Perreaux SXP2 User manual

SXP2
Passive Preamplifier
Owners Manual

1
Perreaux Industries Limited makes no warranty for the use of its products, other
than those expressly contained in the warranty detailed herein. The Company
assumes no responsibility for any errors which may appear in this document,
reserves the ri ht to chan e products or specifications detailed herein at any time
without notice, and does not make any commitment to update the information
contained herein. No licenses to patents or other intellectual property of Perreaux
are ranted by the Company in connection with the sale of Perreaux products,
expressly or by implication.
mboob^ru
®
is a re istered trademark of Perreaux Industries Ltd.
Terms and product names in this document may be trademarks of others.

2
This pa e has intentionally been left blank.

3
i
ii
i Introducing the
Perreaux Silhouette Series
Desi ned as a ran e of hi h quality, yet affordable modules; the
‘Silhouette’ series will compliment and enhance your existin
system.
Drawin on our extensive knowled e ained from more than a
quarter of a century of developin hi hest quality audio products,
the ‘Silhouette’ concentrates our le endary desi n and build
quality into a compact packa e without sacrificin performance.
The Perreaux ‘Silhouette’ series provides performance levels
never before seen in its class.
Key Features
 Reference quality ALPS potentiometer
 Optimal PCB and round plane layout for increased
channel separation and crosstalk performance
 Hi hest quality fibre lass PCB with minimal internal
wirin
 Dual preamplifier outputs
 Line-out connections
 Compact
 Stylish
The Perreaux “Silhouette” series takes you even closer to the
elusive goal of “The Perfect Re-Creation of a Musical
Event”.
From all of us at Perreaux Industries Limited, thank you for
choosin the Perreaux Silhouette Series SXP2 Passive
Preamplifier.

4
ii
iiii
ii Important Safety Instructions
Note:
Please read all instructions carefully before attempting to
operate your Perreaux “Silhouette” SXP2 Passive
Preamplifier.
ALWAYS switch off power to your system before attemptin to
connect or disconnect cables.
ALWAYS disconnect your system from the mains before
attemptin to clean your unit.
ALWAYS keep electrical equipment out of reach of children.
ALWAYS unplu sensitive electronic equipment durin
electrical storms.
NEVER disconnect the mains earth from the system.
NEVER operate the SXP2 with the cover removed.
NEVER use any liquid inside the SXP2.
NEVER attempt to repair the SXP2. In the event of a problem,
please contact your Perreaux dealer.
NEVER expose the SXP2 to extremely hi h or low temperatures.

5
iii
iiiiii
iii Table of Contents
i
ii
i Introducing the Perreaux Silhouette Series ....................................
ii
iiii
ii Important Safety Instructions............................................................. 4
iii
iiiiii
iii Table of Contents .................................................................................. 5
1
11
1 Unpacking and Placement .................................................................. 6
2
22
2 Instant Install .......................................................................................... 7
Front Panel Functions .......................................................................... 9
4
44
4 Rear Panel Functions ..........................................................................10
5
55
5 Special Design Philosophies..............................................................11
6
66
6 Special Design Features .....................................................................1
7
77
7 Care and Maintenance .......................................................................15
8
88
8 Warranty Information ........................................................................16
9
99
9 Extended Warranty Registration Form..........................................17
10
1010
10 Troubleshooting Guide ......................................................................18
11
1111
11 Specifications........................................................................................19
12
1212
12 Physical Dimensions............................................................................21
1
11
1 Contact Details .....................................................................................22

6
1
11
1 Unpacking and Placement
Unpacking
Procedure
The SXP2 is packa ed for maximum protection. To open, sit the
box upri ht and cut the reinforced tape at the top of the box. The
product can now be removed.
Pull the foam protectin end-caps off either side of the unit and
remove the black material coverin .
The SXP2 Passive Preamplifier is now unpacked and ready for
further installation.
Note:
Please retain all pac aging material for future transport.
Box
Contents
1 x SXP2 Passive Preamplifier
1 x Product manual
3 x Performance analysis charts
Placing Your
SXP2
The SXP2 should enerally be placed close to your source
equipment, thus keepin interconnect cablin between the SXP2
and associated components as short as practical. This will reduce
the systems susceptibility to radio frequency interference and the
ne ative effects associated with lon cables.
Ventilation
Requirements
The SXP2 is a passive electronic device. Ventilation
requirements are not considered an important factor in product
placement.
In the event that the SXP2 is to be incorporated into custom
cabinetry, please refer to the dimensional information provided in
the Physical Dimensions section of the manual (Chapter 12).

7
2
22
2 Instant Install
If you are like us, the first thin you will want to do is to play
your favourite piece of music throu h your new SXP2 Passive
Preamplifier. The followin instructions are written to enable
you to achieve this as quickly as possible. These are not
comprehensive instructions, but are desi ned to enable you to
play music now!
Note:
Please ta e the time to read the SXP2 manual thoroughly
as it incorporates many features, which will enhance its
operation.
Placement
The SXP2 is a sensitive passive electronic device and best results
will be achieved when placed away from potential interference
from other components and electrical devices, for example AC
mains cords/outlets, transformers, hi h power amplifiers,
computers, etc.
Place the SXP2 close or near the source or input component in
order to make as short a connection as possible.
Turn off associated components
This minimises the potential to dama e any other components
when connectin your SXP2 into the system.
Connect source to SXP2
Connect the audio output from the source component to the input
of your SXP2 Passive Preamplifier. Refer to Chapter 4 for Rear
Panel information.
Connect SXP2 to power amplifier
Connect the audio output from your SXP2 Passive Preamplifier
to the input of the power amplifier. Refer to Chapter 4 for Rear
Panel information.
Switch on power amplifier
Turn on your power amplifier.

8
Switch on source component
Power up your source component and start your favourite
recordin .
Turn it up
Slowly increase the SXP2 volume to achieve a comfortable
listenin level.
CONGRATULATIONS!
Now that you have achieved your first objective, sit back, relax
and please read the rest of the manual at your own pace in your
favourite armchair whilst sippin a lass of wine. You’ll find the
whole experience much more pleasurable whilst listenin to
music.

9
3
33
3 ront Panel unctions
Volume Control
The hi h-quality, machined aluminium knob reminds the user at
every touch of the superior build quality desi ned into the SXP2.
Volume control motion is smooth and accurate, providin
absolute control with near infinite ain resolution.
Input Selector
Select one of the three source inputs via the input selector switch.

10
4
44
4 Rear Panel unctions
Source Inputs
Accepts a standard sin le-ended input (RCA) from source
components with sin le-ended analo ue outputs. These hi h
quality old plated sockets are hi hly conductive, corrosion
resistant, and provide less potential for corrosion induced
distortion.
Refer to Chapter 13 “Specifications”, for detail on input
impedance.
Line Level Outputs
This sin le-ended (RCA) output will provide a line level audio
si nal, suitable for recordin , from the selected source input.
Also useful for bypassin the preamplifier, for example to a
headphone amplifier.
Preamplifier Outputs
These sin le-ended (RCA) outputs are commonly referred to as
“Preouts”. They provide the audio si nal required to drive the
connected power amplifier(s).

11
5
55
5 Special Design Philosophies
Perreaux has been desi nin and manufacturin only the hi hest
quality audio componentry for more than a quarter of a century.
Technolo y has continued to evolve rapidly over that time and
our knowled e and application of desi n, materials and
manufacturin techniques has advanced in tandem with this.
Today’s Perreaux ran e comes closer to fulfillin our shared
vision than at any other time in the past.
The SXP2 has been developed to meet customer demands for
compact hi her quality products. Careful attention has been
taken throu hout the development phase, not to make
compromises that would de rade the hi h quality of reproduction
that the unit is capable of deliverin .
To follow is a discussion on some of Perreaux desi n
philosophies that have been incorporated into the entire ran e.
Minimalist
Design
Leadin British architect, John Pawson, writes:
“The Minimum can be defined as the perfection
that an object achieves when it is no longer
possible to improve it by subtraction. This is the
quality that an object has when every component,
every detail, and every junction has been reduced
or condensed to the essentials. It is the result of
the omission of the inessentials”.
Perreaux has historically embraced the minimalist ethic from an
audio desi n perspective only. The concept of “less equatin to
more” has been at the heart of all Perreaux audio desi ns for
more than a quarter of a century. Our current product offerin
takes the minimalist ethic to new levels by totally embracin the
concept.
Minimalist Electronics
We wish to maximise the quality of your listenin pleasure by
keepin the componentry and si nal path as uncluttered, short
and clean possible. All components in the si nal path, even those
of the hi hest quality have an effect on the si nal, thereby
alterin the quality of the reproduction in some way. Our aim is
to recreate in its entirety, the ori inal performance by not addin
or subtractin anythin , irrespective of the source.

12
Minimalist Aesthetics
Our products appeal to those who seek the ultimate in audio
exclusivity, namely the perfect blend of “form and function”.
“Form and function” are both tou h masters. We make no
excuses for producin some of the most distinctive hi h-end
audio products on the planet. We let “form and function” blend
to ether in perfect harmony. This surely is the essence of true
minimalist utilisation.
Minimalism in a Wider Context
John Pawson writes:
“Clearly simplicity has dimensions to it that go
beyond the purely aesthetic: it can be seen as the
reflection of some innate, inner quality, or the
pursuit of philosophical or literary insight into the
nature of harmony, reason, and truth”.

13
6
66
6 Special Design eatures
Construction
The SXP2 is stylish and unobtrusive. The front panel is made
from hi h quality solid 6.0mm (0.2”) thick aluminium extrusion
featurin our trademark machined Perreaux lo o and lar e
volume control knob. These are finished in durable and stylish
satin chrome finish electroplate. The chassis and cover are both
manufactured from heavy au e steel. No cover fixin screws
are visible. These minimalist stylin cues combine seamlessly to
allow form and function to blend in harmony and are typical
hallmarks of the Perreaux brand.
Circuit
Topology
Compact
At 216mm (8.5”) wide x 58mm (2.3”) hi h x 172mm (6.8”) deep
the SXP2 is extremely compact.
Signal
Ground
Special attention has been paid to round planes to maintain
sonic purity. All si nal roundin is optimised to provide a
platform for a black back round and increased dynamic ran e.
Simple
control
functionality
Front panel features hi h-quality machined aluminium volume
control and input selector knobs. The rear panel comprises old-
plated unbalanced (RCA) line inputs, line outputs and
preamplifier outputs.

14
Single
Channel
Block
Diagram
Ultra Short
Signal path
Careful attention has been paid to the si nal path within the
preamplifier. It is ultra short, uarded by round planes where
necessary and carefully routed to avoid contamination from
external noise sources.

15
7
77
7 Care and Maintenance
Note:
Never apply liquid directly to the SXP2.
Never use abrasives.
Never rub in a circular motion.
Cover
The cover features a durable hi h quality powder coat finish. To
remove fin er marks and dirt, li htly rub the surface with a soft
cloth.
If the dirt is not removed, dip your cloth in a mild solution of
soap and water, squeeze excess moisture from it and then ently
reapply to the surface.
Stubborn dirt may be removed by the application of a small
quantity of isopropyl alcohol, applied directly to the cleanin
cloth only, and reworkin the effected area.
Front Panel
The SXP2 front panel features a hi h quality electroplate finish.
Over time the surface may retain fin er marks and may need to
be cleaned to restore it to ori inal condition.
Regular Cleaning
Gently wipe the front panel with a very clean cotton cloth. Wipe
across the surface and never in a circular motion.
Removing Stubborn Mar s
Only attempt this infrequently, as too re ular or vi orous
application may dama e the surface.
Apply a small quantity of any car polish containin carnauba
wax to a very clean cotton cloth.
Note:
The car polish must state “Safe for Clear Coats” as the polish
will therefore contain the absolute minimum amount of
abrasive compound.
Gently wipe over the front panel in lateral motion, allow to dry
then ently wipe off with a very clean cotton cloth.

16
8
88
8 Warranty Information
1 Year
Limited
Warranty
The Perreaux SXP2 is warranted free from defects in material
and workmanship under normal use for a period of 1-year (365
days) from the date of purchase.
To extend the warranty of the Perreaux SXP2 to three (3) years
from date of purchase, please return a fully completed warranty
re istration form alon with a copy of the ori inal receipt of
purchase to:
Perreaux Industries Ltd
PO Box 305
Mos iel
Dunedin 9053
New Zealand
For the Extended Warranty Re istration Form, please refer to
Chapter 9.
Year
Extended
Warranty
The extended warranty for the Perreaux SXP2 is three (3) years
from the date of purchase. If durin the warranty period the
SXP2 exhibits defects in materials and/or workmanship, it will
be repaired or replaced, at our option, without char e for either
parts or labour, at our factory in New Zealand. The warranty
does not apply to any unit that has been misused, abused or
altered.
Any unit that is not performin satisfactorily may be returned to
the factory in New Zealand for evaluation. Return authorisation
must first be obtained by either callin or writin to Perreaux
prior to shippin the unit. Perreaux Industries Ltd and it’s
authorised distributors and dealers shall not be held liable for any
frei ht or insurance char es. Frei ht and insurance char es to
and from the Perreaux factory will be the sole responsibility of
the owner of the unit.
There is no other express warranty on the SXP2. Neither this
warranty nor any other warranty, express or implied, includin
any implied warranties of merchantability of fitness, shall extend
beyond the warranty period. No responsibility is assumed for
any incidental or consequential dama es.
Obtaining
Service
In the event that you are experiencin difficulty with your SXP2,
please as a first step consult the troubleshootin uide in Chapter
10. For further assistance, please contact your Perreaux dealer.

17
9
99
9 Extended Warranty
Registration orm
Please complete this form and either fax, mail or e-mail it, alon
with a copy of the ori inal receipt, to Perreaux Industries Ltd.
Fax: [phone]
Mail: Perreaux Industries Ltd
PO Box 305
Mos iel
Dunedin 9053
New Zealand
E-mail: [e-mail]
Alternatively, complete the online Warranty Re istration Form
on our website – www.perreaux.com.

3 Year Extended
Warranty orm
Name:
Address:
Suburb:
City:
Country:
Telephone:
E-mail:
Website:
Product:
S
I
L
H
O
U
E
T
T
E
S
X
P
2
Serial No:
Dealer:
Purchase Date:
/
/
d
d
m
m
y
y
y
y

18
10
1010
10 Troubleshooting Guide
Please use this uide if you are experiencin any problems with
the SXP2 in your system. It will provide possible solutions for
some iven symptoms.
There is no
output from
my system
Interconnect cables not connected
Make sure that the input and output interconnect cables are
plu ed in and are connected to the respective RCA sockets on
the rear of the SXP2.
Source not turned on
Check that your source component is plu ed in to the mains and
the power is turned on.
Source not set to play
Ensure that your source component is playin the recordin you
would like to listen to, and that pause is not pressed.
No volume setting
Make sure that the volume on your SXP2 is set to a suitable
level.
SXP2 set to incorrect input
Confirm that the input on your SXP2 is connected to the
appropriate source output.
Loud spea ers not connected
Check that your loud speakers are firmly connected via cables
into the bindin posts on the rear of the SXP2.
I can hear a
hum coming
through my
loud
speakers
Input soc ets and/or output binding posts corroded
Check that the input and output RCA sockets and bindin posts
on the rear of the SXP2 are free from corrosion.
Interconnect cables damaged
Make sure that the inte rity of your interconnect cables is sound
and they are firmly connected to your source and the SXP2.
SXP2 is close to external interference
Check the proximity of your SXP2 to any possible source of EMI
and/or RF interference, for example computers, televisions,
amplifiers, speakers, etc. Ideally the SXP2 should be placed as
close as possible to your source.

19
11
1111
11 Specifications
The correlation between published specifications and sonic
quality can be unreliable. A list of numbers reveals virtually
nothin . All technical measurements must be subject to
qualitative as well as quantitative interpretation. Measurements
of the SXP2 reveal excellent results by any standards.
Specifications
in Brief
Total Harmonic Distortion (T D+N) :
Typically...........................................................0.001%, @ 1kHz
20Hz to 20kHz.............................................................. <0.002%
Frequency Response:
20Hz–20kHz........................................................ +0dB, -0.05dB
5Hz–60kHz.......................................................... +0dB, -0.50dB
Si nal to Noise Ratio
(unweighted) :........................................ 118dB
Crosstalk:
Channel to Channel............................................-120dB @ 1kHz
.........................................................................-98dB @ 20kHz
Input to Input .....................................................-120dB @ 1kHz
.........................................................................-97dB @ 20kHz
Channel Trackin :.............................................................. 0.50dB
Gain Ran e: ............................................................. -93dB to 0dB
Input Impedance:
Typically............................................................................. 10kΩ
Potentiometer Type:......................................................Audio Lo
Audio Connections
Inputs.........................................................3 pairs line level (RCA)
Outputs....................................................... 2 pairs pre-outs (RCA)
................................................................. 1 pair line level (RCA)
Overall Dimensions
Width........................................................................216mm (8.5”)
Depth........................................................................172mm (6.8”)
Hei ht........................................................................ 58mm (2.3”)
Weight
Gross ..........................................................................1.7k (3.7lb)
Net............................................................................. 1.1k (2.4lb)