Pass Labs Xs Phono: Non-plus-ultra phono amplifier with separate power supply box

Pass Labs has introduced the Xs Phono, an exceptionally versatile phono amplifier designed for both MM and MC cartridges. Similar to other products in the Xs series, the Xs Phono features a dedicated power supply housed separately. This model is characterized by its outstanding performance, positioning it at the pinnacle of the market.

Features

The Xs Phono is, according to the manufacturer, a direct attack on the state of the art when it comes to vinyl reproduction. Pass Labs speaks of “perhaps the most intensive and difficult design effort we have ever made”. Paradoxically, the company, which prides itself on its simplicity, seems to have built a complex product. The circuits contain a total of around 1,500 components. However, this massiveness is used to extract the ultimate performance from a simple topology that works with the extremely small and delicate signals that come from the large variety of turntable cartridges.

The Xs Phono is essentially a true dual-mono design. Each channel has its own power supply, and the two supplies are housed in separate enclosures. Each channel has its own transformer. The only component shared between channels other than the enclosure is the power cable to the wall socket. The control section also has its own regulated power supply.

The Xs Phono has three inputs made of cinch. Each of the three inputs has two printed circuit boards for the signal electronics. In total, six printed circuit boards with signal electronics are fitted in the Xs Phono. This strict and total independence, starting with the power cord and continuing through to the output connectors, guarantees, according to the designers, minimum noise, maximum channel separation and musicality of the highest level.

Technical Specifications

• Gain: 56, 66, 76 dB
• RIAA response (+/- 0.1 dB): 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Distortion (THD, 1mV MC input): less than 0.005%
• Maximum Output: 38 Volts rms balanced @ .1% THD
• Output impedance: 150 Ohm cinch / 150 Ohm XLR
• Input Impedance: Between 30 Ohm and 47K Ohm each input
• Power consumption: 55 Watt
• Number of enclosures: two (phono amplifier + power supply cabinet)
• Dimensions (each enclosure, W x D x H): 482.6 x 355.6 x 158.7 millimeters
• Weight (total): 36.3 kilograms

Price and delivery information

The recommended retail price of the XsPhono is $54,500. The housing is made of aluminum, but for an additional $950 the housings can be supplied in a black color.