PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release:Parasound's New Zphono XRM is a Big Step Up from Entry-level Zphono
The new Parasound Zphono XRM phono preamplifier offers higher performance, dual-input MM and MC, with XLR outputs, adjustable MC loading, rumble filter, and mono/stereo switch.SAN FRANCISCO (12/17/18) —Parasound's new $599 Zphono XRM phono preamplifier bridges the price gap between its entry-level $200 Zphono and internationally acclaimed $1,495 Halo JC 3 Jr. The new model includes balanced XLR outputs, a switchable rumble filter, a mono-stereo switch, plus continuously variable load adjustment for moving coil cartridges. Separate input jacks and independent circuitry for MC and MM cartridges allow it to accommodate two turntables. Like other Parasound Z models, the Zphono XRM uses the company's compact 1U high x 8-1/2 inches wide chassis.
"Our current Zphono is the ideal product for entry-level vinyl lovers," said Richard Schram, Parasound's president, and founder. "We've noticed the fast-growing popularity of more expensive turntables and increasingly high-performance MM and MC cartridges. With the Zphono XRM's adjustable load impedance knob (rather than DIP switches) MC cartridge users can easily make on-the-fly adjustments to achieve the best sound. With its rumble filter and mono-stereo switch, the Zphono XRM provides even more control to the increasingly serious vinyl lover."
A front panel input switch selects MM and MC input jacks. Each of these jacks has its own circuitry optimized for the cartridge type. This improves the signal-to-noise ratio and overall performance for MM and for both low-output and high-output MC cartridges. A bonus of having separate input jacks with their own circuits is the capability to connect two turntables (or two tonearms mounted on a single turntable). The Stereo/Mono switch combines L and R channels so users can optimize the sound quality of mono LPs as well as reduce background noise on worn or poorly stamped pressings. This useful feature is rarely found on even high-priced phono preamps, much less at the Zphono XRM's modest price point. Another significant feature is the Rumble Filter switch which selects a steep 18 dB per octave high-pass filter which "cleans up" the low end by preventing feedback from mechanically transmitted vibrations.
The Zphono XRM has gold-plated single-ended RCA output jacks and balanced gold-plated XLR outputs with a high common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR) to reject external sources of noise An internal linear high-capacity/low-noise power supply is a significant improvement over the competitions' typical "wall-wart" power supplies.
The Parasound Zphono XRM has a suggested retail price of $499.
About Parasound: Founded in 1981, Parasound Products, Inc., is a privately-owned U.S. company that specializes in providing affordable audio components to the critical listener. The company's ever-improving line of audio products has garnered a reputation for performance, value, and reliability. The highest quality standards are assured by Parasound's relationships with their Taiwan audio manufacturers that date back to 1982.For more information, visit www.parasound.com or call 415-397-7100.
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Parasound Products Inc.
2250 McKinnon Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94124
415-397-7100 www.parasound.com