Great sound from this compact phono pre. I bought it during a really good sale aiming to add a second phono input to Emo XSP-1 preamp, which comes with a built-in phono input. As far as I can tell SQ-wise the XPS-1 is the equivalent of the XSP-1's phono input, which is not a bad thing. Adjustable load, a built in step up for MC that works well with the Frog cart (which pumps out 0.65 mV).
The build quality is typical Emotiva - this pre could be used to inflict serious harm if thrown at an attacker at high speed. The wall wart power supply is - well - a wall wart. But it has the advantage of being several feet away from the main pre board.
There is a chance that the XPS-1 beats the Emo XSP-1's built-in phono input, it will require several days/weeks of testing to confirm - but the difference is not night and day. Great pre for the money!
