Pass Labs XP-22 Linestage Preamplifier

It Takes Two to Make a Thing Go Right: U.S.A.-Built Pass Labs XP-22 Linestage Preamplifier Features Dual Chassis Architecture, Dual-Mono Design, and Explosive Dynamics 

Why opt for a linestage preamplifier whose power supply occupies a separate, second chassis apart from the gain/control section? Take one listen to the Pass Labs XP-22 and the reasons will become obvious as you hear lifelike tonality, natural purity, stunning neutrality, and truly explosive dynamics. 

Hand-built at the company’s California facility on an order-by-order basis, meaning you might need to wait eight-to-10 weeks to get your unit, XP-22 leverages core technology from the top-range XS Pre and XP-32 preamplifiers into a more affordable design. Not that XP-22 is missing anything when it comes to total excellence. 

This 40-pound dual-mono component utilizes high-quality Toshiba transistors, a high-bias output stage with auto bias, a single-stage volume control derived from the XS Pre, and the double-shield toroidal transformer power supply placed in a separate chassis connected with aviation-grade circular connectors to assure the lowest noise possible.

Rest assured the XP-22 effortlessly pairs with any of the world’s finest power amplifiers. Around back, you get two sets of RCA outputs and a single set of balanced XLR outputs. Two sets of balanced XLR inputs and three additional RCA inputs provide more connectivity. In addition, a tape in and out loop invites you to experiment with tape. There’s even a 12V remote turn-on jack should you require it.

Plus, the high-bias output stage makes it easy for the XP-22 to drive long cable runs (XLR or RCA) with ease — a benefit for audiophiles who want to place power amplifiers close to their speakers. It also contributes to the nearly total absence of noise, adding to the dynamic capability.

Visually, the anodized front panel matches the Pass aesthetic, with all controls organized in a simple, effective, and logical manner. The center blue display is easily readable from across the room, or it can be turned off via the supplied aluminum remote.

With each box measuring 4 x 17 x 12 inches (HWD), XP-22 gives credence to the saying that it takes two to make a thing go right. To learn more about XP-22 or any Pass Labs product, give us a call at 312-433-0200.

“The two-box, solid state, line-level Pass XP-22 provides both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) inputs and outputs, plus a vestigial tape loop."
— Stereophile, Recommended Components

"[Nelson Pass'] colleague, Wayne Colburn, is the man behind all things preamplification at Pass Labs. And these Pass Labs preamps are just as lust-worthy as Nelson’s wonderful sounding, often hot-running, Class-A power amps.”
— Future Audiophile, Gear of the Year Award Winner

“Pass Labs is where calm Engineering 101 rules. Should inexplicables arise, they get sorted until everything works. Longevity from reliability is key. That’s apparent in no-nonsense cosmetics, beefy chassis, external power supplies to increase their footprint and categorical absence of iGen frills."
— 6Moons