Although iRest Maesthron (A801) and Bodyfriend Phantom Care massage chairs are models in the same price bracket, it is safe to say that they come from different worlds. The former offers an unprecedented dual massage mechanism and is focused on giving the user maximum pleasure. The second, on the other hand, can be treated as medical equipment (it has Korean medical equipment certification), specialising in cervical recovery. In today’s article, we outline the specifications of both models, describe the advantages and special features of each, and put them together to answer the key question ‘Which massage chair should I choose?’.
Massage system and key features
The Maesthron (A801) is a unique model from iRest that is the only one with two, independent massage mechanisms working in 4D and 2D systems. The first of them moves from the neck to the lumbar and the other from the lumbar to the thighs, resulting in increased massage effectiveness and a more pleasant experience. A larger area of the body is massaged at the same time – it is as if the massage is being carried out by two massage therapists simultaneously. In addition, the iRest Maesthron has the longest SL-shape massage range of our chairs – as much as 153 cm! In the case of the Phantom Care, the SL-shape length is 130 cm and the XD massage system used in the massage chair uses a single set of massage arms. The XD module recognises the position of the massagers and adjusts their intensity in real-time, but this can be adjusted on a 5-point scale, just like in the Maesthron. It is also worth noting that the Maesthron (A801) has 20 automatic programmes and 17 massage techniques. The Phantom Care, on the other hand, has as many as 32 automatic programmes, including several specialised programmes, but far fewer techniques – 6.
Both massage chairs recline to the Zero Gravity position – considered to be the most comfortable and even ideal position for massage, stressing joints and muscles. The Maesthron offers 2 degrees of Zero Gravity and the Phantom Care offers 3, but the iRest flagship also reclines to the Flat position thanks to its innovative iOpen split guide. This allows the whole body to stretch more efficiently while retaining all the benefits of the Zero Gravity position.
Airbag massage and heating
Airbag massage is an extremely important and enjoyable complement to the work of the massage arms. In this respect, the Phantom Care has the decisive advantage of having as many as 59 airbags located in the foot, calf, thigh, buttock, hip, waist, hand, forearm, shoulder and neck areas. In comparison, the Maesthron is equipped with 36 airbags placed in the following areas: feet, calves, thighs, hips, hands, forearms and shoulders.
When heating is considered, the Maesthron again comes out on top – thanks to two, independent heating systems. The first is a graphene mat placed in the seat back and a heating collar that can be placed on the torso. The second uses natural nephrite stones embedded in the balls of both massagers to provide a heat source that travels from the neck up to the thighs. The Phantom Care has the option of heating only the back and uses a carbon mat for this purpose.
Leg massage
Airbags and two types of rollers – located in the footrest and at the back of the calves – are responsible for the leg massage on both models. Rollers provide a mechanical calf and foot massage and, combined with the airbags, instantly restore lightness and vitality to the legs. Importantly, the speed of a roller foot massage can be adjusted in 3 stages in both models. The Phantom Care also offers a 3-stage speed adjustment of the rollers located at the back of the calves, whereas in the Maesthron they can only be switched on or off. In addition, the footrests of chairs automatically adjust to the height of the user. The difference here is an additional feature of the Maesthron that adjusts the spacing of the rollers to the size of the foot so that they go exactly where they should, massaging the points of greatest tension.
Unique features of both models
The iRest Maesthron (A801) and Bodyfriend Phantom Care have a number of unique, distinctive additional features that address different user needs. What innovative features have been incorporated into the former?
- The iRest Maesthron features AI Health Detection. This system measures 3 indicators of human health – heart rate, blood oxygenation, and microcirculation – in order to determine the user’s level of fatigue and next to select a perfectly tailored, most effective automatic programme.
- The Maesthron is the first model to feature mechanical forearm Piano massage, which improves blood circulation and reduces muscle tension, bringing incredible relaxation.
- This model also features an ioniser to improve air quality and a useful induction charger.
What is unique about the Bodyfriend Phantom Care massage chair and why are its features so special?
- An extremely sophisticated magnetotherapy system – a pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) system has been integrated into the massage head, with an additional magnetic field placed around the hands and soles of the feet. Phantom Care is the only massage chair in the range equipped with such an advanced magnetotherapy system supporting pain relief and cell regeneration. In this case, the user also has the possibility to choose the strength of the electromagnetic field, which is not found in other massage chairs.
- Unique massage modes: Care, Brain and Mental. Numerous advanced automatic programmes bring a relaxing, multi-dimensional massage to the sound of relaxing music, improving the emotional stability and efficiency of the user’s brain. Importantly, the effectiveness of the Care modes has been confirmed by Korean medical equipment certification.
- Proprietary Brain Music technology which uses different sound frequencies to positively tune and relax the mind.
- Innovative headrest for neck and head stabilisation with integrated airbag. Used during specialised automatic programmes focusing on cervical massage. This combination can improve circulation and reduce pain and muscle tension around the neck and back.
- Acupressure of the hands and soles of the feet. It provides a pleasant complement to the massage and has a positive effect on the user’s overall well-being.
- Anti-trap sensor – a built-in sensor that detects possible objects interfering with the chair when it is unfolded and folded.
Controls and other functions
The compared massage chairs also differ in their operation. The Phantom Care has an easy-to-use, classic remote control with a screen. The iRest model, on the other hand, can be controlled in as many as 4 different ways. First of all, there is an intuitive touch panel with proprietary software. There is also a handy control panel for the most important functions and Voice Control, which recognises voice commands in English. In addition, control is possible via the user’s smartphone, by installing a dedicated app for this purpose.
Other features, which we have not covered so far, found on both models are:
- Bluetooth speakers – allow the user to relax with their favourite music;
- Zero Wall (referred to as Auto Slide in Bodyfriend) – allows the massage chair to be pushed almost to the wall, without having to save any space for the lowering backrest – just 10 centimetres of free space behind the chair is enough for it to automatically unfold when activated;
- USB charger for mobile devices.
The choice between iRest Maesthron (A801) and Bodyfriend Phantom Care depends largely on who will be using the massage chair and what effect they want to achieve. The Maesthron is geared towards delivering incredible relaxation and indulgence. Phantom Care offers a number of specialised programmes geared towards alleviating specific ailments and improving the user’s health. The user’s aesthetic preferences also play a large part in the decision between the two models. The iRest Maesthron (A801), available in two colour versions (black-brown and beige), looks elegant and majestic, so it blends in perfectly with classic and art déco arrangements. The white-beige-green Bodyfriend Phantom Care is distinguished by its futuristic appearance, so it may be better suited to modern or industrial interiors.
We believe that our article will help you decide which massage chair is best for you. However, if you have any questions or concerns – please do not hesitate to contact us.
