The compact Devialet Phantom II has no magical powers
22.4.2022
Translation: Katherine Martin
The little Phantom II doesn’t deliver the magical sound produced by the larger Phantom I. Which is unfortunate, seeing as it’d actually be much more convenient.
I’m testing the Devialet Phantom II – a kind of mini version of the Phantom I. It’s lighter, quieter, cheaper and less exclusive. And perhaps that’s exactly why it’s a better, everyday alternative for the average person. This multi-room speaker system comes in two versions, too: 95 dB und 98 dB. At my place, I’ve got the louder version – and I went for the black finish.
Boring ... but handy
Even before the test, it was clear that the Phantom II wouldn’t be as impressive as the Phantom I. After all, the latter is a superior wireless speaker. The price of the thing makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. But the sound gives you goosebumps. In addition, it’s unusually loud and has a very curious design.
At 4.3 kilogrammes, the Phantom II is no lightweight either. But that’s nothing compared to the 11-kilogramme Phantom I. The Phantom II proves itself to be more practical while I’m loading it into the car: the two speaker boxes fit into the boot of my compact Citroën C1 no problem. You don’t need the grip of a professional climber to unbox it, either. Plus, the 17-centimetre-high speakers look relatively inconspicuous in black.
But it’s just not the same
The set-up and operation of the Phantom II is much the same as that of the Phantom I. The Devialet app guides you through the process, while the connection to Spotify works via AirPlay 2 on your iPhone. In additon, two speakers can be paired either in mono as a multi-room system, or in stereo. Although I didn’t test Android, the Phantom speakers offer various other connection options such as Bluetooth, UpnP and optical cable.
However, there are a couple of differences. As the Phantom II doesn’t have a separate remote control, the controls are located on top of it. The small speaker can only be activated via the «on» button, and not by touching the surface. I, for one, actually see that as a plus point because the feature caused me a lot of confusion when using the Phantom I. Another difference is that you can use the app to switch off the Phantom II.
Up to this point, the fairly ordinary Phantom II appeals to me more than the very out-of-the-ordinary Phantom I.
The sound
But everything changes when I turn it on. Because the sound is – unfortunately – pretty ordinary. The Phantom II certainly doesn’t sound bad, but the magic of the Phantom I has vanished. It no longer sounds like the singer and their band are playing live in the same room as you.
Despite its modest dimensions, the Phantom II still delivers a very powerful bass and handles the lowest frequencies well. Instead, it’s the higher tones that make the difference. As is often the case, the equaliser can’t correct it. When I turn up the treble, it doesn’t sound as real as the Phantom I does.
Again, so there are no misunderstandings: both Phantom II speakers sound really good – especially in stereo mode. Better than my Magnat bookshelf speakers, and much better than any old UE Boom stereo combination. But nowhere near as good as the Phantom I.
Here’s the rub
When in use, both loudspeakers emit a soft, high-pitched tone. I only hear it when I’m within half a metre of the speakers, the music is turned down low and the room is otherwise totally quiet. It typically happens in the break between songs. As soon as I pause the playback, the sound disappears. So, though easily ignored, at a price like this, I’ve got to call it out.
That said, the Phantom II doesn’t buzz in standby – which is more than can be said for the Phantom I.
My verdict
The Phantom II isn’t as special as the Phantom I. I’m happy to go without most of the things that make Phantom I stand out. Heavy, high price, edgy design, original operation: thanks, but no thanks. In that sense, the Phantom II is a better fit for me. Unfortunately, however, the Phantom I produces an extraordinarily good sound – the sensation of being at a live gig. The feeling of being right there. Ah, look at me, gushing over it again. The Phantom II doesn’t provide that. If that’s what you’re after, you’ll have to go for the fully grown monster.
David Lee
Senior Editor
David.Lee@digitecgalaxus.chMy interest in IT and writing landed me in tech journalism early on (2000). I want to know how we can use technology without being used. Outside of the office, I’m a keen musician who makes up for lacking talent with excessive enthusiasm.
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