{"id":3420,"date":"2025-04-23T15:16:12","date_gmt":"2025-04-23T13:16:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/?p=3420"},"modified":"2025-04-23T15:16:14","modified_gmt":"2025-04-23T13:16:14","slug":"ch-precision-p1-and-x1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/tests\/types\/amplifier\/ch-precision-p1-and-x1\/","title":{"rendered":"CH PRECISION P1 and X1"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

We continue our odyssey through the CH Precision catalogue with a particularly interesting link, the CH Precision P1 phono preamp which, as is usual with the Swiss manufacturer, can be upgraded with the optional X1 power supply. As always, it offers us a firework of sound. And as always, the sound quality comes at a high price, but the result is simply phenomenal. The story…<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Processing the signals from a phono cartridge has always been a challenge for designers of high-quality hi-fi equipment. In addition to the very low voltages involved, which make these signals fragile and sensitive to electromagnetic interference from any source, absolute control of the noise generated by the components of the internal preamplification stages of the equipment is essential to obtain a fully satisfactory result. What’s more, each cartridge has specific characteristics which can, here again, make the result unpredictable due, among other things, to poor impedance matching or insufficient voltage gain. Finally, it should not be forgotten that, in order to reduce the \u2018groove congestion\u2019 on the disc surface, a specific correction (such as filtering) is applied to the signal before the disc is burned. Its main purpose is to reduce the bass level, since it is the bass that requires the widest meanders of the groove for its recording. However, although the most commonly used filter transfer function is RIAA equalisation, there are other variants, although these mainly only concern old recordings. To restore the full fidelity of the sound, it is therefore essential to apply the inverse correction to that used when the master disc was burned when playing the disc. Ideally, the preamplifier should be able to modulate its correction according to the origin of the disc being played.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"CH<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Towards total compatibility<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

CH Precision has taken all of these points into account in designing its ultimate preamplifier, the CH Precision P1, which is capable of adapting perfectly to every situation. To achieve this, it can be completely reconfigured from an application that gives access to the finest settings. Of course, it accepts both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. This involves a modification of the impedance of its inputs as well as a significant increase in its gain. It should be remembered that while an MM cartridge delivers a signal of 2 to 5 mV, an MC cartridge only delivers 0.2 to 0.4 mV. Nevertheless, the majority of quality preamplifiers have a small switch that allows you to select MM or MC mode, depending on the cartridge used.
The CH Precision P1 has three phono inputs. Inputs 1 and 2 use current gain, input 3 is a more conventional voltage gain stage.
Current gain is generally preferred, particularly for cartridges with very low internal impedance. In this case, the only adjustment is that of input gain. The choice is related to the dynamic range in relation to the noise level. These inputs are ideal for cartridges with very low internal impedance – less than 10 ohms, less than 5 ohms is even better…<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Each input can be named individually (and the display colour selected), which is particularly useful if you are using more than one cell.
For its part, the CH Precision P1 offers a type of optimisable adaptation with infinite finesse. Its voltage gain is adjustable from 35 to 70 dB with the possibility of adjustment in steps of 5 dB. Similarly, the impedance of its inputs can be set from 20 ohms to 100 kilo-ohms with more than 100 steps. This makes it possible to perfectly adapt the characteristics of this preamplifier to the requirements of the cartridge in order to use it in optimal conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Configurable corrections<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, the P1 goes even further by offering various types of correction. While the basic version includes EQ RIAA and RIAA equalisation transfer functions, it is possible to add optional corrections such as: EMI, Columbia, Decca or Teldec. The P1 is thus able to adapt not only to the characteristics of the cartridge used, but also to the conditions under which the disc is recorded and burned. These are all features that are sure to appeal to the most demanding vinyl sound enthusiasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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An ultra-low noise external power supply<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

But even the best preamplifier cannot give a satisfactory result unless it is powered by an electrical source capable of delivering stable voltages free from any kind of electromagnetic pollution. To ensure that the P1 can operate under optimal conditions, CH Precision has therefore designed a specific ultra-low noise power supply unit: the CH Precision X1. This power supply is not exclusively dedicated to the P1. It is compatible with various other items of the brand, such as the CD player, for example. Capable of simultaneously delivering up to 14 different voltages, it connects to the device to be powered via an M23-type 19-pin socket. Finally, as the products designed by CH Precision simultaneously use digital and analogue sections, the power supply unit individually manages the voltages assigned to each section. This prevents any interaction between digital flows and analogue signals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"CH<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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The set up<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The P1 and X1, like all CH Precision products, use a mechanical grounding system that ensures they are perfectly levelled and drains the mechanical energy generated internally. They should be placed on a rigid, flat surface such as our Centaure L furniture. If you want to install them on a hard surface such as metal or glass, it will be necessary to use the counter-spikes supplied by the manufacturer. In theory, CH Precision devices can be stacked, but it is preferable to use an individual shelf per unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Each P1 is delivered with a 7\u2019 disc which is an installation aid. Using the instructions in the manual and the device screen, reading the disc allows you to obtain the optimal theoretical settings, with the gain on one side and the load impedance on the other. The settings obtained provide an excellent basis, but experienced listeners will be able to further improve performance by making adjustments through trial and error.
The gain and load assistant programmes can be found in the factory settings menu. Put the right side on the record player (at 45 rpm) and follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


As our test P1 came with an optional equalisation card, we were able to use the eRIAA, Decca, Columbia, EMI or Teldec (DGG\/Archiv) equaliser. This is a very interesting option because we realise that Decca and EMI probably continued to use their proprietary curves until the early 1970s, while DG never adopted RIAA with the exception of a few albums recorded and pressed in the United States.
All settings are accessible via the front panel controls, or better yet, via the CH Control application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The sound (CH Precision P1)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The P1 is a truly universal phono preamplifier, and all the cartridges we tested it with offered their maximum potential. This is the theoretical premise of this device, but it is also what we fully experienced in practice. Not only were we able to optimise it impeccably for each phono cartridge we tried, but we also understood how well it could make it perform at the top of its capabilities. This was true with all MM or MC cartridges. The first sensation is that of an operational silence that we have not encountered before. When properly connected and configured, the P1 is completely silent, even when the volume knob of the amplifier is at its maximum. This is quite disconcerting, because at first glance you get the impression that it is in the CD position! This silence is a major factor in the overall performance of the P1, which is consequently characterised by a Dantesque level of dynamics. The second unusual impression is that the P1 allows you to fully exploit the potential of each phono cartridge, whether it is a \u2018modest\u2019 MM or a very expensive MC. We investigated the first possibility out of pure journalistic curiosity, because we are well aware that no one on this planet will use a \u20ac500 MM with a \u20ac26,000 preamp. Nevertheless, this experiment says a lot about the P1’s ability to enhance the elements placed upstream. Ultimately, that is really what is required of it… And it is a safe bet that the owner of such a machine is not equipped with just one cartridge, but a nice collection! The same goes for records. In these conditions, happiness is a daily occurrence, because the P1 is unrivalled in satisfying all the eventualities that may arise for its lucky owner. The optional card that we will inevitably adopt allows it to conform to the EMI, Columbia, Decca and Teldec profiles. And frankly, having tried this feature, we have to admit that it gives quite astonishing results. Silence and incredible accuracy are the cardinal virtues of this very special preamp. But that’s not all. It also stands out for its exceptional dynamics management. With it, changes of rhythm and the most subtle inflections of the melodic line are detectable in no time at all. The quality of the timbres is equally eloquent. Of course, a CH Precision cannot deny its heritage, and it is in the realm of neutrality and elegance that the debate is placed. It is on a single, fragile voice or on a piano, messages on which cheating is not possible, that the P1 is most striking. Not that it is more spectacular than others, quite the contrary. What surprises us is the incredible level of purity of sound and presence that it manages to confer on the listening experience. You forget the equipment and are gripped by emotions. And always this silence…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The sound (CH Precision P1 + CH Precision X1)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

We thought we had reached the top of the mountain, but with our Swiss friends, you can never be too sure. Of course, they didn’t lend us the P1 on its own, but with the optional X1 power supply. On the other hand, they had just warned us to take the time to test the P1 on its own, because once the CH Precision X1 is connected, it’s impossible to go back. Unfortunately, we can testify that this is true. When it comes to the performance of hi-fi equipment, we know very well that the power supply has a predominant influence. Outsourcing it, and above all optimising it to the maximum, allows the circuit to work in the best possible conditions. This is exactly what happens here. To be honest, the P1 remains what it is, that is to say a marvellous phono stage. But all its qualities are transcended. The signal-to-noise ratio is even more eloquent, with such a gradation of sound intensity that the spectacular side of certain musical pieces is further emphasised. The instantaneousness of its reactivity is astonishing. As a corollary of this increased dynamics, the sound is even softer. And as the reproduction is even more detailed and subtle, it obviously seems more natural. What is striking is that with the addition of the X1 power supply, you realise that you are listening even louder but with greater comfort. Last but not least, the structure of the sound image is exceptionally precise. It is also in terms of depth that we are won over by such an extension, with very clear and remarkably limpid backgrounds. Nothing is left in the shadows: every musical component drawn from the groove is magnified and exploited in accordance with the rules of the art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"CH<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

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Our conclusion<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

We are starting to develop bad habits: in particular that of regularly testing products from the Swiss brand CH Precision. As we know that we will never be able to afford them, we spend as much time as possible trying them out to savour their stratospheric level of musicality. The CH Precision P1, with or without the X1 power supply, is one of the very few phono preamps that competes for the top of the hierarchy. We are now part of a very exclusive circle of the global audio elite. The fact that you can upgrade your machine to go even further is a fantastic selling point. Of course, this product is only aimed at a minority of enthusiasts who are sufficiently committed to make such an investment, but it represents the state of the art in the field. What struck us is that during the time they were with us, these two machines monopolised our attention to such an extent that we didn’t listen to a single CD or Hi-Res file. Should we see this as a sign?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Authors<\/strong>: Est\u00e8ve Fabry and Laurent Thorin<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Technical sheet: CH Precision X1 Power Supply Unit<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  • Origin<\/strong>: Switzerland<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Price<\/strong>: \u20ac16,000<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dimensions<\/strong>: 440 x 440 x 120 mm<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Weight<\/strong>: 22 kg<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Ultra-low noise stabilised power supply<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Technical sheet: CH Precision P1 phono preamplifier<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    • Origin<\/strong>: Switzerland<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Price<\/strong>: \u20ac28,600<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Dimensions<\/strong>: 440 x 440 x 133 mm<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Weight<\/strong>: 20 kg<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Cell types<\/strong>: MM (moving magnet) and MC (moving coil)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Transistors<\/strong>: Mosfet type on input stages<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Equalisation curves<\/strong>: integrated RIAA EQ and RIAA<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Optional corrections<\/strong>: EMI, Columbia, Decca and Teldec<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Output connectors<\/strong>: Balanced on XLR, unbalanced on RCA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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      • For MC cartridges:<\/strong>
        • Coil current inputs<\/li><\/ul>
          • Gain adjustable in six stages<\/li><\/ul>\n
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            • Inputs: 2 x balanced on XLR or unbalanced on RCA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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              • For MM cartridges:<\/strong>
                • Gain adjustable from 35 dB to 70 dB in 5 dB steps<\/li><\/ul>
                  • Load cell from 20 ohms to 100 kilo-ohms in more than 100 steps<\/li><\/ul>\n
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                    • Input connectors: balanced on XLR, unbalanced on RCA<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                      We continue our odyssey through the CH Precision catalogue with a particularly interesting link, the CH Precision P1 phono preamp which, as is usual with the Swiss manufacturer, can be upgraded with the optional X1 power supply. As always, it offers us a firework of sound. And as always, the sound quality comes at a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":3434,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[25,35],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3420","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-amplifier","category-tests"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3420","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3420"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3420\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3434"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3420"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3420"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vumetre.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3420"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}