Description

The Advance Paris X-i120 is a French-built stereo integrated amplifier , recognizable at first glance by the two blue VU meters on the front and the sober layout typical of the X series. The final stage uses eight power transistors and delivers 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms, rising to 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms: a reserve of energy sufficient to drive with authority even floorstanding speakers of little sensitivity or with a challenging impedance profile.

The distinctive feature of the project is the switch High Bias, which raises the quiescent current of the output stage and shifts the operation towards the Class A In the first few watts, where much of the microdynamics and definition are played out when listening at home volume. Power is provided by two toroidal transformers.dali, a choice that helps keep the channels stable even in the densest orchestral passages.

On the digital front, the X-i120 integrates a digital-to-analog converter with a Cirrus Logic CS8416 receiver, rated up to 24-bit and 192 kHz, served by two coaxial inputs and one optical input. These are joined by a USB B port for Mac and PC, based on a Burr-Brown PCM2900 converter, and a USB A port for directly reading MP3 files from a stick. For those wondering how to connect a computer to a hi-fi amplifier without an external DAC, this is the most immediate answer: all you need is a USB cable, keeping in mind that the PCM2900 chip works at CD resolution and does not handle high resolution — for hi-res streaming, it's better to input via coaxial or optical from a dedicated streamer.

The analog equipment remains generous and designed for layered systems: MM phono input, CD, tuner, four auxiliaries, a PC2 analog input, a Record output and the option of separating the preamplifier and power amplifier. This last function, pre-power separation , allows the X-i120 to be used as a preamplifier alone or as a power amplifier alone, or to be included in a bi-amplified system: a margin of growth that few integrated amplifiers in this range offer. Completing the package are two pairs of speaker outputs, a headphone output and a 5-volt power socket for the WTX-500 wireless receiver, as well as controls for volume, balance, loudness, bass, treble and a bypass function to exclude the tone section when looking for the most direct signal path.

A discontinued model, the X-i120 is now aimed at those looking for a used integrated amplifier with a power-to-price ratio that is difficult to match in a new one: a single box that manages a turntable with a moving magnet cartridge, CD player, television and computer, without forcing the purchase of separate electronics.

Specifications

Amplification type	transistor
RMS power per channel	120 W
Reference load	8 ohm
Stadio phono	MM
Analog inputs	1x phono MM, 1x CD, 1x tuner, 4x AUX, 1x PC2 (RCA)
Frequency response	10 Hz – 35 kHz
Harmonic Distortion (THD)	0.1%
Rapporto S/N	90 dB
Input impedance	47 kOhm
Line input sensitivity	300
Digital inputs	2x coaxial, 1x optical, 1x USB B, 1x USB A
Integrated DAC	Cirrus Logic CS8416 – 24 bit / 192 kHz
PCM max	192kHz
DAC chip	Cirrus Logic CS8416
Dimensions (WxHxD)	430 x 175 x 350 mm
Weight	11.35 kg
Electricity consumption	500 W
Alimentazione	2 toroi transformersdali – 115 V / 230 V

About the brand

Advance Paris has represented the excellence of French high fidelity since its founding in Paris in 1989. This prestigious French brand positions itself in the premium segment of the international hi-fi market, distinguishing itself with its innovative hybrid technology that combines the warmth of vacuum tubes with the precision of transistors, creating a unique sound appreciated by the most demanding audiophiles.

The story of Advance Paris stems from the passion of French engineers for high-quality music reproduction, aiming to democratize access to reference-level hi-fi without sonic compromises. The company's philosophy is based on three fundamental pillars: technological innovation, elegant French design, and affordability. Each product is conceived and developed in its Parisian workshops, where traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technologies merge to create audio electronics capable of thrilling even the most sophisticated listeners. The company has always believed that high fidelity should be an accessible pleasure, not an elitist luxury, maintaining exceptional value for money across all market segments. The constant search for innovative solutions has led Advance Paris to patent proprietary technologies that have revolutionized the way we conceive of modern hi-fi amplification.

Advance Paris's distinctive technologies include its revolutionary hybrid amplification, which uses tube preamp stages combined with Class AB power amplifiers, ensuring the characteristic "warm" sound of tubes with the dynamics and control of modern transistors. Proprietary MyConnect technology enables high-resolution wireless streaming, supporting formats up to 24-bit/192kHz and aptX HD Bluetooth connectivity. The French company's integrated amplifiers implement stabilized power supply circuits with Toro transformers.dali oversized, while the speakers use custom transducers developed in collaboration with prestigious European manufacturers.

The Advance Paris product range covers every need of the modern stereo system, from audiophile CD players to integrated amplifiers, from bookshelf speakers to digital streaming sources. Integrated amplifiers are the heart of the production, available in both transistor versions for those who prefer precision and control, and hybrid variants for lovers of tube sound. The /product-category/amplifiers/transistor-integrated-amplifiers/ category includes models such as the X-i75 and X-i125, while the hybrid line is available in the /product-category/amplifiers/tube-integrated-amplifiers/ section with the famous X-A220 and X-A160 models. For audiophiles who prefer separation, the /product-category/amplifiers/pre-power/ range offers reference pre- and power amplifier combinations.

The X Series represents the flagship line, characterized by minimalist design and reference performance. The Xi models include integrated amplifiers from 75 to 160 watts per channel, all equipped with MyConnect technology and multiple digital inputs. The A Series groups together products with hybrid technology, with power outputs from 80 to 220 watts and the option of pure Class A operation for the first watts. The Playstream range is dedicated to digital music enthusiasts, with high-quality network players and DACs available in the /product-category/sources/ category. The Advance Paris speakers, featured in the /product-category/speakers/floorstanding-speakers/ and /product-category/speakers/bookshelf-speakers/ sections, use high-density MDF cabinets and selected transducers to ensure tonal consistency with the in-house electronics.

The range also includes premium CD and SACD players, available in the /product-category/sources/cd-sacd-dvd-players/ category, designed with high-quality transports and tube output stages. For vinyl lovers, Advance Paris offers plug-and-play turntables in the /product-category/sources/turntables/ section, complete with pre-mounted cartridge and integrated MM/MC phono stage.

International recognition has not been lacking: the European audio press has repeatedly honored Advance Paris products with prestigious awards. French magazine "Diapason" awarded the Diamant d'Or to the X-A160 amplifier, while "What Hi-Fi?" UK awarded the ACT-300 loudspeakers Product of the Year. Italian critics, through publications such as "Suono" and "Audio Review," have consistently praised the value for money and musicality of French products.

Advance Paris's target audience includes discerning audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking superior sound quality without a prohibitive investment. The price range is mid-to-high, with products ranging from €500 for entry-level speakers to €4000 for flagship amplifiers, while maintaining a competitive price-quality ratio compared to international competitors.

Italian distribution is handled by qualified importers who guarantee specialized technical assistance and original spare parts. The network of authorized dealers covers the main Italian cities, offering pre- and post-sales consulting and listening in a controlled environment. Italian customer service provides multilingual technical support and assistance with optimal system configurations.

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