Interconnects and Speaker Cables

should never occur in real life. This is a very rare occurrence, and would indicate a serious problem.

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.

After that, the longevity will depend upon the number of operating

XA30.5 Owner’s Manual

Amplifier, 5XA30.5 specifications

Pass Labs has long been synonymous with high-performance audio amplification, and their 5XA30.5 amplifier is a testament to their commitment to quality and engineering excellence. The 5XA30.5 is an exceptional Class A amplifier designed for audiophiles seeking purity in sound reproduction. One of its standout features is its power output; delivering 30 watts per channel into 8 ohms and a doubled output into 4 ohms, it provides ample power for driving a range of loudspeakers with ease.

One of the key technologies employed in the 5XA30.5 is its Class A circuitry. Unlike other amplification classes that switch on and off to produce sound, Class A amplifiers operate continuously, ensuring that the signal remains uncorrupted. This results in a rich, warm sound that faithfully represents the original recording. The design eliminates crossover distortion, a common issue in other classes of amplification, thus enabling the 5XA30.5 to deliver detailed and smooth audio performance, even at lower volumes.

The amplifier's robust construction further enhances its performance. With a fully balanced differential input stage, the 5XA30.5 minimizes noise and distortion, ensuring that the sound remains crisp and clear. The use of custom-designed output transistors offers superior linearity and thermal stability. Additionally, the generous power supply, equipped with a hefty transformer and ample capacitance, allows the amplifier to handle dynamic peaks without strain, preserving the integrity of the audio signal.

Another notable characteristic of the 5XA30.5 is its elegant design. The aesthetics include a minimalist chassis, machined aluminum front panel, and dual meters that provide real-time performance feedback, allowing audiophiles to observe the amplifier’s operation. Furthermore, it features both single-ended and balanced inputs, offering compatibility with a variety of source components.

Importantly, the 5XA30.5 embodies Pass Labs' philosophy of "the art of amplifier design," resulting in a product that not only performs exceptionally well but also maintains a timeless appeal. Whether for critical listening or enjoying music in a relaxed setting, the Pass Labs 5XA30.5 amplifier promises an unparalleled auditory experience, fulfilling the demands of even the most discerning audiophile. In a landscape where many amplifiers prioritize features over fidelity, the 5XA30.5 remains a beacon of true sound reproductions, demonstrating that exceptional quality and craftsmanship can coexist harmoniously.