if your turntable doesn't have one at all.

It's the second generation of iFi's ZEN Air Phono. RIAA accuracy is tighter here, rated at ±0.15dB, and the internal power supply was redesigned for a quieter noise floor than the original.

Gain switches between 40dB for a moving magnet cartridge and 64dB for a moving coil. An intelligent subsonic filter cuts the rumble a warped record or a heavy footfall puts in, and leaves the music alone.

Who Is This Preamp Best For?

• Anyone whose turntable lacks a built-in phono stage. This adds one at a low cost of entry.
• Owners of both MM and MC cartridges. Switchable gain covers either type.
• Shoppers upgrading from a receiver's basic phono input. Dedicated RIAA equalization outperforms most built-in stages.
• Your turntable sits away from the amplifier — a compact half-width chassis lets the stage live beside the deck, so the delicate cartridge signal travels the shortest possible run.
• Loading is set for you — it is fixed rather than user-adjustable, so a cartridge asking for unusual loading is better matched to a stage with switches. For the common ones there is nothing to configure. See our phono cartridges for the figures each needs.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Run your turntable's phono cable into the ZEN Air Phono 2's RCA input, then connect its RCA output to a line-level input on your amp or receiver. A ground terminal helps quiet any hum from your turntable's earth wire.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the ZEN Air Phono 2:

• Turntables without a built-in phono stage
• Phono cartridges, MM or MC, matched to its switchable gain
• Interconnect cables to connect its output to your amp
• Record cleaning machines, because a phono stage amplifies surface noise along with the music

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from the original ZEN Air Phono?

It tightens RIAA accuracy and redesigns the power supply for a quieter noise floor. MM/MC gain support carries over from the original.

Can I adjust cartridge loading?

It is set for you. Loading is fixed rather than user-adjustable, which keeps the design simple at this price.

Which gain setting do I use?

40dB suits a moving magnet cartridge and 64dB a moving coil. The switch is the only setting to make.

What does the subsonic filter do?

It cuts the rumble a warped record or a springy floor puts into the signal, and leaves the music alone.

What's the warranty?

iFi covers the ZEN Air Phono 2 for 12 months against manufacturing defects.

See It in Action

United States of Analog reviews the iFi Audio ZEN Air Phono 2:

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Learn More

Want to learn more about setting up a phono stage, matching gain to your cartridge, or getting started with vinyl? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.