SPL Phonitor x Review: Ranked #15 of 43

Last updated: October 11, 2026

The SPL Phonitor x ranks #15 out of 43 total DAC and Headphone Amp Combos for sound quality. See all Headphone Amps and DACs rankings for every top pick.

Prices on this page were last checked October 11, 2026 at 4:59 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

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#15 SPL Phonitor x: $3,200.00 Amazon eBay

Pros: Audio Science Review measured a SINAD of 111 dB, clean for nearly all listening. It is rated for 1,000 mW into 32 ohms from the 6.35 mm jack and 700 mW from its 4-pin XLR balanced output, enough for most planar magnetic headphones. It adds XLR and RCA inputs and outputs, a motorized volume knob and a learnable IR remote.

Cons: Its USB, coaxial and optical inputs require an optional DAC module, so digital playback costs extra. It costs far more than the JDS Labs Element IV, which rates higher, measures cleaner and has more rated power.

Balanced OutputYes (4-pin XLR headphone, XLR line out)
DAC ChipAK4490 (optional DAC768xs module)
Device TypeDAC and headphone amp
Dimensions10.9” x 3.9” x 11.8” (278 x 100 x 300 mm)
Headphone Outputs6.35 mm, 4-pin XLR balanced
InputsXLR, RCA; USB-B, coaxial, optical with optional DAC768xs module
Output Power (32 ohms)1,000 mW (manufacturer rated, single-ended 6.35 mm; balanced XLR rated 700 mW)
OutputsXLR, RCA
SINAD111 dB (measured by Audio Science Review)
Volume ControlHardware knob (motorized Alps pot, IR remote learnable)
Weight9.7 lbs (4,400 g)

Head-to-Head Comparisons

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