Pass Labs XA60 guide

XA60 Owner’s Manual

The amplifier has only the two stages, an input stage of a balanced pair of input devices, and the output stage, a balanced pair of single-ended Class A power Mosfets. Like the Aleph™, you can trace a path from input to output through only two gain devices. Like the X amps, feedback is used only to set the gain and correct for dissimilarities between the two matched output stages.

There are no adjustments. There are no frequency compensation capaci- tors. The amplifiers are unconditionally stable and reliable into any load. They are not fragile, temperamental or prone to failure.

The XA amplifiers operate at approximately 33% efficiency, which is to say they idle at three times their rated output. The XA200 is rated at 200 watts output into 8 ohms and draws something over 600 watts of AC power. This design is an exercise in highly conservative engineering, which provides exceptional reliability and product longevity. The output devices are exposed to no more than a fraction of the voltage and wattage they are designed to endure.

These rugged power devices are matched to about .3% and mounted on Mica insulators. Their massive heat sinks run at about 25 degrees C. above ambient temperature, so that actual chip temperatures are about 70 degrees below their rating. The output devices are designed to last a very long time under these conditions, with a probable life of about 50,000 hours.

The power supply of the XA 200 uses elaborate RF filtering and noise sup- pression designed to block AC noise and line DC. The substantial toroidal power transformer is followed by high speed rectifiers, and significant uF of computer grade capacitors in a passive filter arrangement. In addition to a main power switch the amplifier has a standby mode, which shuts down the bias to the circuit while keeping the supply active, significantly extending the life of the filter capacitors.

The sound of the XA amplifiers is a quantum leap over the parents. They retain the sweet warmth and lushness of the Aleph™ series without the fluffy coloration’s. The dynamic contrast is even better than the X series; transients leaping from black to crescendo and back again with no tele- graphing or hangover.

The bass has as much control over the speaker as the original X amps, but is a bit more neutral and carries subtler nuance. The midrange is a little deeper and the soundstage wider than the Alephs™.

Are the XA’s better than Alephs™ and X’s in every respect? Yes, except for the higher power/current ratings of the X amps.

Are they the best audio amplifiers that money can buy? Absolutely!

XA60 specifications

Pass Labs XA60 is a high-performance audio power amplifier that epitomizes the pursuit of sonic purity and fidelity in the realm of high-end audio. It is the entry-level model in the esteemed XA series, but still incorporates many of the advanced technologies and features found in its more powerful siblings. Designed with a focus on delivering an immersive listening experience, the XA60 combines state-of-the-art engineering with superior craftsmanship.

One of the key features of the XA60 is its Class A topology, which ensures that the amplifier operates in the linear region for the entirety of its output range. This design lends itself to a warm, natural sound that captures the nuances of music without the harshness often associated with other amplifier classes. The XA60 is capable of delivering 60 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load, making it ideal for driving a variety of loudspeakers, including high-efficiency models.

The amplifier employs Pass Labs' patented "Pure Class A" output stage, which utilizes a unique biasing method to minimize crossover distortion. This innovative approach enhances the overall sonic clarity and dynamic range, allowing the XA60 to reproduce even the most complex musical passages with ease. Additionally, the amplifier is characterized by its dual-mono design, isolating the left and right channels to reduce crosstalk and interference, which ultimately results in a more focused soundstage.

Another standout characteristic of the XA60 is its massive power supply. The highly refined power supply includes large heatsinks and high-quality components that help maintain stability and reduce noise during operation. The robust thermal management ensures that the amplifier remains cool, even during extended listening sessions, thus preserving the integrity of the sound.

The build quality of the XA60 is nothing short of exceptional. Housed in a sturdy chassis, the amplifier features premium-grade connectors and a simple, yet elegant aesthetic that is typical of Pass Labs products. The thoughtful design not only ensures durability but also aids in minimizing vibration, further enhancing acoustic performance.

In summary, the Pass Labs XA60 amplifier represents a harmonious blend of advanced technologies, exceptional sound quality, and impeccable craftsmanship. With its Class A operation, dual-mono architecture, and high-quality components, the XA60 provides a nuanced, engaging listening experience that appeals to audiophiles seeking both precision and warmth in their audio systems. Whether used in a dedicated listening room or as part of a larger home audio setup, the XA60 is engineered to deliver music as it was meant to be heard.