Succeeding the X-P500, the X-P700 offers technical refinements rarely found in this range: a dual-mono design and the most direct possible signal processing (Direct Path). As a further refinement, it's possible to choose between two output configurations: Class A mode using bipolar transistors in a double-cascade configuration, similar to a tube gradient, and Discrete mode, based on a JFET differential and current mirroring in the bipolar transistors, biased in Class AB, for a more traditional approach.
Its design is very understated and minimalist, featuring a single rotary knob with a push button to confirm selections: input access, volume control, bass/treble tones, balance, and intensity. These functions can be activated remotely via the remote control.
The X-P700 is truly comprehensive: nine analog inputs, including one balanced input and a MM/MC phono input. On the digital side, it offers two optical inputs, one coaxial input, a USB-B (Xmos) input, and a USB-A input. The DAC is the powerful Burr Brown PCM 1796 - 24-bit/192 kHz converter. For outputs, the X-P700 provides an RCA input, a balanced XLR input, a high-pass output, and two subwoofer outputs. Headphone enthusiasts are well catered for: two front-panel inputs (6.35 mm and 3.5 mm jacks) and, below them, two independent gain controls (+6, 0, -4 dB) and output impedance (0 or 100 ohms).
The X-P700 is very solidly built, starting with the understated 10mm black methacrylate front panel, common to the Classic Line. But the interior is more revealing: two high-capacity toroidal transformers feed a dual mono power supply, filtered and regulated on the motherboard, which also houses the preamp stages. The quality of the adjustable MC high and low-level phono stage, as well as the MM capability, is remarkable for this price point; it's hard to imagine better.
In short, at the price of the new X-P700, it's hard to find better. That's what we wanted from the very beginning of the development of this new preamplifier. We didn't skimp on the quality of the components, the decoding, or the power supply—the kind of attention to detail that matters when listening.
The X-P700 is the ideal preamplifier; it can be paired with our range of power amplifiers such as the renowned X-A160 (or EVO), X-A220 (or EVO), BX2, or the new X-A600, or any other audiophile-grade power amplifier.
