icOn 5 Single-ended
The unit also boasts eight pairs of RCA sockets with customizable functionality for users and has remarkably precise volume adjustment capabilities (spanning 136 steps within an 83 dB range). I find it hard to imagine that I’ll manage to create a superior audio control unit in the future—perhaps only a distinct one. If you need mixed RCA & XLR sockets, there is a version with 2 XLR (with single-ended connection) + 2 RCA inputs and 1 RCA + 1 XLR (can be electronically balanced) outputs as well.
Price range: €3,759.00 through €6,359.00
Excluding VAT. The price updates as you choose your options.
Not sure which options you need? Read the plain-English guide to every option
How ordering works
Every icOn is built to order. Once you place an order we confirm the expected delivery date and send you an invoice — this is not an instant card checkout. Build and delivery normally takes around 2–3 weeks.
20% VAT applies within the UK. Orders from outside the UK may attract local VAT, an administration fee, import tax or customs fees on clearance. Read the full terms
Free shipping
Worldwide, on every product
2-year warranty
Return to base, parts and labour
10-day trial
Full refund if it isn't for you
Built in Manchester
Handbuilt by Pal Nagy, one at a time
In detail
What you're getting
Features:
- unprecedented 136 steps over an 83 dB attenuation range
- 0.5 dB steps from +3 dB to -47 dB with the buffer and 1 dB from -48 dB to -80 dB or without the buffer
- single-ended (unbalanced) operation, but you can connect balanced devices through XLR sockets in the RCA + XLR version
- 8 pair RCA sockets with user reconfigurable functionality
- 6 input & 2 output, 5 input & 3 output, 5 input & 2 output + 1 line output for the RCA only version
- 2 XLR (with single-ended connection) + 2 RCA input, 1 RCA +1 XLR (can be electronically balanced) output version
- AV bypass optionally
- improved linearity and transparency due to the new, lower inductance autoformers
- the silver winded autoformers are our own production with 80% Ni core
- optional input buffer for the total source compatibility
- FET switches for the autoformer taps' selection
- Max. input level: 8V RMS (22.6 Vpp)
- balance, mute and standby mode
- optional tilt control (defeat-able) with 8x0.5 dB steps for fine-tuning the record and room acoustic imbalances
- remote-controlled output selector
- large (1") 3-digit white or orange display with 2 brightness and night mode
- Apple-compatible CNC machined IR remote controller
- optical encoder and touch button for the manual operations
- 130mm high enclosure (W 134mm x L 260mm)
FREE Shipping!
Specifications
At a glance
Additional information
| Tilt control board | No, Yes (+500€) |
|---|---|
| Display color | Amber, White |
| Autoformer | Copper, Silver – own production, 80% Ni core (+2100€) |
| Input / Output Configuration | 3 pair RCA + 3 pair XLR, 8 pair RCA socket |
The Ear · Best Hi-Fi of 2024
[Press quote — paste the exact line from The Ear here. Keep it to one or two sentences.]
The Ear — Editor's Choice
From an owner
[Owner testimonial — paste a quote here. This template serves all three products, so choose a quote that speaks to the icOn range rather than to one model.]
[Name, location]
Before you order
Need a hand deciding?
Pal answers every technical question personally. If you are unsure which model or which options suit your system, just ask.
Which options do I need?
Every configuration choice explained in plain English — I/O, autoformer type, tilt control and display colour.
Full specifications
Side-by-side comparison of all three models, plus downloadable owner's manuals.
Ask Pal directly
Impedance matching, system pairing, delivery — answered by the person who builds them.
Also from Paul Grand Audio
