Pass Labs XP-22 Preamplifier
Best phono stage for audiophiles seeking ultimate vinyl playback clarity.
Experience unparalleled vinyl playback with the Pass Labs XP-27 Preamplifier. This phono preamplifier boasts a sophisticated dual-chassis design, meticulously engineered to isolate sensitive circuitry and minimize noise interference for pristine audio. Its external, dual-mono power supply, featuring two toroidal transformers, significantly enhances resolution and dynamic range. The input and gain stages are derived from top-tier designs, ensuring exceptional low-level signal performance and ultra-precise RIAA equalization, making it a standout choice for discerning audiophiles.
$10972.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
4
/ 87
#4 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+576%
Above average
Weight
20.40
/ kg
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute clarity and micro-detail retrieval
- Listeners demanding perfect channel balance and precise volume control
- Music lovers wanting natural warmth and engaging, powerful dynamics
Who should skip it
- Digital-focused listeners needing integrated DAC or streaming features
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for high-value entry-level components
- Users with limited rack space or compact audio setups
Performance breakdown
Signal Integrity
Dual-chassis isolation effectively eliminates noise for a pristine, transparent soundstage.
Cartridge Versatility
Extensive gain and loading adjustments accommodate almost any high-end cartridge.
Dynamic Range
Dual-mono power supply delivers effortless power and exceptional low-level detail.
Equalization Precision
RIAA accuracy ensures your vinyl collection sounds exactly as intended.
Build Quality
Robust construction and premium components reflect true flagship-level engineering.
Setup Complexity
Requires careful configuration to fully optimize for specific turntable setups.
Key Specs
Weight
20.40 kg
Number of chassis
2
Dimensions (each chassis)
17” W x 12” D x 4” H
Power Consumption
50 watts
Inputs
2
Circuitry Type
Solid State
Input Capacitance
0.0 pF
Equalization Curve Support
RIAA
Features
- Dual chassis for superior isolation
- Ultra-precise RIAA equalization
- Adjustable gain and loading options
- Extremely low noise floor
- High-quality external power supply
- Flagship model circuit derivation
- Supports MM and MC cartridges
- Silver-over-OFC external cabling
What customers say
The Pass Labs XP-22 Preamplifier earns overwhelming praise, often cited as a benchmark in high-end solid-state audio. Reviewers consistently highlight its profound transparency, allowing music to flow naturally with effortless dynamics and exceptionally quiet backgrounds. This sonic purity is attributed to the meticulous two-chassis design separating power and audio circuits, resulting in superior micro-detail retrieval. Listeners appreciate the expansive, three-dimensional soundstage and precise imaging. While positioned in the luxury segment, the consensus is that the XP-22 delivers reference-level neutrality and the signature Pass Labs warmth. Its superb, robust build quality reinforces its status as a lasting investment for serious listeners seeking sonic excellence.
Know before you buy
The dual-chassis design physically separates the sensitive audio circuitry from the power supply. This isolation is critical for minimizing electromagnetic interference and noise, ensuring the cleanest possible signal path for your vinyl playback.
Yes, the XP-27 is designed to accommodate both MM and MC cartridges. It offers flexible gain settings of 56, 66, and 76 dB to match the output requirements of various cartridge types.
The preamplifier provides extensive loading options, ranging from 30 Ω to 47 kΩ for impedance and 100 to 750 pF for capacitance. This allows you to fine-tune the electrical environment to perfectly suit the specific technical requirements of your cartridge.
The XP-27 features an external dual-mono power supply that connects to the main chassis via high-quality silver-over-OFC cabling. Because it is an external unit, you will need to ensure you have enough shelf space to accommodate both chassis, each measuring 17 inches wide by 12 inches deep.
The XP-27 is engineered for extreme precision, maintaining a frequency response accuracy of ±0.1 dB across the 20 Hz to 20 kHz range. This ensures that your records are reproduced with the tonal balance intended by the original recording.
The unit is equipped with two dedicated phono inputs. This allows you to connect two different turntables or two different tonearm/cartridge combinations simultaneously.
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