Audiophilepure

In some ways, the iFi iCAN Phantom is probably overkill for most headphone listeners. The full array of headphone connections, the ability to drive both dynamic and electrostatic cans (ANY electrostatic cans), the choice of solid-state or two types of tube drive, along with the various processing and setting options to play with makes this a drive unit for the truly committed headphone enthusiast. Someone who appreciates the inherent differences in various headphones of all types. Enough that they already own several sets of cans or plan to build a collection. The iFi iCAN Phantom can accommodate them all, drive them to their full potential, and be either a clean sheet of sonic glass or a tweaker’s delight. The choice is yours. On second thought, maybe the iCAN Phantom IS for everybody after all! Recommended!

Positioned between the K9 Pro ESS and K19, the K17 switches from THX amplification to discreet circuitry and 4000mW max output per channel, giving it plenty of power for various headphones.

It sounds dynamic, with plenty of headroom while maintaining good tonal balance and resolution alongside an otherwise full-bodied presentation.

Unlike the cleaner sounding K19, the K17 is more intimate than neutral across the mids. It puts more stress on the treble on the higher gain modes while sounding fuller in bass and quite rounded in treble with the lower gain levels.

Eons ago, our hearing evolved as a continuous predator warning system—does the space around us sound normal and safe or not? Danger was often a matter of audible impulse (location), plus loudness and echoes (distance), pretty much how the latest Atmos fright-film makes the audience shriek. Even today, the faintest mosquito buzz immediately gets your attention, and you have to look for it and kill it first. I could suggest that, as with inverted phase, the brain gets a “bit confused” when things digital don’t quite sound normal as they would in the real world—and perhaps pre-ringing plays a role. But I don’t even play a digital expert on TV, let alone on the Internet.

Yes, other DACs provide a choice of filters, or at least third-party chip manufacturers can. However, I suspect it is unusual for a DAC manufacturer to research, develop, and implement a “bespoke” filter like the GTO in a sub-$1000 product like the Neo 2. (Or, if you need portable, GTO is also available in the $599 iFi Gryphon)

This feature acts as a real-time indicator, allowing users to verify that their high-resolution digital source remains unaltered throughout the playback chain—an invaluable tool for audiophiles who want to ensure bit-perfect transmission.

To the right of the volume knob, the EH1 includes a dedicated gain button, which toggles between high and low gain modes for better compatibility with sensitive IEMs or demanding full-sized headphones. Additionally, a separate power button is conveniently placed on the far-right side of the unit.

In addition to the volume knob, the EH2 features dedicated bass and treble adjustment knobs, a relatively rare inclusion in desktop DAC/Amps.

These allow users to fine-tune the tonal balance of their audio in real time, offering a convenient way to shape the sound signature without needing external equalizers or DSP software.

The tonal balance of the EH1 is quite good. The delicate and smooth treble response pairs nicely with the meatier mid-bass, and the richer than neutral mid-bass can be a boon for genres like EDM, R&B, and hip-hop, though it might work against more congestion-prone genres such as metal or alternative rock. I did observe that the depth perception improved when I supplied power through the 12V adapter. However, I couldn’t achieve as clean a background on DC power as I did on USB, which makes me think that using the EH1 with just any adapter isn’t the best idea despite the manual. While a dedicated power supply like iFi’s iPower might further enhance its performance, it would push the total budget to around 350 USD and open the door to other, more capable devices, so there is no point going that route as well.