RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
Commercial Emotiva XSP-1 Pre Amplifier Emotiva Stereo Preamplifier ORIGINAL BOX AND ACCESSORIES FULL MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY SPECIFICATIONS Design: Fully Balanced Stereo Preamplifier Maximum Gain: + 12 dB THD+N: 0.004% MFR: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.02 dB Inputs: Two Pairs XLR, Four Pairs RCA; Ability to Set Crossover to Subwoofer Output 50 Hz – 250 Hz Dimensions: 6″ H x 17″ W x 16.5″ D Weight: 28 Pounds The Design Having a fully-balanced circuit means essentially that there are two complete preamplifier circuits from input to output. The difference between the two circuits is that one is in
The A$1,490 asking price for this Emotiva XSP-1 Pre Amplifier is ambitious, sitting well above the 75th percentile of A$1,281 and just under 2% higher than the top end of the recent AUD comparable range derived from 155 listings where the median is A$717. While the listing shows an original MSRP of A$2,499, the current used market heavily favors values near the A$717 median, making this listing significantly pricier than typical deals for this unit in Australia.
The XSP-1 remains a well-regarded stereo preamp known for its clean signal path and robust build, often paired with Emotiva’s powerful XPA amplifiers for high-performance HT or music setups. However, given the price sits well above the 75th percentile, a buyer should only proceed if the unit is in original-owner condition, includes all accessories, and shows no signs of age-related wear or capacitor drift common in older preamps. At A$1,490, it’s not a bargain—it’s a premium ask for a solid but dated design.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Emotiva Audio, an American brand founded in 2003 by Dan Laufman, emerged from his extensive background in audio engineering and OEM design. A lifelong audiophile and electrical engineer, Laufman had previously collaborated with pioneers like Infinity's Arnie Nudell and built successful OEM firms, including Jade Design, which supplied components to major players. Launching Emotiva as a passion project just as internet direct-to-consumer sales revolutionized the industry, he named it after the Italian word for "emotional," reflecting the joy he rediscovered in creating gear uncompromised by client demands.
The brand focuses on high-performance amplifiers, preamps, processors, DACs, loudspeakers, and home theater solutions, with early standouts like the 2005 DMC-1 preamp-processor setting benchmarks for build quality and value. Emotiva's lineup emphasizes robust power amps and integrated systems, often leveraging cutting-edge engineering while expanding into full musical device ecosystems by 2015. This direct model strips away retail markups, delivering premium components without frills.
Emotiva holds a strong mid-tier position in the hi-fi market, renowned for democratizing high-end sound through affordability and reliability. It appeals to discerning enthusiasts seeking audiophile-grade performance—often rivaling pricier competitors—via a loyal direct-sales community and U.S.-based production in Franklin, Tennessee. Far from boutique obscurity, Emotiva commands respect for innovation and value, fostering enduring customer allegiance in a crowded field.
See all Emotiva listings on RADAR.
