Interconnects and Speaker Cables, Product Life

XA200.5 Owner’s Manual

the temperature exceeds 75 degrees Centigrade. This thermal cutout should never occur in real life. This is a very rare occurrence, and would indicate a serious problem.

Interconnects and Speaker Cables

We have a general recommendation about interconnects, and speaker cables: They should cost less than the amplifier, and contain at least some conductive material. We have tried a lot of products and most work well, but as a practical matter we cannot make blanket recommendations.

The amplifier is not sensitive to source interconnects. It is also not sensitive to radio frequency pickup, which allows some flexibility in choosing source interconnects without shields, though shields are usually a very good idea. For long runs balanced cables are highly recommended for their inherent rejection of noise.

We prefer speaker cables that are short and stout. Oxygen-free copper and silver are the suggested materials. If you find any really exceptional cable made of gold, please gift us a couple hundred feet.

Fortunately this amplifier is not sensitive to the capacitive/inductive character of some of the specialty speaker cables, so feel free to experiment.

We have found that about 90 per cent of bad sounding cables are really bad sounding connections, and we recommend that attention be paid to cleanliness of electrical contact surfaces and proper connector fit.

Speaker cables should be firmly tightened down at the speaker output terminals, but not with a wrench. Output terminals will not withstand the levels of torque that may be easily applied by wrench. Hand tightening without excessive force is plenty. Cleaning contact surfaces with one of the commercially available electronic contact cleaners should be part of your annual system maintenance.

Product Life

So how long will this hardware last? It is our experience that, barring abuse or the odd failure of a component, the first things to go will be the power supply capacitors, and from experience, they will last 15 to 30 years. Fortunately they die gracefully and are easily replaced by a good technician.

XA200.5 specifications

The Pass Labs XA200.5 is a distinguished power amplifier that epitomizes high-end audio engineering, renowned for its exceptional sound quality and performance. Designed to cater to audiophiles and serious music lovers, the XA200.5 combines innovative technologies with elegant craftsmanship to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.

At the core of the XA200.5 is its Class A topology, which is celebrated for its ability to produce warm, rich sound with minimal distortion. The amplifier is capable of delivering 200 watts of power into an 8-ohm load, and it can double that output for 4-ohm loads, making it suitable for driving a wide range of loudspeakers, from modest bookshelf models to demanding floor-standing designs. This impressive power reserve ensures that the XA200.5 can handle dynamic peaks effortlessly, providing a sense of authority and control over the music.

One of the standout features of the XA200.5 is its proprietary "current source" design. This technology allows the amplifier to deliver musical dynamics with precision while maintaining a linear response across the audio spectrum. Pass Labs emphasizes the importance of low signal distortion, and the XA200.5 achieves this through meticulous engineering, including high-quality components and a robust power supply. The power supply not only supports the high current demands of the amplifier but also contributes to the overall stability and performance of the unit.

The build quality of the XA200.5 is exceptional, with a substantial chassis constructed from high-grade aluminum. This not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also enhances durability and minimizes resonance, ensuring that the internal components function optimally. The amplifier features a distinctive design with large heat sinks that facilitate efficient thermal management, keeping the unit cool even during extended playback sessions.

Another notable aspect of the XA200.5 is its single-ended input configuration, which is designed to enhance musicality. This input sensitivity allows for direct connection to source components without the need for a preamplifier, ensuring a pure signal path. Additionally, the amplifier includes balanced input options for those who prefer using balanced connections.

In summary, the Pass Labs XA200.5 is a powerhouse of an amplifier that beautifully marries technological innovation and elegant design. With its Class A operation, proprietary current source technology, and exceptional build quality, the XA200.5 delivers a remarkable audio experience that is both impactful and refined, making it a top choice for discerning audiophiles.