Advance Paris X-P700 Preamplifier

The Advance Paris X-P700 is a dual-mono preamplifier from the French manufacturer's Classic line, succeeding the X-P500 with significant technical refinements. Sitting at the top of the Classic range alongside the X-A160 EVO and X-A220 EVO power amplifiers, the X-P700 combines comprehensive analogue and digital connectivity with a selectable output topology that allows listeners to tailor the sonic character to their preferences.

Dual-Mono Architecture

The X-P700 employs a true dual-mono design, with separate channel PCBs and two high-capacity toroidal transformers feeding filtered and regulated power supplies for each channel independently. This topology minimises crosstalk between channels and provides a stable, clean power foundation for the signal path. Channel separation is rated at 100 dB or greater.

Selectable Output Modes

A distinguishing feature of the X-P700 is its two selectable output schematics. Class A mode uses bipolars in a double cascade circuit, producing a sonic character closer to a valve gradient with added warmth and refinement. Discrete mode is based on a JFet differential and current mirror in the bipolars, polarised in a more traditional Class AB configuration for a more neutral, dynamic presentation. Switching between modes is done from the front panel, allowing listeners to match the output character to different source material or partnering equipment.

Connectivity

The X-P700 provides nine analogue inputs: one balanced XLR, seven unbalanced RCA (CD, Tuner, AUX 1–5), and a dedicated phono stage switchable between MM and MC cartridge types. MC impedance is selectable at 100, 200, or 320 ohms, giving the phono stage flexibility beyond the usual MM-only provision found at this price point. Phono gain is 48 dB for MM and 64 dB for MC.

Digital sources are served by a built-in Burr-Brown PCM1796 DAC (24-bit/192 kHz) with an XMOS XU208 asynchronous USB receiver. Digital inputs include one USB Type-B, one USB Type-A, one S/PDIF coaxial RCA, and two Toslink optical connections. Bluetooth is also provided for wireless streaming.

Outputs include balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA full-range pre-outs, a high-pass pre-out with selectable crossover frequency, and two subwoofer outputs with bass management. A record output (REC OUT) is provided for recording to an external device. Dual trigger outputs allow remote power-on of partnering Advance Paris power amplifiers.

Headphone Section

The front panel carries dual headphone jacks — 6.35 mm and 3.5 mm — each with independent gain adjustment (+6, 0, −4 dB) and selectable output impedance (0 or 100 ohms). This allows the X-P700 to drive a wide range of headphone types without an external headphone amplifier.

Build and Design

The chassis features a 10 mm methacrylate front panel finished in black, giving it the appearance of tinted glass. The central multifunction rotary knob controls volume and input selection, flanked by a standby button on the left and the dual headphone jacks on the right. The X-P700 pairs naturally with the Advance Paris X-A160 EVO stereo power amplifier or X-A220 EVO mono power amplifiers for a complete separates system.