Pass Labs XP-17 Phono Preamplifier
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$9,495.00
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Pass-Labs-XP-17-Preamplifier
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The Pass Labs XP-17 is a high-performance phono preamplifier that brings the legendary musicality of the brand to the world of vinyl playback. Developed as an evolution of the award-winning XP-15, it features a completely new shielded power supply and an ultra-low-noise input stage. It is designed to extract every microscopic detail from your records, providing a lush, holographic soundstage that defines the high-end analog experience.
Key Features
- Ultra-Low Noise Input Stage: Inherited from the flagship XP-27, this stage provides a cleaner signal path for even the most delicate phono cartridges.
- Extensive Loading Options: Offers a massive array of resistive and capacitive loading settings to perfectly match any Moving Magnet or Moving Coil cartridge.
- Shielded Toroidal Power Supply: Features a new, vacuum-impregnated transformer with an electrostatic shield to ensure a dead-silent noise floor.
- Pure Class A Topology: Utilizes high-bias discrete circuitry to deliver a rich, organic tonal balance with exceptional dynamic range.
- Precision RIAA Equalization: Employs a highly accurate filter network to ensure the frequency response remains faithful to the original recording.
Advanced Noise Reduction
The XP-17 represents a significant leap forward in noise management, a critical factor when amplifying the tiny signals produced by phono cartridges. By implementing a new shielded toroidal transformer and an optimized circuit layout, Pass Labs has successfully lowered the noise floor to near-vanishing levels. This allows the most subtle micro-dynamics—such as the texture of a bow across a string or the natural decay of a room—to emerge with startling clarity.
Ultra-Low Noise Stage
Inherited input circuitry from flagship models for absolute signal purity.
Universal Loading
Extensive rear-panel adjustments to perfectly match any MM or MC cartridge.
Pure Class A Musicality
Discrete high-bias design delivers a rich, liquid soundstage for your vinyl.
Universal Cartridge Compatibility
Versatility is a core strength of the XP-17, making it a "forever" component for vinyl enthusiasts. The rear panel features an exhaustive set of switches that allow the user to fine-tune gain, resistive loading, and capacitive loading. Whether you are using a high-output Moving Magnet cartridge or an ultra-low-output Moving Coil design, the XP-17 can be configured to extract the absolute maximum performance from your specific hardware.
Liquid Musicality and Detail
True to the Pass Labs heritage, the XP-17 is "voiced" to provide a deeply emotional and involving listening experience. The pure Class A gain stages avoid the clinical, dry sound often associated with high-gain solid-state phono stages. Instead, it offers a natural, liquid presentation that makes long listening sessions fatigue-free, while providing a massive, three-dimensional soundstage where instruments and vocalists occupy a tangible space in your room.
Other Key Features
- Multiple Gain Settings: Selectable levels (56, 66, and 76 dB) to accommodate any cartridge output.
- Custom Loading Matrix: Independent switches for resistive and capacitive loads for precise cartridge matching.
- Dual-Shielded Power Supply: Vacuum-impregnated transformer designed for absolute electrical and mechanical silence.
- Discrete Class A Output: High-current design that remains stable and linear when driving any preamplifier.
- Balanced and Single-Ended Outputs: Features both XLR and RCA connectors for flexible system integration.
FAQs
Can the XP-17 handle very low-output MC cartridges?
Yes, with gain settings up to 76 dB, it can effortlessly amplify even the most demanding Moving Coil cartridges with full transparency.
How does the XP-17 compare to the older XP-15?
The XP-17 features a significantly quieter power supply and an input stage derived from the flagship XP-27, resulting in more detail and less noise.
Is it difficult to adjust the loading settings?
Not at all. The loading and gain switches are located on the rear panel, allowing you to set them precisely according to your cartridge's specifications.
Does the XP-17 get hot during operation?
As a Class A device, it runs warm to the touch, but it is designed for continuous operation and does not require active cooling.
Is it a balanced design?
While it uses single-ended inputs, it features a true balanced output stage to provide superior noise rejection when connected via XLR to your preamp.
