Setup

X5 Owner’s Manual

The X Series amplifiers have the tremendous dynamic range (>150 dB) to do justice to the 24 bit recordings of the 21st Century. The simple but powerful circuitry moves easily from total silence to explosive transient and back to silence without a trace. It’s a spooky experience.

So relax and enjoy your amplifier. Call us if you ever have a problem or question. Thank you for buying our product.

You can position the amplifier anywhere you want, but it requires ventilation. We do not recommend placing it in enclosed cabinets or small closets without means for air to circulate freely. The amplifier idles at about 200 watts.

Let’s talk about power requirements. The amplifier draws about 2 amps (continuous rms) out of the wall during normal audio operation, and this reflects mostly the idle current that we run through the output stage. If you are driving a low impedance load, you will draw more than this, but this will not be typical.

The X5 is provided with the more conventional AC line cord, which is rated at 15 amps. The circuit ground is attached to the chassis in the conventional manner.

Under no circumstances should you defeat the ground connection of the power cord. For your safety, the chassis of the amplifier should be earth grounded.

Looking at the rear panel you will see the AC power cord receptacle, a power switch, fuse holder, five pairs of output connectors, a pair of 5 way connectors for remote turn-on, five RCA input connectors and five XLR balanced input connectors.

Make sure that the power switch is off (down). Plug the AC cord into the back of the amplifier, and then into the wall. Then turn the switch on (up). The lights in your house will blink when the power supply charges the capacitors.

On the front panel, the “Standby” LED indicator should be glowing blue, indicating that the power is on. The “Power” LED should not be on. If the “Power” LED is on, don’t get excited, just use the front panel stand-by button to go to stand-by mode, with the “Standby” LED on and the “Power “ LED off.

OK, so the amplifier is sitting there in stand-by mode with just the

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.