Parasound ZC ZPhonoXRM Phono Preamplifier

Exceptional Vinyl Performance, A Price No One Beats

The Zphono XRM redefines what a budget phono stage can do—and it outperforms many models costing double or more. With front-panel controls, dual MM/MC inputs, and XLR/RCA outputs, this compact half-rack powerhouse delivers clarity, warmth, and flexibility that serious vinyl fans crave.

Featuring precision RIAA EQ, variable MC loading from 50–1050 Ω, low-noise circuitry, and a clean linear power supply, the Zphono XRM gives your records a transparent, lifelike sound—without costing a fortune.

Praised by reviewers

• “…does everything you could possibly want a phono preamplifier to do—both sonically and electronically—magnificently well. Highly recommended.” — Australian Hi‑Fi 
• “…offers flexibility and features not usually found at this price point … plus an internally mounted low‑noise linear supply.” — Analog Planet (Michael Fremer). 

Awards & Recognition

• Sound+Image (Australia) — Phono Stage of the Year (2021).

Specifications: 

Frequency Response
20-20 kHz, +/- 0.2 dB

Total Harmonic Distortion
0.02% at 1 kHz

Signal to Noise Ratio, MM 40 dB Setting
> 94 dB, input shorted, IHF A-weighted
> 90 dB, input shorted, unweighted

Signal to Noise Ratio, MM 50 dB Setting
> 94 dB, input shorted, IHF A-weighted
> 90 dB, input shorted, unweighted

Signal to Noise Ratio, MC 50 dB Setting
> 92 dB, input shorted, IHF A-weighted
> 88 dB, input shorted, unweighted

Signal to Noise Ratio, MC 60 dB Setting
> 82 dB, input shorted, IHF A-weighted
> 80 dB, input shorted, unweighted

Inter-channel Crosstalk
> 80 dB at 1 kHz

Input Impedance
MM: 47k Ω
MC: 50-1050 Ω

Input Capacitance
150 pF

Output Impedance
Unbalanced: 150 Ω
Balanced: 150 Ω per leg

Input Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 4mV Input
40 dB: 5 mV for 500mV output
50 dB: 5 mV for 1.5 Volts output
60 dB: 5 mV for 3 Volts output

Input Sensitivity at 1 kHz, 1V Output
40 dB: 10 mV for 1.0 Volt output
50 dB: 3.5 mV for 1.0 Volt output
60 dB: 1.8 mV for 1.0 Volt output

Total Gain
40 dB / 50 dB / 60 dB (unbalanced output)
46 dB / 56 dB / 66 dB (balanced output)

Rumble Filter
40 Hz high pass, 18 dB /oct.

AC Power Requirement
Standby: 0 watts
Power On: 7 watts
115 VAC or 230 VAC 50 - 60 Hz
(Selected on bottom)

Dimensions
Width: 8.5" (220 mm)
Depth: 10" (254 mm)
Depth: 12" (305 mm) - cables connected
Height, with feet: 2" (51 mm)
Height, without feet: 1.75" (45 mm), 1U

Weight
Net: 3.9 lbs. (1.8kg)
Shipping: 6.8 lbs. (3.1 kg)