The X-P1200 is a stereo preamplifier developed by Advance Paris, drawing on nearly 30 years of experience in the field of high-fidelity audio. It features a compartmentalized construction with two independent mono circuits, a rare characteristic in this price range.
Dual Mono Architecture
The X-P1200 pushes the boundaries of channel separation thanks to a truly dual mono design. This architecture goes beyond the preamplification circuits: each channel has its own toroidal transformer, ensuring a completely independent power supply. This technical approach, usually reserved for much more expensive equipment, guarantees minimal crosstalk and a particularly well-defined stereo effect.
The power supply, the cornerstone of this architecture, uses two high-current toroidal transformers. Filtering relies on four 12,000 μF / 150V capacitors, complemented by chokes to eliminate mains interference. Regulation, handled by integrated circuits mounted on heat sinks, ensures exemplary current stability for the preamplification stages.
Input and output switching is performed by contactless relays, preserving signal integrity. The balancing of unbalanced inputs and unbalancing is handled by Burr Brown operational amplifiers, renowned for their transparency and low distortion. Volume control is entrusted to an ALPS potentiometer, a Japanese brand synonymous with reliability and precision in the audiophile world.
Digital-to-Analog Conversion: The Choice of Analog Devices AD1955
Processing digital sources is a major challenge for a modern preamplifier. The X-P1200 incorporates an Analog Devices AD1955 converter, a chip specifically developed for high-end and SACD applications. This DAC uses a multibit sigma-delta architecture combined with high-performance digital interpolation filters, achieving a signal-to-noise ratio of 123 dB.
Digital stream management extends up to 24 bits / 192 kHz in PCM and supports DSD files. The USB-B interface uses XMOS technology, the reference solution for playing high-resolution audio files from a PC or Mac. This implementation allows asynchronous data transmission, eliminating jitter and ensuring precise timing.
Comprehensive Connectivity for All Sources
The versatility of the X-P1200 is evident in its particularly extensive connectivity. The nine analog inputs include seven unbalanced RCA inputs and two balanced XLR inputs, accommodating all traditional analog sources. The phono section, compatible with MM (48 dB) and MC (64 dB) cartridges, demonstrates special attention to vinyl enthusiasts.
On the digital side, the preamplifier offers two optical and two coaxial inputs, in addition to the aforementioned USB-B input. This variety allows simultaneous connection of DTT/satellite decoders, 4K TVs, network audio players, Blu-ray players, and computers.
The outputs follow the same philosophy, with a balanced XLR output and an unbalanced RCA output, allowing pairing with any type of power amplifier. The front-panel headphone output, equipped with a 3.5 mm mini-jack connector, includes a dedicated amplifier. A 12V trigger output makes it easy to synchronize with other compatible equipment.
Design and Ergonomics: Understated Style Serving Functionality
The X-P1200’s front panel adheres to the aesthetic codes of Advance Paris’s Classic Line. Three potentiometers frame a central display showing operating parameters. This symmetrical layout makes it easy to navigate between different functions while maintaining a clean, refined look.
The compartmentalized chassis, beyond its role in circuit isolation, contributes to the overall rigidity. The dimensions of 440 x 155 x 430 mm and the weight of 14.2 kg attest to the robustness of the construction. The device comes with a remote control for convenient access to settings, including tone controls available exclusively via remote.
Evolution Compared to Previous Models
The X-P1200 represents a significant step up from the X-P700, its predecessor in the Advance Paris lineup. While the X-P700 already offers a dual mono architecture with separate toroidal transformers, the X-P1200 takes the concept further with complete circuit isolation in a compartmentalized chassis.
The digital section also marks a notable improvement. The X-P700 features a Burr Brown PCM1796 DAC, while the X-P1200 uses the Analog Devices AD1955, delivering superior performance, especially in terms of signal-to-noise ratio (123 dB vs. 103 dB). Filtering capacity increases from standard capacitors on the X-P700 to four 12,000 μF units on the X-P1200, ensuring even more stable power delivery.
Pairing with the X-A1200 Power Amplifier
Advance Paris particularly recommends pairing the X-P1200 with the X-A1200 mono blocks. This combination maintains the dual mono philosophy all the way to the speakers, with each channel benefiting from its own power amplifier. While this setup represents a significant investment, it offers optimal performance in terms of channel separation, dynamics, and speaker control.
Nevertheless, the X-P1200 remains compatible with any quality power amplifier, whether from Advance Paris (X-A600, X-A160 EVO) or other manufacturers. The presence of both balanced and unbalanced outputs makes integration into existing systems easy.
