Pass Labs XP-17 MM/MC Phono Preamplifier

The MM/MC Phono Preamplifier for Listeners with Single-Turntable/Cartridge Setups: U.S.A.-Built Pass Labs XP-17 Will Put You on a First-Name Basis with Resolution, Dynamics, Accuracy, and Musicality 

Pass Labs’ XP-17 might be the company’s entry-level phono preamplifier, but this hand-crafted gem is anything but entry-anything. A single-chassis design incorporating everything the company’s engineers learned in the development of the top-of-the-range XS Phono and the XP-27, it’s enough kit to suit the demands of most analog fanatics — and built to last generations. Indeed, while you might wait eight-to-10 weeks to get your model, the California-made XP-17 is the opposite of mass-produced off-the-shelf hi-fi. 

If there’s a downside to the 19-pound XP-17, it is that it’s a single-input phono preamplifier suited for those with a single turntable and cartridge. If that’s you, read on. XP-17 has what you want: incredible dynamic range, faithful reproduction, engaging tonality, ultra-quiet operation. And while Pass Labs power amplifiers all stem from the mind of Nelson Pass, Wayne Colburn handles the preamplifiers and is every bit the audio savant of his colleague. Which is why Pass Labs preamplifiers are an ideal match to their  power amplifier brethren. Nothing is left to chance. Consider this for evidence: A power supply with an extra stage of RC filtering, a symmetrical input circuit with superb drive capability, and a secondary stage that runs a higher bias output with auto bias. 

Taking advantage of a split EQ network similar to the one employed in the XP-25 and XS Phono, reproduction of the RIAA curve with XP-17 is also extremely faithful. The result? A more accurate rendition of the music at all frequencies. Pass Labs claims +/- 0.1dB from 20 to 20,000Hz. In every way, this fully balanced/symmetrical design keeps noise to a minimum, maximizing dynamics and those critical nuances.

With gain settings of 56, 66, and 76dB, MM and the lowest-output MC cartridges can be used with ease. XLR balanced and RCA outputs assure integration with any system. And the solid, straightforward casework minimizes vibration detrimental to the delicate phono signal while matching the aesthetic of the entire Pass Labs lineup. For most vinylistas, the 4 x 17 x 12-inch (HWD) XP-17 will be the last phono stage they will ever need. 

Got questions? We can help! Give us a shout at 312-433-0200 and let’s talk.

“The Pass Labs XP-17 is designed to be a very simple, user-friendly device. As such, once the settings have been optimized, it is generally assumed that there will not be much need for further settings changes – unless, of course, a new and differently-designed cartridge will be used."
— Future Audiophile

“It’s a single-chassis design with internal power supply that builds upon and updates the popular XP-15."
— The Absolute Sound, Editors' Choice Award

“I’ve been impressed with Pass Labs XP-17 phono preamplifier’s sound quality and musicality, its excellent build quality, its non-fussy demeanor in interfacing with various audio system equipment combinations I’ve tried, and its very useful adjustability features that allowed me to get excellent performance out of the moving-coil, moving-iron, and moving-magnet phonograph cartridges."
— Jeff Day, Positive Feedback