iBasso PB6 Macaw Portable Balanced Tube Headphone Amplifier with quad JAN6418 tubes, dual tube and Class AB modes, and up to 2300mW output power per channel into 32 ohms. It offers 3.5mm and 4.4mm inputs and outputs along with switchable bandwidth filters for versatile sound shaping. The 8.4V polymer battery delivers long playback while 12V DC-IN unlocks desktop-grade performance in a compact stainless steel body.
About iBasso PB6
The iBasso PB6 brings exceptional tube warmth and power to your portable listening sessions. Four military-grade Raytheon JAN6418 subminiature vacuum tubes deliver lush analog texture while the fully balanced design with 22.5V high-voltage drive keeps the sound clean and dynamic. Listeners enjoy smooth vocals and expanded soundstage that make every track feel more engaging and alive. This setup helps headphones reveal subtle musical details without fatigue.
Switching between tube mode and solid-state Class AB mode using four BUF634A buffers gives you full control over the sonic character. Tube mode adds rich harmonic warmth while Class AB provides tighter current delivery that suits planar headphones perfectly. High and low bandwidth filter options let you shape the presentation to match your mood or the recording. The result is versatile amplification that adapts to different music genres and headphone types with ease.
High output power reaches up to 2300mW per channel into 32 ohms when you connect the 12V DC-IN external power supply and drops to strong levels around 8.5Vrms on the internal 8.4V high-voltage polymer battery pack. This design improves efficiency and transient response so bass hits harder and transients stay sharp. The 8.4V battery reduces ripple interference for purer power delivery that preserves dynamic range during extended listening.
Flexible connectivity includes 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced inputs plus matching outputs so you can link various analog sources and convert signals seamlessly. The 4-channel NJW1195A volume control adjusts in precise 0.5dB steps with up to 14dB boost for accurate level matching. USB-C charging and the included 12V wall adapter make daily use straightforward while the suspension design in the stainless steel chassis minimizes tube microphonics on the move. Overall battery life extends to about 13.5 hours in Class AB mode and 9.5 hours in tube mode.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Tubes | 4 x Raytheon JAN6418 |
| Output Modes | Tube, Class AB |
| Bandwidth Modes | High, Low |
| Balanced Output Power | 2300mW per channel @ 32Ω (DC-IN) |
| Single-Ended Output Power | 660mW per channel @ 32Ω |
| Maximum Output Level Balanced | 9.5Vrms (DC-IN) |
| Inputs | 3.5mm, 4.4mm |
| Outputs | 3.5mm, 4.4mm |
| Volume Control | NJW1195A, 0.5dB steps |
| Battery Type | 8.4V polymer pack |
| Battery Life Class AB | 13.5 hours |
| Battery Life Tube | 9.5 hours |
| DC Input | 12V |
| Charging Port | USB-C |
| Price | $499 |
Reviews
Tube warmth on the PB6 Macaw brings my music to life with rich harmonics and a wide soundstage. Switching to Class AB mode tightens everything for planars and delivers serious slam. Battery lasts long enough for full workdays of listening.
Balanced outputs on this portable amplifier pair perfectly with my headphones and the volume steps feel precise. High bandwidth mode keeps details crisp while the suspension design reduces any tube noise when walking. Great power even from the battery.
Connecting the 12V supply turns the PB6 Macaw into a desktop powerhouse with huge headroom. Vocals gain beautiful smoothness in tube mode and dynamics stay impressive across genres. Compact size makes it easy to carry yet it drives demanding headphones effortlessly.