iFi ZEN CAN Signature MZ99
Balanced Headphone Amplifier
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the ZEN CAN Signature from the ZEN series. The ZEN CAN Signature MZ99 is a balanced headphone amplifier optimized for Meze headphones.
Front Panel Controls
The front panel features several controls and indicators:
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Power Switch
Turns the unit on and off.
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Input Channel Switch
Selects the audio input source:
- Input 1: RCA
- Input 2: Single-ended 3.5mm
- Input 3: Balanced 4.4mm
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PowerMatch Selection: 0dB/6dB/12dB/18dB
Adjusts the gain level. It is recommended to start at 0dB and increase the gain for a comfortable listening volume. Warning: Excessive gain can cause hearing damage. iFi audio is not responsible for damage or injury from misuse.
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Analogue Volume Control
Controls the output volume. For normal listening levels, the control should be around the 12 o'clock position. Increase the gain level to enjoy a higher listening level.
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Single-ended 6.3mm Output
For connecting single-ended 6.3mm headphones. For single-ended 3.5mm headphones, use a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter.
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Balanced 4.4mm Analogue Output
For connecting balanced 4.4mm headphones. It is recommended to use this output for Meze headphones due to their balanced design.
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MZ99 LED
Indicates headphone corrections optimized for Meze headphones.
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XSpace Matrix LED
Activates the XSpace Matrix feature (on/off). This is a pure analogue signal processing circuit designed to recreate a holographic sound field, making headphone listening feel more like listening to speakers and reducing the 'music inside the head' sensation. Note: This system does not use sonically-hindering DSP; it employs high-quality discrete components operating purely in the analogue domain to preserve clarity and resolution.
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Settings
This button cycles through settings:
- Off
- MZ99
- XSpace
Rear Panel Connections
The rear panel provides various input and output options:
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10. Balanced 4.4mm Analogue Input
This is a balanced analogue input.
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11. Single-ended 3.5mm Analogue Input
For connecting single-ended 3.5mm input sources.
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12. RCA Analogue Input
This is a standard analogue input.
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13. Balanced 4.4mm Analogue Output
This is an analogue output, usable via 4.4mm to XLR or other balanced interconnects. It can also be used for active speakers. As the ZEN CAN Signature MZ99 is balanced, this is the recommended output.
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14. DC 5V Power
Connect the included super-silent iPower2 power supply here. The ZEN CAN Signature MZ99 must be powered by 5 volts only.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Input voltage | DC 5V/2.5A |
| Max Output (Balanced) | >15.1V / 385 mW (@ 600 Ohm) |
| >11.0V / 1890 mW (@ 64 Ohm) | |
| >6.2V / 1200 mW (@ 32 Ohm) | |
| Max Output (S-E) | >7.6V / 98 mW (@ 600 Ohm) |
| >7.4V / 870 mW (@ 64 Ohm) | |
| >7.2V / 1600 mW (@ 32 Ohm) | |
| THD & N (Balanced) | <0.006% (@ 360 mW / 2.4V 16 Ohm) |
| <0.005% (@ 100 mW / 1.27V 16 Ohm) | |
| SNR (Balanced) | >121dBA (@ 15.2V) |
| >120dBA (@ 7.6V) | |
| Max. Input (Balanced) | 7.4V RMS |
| Max. Input (RCA) | 3.8V RMS |
| Max. Input (3.5mm) | 1.92V RMS |
| Gain | 0dB, 6dB, 12dB, and 18dB |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz - 200kHz (-3dB) |
| Power consumption | ~5W (No Signal) / ~12W (Max Signal) |
| Dimensions | 158 x 117 x 35 mm (6.2" x 4.6" x 1.4") |
| Net weight | 550 g (1.21 lbs) |
| Warranty period | 12 months |
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
