If the price is right! SPL Phonitor XE headphone amp review

[@raymondwebby2441]

Regarding the output power of the SPL Phonitor XE: Unbalanced Max. Output Power (at +30 dBu @ 1 kHz) 1 W x 2 at 600 Ohm impedance 2 W x 2 at 300 Ohm impedance 3.7 W x 2 at 120 Ohm impedance 2.9 W x 2 at 47 Ohm impedance 2.7 W x 2 at 32 Ohm impedance Balanced Max. Output Power These measurements are not on the website but was sent by SPL to and shared by Mr Headphoneer (Chris) 4.4W x 2 at 600Ω 9W x 2 at 300Ω 7.4W x 2 at 150Ω 6.2W x 2 at 47Ω Hope this helps clarify the seemingly mind boggling output power rating that’s published.

[@PassionforSound]

That's more like it! Looks like a typo on the website that was never fixed. Thanks for sharing!

[@mrtomcreo]

I own a Phonitor XE and it's output power is still confusing to me. I'm used to seeing power decrease as resistance increase. The number here is more sporadic... Do we know if it's 100% accurate?

[@PassionforSound]

I don't know if it's 100% accurate, but I would believe it. The power output is a function of the amp's ability to provide maximum voltage (high impedance) and maximum current (low impedance). How the conversion of the mains power into output signal is managed could definitely result in some fluctuations from the lower impedances to the higher ones I suspect.

[@PeterHas]

I bought the Phonitor X in September 2017 and I've been using it on a daily basis since then. I also owned the SPL Auditor from 2009-2013. I really enjoy the SPL "house sound" produced by the 120 Volt discrete op amps. Over the years they've revised the design of the 120 volt boards, but the general character of the sound hasn't changed, which to me is a good thing. I bought the Phonitor X because I enjoyed my time with the Auditor a lot. Having tried many other brands in-between like Violectric V200, Sennheiser HDVD 800, Objective amp, and more I eventually came back to SPL, and I've been a happy owner. The character of the sound feels right to me. For about 90% of the time I use it as a pre-amp for my speakers, and it does so very well. Can confirm the knob feel is excellent.

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing your experiences. I totally agree with your comments about the Phonitor/SPL sound.

[@giorgosapo4508]

Lovely review once again Lachlan, I personally have the Amp only version paired with the Gustard R26 DAC and its absolutely phenomenal. The sound is lush and the soundstage is huge so for anyone thinking of R2R+Phonitor XE I highly recommend it!

[@Krol_Artur]

Hi, thanks for the recommendation. What headphones do you use?

[@giorgosapo4508]

@@Krol_Artur Mostly Sennheiser HD600/660S/660S2, Focal Celestee , Hifiman Arya Stealth/Organic and maybe some HE1000SE soon.

[@Ray-dl5mp]

Dang I have the HD660S2 and the Gustard R26. Talk about the comment to come across, ha. So how many headphone amps have you tried with my setup to know for sure it's this amp that makes a huge difference?

[@giorgosapo4508]

@@Ray-dl5mp The last I tried were the Topping A90 , the A90D , some portable ones and the Phonitor XE is just night and day difference. It's well known for its huge soundstage but I wasn't expecting it to be so big.

[@Ray-dl5mp]

@@giorgosapo4508 that’s awesome. I currently have the SA-1. You would think your amp is a lot better but I’m always skeptical. Now I gotta think do I want to get this. And if there is a good US dealer.

[@joseluishernandezseptien]

Great review! I tried both the XE and the new Phonitor 3 for a while and they sounded similarly when using the 6.3 mm output. It was nice that with the Phonitor 2/3 that are geared towards production, they also have an enjoyable sound that has a more powerful matrix by having more angle positions and control of how present one wants to listen to the center than on the XE (the control is very subtle, but it is great for those needing to match it with more or less forward sounding DACs).

[@TheVeganVicar]

I had no idea that the third iteration of Phonitor was extant. I'll peruse the SPL website pronto!

[@joseluishernandezseptien]

Yes! It was launched a few months ago. It is interesting that it can send the matrix out to the next amp in the chain, however, I did not find it to be as enjoyable as when listening to the matrix using the Phonitor 3's own amp.@@TheVeganVicar

[@PassionforSound]

Thanks for sharing your experiences with the XE and the Phonitor 3!

[@mickaelmarin1221]

I'm hesitating between the phonitor 3 and the phonitor xe (dac768), the dac on xe is really better than the phonitor 3? My headphones are HD800s, focal clear mg, audeze mm-500. THANKS

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't heard the Phonitor 3 so I can't comment on the comparison - sorry

[@xyanide1986]

I was looking over the website and I was thinking the pricing might be worse with that array of tweaking functions. Cool stuff to consider as an endgame amp.

[@PassionforSound]

Yeah, it's pretty powerful for those who like crossfeed and it sounds excellent

[@thor8334]

I am so glad you reviewed this unit !!

[@PassionforSound]

I hope it was helpful! 🙂

[@jimfarrell4635]

That thing is gorgeous! My wife is modelling dresses for a wedding right now and has just taken my head off for not lifting my head from the screen. So I may have to marry the Phonitor once my divorce comes through..

[@mmorales508]

We'll be here arms wide open when that sad (happy) day comes in!

[@PassionforSound]

LOL. Good luck salvaging that situation. Hopefully you can find a way to keep both a happy wife and a Phonitor XE to listen to 🙂

[@siriosstar4789]

@jim,,,,, if your going to ogle at hifi gear under such delicate conditions , just remember those secret words when she asks if you are paying attention , " YES DEAR" .

[@issacasimov]

I have SPL Phonitor X and XE with DAC , powering Focal Utopia and HiFiMan HE1000SE . Been using this setup for over 4years now and worth every penny.

[@PassionforSound]

They're a wonderful device. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@Born4One]

Excellent review. Picked this up with the DAC for $1800 shipped. I was stoked.

[@PassionforSound]

Nice price. Congratulations!

[@tdfmike3915]

Im currently considering one for 1700. It has the "old" dac though. What is your experience?

[@PassionforSound]

Which DAC is the old one using?

[@tdfmike3915]

@@PassionforSound dac 768. On the spl homepage they say they upgraded that to 768v2 with new hardware, chips and software. Basically everything better and the old dac cant be replaced\upgraded.

[@PassionforSound]

That's probably the version that the one I reviewed had too and it still sounds great. Any differences are probably very subtle so I'd just grab the savings and get the secondhand one.

[@aceofspades6667]

I think with the new soloist trying out the sparkos and SIL op amps are a must. The feedback is this help to flatten the curve make the mid range much more balanced without losing detail.

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, I haven't tried op-amp rolling in the GTs because there are SO many op-amps, but I do think a hybrid of V6 Vivids and Sparkos SS3602s is a great balance for tonality.

[@aceofspades6667]

@@PassionforSound looking forward to the review.. yes many many op amps out there but sparkos and SIL most widely have received the most praise. Sparkos has a few different options (SS2590, SS3602) and SIL is 994Enh-Ticha. I haven’t seen any feedback on the power modules so yours will be the first

[@r00s.]

Thanks for the review, Lachlan! I think this amp is SPECIAL. To me, it simply sounds great with everything I have thrown at it [ranging from IEMs up to an HE6SE v1]. I have a Burson Soloist 3XP [non-GT] and find myself rarely using it these days since I obtained the Phonitor xe. I am curious how the new Schiit Mjolnir 3 would compare to these as well!

[@PassionforSound]

I'm hoping to try the Mjolnir 3 at some point, but I believe it's currently not made for 240V power like we have here. I totally understand why you love the Phonitor so much and agree that it's a clear step above the Soloist 3XP.

[@utsavratti]

Fantastic review, as always. Been considering this for the crossfeed implementation. How do you reckon this will do with the Empyrean II, DCA E3 or ZMF Caldera Closed?

[@PassionforSound]

It will be great for all three of those and is a wonderful amp. Glad you liked the review.

[@LillyAugusta]

Hi! Great reviews! I like following your channel! Lately, I've decided SPL Phonitor XE to be my new acquisition. Since you said nice things about it, I was even more sure I needed that amp. But I recently came across another interesting amp, and now I have a dilemma again. What do you think about Violetric DHA V380mk2? Do you have any plans to review it? I already have a great DAC, so I don't need a combo, per se. I've read a lot of great things about V380mk2, but I would really like to hear what you think about it. I wonder if SPL XE paired with Musical Fidelity m6xDAC would be better or if Violetric is something really special, as I've read, and should I go that route? Thank you for your reviews. I hope you will leave an opinion; it might also be interesting for other folks. Cheers! Edit: I've seen that Violetric was already mentioned. I guess I won't get the straight answer, no Violtric on the horizon? P.S. You are very cute! :)

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you're enjoying the reviews! Unfortunately, I don't have access to Violectric amps for review, but having heard some older ones and knowing their reputation, the V380 will also be an excellent choice so you can't go wrong I think.

[@LillyAugusta]

@@PassionforSound Thanks a lot for answering! I know SPL and Violetric are great; that's why it makes my decision even harder. I have also seen V550, and now I have to decide between SPL XE or V550. Thanks again! Cheers!

[@PassionforSound]

Sorry I can't help more, but it sounds like you can't go wrong. 🙂

[@siriosstar4789]

i didn't watch the entire video but did you mention that this unit is made IN germany at a small factory about four hours drive from my house . considering the labor costs ,taxes and high quality parts ,it's amazing it being sold as cheap as it is .

[@PassionforSound]

I didn't mention that (and I don't know where you live 😉) but that's a good point!

[@robinkleinsteuber5217]

It's a REALLY interesting unit. Outside of my comfort zone for price, but if I really loved its presentation, then I might well grunt with my life-style a bit to get it. In my grunt zone, then. I prefer sound that's more "organic" and slightly warmer, so ... hmm. Thank you for this video!!

[@PassionforSound]

Sounds like a great match for your preferences. Hope you can grunt it out 😉

[@TheVeganVicar]

My Lynx Hilo's headphone amplifier is marketed as "studio quality" but I'm not sure if it will suit the HiFiMan Susvara that I am hoping to acquire in the mid-to-long distance future.

[@TheVeganVicar]

How I wish the volume knob on my SPL monitor controller was as impressive as that on the Phonitor. I was actually considering emailing SPL about this, just yesterday. The knob could easily be TWICE the size without taking-up extra room on the front panel.

[@PassionforSound]

That's a shame about the poorer knob on the monitor controller. I know the Hilo, but not with Susvaras. The Phonitor XE would be lovely with the Susvaras though I think

[@TheVeganVicar]

@@PassionforSound, not only is the volume potentiometer on the SPL monitor controller quite small, it is NOISY, but fortunately, SPL sent me a new one and I had a local repair shop help me to install it. I just saw your Burson Soloist review (as you may have noticed, by the fact that I left a comment there) and that is one of the potential amplifiers I have in mind to pair with the Hilo. To be honest, it depends largely on the country of manufacture -- SPL gear is produced in Germany, so...

[@PassionforSound]

I've just finished my review of the 2023 Soloist 3X GT and 3 GT (balanced and unbalanced output versions) for release next week. Hopefully they will help you decide...

[@TheVeganVicar]

@@PassionforSound, nice coincidence!

[@101stTank]

Im more curious how this compares to Vioelectric amps like v222 or v281. One dude is selling this with Dac in it for 1400e but I got no change to listen it first.

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't tried the Violectrics of recent times

[@davidallanmusic]

Was the cross feed engaged when you were comparing the Phonitor sound quality to the Burson?

[@PassionforSound]

No. I always compare products without tweaks applied (unless I'm comparing the tweaks) 🙂

[@davidallanmusic]

Thank you for answering!@@PassionforSound

[@PassionforSound]

No problems!

[@tdfmike3915]

I thought the burson has cross feed as well?

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, the Burson also has a version of crossfeed, but I still compare products without these tweaks activated or it overcomplicates things.

[@GMT2019]

Excellent review and comparison!

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked it!

[@trollights]

Have you tried the Z1R with the Phonitor XE? Apparently it’s amazing synergy wise 😊

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't, but they're two great products so it makes sense that they would be great together

[@indrakumarc73]

Hello, After watching this, I saw the same model in silver (used like new) on Yahoo Japan auctions. I won the bid for $1006. It has a 115V set that I can easily swap to 230V, i guess? Thanks

[@PassionforSound]

It's a wonderful amp. I'm not sure about the power settings though. I think they have a switchable power supply, but don't have one here anymore to check.

[@thor8334]

I would love to see you review the new yamah 4k amp, it’s named something like hla7 i’m not sure

[@PassionforSound]

I don't currently have a Yamaha contact, but would love to try their gear too!

[@Pianitara]

How does the phonitor one compares to toppings amps, RNHP or similar price headphone amps?

[@PassionforSound]

I haven't tried the RNHP, but there's not a Topping amp I've tried that gets anywhere near the realistic tone and staging of the Phonitor.

[@syanhc]

Yeah! I'm now a member!

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you for your support! ❤️❤️

[@alstonmaccow9386]

I really wanted to buy this as I did really like

[@PassionforSound]

It's a great amp

[@CoreyF84]

Great review. How do you think this would pair with the Susvara?

[@PassionforSound]

I think it would make a lovely combination!

[@michaelkime1816]

A little off topic. I'm just getting into headphones and amps. I've been offered a luxman DA-150. I know its older but new in the box. Are these good ? Could they work with my beyerdynamic DT 880 ? The build quality is beautiful. PS. I love this site and really enjoyed the SUPRA CABLES REVIEW. Cheers

[@PassionforSound]

I don't know the DA-150 so can't comment specifically, but the specs would suggest that it would work just fine with the DT880s. Don't be put off by older tech, either. Some older DACs sound just as good or better than newer ones.

[@Alexander-11.11.]

Hi, i have a little weird question: Do you think it´s possible.. and soundwise no step back ..to drive a pre amp or power amps directly, from the back 6,3 output to RCA or the XLR out to RCA? As i can drive my pre or my power amp direct, with the Cayin RU6, with very good results for the price of this dongle, i think about that - since i find the SPL Phonitor SE very nice and with useful features for listening with headphones, but it realy just makes sense for my system, if i can also use it as a DAC, remote volume controll and little balance adjustment, for my pre amp, amp and speakers, too. Thanks a lot for your answer!

[@PassionforSound]

There's no pre-amp control from the Phonitor XE and no RCA or XLR outputs - only inputs. You'd have to run a 6.3mm or 4-pin XLR out to your amp/preamp. That should work ok because the headphone stage is somewhat similar to a pre-amp anyway, but I haven't tried it.

[@Alexander-11.11.]

@@PassionforSound Your suggestion goes exactly in the direction as my own thoughts. The advantage to the SPL X with pre for speakers would be, beneath the 120V DAC and filter, that i can use the balance also for my speakers. And perhaps even play a bit, what the crossfeed does. :D Thank you for your answer, to my late question!

[@brandonburr4900]

Excellent review. Had my eye on this German brand for a while. By and large many good things said about it. Another interesting comparison to this unit would be another German offering, vioelectric. They have been around and seem to have one foot in the pro and home market as well. They Have some newer units in this price range I think also. Not sure you have reviewed any from the vioelectric brand on yoir channel. Thanks you for the great review!

[@stijnvanderlooy5311]

Both brands are fantastic

[@PassionforSound]

I've tried some Violectrics gear a long time ago, but don't have access to review units. I agree that both brands are excellent though.

[@brandonburr4900]

@@PassionforSound hopefully you get some if the new ones I have seen or even some of the older ones. Perhaps a patron has some to borrow sometime. I have been on the lookout for used ones like the v281 or above but they don't come up for sale often . Thanks!

[@PassionforSound]

Yeah, that's the hope. I'd pick one up if I saw a current model secondhand

[@mrjohnsuen]

I have the Phonitor 2 instead and paired to RME ADI-2 Pro. Don’t find the resolution and transparency suffer in any way. I guess what DAC is used may matter.

[@PassionforSound]

I think it's more a case of context. I agree that the resolution and transparency of the Phonitors are excellent. It's just that there are now even more resolving and transparent amps available at the RRP of the Phonitor XE

[@BillyKueekSG]

⁠​⁠@@PassionforSoundwhich amps are more resolving and transparent?

[@PassionforSound]

Burson Soloist GT range is the most obvious

[@BillyKueekSG]

@@PassionforSound thank you! There are more choices now that Hifiman had acquired GoldenWave and launched the Prelude headphone amp while the Prelude DAC and the AIO DAC+Amp have launched in China.

[@PassionforSound]

Yes. I'm going to get a GoldenWave in soon

[@Prxyshj]

Are these still a good buy? They are on the best selling page of stores but are a bit old I guess

[@PassionforSound]

I think it depends on the pricing. At their original retail price, they're probably superseded now, but they're still an excellent amp so if they have been significantly discounted it's a good option.

[@R3s1d3ntAl13n]

Great review. Any idea how the phonitor xe compares to the mjolnir 3, Audio Gd Master 9 and the Flux Labs Mentor?

[@PassionforSound]

I never got to compare them directly, but the Mjolnir 3 will be a better amp than the Phonitor by a decent margin. I'm hoping to try the Mentor soon...

[@R3s1d3ntAl13n]

​@@PassionforSoundcheers for the reply. Is the mjolnir a better match for ZMF cans?

[@PassionforSound]

I can't answer that specifically...

[@carminedesanto6746]

Great review..and it’s a little scary 😮 Going to try and get my hands on the Bryston BHP-1 for my Sen’s 650’s 😎 Great video as always. Take care 👍🍕☕️🥓🔥

[@PassionforSound]

Glad you liked the review. How was it scary?

[@carminedesanto6746]

@@PassionforSound I had the chance to try one at Toronto Audiofest last year..it was fabulous..but ungodly expensive..and I don’t know why 🤷🏻‍♂️ That was the thing that frightened me . As I said , I’m looking at a Bryston BHP-1 ..as my last headphone amp ..solid state that is 🤫

[@annamark3422]

Congrats on 30k Lachlan

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you!!

[@fez748]

I just bought a new stack but really want this.....my poor wallet.

[@PassionforSound]

Lol. It's like that 🙂

[@fez748]

​@@PassionforSound lol.......worth it.

[@syanhc]

I just wish I could afford this. What would you say is the best dac/amp desktop solution for under £1000? They don’t need to be separate or combo. I was thinking the Mojo 2 with the Geshelli headphone amp you reviewed. I was looking at the EF600. It’s just that I have plenty of dacs with AKM or ESS chips. I’m wanting to try either bit based dacs or RUR options. Just something different. I was looking at the Fiio R7 until your review. I just thought the mojo 2 plus that geshelli would be an amazing sonic solution. I was curious about the Cayin Ru7 1Bit dongle. That has my curiosity too…❤

[@PassionforSound]

Mojo 2 and the Geshelli A3 Pro will be a brilliant combo if it fits your budget. You can or course just use the Mojo 2 as well (I'm not sure how the A3 Pro will compare with the Mojo 2 direct, but it should be an upgrade I expect)

[@syanhc]

@@PassionforSound I've always considered the Mojo 2 a portable device rather than a desktop option but I'd use it for the dac as it's widely considered one of the best DACs under £500 if not higher.

[@syanhc]

@@PassionforSound The aesthetics of the A3 pro are totally cool too. And your review of the A3 pro convinced me.

[@PassionforSound]

Definitely will make a great combo. Mojo 2 when on the go and as a DAC only when you're at home. Nice!

[@techmed-rainer]

Danke!

[@PassionforSound]

Thank you, Rainer!

[@techmed-rainer]

@@PassionforSound You're welcome!

[@Peace_Guard]

What's the song during glamour vid? Normally not my style, but actually liked it. PS. Where Elite angled alcantaras at? ;)

[@PassionforSound]

I think I put the name in the description because I forgot in the video itself. I need to chase those pads.

[@levinste2750]

What about the SPL Phonitor XE with DAC vs. ADI-2 DAC FS , for Dan Clark E3 ?

[@PassionforSound]

Phonitor 110%. The amp stage in the ADI-2 is nowhere near the level of the Phonitor.

[@levinste2750]

@@PassionforSound Could you please give more details / examples about this?

[@PassionforSound]

There's not a lot I can tell you from memory other than that the ADI-2 amp is equivalent to something like the old Drop THX 789 amp. The Phonitor is vastly superior with a larger soundstage, more natural character, greater detail retrieval, m etc. Maybe check out my ADI-2 review and compare what I say in that to what I say about the amp in the Phonitor review.

[@b00m3rh4nd_sol]

Bliss review inbound? :)

[@PassionforSound]

No. I don't have access to Holo gear since I chose to say the Spring wasn't worth the hype.

[@jaybrodnax]

​@@PassionforSoundthank you for telling your truth

[@PassionforSound]

Always (while also trying to be respectful, of course)

[@TheSynrgy1987]

Really not liking this trend of tiny switches on otherwise potentially interesting hardware.

[@PassionforSound]

They're just high quality toggle switches and the only one you're likely to use often is the power switch

[@MykeBinaryMan]

In the Uk that amp is over £1700 so that's definitely a no from me but thank you for the review,

[@PassionforSound]

No problems 🙂

[@callmevil]

3:49 why does the wattage go up at the higher impedance? Im use to seeing wattage go up as the impedance go down (logically too since lower resistance allows more through) right? Confused🙃 Edit - 4:13 lower power on xlr??? Was the manual translated raw from a Japanese manual? Why are the power spec working in reverse? Lol

[@PassionforSound]

The information on the website is incorrect for the XLR output. As for the power changing at different impedances, it all depends on the balance of current and voltage available from the amp circuit. If an amp runs out of voltage before it runs out of current then the lower impedances will have more power (wattage). If there's more voltage available then the power will go up as impedance goes up.

[@callmevil]

@@PassionforSound oh my.. got it..

[@dangerzone007]

With those power specs it looks like it has limited current output.

[@sjqideez6626]

Be careful with amplifier specifications, the Cen Grand Silver Fox is rated at 22W into 30 ohms & the Mass Kobo 394 II is “only” rated at 2.2W into 32 ohms. But I can tell you that the 394 II controls, powers, grips & drives the HiFiMan Susvara VERY well indeed.

[@PassionforSound]

Yep, once you have enough power, it's more about the delivery of that power - the amp's sonic characteristics

[@dangerzone007]

@@PassionforSound the amplifier has to have sufficient current and voltage to deliver the power.

[@PassionforSound]

Yes, but current and voltage = power at a given impedance so if the amp has plenty of power at the required impedance then it will have sufficient voltage and current.

[@dangerzone007]

@@PassionforSound no. Power equals voltage x current. If you have limited current then you have limited power.

[@masterazlan6999]

Emphasising is not audiophiles needs.. Peace!

[@fatdoi003]

lol Lachlan.... in the end all the metrics indicated this amp's RRP is overpriced

[@cheveyo2403]

functions cost money too

[@fatdoi003]

@@cheveyo2403 yes it does but trading it with sonic quality will not attract more audiophiles to buy it

[@PassionforSound]

I'd say the pure sound quality doesn't stack up against some very new competition (it is a match for the OG Soloist GT), but the features are excellent so that need l balances things as cheveyo said.

[@fatdoi003]

@@PassionforSound as a violinist yourself, which one you'll pick for most realistic rendition of the instrument?

[@PassionforSound]

That's a great question! I'd probably say that the Phonitor is a little more tonally accurate, especially on the upper strings, but it's tricky because the original recording also plays a part.

[@supergwizzo]

Well the soloist measures badly.. ASR ..😮 Again you guys cant hear.. Bad Info here ! And just like others parroting each other . Lock step in lies . 😊