XP27

About the XP27

The Pass Labs XP-27 is a dual-chassis solid-state phono preamplifier that surpasses its predecessors (XP-15, XP-25, XP-17) with improved RIAA performance and significantly reduced distortion. It features a fully balanced, dual mono design from input to output, utilizing double shielded low noise toroidal transformers housed in an external power supply chassis connected via aviation grade circular connectors with silver over oxygen-free copper wiring. The power supply is dual mono with two transformers to minimize radiated and mechanical noise, enhancing resolution and dynamics. The input and gain circuitry is similar to the flagship XS Phono, allowing switching and loading at higher signal levels to minimize noise and improve low-level performance. It supports two RCA inputs for dual tonearms, with front panel controls for gain (56dB, 66dB, 76dB), resistive loading (30 ohms to 47k ohms), and capacitive loading (100pF to 750pF). The XP-27 accommodates Moving Coil (MC), Moving Magnet (MM), and Moving Iron (MI) cartridges without user differentiation. Additional features include a front-mounted mute button and a high-pass rumble filter. Dimensions per chassis are 17"W x 12"D x 4"H, with a total weight of 45 lbs. It consumes 50 watts of power and is highly regarded for its clarity, low distortion, and detailed sound reproduction, making it suitable for high-end analog systems.