Introduction & Overview
The Devialet Phantom I 108 dB is a high-end wireless speaker from French manufacturer Devialet, positioned as a compact, all-in-one solution for audiophiles and luxury audio buyers who want very high output, deep bass and a distinctive design. It aims to deliver a dramatic “implosive” soundstage with “zero distortion” and wide frequency extension, while providing modern wireless convenience via AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, UPnP and Bluetooth. The Phantom I is intended for use as a primary music speaker in living rooms, dedicated listening spaces, smaller home-theater setups, or even portable use where high volume and bass are required.
Appearance, Materials & Design
The Phantom I continues Devialet’s signature “egg” silhouette — a sculptural, futuristic form that makes the speaker as much a design object as a piece of audio equipment. The reviewed finish is Dark Chrome, which gives the speaker a glossy, metallic look that stands out in a room.
Materials and construction feel premium: dense composite bodywork, metal accents, and a high-gloss finish. The design is compact but substantial; it has a low center of gravity and looks engineered for performance rather than portability. Unique visual and functional elements include the spherical shape that Devialet claims helps create the “implosive soundstage,” and the distinctive symmetrical driver layout that feeds cinematic bass and wide dispersion.
Key Features & Specifications
- Manufacturer: Devialet
- Model: Phantom I 108 dB (Dark Chrome)
- Declared maximum sound level: 108 dB SPL
- Frequency response (manufacturer): 14 Hz – 27 kHz
- “Zero distortion” and “zero saturation” claim — Devialet’s DSP and amplification architecture
- Devialet Intelligence Processor for advanced signal processing
- Connectivity: AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, UPnP, Bluetooth
- Control and setup via the Devialet App; includes Devialet Remote
- Compact, distinctive egg-shaped enclosure with Dark Chrome finish
Devialet – Phantom I 108dB – High-Fidelity Wireless Speaker – Dark Chrome – Implosive Soundstage – Zero Distortion – Bluetooth Speaker – Loud Stereo Sound,…
With the Devialet Phantom I 108 dB in Dark Chrome, you don’t just listen to music—you command it. This masterpiece fuses avant‑garde design with raw acoustic power, delivering an experience that’s as striking to the eye as it is to the ear.
Real-world Listening Experience
Sound Character & Tonal Balance
On first listen the Phantom I impresses with an authoritative low end and a very wide, enveloping soundstage for its size. Low frequencies are notably deep and powerful — the speaker is capable of reproducing chest-impacting bass that many compact speakers cannot, and it does so without obvious mechanical distortion at moderate to high volumes. Highs are crisp and present, and the midrange is generally clear, giving vocals and acoustic instruments good immediacy.
Dynamics, Clarity & “Zero Distortion” Claim
Devialet’s amplification and DSP work together to deliver clean, dynamic playback. Subjectively, listeners report little to no audible distortion even at high levels — the brand’s “zero distortion” positioning is supported by the Phantom’s controlled behavior during dynamic crescendos. That said, “zero” is a marketing term; critical listeners may still hear coloration or room-induced effects in less favorable listening positions or at extreme SPLs.
Implosive Soundstage & Imaging
The speaker’s shape and driver layout create a very wide and immersive sound image. In a small to medium-sized room the Phantom can fill the space and render a convincing sense of depth and placement. It is especially successful at producing a large stereo image from a single enclosure, which is useful if you don’t want or can’t place multiple speakers.
Performance in Different Scenarios
- Living room / nearfield listening: Excellent — balanced at moderate volumes with impressive microdynamics.
- Critical listening / two-channel setups: Very good, especially for contemporary and well-mastered tracks; some listeners might prefer separate speakers and an amplifier for absolute neutrality.
- Parties / high SPLs: Outstanding — the speaker can reach very high volumes cleanly. Be prepared for extreme bass energy that will rattle lightweight furnishings.
- Outdoor / boat use: The speaker’s robust low-end helps it compete with ambient noise (boat engines, open-air venues). Several users have reported success using the Phantom on boats, though exposure to the elements must be managed.
- Older recordings: Some older/70s/80s tracks may not exhibit the same bass impact as modern recordings, since production and mastering differ. The Phantom reproduces source material faithfully rather than artificially boosting older tracks.
Setup & Daily Use
Setup via the Devialet App is straightforward and gives control over network connection, firmware updates, and room settings. The included Devialet Remote provides convenient tactile control. Connectivity options like AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect make streaming seamless for most users. One limitation noted by users: there is limited or no onboard EQ for broad manual tonal shaping, so fine-tuning to tricky room acoustics may require external DSP or careful placement.
Build Quality & Reliability
The Phantom I appears well engineered and premium in finish. However, there have been reported instances of quality control and shipping issues — including cosmetic scratches, dents, and damaged internal packaging — when units arrive. These appear to be exceptions rather than the rule, but they are worth noting for an item in this price bracket. If buying new, make sure to purchase from reputable sellers with a strong return policy or manufacturer warranty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Powerful, deep bass for a compact speaker; can produce chest-impacting low frequencies.
- Wide, immersive “implosive” soundstage and excellent imaging for a single-box design.
- High maximum output (108 dB) with controlled dynamics and little audible distortion.
- Premium aesthetic and distinctive design — a visual statement piece.
- Modern connectivity: AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, UPnP, Bluetooth and a well-designed app for setup.
- Devialet’s DSP and amplification architecture deliver an impressive, polished presentation.
Cons
- High price — this is a luxury product and represents a significant investment.
- Limited on-device EQ or granular tonal controls; may require placement or external DSP to correct room issues.
- Some reported quality-control/shipping issues (cosmetic damage) from a minority of buyers.
- Very strong bass can be too much in small or lightly furnished rooms unless levels are carefully managed.
- Not a substitute for a multi-speaker surround system for full home-theater immersion (though it can be surprisingly room-filling).
Conclusion
The Devialet Phantom I 108 dB is a striking combination of design, engineering and raw musical power. If you want a single-box speaker that delivers dramatic bass, very high clean output and an expansive soundstage, it is among the best compact wireless options available. The Devialet app and modern streaming compatibility make daily use convenient.
That said, the Phantom I is a premium purchase. Potential buyers should be comfortable with the price point, accept limited onboard EQ, and take care with shipping/inspection when buying. The speaker is ideally suited to listeners who prioritize impact and presence — party hosts, owners of larger living spaces, or anyone who wants a high-performance single-box listening solution with striking aesthetics. For purists seeking absolute neutrality, or buyers on a tighter budget, traditional separates or speakers with greater tunability may be more appropriate.
Overall impression: a technically impressive, musically thrilling and visually distinctive high-end wireless speaker — powerful and authoritative, but best bought with realistic expectations about price and a careful eye for delivery condition.







