HEAD-TO-HEAD COMPARISON
iFi Zen Phono vs ART DJ Pre II
We compare the iFi Zen Phono and ART DJ Pre II head-to-head on performance, features, value, and more. Here's which one wins.
Our Pick
Check Price on AmazoniFi Zen Phono
Scored 9.2/10 in our testing
Best Overall
iFi Zen Phono
Vinyl enthusiasts wanting reference-grade phono amplification under $200
Overall:9.2/10Winner
Check price on Amazon Best Budget
ART DJ Pre II
New vinyl listeners wanting a meaningful upgrade from a built-in turntable preamp
Overall:8/10
Check price on Amazon Score Breakdown
| iFi Zen Phono | Category | ART DJ Pre II |
|---|---|---|
| 9/10 ✓ | Performance | 7/10 |
| 9/10 ✓ | Features | 6/10 |
| 8/10 | Ease of Use | ✓ 9/10 |
| 10/10 | Value | 10/10 |
| 9.2/10 ✓ | Overall | 8/10 |
Specs Comparison
| iFi Zen Phono | Spec | ART DJ Pre II |
|---|---|---|
| MM + MC | Inputs | MM only |
| 36-72dB adjustable | Gain | Adjustable via knob |
| +/- 0.2dB | RIAA Accuracy | RCA |
| >82dB (MC) | S/N Ratio | Output level control + filter |
iFi Zen Phono
Pros
- + Reference-grade RIAA accuracy at an affordable price
- + Supports both MM and MC cartridges with adjustable gain
- + Subsonic filter removes rumble without affecting bass
Cons
- − External power supply adds desktop clutter
- − No balanced output option
- − Slight hiss audible with ultra-sensitive IEMs (not an issue with speakers)
ART DJ Pre II
Pros
- + Variable output level control is rare at any price
- + Audible upgrade over any built-in turntable preamp
- + Proven reliability over 10+ years of production
Cons
- − MM only -- no MC cartridge support
- − Wall-wart power supply is basic
- − RIAA accuracy is good but not reference-grade
Our Verdict
Based on our scoring, the iFi Zen Phono comes out on top with an overall score of 9.2/10. The iFi Zen Phono is a revelation at its price. RIAA accuracy within 0.2dB means your records sound exactly as the mastering engineer intended. Switchable MM/MC input with adjustable gain handles any cartridge you throw at it. Surface noise handling is remarkably clean.
Buy the iFi Zen Phono on AmazonRead the full Best Vinyl Preamps 2026 guide for complete reviews of all 3 products.