Meet the New iFi Audio iDSD PHANTOM: A Flagship DAC, Streamer, Headphone Amp & Preamp in One
The iFi Audio iDSD PHANTOM is a flagship all-in-one DAC, streamer, headphone amp, and preamp designed for audiophiles seeking uncompromising sound quality and versatility. It delivers cutting-edge digital processing, powerful analog output, and intuitive streaming support in a single, high-performance component.
Are you curious to experience this product in person? Attend our upcoming in-store event at ListenUp Denver on February 12th and hear it for yourself. It’s your chance to spend real time with a reference-level all-in-one component in a relaxed, audiophile-focused setting.
The iFi Audio iDSD PHANTOM is a game-changing flagship component that combines a reference DAC, advanced network streaming, a powerful headphone amp, and a precision preamp — all in one. Built for those who crave uncompromising audio quality, it’s designed to simplify high-end setups while elevating overall performance.
Why It Matters
Historically, audiophiles relied on stacks of gear to achieve reference-quality sound. With the iDSD PHANTOM, iFi has streamlined that workflow into a single unit without compromising sound quality or flexibility. It supports ultra-high-res formats, balanced analog output, and modern streaming protocols for a seamless user experience and world-class fidelity.
What Makes It a Great Reference-Grade Choice
- Quad DAC Design + FPGA Remastering: Converts all incoming audio to ultra-high-rate DSD2048 for lifelike detail and low noise.
- Built-in Streaming: Access Qobuz, TIDAL, Spotify, and local files with native support and app control.
- Balanced Output & Preamp: Use it as the control hub for your 2-channel setup or high-end headphone rig.
- Powerful Headphone Amp: Clean, dynamic drive for everything from sensitive IEMs to power-hungry planar models.
- Flexible Connectivity: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB, S/PDIF, XLR, RCA — it’s all there.
Quick Review Listening Notes — First Impressions
Listening Test Settings
Headphones: Meze Audio Elite Open Back Headphones
Settings: GTO filter, Tube+ mode, 10Hz XBass, K2HD engaged
Source: Qobuz (Hi-Res tracks only)
Track Impressions
Deftones – "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)"
Tube+ mode gives this track an enveloping warmth. Chino's vocals feel rich and blend smoothly into the mix, with the guitars taking a more forward role. Drums are subtly present but not overpowering, drawing you deeper into the atmosphere of the song.
Halsey – "Without Me"
XBass adds punch and impact to the drums, bringing life to this modern pop production. Halsey’s vocals are silky and remain smooth even in the upper registers, with outstanding clarity and emotional presence throughout the track.
Manchester Orchestra – "The Silence (Live at the Regency Ballroom)"
This track shines with outstanding imaging. Drums appear to sit behind the listener while still sounding forward, vocals are locked dead center, and the piano wraps around the stage. It’s an immersive experience that reveals the full potential of live spatial recordings.
Howard Shore – "The Fellowship Reunited" (LOTR Score)
The sense of movement and space is extraordinary. Horns and strings begin back and to the left, gradually sweeping center. Vocals sit slightly hot in the mix — likely due to higher listening volume — but the emotional impact is undeniable. It’s a vivid and cinematic presentation that transports you to Middle-earth.
Full Specifications — iFi Audio iDSD PHANTOM
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| DAC Architecture | 4x Burr-Brown DSD1793 + Crysopeia FPGA |
| Remastering | Native DSD2048 upsampling |
| Streaming | Qobuz Connect, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2 |
| Digital Inputs | USB-B 3.0, 2x USB-A, USB-C, Coaxial, AES3, RJ45, M12, Optical SC, BNC |
| Headphone Outputs | 3.5mm S-Balanced, 4.4mm Balanced, 4-pin XLR, 3-pin XLR (L/R), 6.3mm |
| Headphone Power | ≥4,676mW/17.3V @ 64Ω; ≥564mW/18.4V @ 600Ω (Balanced) |
| Line Output Voltage | 0–4.5V (Hi-Fi), 0–18V (Pro) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | ≥116dBA (Balanced), ≥115dBA (SE) |
| EQ Features | XBass Pro (10Hz/20Hz/40Hz), XSpace Pro (30°/60°/90°) |
| Audio Modes | Solid-State, Tube, Tube+ |
| Control | iFi Nexis App, Analog Volume |
| Dimensions | 256 x 185 x 120mm |
| In the Box | iDSD Phantom, iPower Elite 15V, Remote, Optibox, RCA Cable, USB3.0 Cable, Guide, Warranty Card |
iDSD PHANTOM vs. iCAN PHANTOM Comparison
Shop the iDSD Phantom & the iCan Phantom
| Feature | iDSD PHANTOM | iCAN PHANTOM |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | DAC / Streamer / Preamp / Headphone Amp | Analog Headphone Amp / Preamp |
| Streaming | Yes | No |
| Digital Inputs | Yes — USB, Ethernet, S/PDIF, AES3, Optical | None |
| Analog Inputs | Limited (for preamp pass-through) | Multiple balanced/unbalanced inputs |
| Headphone Power | Up to 4,676mW @ 64Ω (Balanced) | Up to 15,000mW @ 64Ω (Balanced) |
| Electrostatic Support | No | Yes (via bias voltage cards) |
| Tube/SS Modes | Yes — Solid-State, Tube, Tube+ | Yes — Solid-State, Tube, Tube+ |
| Preamp Output | Yes — Balanced & RCA | Yes — High voltage balanced out |
| App Control | Yes — iFi Nexis | Yes — iFi Nexis |
| Best Use Case | All-in-one desktop/source component | Ultimate dedicated headphone amp |
Hear the iDSD PHANTOM
If you're looking for one flagship unit to anchor your system — with audiophile-grade detail, flexibility, and power — the iDSD PHANTOM is a stunning choice. Check out the entire iFi Lineup or visit a ListenUp showroom, & connect with our team to experience what's possible with truly high-resolution digital playback. We'd love to have you as a guest at our upcoming event The Phantom Experience: An Evening with iFi Audio on February 12th!
