Audio T Verdict
The Advance Paris X-P700 is an exceptionally flexible preamplifier, offering far more than straightforward source selection and volume control.
Its dual-mono construction, selectable Class A or Discrete output modes, adaptable MM/MC phono stage and comprehensive digital section make it a strong foundation for a serious separates system.
Balanced and unbalanced pre-outs, high-pass filtering, twin subwoofer outputs and two independently configurable headphone connections provide plenty of scope for tailoring the system to your room, equipment and listening preferences.
Advance Paris X-P700 Dual-Mono Preamplifier
The Advance Paris X-P700 is a stereo preamplifier designed to control the sources and listening level within a separate pre and power amplifier system.
It combines extensive analogue connectivity, an adjustable MM/MC phono stage, digital-to-analogue conversion, optional Bluetooth reception, headphone amplification and flexible subwoofer integration.
The X-P700 does not contain a power-amplifier stage or loudspeaker terminals. It must be connected to a separate power amplifier, a pair of monoblocks or compatible active loudspeakers.
Dual-Mono Construction
The X-P700 uses a dual-mono internal design, with the left and right audio channels treated as independently as possible within one enclosure.
Two toroidal transformers feed filtered and regulated power supplies for the preamplifier circuitry.
This arrangement is intended to reduce interaction between the channels and support strong stereo separation, stable imaging and low background noise.
Direct Path Signal Processing
Advance Paris developed the X-P700 around its Direct Path principle, keeping signal processing as straightforward as possible.
Bass, treble, balance and loudness controls remain available when required, while the bypass setting removes tonal adjustment from the active signal path.
This allows the preamplifier to be configured either for direct operation or for subtle correction to suit the room, loudspeakers or recording.
Selectable Class A Output Mode
The X-P700 offers two selectable analogue output-stage configurations.
Class A mode uses bipolar transistors in a double-cascade arrangement. Advance Paris describes its operating character as being close to the smooth gradient associated with a valve circuit.
The X-P700 does not contain valves. The Class A setting changes the solid-state output-stage topology rather than switching in a valve section.
Discrete Output Mode
The alternative Discrete mode uses a JFET differential circuit, bipolar current mirror and Class A/B biasing.
This provides a more traditional solid-state operating arrangement.
The preferred mode will depend on the partnering power amplifier, loudspeakers and individual listening preferences.
Compare Both Output Modes
The Class A and Discrete settings offer two approaches to the X-P700’s analogue output stage.
An Audio T demonstration provides the best way to compare them through the intended power amplifier and loudspeakers.
Nine Analogue Inputs
The X-P700 provides nine analogue source connections, comprising:
- Seven stereo RCA line inputs
- One stereo balanced XLR input
- One configurable stereo phono input
This provides ample capacity for CD players, network streamers, external DACs, tuners, recording equipment and other conventional analogue sources.
Balanced XLR Analogue Input
A stereo balanced XLR input is provided for a compatible source component.
Balanced transmission can improve rejection of external electrical interference, particularly where longer interconnects are required.
The balanced input impedance is specified at 35k ohms.
Seven RCA Line Inputs
Seven stereo RCA line inputs accommodate conventional analogue equipment with fixed line-level outputs.
Suitable sources include CD players, streamers, external DACs, radio tuners and cassette decks.
The published unbalanced input impedance is 23k ohms.
Adjustable MM and MC Phono Stage
The phono input can be configured for three cartridge-output ranges:
- Moving magnet
- High-output moving coil
- Low-output moving coil
This makes the X-P700 suitable for a much broader selection of cartridges than a fixed moving-magnet phono stage.
A grounding terminal is provided for turntables fitted with a separate earth lead.
Selectable Phono Capacitance
Phono capacitance can be selected between 100pF, 200pF and 320pF.
Capacitance adjustment can be useful when matching a moving-magnet cartridge, tonearm cable and phono input.
The preferred setting should be chosen using the cartridge manufacturer’s guidance and confirmed by listening.
Check Your Cartridge Specification
Moving-coil cartridges vary considerably in output level, while moving-magnet designs can be sensitive to total capacitive loading.
Your local Audio T store can help identify the most appropriate cartridge and capacitance settings.
Burr-Brown PCM1796 DAC
The internal digital section uses a Burr-Brown PCM1796 digital-to-analogue converter.
Compatible PCM signals can be processed at resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz through the supported digital inputs.
This allows digital sources to connect directly without requiring a separate standalone DAC.
Two Optical Digital Inputs
Two optical Toslink inputs are provided for compatible digital sources.
These may include a television, CD player, network streamer or games console with a stereo optical output.
A television may need to be configured for stereo PCM rather than Dolby Digital, DTS or another multichannel format.
Coaxial Digital Input
A coaxial S/PDIF input allows a compatible CD transport, network player or other digital source to use the X-P700’s internal DAC.
Use a purpose-designed 75-ohm digital coaxial cable rather than one half of a conventional stereo RCA interconnect.
XMOS USB-B Computer Audio
A rear USB-B input allows a compatible Windows computer, Mac or Linux computer to be used as a digital music source.
The asynchronous XMOS interface supports compatible PCM audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.
A suitable driver may be required for some Windows installations.
USB-B Is for Computer Audio
The USB-B connection is intended for a computer rather than a USB memory stick or portable drive.
Select the X-P700 as the computer’s audio-output device after completing any required driver installation.
USB-A MP3 Playback
A separate USB-A connection supports compatible MP3 playback from suitable USB media or a portable player.
Advance Paris does not publish comprehensive support for lossless formats through this connection.
It should therefore be treated as a convenient MP3 facility rather than a complete high-resolution media player.
Optional Bluetooth Reception
Bluetooth is optional rather than built in.
The dedicated rear connection accepts a compatible Advance Paris receiver:
- X-FTB01 with aptX
- X-FTB02 with aptX HD and additional codec support
The Bluetooth module is sold separately.
Balanced XLR Pre-Out
A stereo balanced XLR preamplifier output allows the X-P700 to connect to a compatible stereo power amplifier or pair of monoblocks.
Balanced connections can be particularly useful where longer cables are needed between the preamplifier and power amplifiers.
Full-Range RCA Pre-Out
A conventional stereo RCA pre-out carries the complete audio frequency range.
This can connect to a suitable power amplifier or compatible active loudspeaker system with unbalanced analogue inputs.
High-Pass RCA Pre-Out
A separate stereo high-pass pre-out is provided for systems using an active subwoofer.
This filtered output can reduce the low-frequency content sent to the main power amplifier and loudspeakers.
Removing deep bass from the main channels may improve available headroom and simplify integration with a subwoofer.
Two Subwoofer Outputs
Two RCA outputs allow one or two compatible active subwoofers to be connected.
The subwoofers must contain their own amplification.
Using two subwoofers can help produce more even bass across a wider listening area when they are positioned and adjusted correctly.
75Hz or 150Hz Subwoofer Crossover
The subwoofer crossover can be selected at 75Hz or 150Hz.
The 75Hz setting is generally more appropriate for larger main loudspeakers and conventional full-size subwoofers.
The 150Hz option may suit smaller loudspeakers that require more low-frequency assistance.
Subwoofer Setup
Crossover frequency is only one part of successful subwoofer integration.
Position, level, phase and the natural bass response of the main loudspeakers should also be considered.
Two Headphone Outputs
The front panel provides both 6.35mm and 3.5mm stereo headphone connections.
This accommodates many conventional wired headphones without requiring a plug adaptor.
Electrostatic headphones normally require a separate specialist energiser.
Independent Headphone Gain
The two headphone connections have independently adjustable gain.
Available settings are:
This helps provide a more useful volume-control range with headphones of different sensitivities.
Selectable Headphone Output Impedance
Each headphone connection can be configured for 0-ohm or 100-ohm output impedance.
The 0-ohm setting is normally the starting point for modern low-impedance headphones.
The 100-ohm option may suit selected medium or high-impedance designs, although the headphone manufacturer’s guidance should be checked.
Trigger Input and Output
Trigger input and output connections allow compatible components to coordinate their power operation.
The X-P700 can be switched by another suitable component or send a control signal to connected power amplifiers.
This is particularly useful with a stereo power amplifier or pair of monoblocks.
Tone, Balance and Loudness Controls
Bass, treble, stereo balance and loudness compensation are available through the front multifunction control and supplied remote.
The tonal adjustments can be bypassed where a direct signal path is preferred.
Automatic Power Down
The APD function places the X-P700 into standby after approximately 30 minutes without a signal on the selected input.
Automatic power down can be disabled through the operating menu where required.
Fixed Recording Output
A fixed-level REC OUT can feed a compatible cassette deck, MiniDisc recorder or other analogue recording device.
The recording output does not follow the main volume control.
It must not be connected directly to a power amplifier or active loudspeaker without a separate volume control.
Matching Power Amplifiers
The X-P700 is a natural partner for the Advance Paris X-A160 EVO stereo power amplifier.
It can also be used with a pair of X-A220 EVO or X-A1200 monoblocks, or another compatible power amplifier fitted with RCA or balanced XLR inputs.
Input sensitivity, gain and connection type should be considered when selecting the partnering amplifier.
Installation and Support
The current X-P700 measures 440mm wide, 155mm high and 430mm deep, with a published net weight of 14.2kg.
Install it on a strong, level Hi-Fi rack with sufficient space for ventilation and rear cable connections.
The published depth does not include the additional room required for the mains lead, XLR connectors, RCA interconnects, digital cables and optional Bluetooth receiver.
Key Features
- Dual-mono stereo preamplifier
- Two toroidal transformers
- Filtered and regulated power supplies
- Direct Path signal processing
- Selectable Class A output mode
- Selectable Discrete Class A/B output mode
- Bass and treble controls with bypass
- Stereo balance adjustment
- Loudness compensation
- Nine analogue inputs
- Seven stereo RCA line inputs
- One stereo balanced XLR input
- Configurable MM, MC High and MC Low phono input
- 100pF, 200pF and 320pF phono capacitance settings
- Burr-Brown PCM1796 DAC
- Compatible PCM conversion up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Two optical Toslink inputs
- One coaxial S/PDIF input
- XMOS USB-B computer-audio input
- USB-A MP3 playback
- Optional X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 Bluetooth receiver
- Balanced XLR preamplifier output
- Full-range RCA preamplifier output
- High-pass RCA preamplifier output
- Two active-subwoofer outputs
- 75Hz or 150Hz subwoofer crossover
- Fixed-level recording output
- 6.35mm and 3.5mm headphone outputs
- Independent -4dB, 0dB and +6dB headphone gain
- Selectable 0-ohm or 100-ohm headphone output impedance
- Trigger input and output
- Automatic power-down function
- Infrared remote control
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Advance Paris X-P700?
It is a dual-mono stereo preamplifier with analogue and digital inputs, MM/MC phono, headphone amplification and flexible power-amplifier and subwoofer outputs.
Can it drive passive loudspeakers?
No. A separate power amplifier or compatible active loudspeakers are required.
Does it use valves?
No. Its Class A output mode is a solid-state bipolar circuit designed to offer some valve-like operating characteristics.
What is Discrete mode?
It is an alternative solid-state output configuration using JFET and bipolar circuitry operating with Class A/B bias.
How many analogue inputs does it have?
It provides nine analogue inputs: seven RCA line inputs, one balanced XLR input and one configurable phono input.
Does it support moving-coil cartridges?
Yes. The phono stage provides MM, MC High and MC Low settings.
Can phono capacitance be adjusted?
Yes. Available settings are 100pF, 200pF and 320pF.
What DAC does it use?
It uses a Burr-Brown PCM1796 converter.
Can I connect a computer?
Yes. The XMOS USB-B input supports compatible PCM computer audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Can it play from USB storage?
The USB-A connection supports compatible MP3 playback. The USB-B connection is for computer audio.
Does it include Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is optional. A compatible X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 receiver can be fitted to the dedicated rear port.
How many optical inputs does it have?
The current product specification and rear-panel layout show two optical Toslink inputs.
Does it have balanced outputs?
Yes. A stereo balanced XLR preamplifier output is provided.
Can it connect an active subwoofer?
Yes. It provides two RCA subwoofer outputs and a separate high-pass preamplifier output.
Which crossover settings are available?
The subwoofer crossover can be selected at 75Hz or 150Hz.
How many headphone outputs does it have?
It provides one 6.35mm connection and one 3.5mm connection.
Can the headphone outputs be adjusted separately?
Yes. Each has independent gain and output-impedance settings.
Which headphone gain settings are available?
The available settings are -4dB, 0dB and +6dB.
Does it have trigger control?
Yes. Trigger input and output connections are provided.
Which Advance Paris power amplifier is the closest match?
The X-A160 EVO is the natural stereo partner. The X-P700 can also be used with X-A220 EVO or X-A1200 monoblocks.
How large and heavy is it?
It measures 440mm wide, 155mm high and 430mm deep, with a published net weight of 14.2kg.
Related Advance Paris Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Independent advice from experienced Hi-Fi specialists
- Preamplifier and power-amplifier system matching
- In-store demonstrations at participating branches
- MM and MC cartridge compatibility guidance
- Phono-capacitance setup advice
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection support
- USB computer-audio setup guidance
- Bluetooth accessory compatibility checks
- Headphone gain and impedance advice
- Subwoofer integration and crossover guidance
- Interconnect and equipment-rack recommendations
- Click and Reserve from participating stores
- Nationwide UK delivery on eligible products
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Advance Paris X-P700 with your sources, cartridge, headphones and power amplifier.