Parasound
Zphono XRM
Best phono preamp for vinyl enthusiasts managing multiple turntables.
Elevate your vinyl experience with the Parasound ZPhono XRM, a high-performance MM/MC phono preamplifier. Designed for discerning audiophiles, it offers dual inputs for connecting two turntables simultaneously. Experience unparalleled sonic clarity with RIAA equalization accurate to within 0.2 dB and ultra-low distortion. Fine-tune your sound with variable MC impedance loading and multiple gain settings. Its robust build and compact half-rack design ensure exceptional performance and seamless integration into your audio setup, making every record sound its best.
$350.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
86
/ 466
#86 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-95%
Below average
Maximum Gain
66
/ dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking precise cartridge matching for optimal sonic performance
- Listeners requiring noise-free signal transmission for high-end audio systems
- Vinyl collectors playing warped records or using high-performance turntables
Who should skip it
- Minimalists preferring integrated power supplies for cleaner cable management
- Casual listeners on a budget seeking entry-level equipment
- Aesthetic purists wanting uniform component widths for their equipment rack
Performance breakdown
Cartridge Versatility
Variable MC loading ensures optimal performance for a wide range of cartridges.
Signal Integrity
Balanced XLR outputs provide a clean, noise-free path to your amplifier.
RIAA Accuracy
Exceptional frequency precision delivers a faithful, uncolored reproduction of your vinyl.
System Flexibility
Dual inputs allow for seamless switching between two distinct turntable setups.
Build Quality
Compact, robust chassis design fits easily into any high-end audio rack.
Playback Control
Mono switch and subsonic filter offer essential tools for vintage record playback.
Key Specs
Maximum Gain
66 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion
0.02% at 1 kHz
Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz, +/- 0.2 dB
Signal to Noise Ratio (MM 40 dB Setting)
> 94 dB (A-weighted)
Input Impedance (MM)
47k Ω
Input Impedance (MC)
50-1050 Ω variable
Output Connections
Unbalanced RCA and Balanced XLR
Dimensions
8.5" W x 2" H (220 mm W x 51 mm H)
Features
- Dual inputs for two turntables
- Variable MC impedance loading
- Defeatable 40Hz high-pass filter
- Stereo/mono switch for older records
- RCA and balanced XLR outputs
- Multiple gain settings
- Audiophile-grade components
- Compact half-rack design
What customers say
The Parasound Zphono XRM earns high praise for its exceptional sound quality and versatile features, positioning it as a market standout. Users consistently report clean, dynamic audio with improved bass and wider soundstaging, suggesting performance beyond its price class. Its comprehensive feature set is a major draw, offering both MM and MC inputs alongside crucial variable loading options for precise cartridge matching. The inclusion of balanced XLR outputs further enhances signal integrity. Reviewers value the solid build and user friendly design, concluding that the Zphono XRM delivers incredible value. It is highly recommended for vinyl enthusiasts seeking a significant sonic upgrade without a massive investment.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Zphono XRM features dual inputs, allowing you to keep two turntables connected simultaneously and switch between them easily.
The Zphono XRM is highly versatile, offering variable MC impedance loading between 50 and 1050 ohms. This allows you to fine-tune the electrical load to match the specific requirements of almost any moving coil cartridge.
Yes, it includes both unbalanced RCA outputs and balanced XLR outputs, providing flexibility for different types of connections to your power amplifier or integrated amp.
The stereo/mono switch is particularly useful for playing older mono records. It helps reduce surface noise and improves the overall sonic stability of mono pressings compared to playing them in stereo mode.
The defeatable 40Hz high-pass filter, often called a subsonic filter, helps remove low-frequency rumble caused by warped records or turntable vibration. This prevents your speakers from working unnecessarily hard to reproduce inaudible, distorted bass frequencies.
The Zphono XRM features a compact half-rack design, measuring 8.5 inches wide. It is designed to take up minimal space, though you may need a rack shelf if you intend to mount it alongside full-width components.
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$350