SPL Phonitor xe Headphone Amplifier and DAC (Red)

Styled in red, the SPL Phonitor xe is a headphone amplifier with a built-in 32-bit DAC. It s designed for pro audio and hi-fi applications. On the analog side, it sports XLR and RCA inputs, while digital connections are secured over S/PDIF, TOSLINK, USB, or AES connections. You can switch among the inputs with a prominent Source knob. Output jacks for headphones are provided on both the front and rear of the Phonitor xe.

You ll note one set of 4-pin XLR inputs for balanced headphones, and one set for conventional, 1/4" unbalanced headphones. You can switch between the inputs on the front and rear, so you can compare different sets of headphones easily. Please note that you cannot use both balanced and unbalanced headphones at the same time.

Of interest to audiophiles who usually prefer loudspeakers is the Phonitor Matrix, which aims to create an experience akin to listening to studio monitors. It simulates the effect of audio emanating from one speaker hitting the opposing ear. More than a simple crossfeed controller, this Matrix can simulate different-sized listening environments and different speaker angles.

This application is designed not only to promote a more realistic listening experience, but to reduce listener fatigue. The control for this is variable: you can set the level of crossfeed, as well as the simulated speaker angle to emulate a variety of speaker-placement scenarios. Ideally, you d set this control to correspond to your actual loudspeaker arrangement.

You ll also note a Mode switch that dictates several types of operation. Stereo and mono playback modes are achievable through this switch, as is a Laterality mode. Laterality aims to correct the mix for any hearing damage you might have incurred throughout your long career of mixing/listening to records if you experience broadband hearing in the left ear, for example, you can favor more signal coming into the left channel. You re given 2.25 dB of range for this control, making the adjustments very fine indeed.

Via DIP switches on the bottom of the unit, you can drive headphones that require more output power, or change the sensitivity of the RCA input between -10 dBV and 0 dBu. The Phonitor xe utilizes SPL s VOLTAiR 220V Rail Technology to maintain high-headroom and preserve audio clarity by processing audio signals with ?60 VDC of power.

Built-in DAC768

The SPL DAC768 is based on the AKM AK4490, a 2-channel, 32-bit converter capable of handling sample rates up to 768 kHz, and DSD playback up to DSD256. Combined with the 220V technology SPL provides, this system offers high dynamic range, low distortion, and crystal-clear audio quality. Connections can be established over AES, USB, coaxial S/PDIF, or optical TOSLINK.

Headphone Outputs on the Front and Back

The Phonitor xe features both balanced and standard headphone outputs on the front back. Permanently connected headphones can be routed into rear panel so the headphone cable does not get in the way. A switch on the front lets you toggle between front and rear outputs. Please note that a standard headphone output always takes priority over the balanced headphone output there will be no signal at the balanced headphone out if you ve already plugged a pair of headphones into the standard headphone output.

VU Meters

Two VU meters display the input levels for your selected source. The meter indicates levels between -20 and 5 dB, where 0 dB corresponds to +4 dBu. You can lower the sensitivity of the meters with the VU level switch.

Dual Power Amp for Balanced Headphones

The Phonitor xe has a built-in advanced dual-power amp that drives balanced headphones with twice the power of the standard 1/4" jack. This tightens the bass response and makes the overall playback more transparent.

Matrix Section

A frequency-dependent Matrix section allows you to simulate the experience of listening to different-sized monitors in different-sized rooms. You can use this control to match the headphone amp more closely to your particular environment, or to hear how the mix may sound in different environments. Use the Crossfeed knob to manipulate the apparent size of the room, and the Angle knob to adjust the apparent speaker angle.

Remote Control Compatibility

Use any IR remote control to change settings on the Phonitor xe.