Introduction

X5 Owner’s Manual

The X5 five channel amplifier embodies the design technology and refinements of the larger “X” series amplifiers including extensions of the patented Supersymmetry circuit.

The Supersymmetry circuit topology was granted a U.S. patent in 1994, and is the result of 19 years of effort by Nelson Pass. The amplifier uses highly matched components in a classically simple balanced Class A circuit. The amplifier contains only two simple stages: the first is a balanced single-ended Class A voltage gain stage. Its output drives a bank of high power Mosfets operated as voltage followers.

These are inherently low distortion types of circuits, but their performance is improved when operated in balanced mode through cancellation. Distortion and noise identical to both halves of a balanced circuit will disappear at the output, and in a well-matched symmetric circuit, most of the distortion and noise is identical.

Supersymmetry enhances this effect by providing a connection between the two halves of the balanced circuit that further perfects the match. Any distortion and noise not already identical to the two halves is made identical, and the result is improved cancellation at the output.

Unlike feedback techniques where the goal is to correct for the distortion by feeding a gain stage an inversely distorted signal, Supersymmetry seeks merely to create perfect matching.

Matched balanced power circuitry typically sees a distortion and noise reduction of about 90% (20 dB) through a balanced connection without any additional effort. The Supersymmetric circuit delivers another 90% reduction, so that the X series has about 1/100 of the distortion of a conventionally simple amplifier. Actually this ordinary distortion and noise can still be seen at the output of one half of the circuit, but since it is virtually identical on the other half, it goes away at the speaker terminals. This gives good measured performance, which because it is simple, also sounds excellent.

Previously these kinds of simple Class A circuits have been popular for their sound quality in low power amplifiers, but have not found application at high power levels due to excessive distortion and low efficiency. Supersymmetry overcomes this barrier, delivering the sweetness, staging, and detail of very simple circuitry up to kilowatt power levels and beyond.

X5 specifications

Pass Labs X5 is a distinguished power amplifier that brings together advanced engineering with a commitment to high-fidelity sound reproduction. Designed for audiophiles who desire an extraordinary listening experience, the X5 is a testament to the brand’s dedication to quality and performance.

At the heart of the X5 is its balanced Class A topology, which ensures that the amplifier delivers a rich sound signature with a lush midrange and extended high frequencies. This configuration minimizes crossover distortion, providing a clean and accurate representation of the input signal. The result is a dynamic range that captures the subtleties in music, from the softest whispers to the most powerful crescendos.

The X5 boasts a powerful output stage capable of delivering 300 watts per channel into 8 ohms, making it suitable for driving a wide range of speakers with ease. This power allows the X5 to maintain control over the speakers, ensuring that even during demanding passages, there is no loss of clarity or detail. The amplifier's ability to handle low impedance loads further enhances its versatility, catering to a vast array of speaker types.

One of the standout features of the Pass Labs X5 is its dual-mono architecture. This design isolates the left and right channels, reducing crosstalk and enhancing stereo imaging. By keeping the signal paths dedicated, listeners can enjoy a more defined soundstage where each instrument and vocal can be placed exactly where it was intended in the mix.

The build quality of the X5 is exceptional, with a robust chassis designed to minimize vibrations and interference. The internal components, including high-quality capacitors and resistors, are meticulously selected to optimize performance and longevity. The attention to detail extends to the heat sink design, which ensures efficient thermal management, keeping the amplifier cool during long listening sessions.

Overall, the Pass Labs X5 power amplifier represents the pinnacle of audio engineering, combining innovative technologies with a robust design to deliver unparalleled sound quality. Whether used in a dedicated listening room or as part of a high-end home theater system, the X5 stands as a premier choice for those who seek the ultimate in audiophile performance. With its impressive power, precision, and beauty, the X5 is not just an amplifier; it is an investment in musical enjoyment for years to come.