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XA60 Owner’s Manual

XLR input connector showing proper placement of jumper pin for use with single-ended (RCA) input.

Note: On X150.5 XLRs are upside down.

Now that the source component is connected, make sure there is no signal coming from it, probably by turning the volume all the way down.

With the speakers connected, make sure the power cord is attached and plugged into mains power; toggle the front panel switch to activate the amplifier. The “Power” LED will come on.

Do everybody a favor and try not to have shorted output cables. It happens accidentally all the time, and the amplifier is designed to survive, but why tempt fate. If you accidentally cause the fuse to open, it must be replaced with a like rated fuse before the amplifier will operate. Please remove the amplifiers power cord from the wall outlet before replacing this fuse. The fault, which caused the “open”, will need to be corrected prior to replacing this fuse.

Of course it’s always possible that something may go wrong. If so, don’t get excited. It’s really aggravating when a product doesn’t work, we understand, but it will get fixed. We go to a lot of trouble to make products reliable, and the failure rate of our product is very low. This is small comfort to the few, but take it easy and give us a call if you have problems.

People are interested in how long it takes for these amplifiers to break in. Depending on the resolution of the rest of your audio chain, you may or may not notice any break in of the XA60 beyond the first 50 hours of operation. You will likely notice the difference in sonic character between cold and normal operating temperature, so we recommend letting these amplifiers warm up before any serious listening.

It takes about an hour for them to completely warm up, and this is where we adjust them first. Then we adjust them again and again over a couple of days, keeping the bias and offset in the sweet spot. Our environment is about 23 degrees Centigrade, room temperature, and the heat sinks will rise to about 25 degrees C. above that, for a heat sink temperature of about 48 degrees C. This is where they habitually operate at their sonic best.

In your setup the heatsink temperature may vary a bit due to the normal regional variance in line voltage and ventilation, but it is not

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.