Pass Labs XP-22 Dual Chassis Analog Preamp - Like New

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This is an outstanding two chassis preamp from Pass Labs.

The two pieces are connected to one another with an aviation grade umbilical type connector cord. Seriously. 

Overall in In near-mint condition and working like the day it was made. We're very conservative with our ratings so it's rare for us to grant a 9 out of 10 for physical condition.

Awards & Reviews:

Audio Art magazine #369

Stereophile’s Editor’s Choice Award – 2019
Stereophile

Stereophile’s Amplification Product of the year – 2019
Stereophile

“For those who listen with their ears and not their brain, perfectionist hi-fi offers many surprises.”
Stereophile / Jim Austin

Pass Labs XP22, review de Francisco del Pozo
XP-22 Review

More from Pass:

The new design uses double-shielded low noise toroidal transformers in external supply

The new design uses double-shielded low noise toroidal transformers in an external supply connected via aviation-grade circular connectors using silver over oxygen-free copper. The power supply is dual mono with two transformers with lower radiated and mechanical noise. Noise is the most prominent part of THD+N at low levels, so by lowering noise we get better resolution and dynamics.

The gain circuitry continues to use our favorite transistors from Toshiba but has a larger, higher biased, output stage like the Xs Preamp, and includes auto bias.

The larger output stage makes longer, and multiple cable runs easier to drive and gives us the advantage of simplifying our single-ended output circuitry while increasing performance.

The volume control is a single stage instead of two stages and has more range; it is quieter and more accurate. This is the same volume control as used in the XP-30.

Overall this makes for a quieter, more neutral, musical, and versatile control center for your system.

The XP-22 measures spectacularly well — but it really stands out sonically.

Pass Labs XP-22 - Owner's Manual

Specifications:
Overall Gain
9.3dB Balanced

Remote
Yes

Inputs
5

Outputs
2

Input Impedance
22K Ohms

Power Consumption
40 watts

Number of chassis
2

Dimensions, Each Chassis
17”W x 12”D x 4”H

Weight (LBS)
40

The SkyFi Testing Process for Solid State Amplifiers:

We start with a visual inspection of all internal components to make sure there are no signs of stress or aging. Capacitors are checked for telltale sings of bulging or leaking, resistors are checked for signs of overheating or cracking, and transistors are checked for signs of stress or damage.

We then power up the unit carefully and run a simple 1k sine wave while monitoring the output on an oscilloscope for signs of distortion or noise. Finally, we run the amplifier to its full rated power into the appropriate resistive load provided by our Sencore amplifier tester. If there is an issue, it will usually be noticeable at this point. If everything reads clean, we will often test for THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) measured by our Keithley distortion meter, and compare it against the original manufacturers specifications. The amplifier then remains powered on to "burn in" on our test bench for a few hours to make sure there are no heat related issues. If there are balanced inputs available they will be also be tested.

Final testing involves pushing actual music thorough the amplifier. We've learned over time that some issues are only noticeable to a trained ear while listening to familiar source material. Our test bench has reference vintage KEF speakers that we're very familiar with which quickly reveal any discrepancies. Some amplifiers will then move into our listening room where they are tested with our in-house reference speakers of choice.