iFi Audio 0317001 iCAN Phantom Headphone Amplifier (0317001)

iFi Audio 0317001 iCAN Phantom Headphone Amplifier (0317001)

The iFi Audio 0317001 iCAN PHANTOM is an extraordinarily powerful headphone amplifier designed to drive everything from sensitive IEMs to demanding electrostatic headphones. Its dual solid-state/tube architecture, True Differential Balanced design, and precise gain control enable a tailored, low-noise listening experience.

Drive IEMs, headphones, and electrostatics with confidence

This headphone amplifier delivers high power and voltage to match a wide range of headphone types and loads.

• More than 15,000mW from balanced outputs and more than 5,760mW from single-ended outputs into 16 ohms.
• Supplies more than 27V into a 600-ohm load; for electrostatic headphones it delivers up to 640V.
• Three gain settings—0dB, 9dB, and 18dB—precisely match connected headphones. Unity gain (0dB) helps ensure low noise with sensitive IEMs, while higher gain settings suit tougher loads with excellent dynamic headroom.
• Incorporates iFi’s original iESL energiser technology, enabling one amplifier to handle every headphone type.

Tailor the presentation: Solid-State, Tube, and Tube+ Class A stages

Two entirely separate input stages let users switch in real time between distinct listening modes.

• Fully discrete Class A solid-state stage uses J-FETs.
• All-valve Class A stage features a hand-selected, computer-matched pair of General Electric 5670 tubes.
• Tube+ mode minimises overall loop-gain and negative feedback to offer a different trade-off between natural tube harmonics and transient performance.

True Differential Balanced design and precise volume control

The iCAN PHANTOM’s fully differential architecture minimises noise and crosstalk for sonic purity.

• True Differential Balanced circuitry runs from input to output, using separate positive and negative signals per channel.
• Custom motorised ALPS volume control with six decks—two for each channel’s positive/negative signals and two for monitoring—supports accurate level control.

Electrostatics made easy with bias voltage cards

Setting up electrostatic headphones is simplified by included data cards that define the required bias voltage.

• Select and insert the appropriate card—500V, 540V, 580V, 600V, 620V, or 640V—each with a guide indicating compatible headphone brands.

Network-connected control with iFi Nexis

iFi Nexis combines with an Android or iOS app to extend control beyond the front panel or standard remote.

• Acts as a comprehensive, scalable remote control and provides access to additional features.
• Feature set is designed to grow over time.

Thoughtful construction and connectivity

The dual-level aluminium enclosure makes operation intuitive while supporting robust thermal management.

• Top layer provides tactile controls and a colourful OLED display; a flush-fitting smoked glass panel reveals the circuitry and glowing valves.
• Circular aluminium vents help prevent overheating.
• Bottom layer places connections logically, with headphone outputs at the front and source inputs plus preamp outputs at the rear.
• GE5670 valves have an expected lifespan of around 10,000+ hours and are easy to replace by removing the smoked glass panel.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What types of headphones does the iCAN PHANTOM support?

  It handles IEMs, dynamic and planar headphones, and electrostatic headphones. It integrates iESL energiser technology and delivers up to 640V for electrostatics.

• How do the gain settings work?

  Three user-selectable gains—0dB, 9dB, and 18dB—match different sensitivities. Unity gain (0dB) supports low noise with sensitive IEMs; higher settings suit tougher headphone loads.

• What is the difference between Solid-State, Tube, and Tube+ modes?

  The solid-state stage is a fully discrete Class A J-FET design. The tube stage uses GE 5670 valves. Tube+ reduces overall loop-gain and negative feedback for a different balance of tube harmonics and transient response.

• How is bias voltage set for electrostatic headphones?

  Insert the supplied data card that matches the required bias (500V, 540V, 580V, 600V, 620V, or 640V). Each card includes a guide to compatible brands.

• What does True Differential Balanced mean here?

  Each channel is fully separated with equal-level positive and negative signals, minimising noise and crosstalk. A six-deck ALPS motorised potentiometer manages volume with precision.

• What can the iFi Nexis app do?

  On Android or iOS, Nexis functions as an extended remote control and enables access to features not available from the fascia or standard remote. Its capabilities are designed to expand over time.

• Are the tubes serviceable?

  Yes. The GE5670 valves are accessible by removing the smoked glass panel, making replacement straightforward. Their expected lifespan is around 10,000+ hours.

Ready to experience the iCAN PHANTOM in your setup? Add to Cart now, and contact or visit Gibbys Electronic Supermarket for personalized system-matching and setup advice from our product specialists.