Pass Labs XP-27 Reference Phono Preamplifier
High-end dual-chassis phono stage delivering ultra-low noise, precise RIAA accuracy, and exceptional analog performance for reference vinyl systems.
The Pass Labs XP-27 is a reference-grade phono preamplifier designed to extract the finest detail and musicality from vinyl playback systems. Built as a dual-chassis design, it separates the sensitive audio circuitry from the power supply to significantly reduce noise, improve resolution, and enhance dynamic performance.
Engineered with fully balanced circuitry and advanced gain architecture, the XP-27 offers multiple gain settings and flexible loading options, making it compatible with a wide range of moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. Its ultra-precise RIAA equalization ensures accurate tonal balance across the frequency spectrum, delivering a natural, detailed, and immersive listening experience.
The external dual-mono power supply uses low-noise toroidal transformers with double shielding, minimizing interference and lowering the noise floor. This design allows the XP-27 to achieve exceptional clarity, improved low-level detail, and enhanced dynamic contrast, revealing subtle nuances in recordings with remarkable realism.
With dual inputs, front-panel adjustments, and both balanced and single-ended outputs, the XP-27 provides versatility for complex analog setups, including multiple turntables or tonearms. Widely recognized in the high-end audio community, it has received accolades such as The Absolute Sound Editor’s Choice Award and inclusion in major buyer’s guides, reinforcing its status as a benchmark phono stage.
Key Features
- Reference-grade dual-chassis phono preamplifier design
- Fully balanced circuitry for low noise and high signal integrity
- Dual-mono external power supply with low-noise toroidal transformers
- Multiple gain settings (56 / 66 / 76 dB) for MM and MC cartridges
- Highly accurate RIAA equalization (±0.1 dB)
- Adjustable loading and capacitance for cartridge matching
- Dual inputs for connecting multiple turntables or tonearms
- Balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) outputs
- Front-panel controls for easy configuration
- Award-winning high-end analog performance
Technical Specifications
| Type |
Phono Preamplifier (MM / MC) |
| Gain |
56 dB, 66 dB, 76 dB |
| RIAA Accuracy |
±0.1 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz) |
| Inputs |
2 (RCA and XLR) |
| Outputs |
Balanced XLR and RCA |
| Maximum Output |
22V RMS |
| Output Impedance |
Approx. 150–200 ohms |
| Input Impedance |
30Ω – 47kΩ, 100pF – 750pF adjustable |
| Noise |
-93 dB (MM), -85 dB (MC) |
| Power Consumption |
50W |
| Chassis |
2 (separate power supply and audio stage) |
| Dimensions (each chassis) |
17” W × 12” D × 4” H |
| Weight |
Approx. 45 lbs (20.4 kg) |
Best For
- Reference-level vinyl playback systems
- High-end audiophile setups using MM and MC cartridges
- Systems requiring ultra-low noise and high resolution
- Users running multiple turntables or tonearms
- Listeners seeking accurate, dynamic, and natural analog sound