More things to know Speaker Interface | Pass Labs XA60 specification

More things to know

Speaker Interface

Interconnects and Speaker Cables

XA60 Owner’s Manual

a big deal. You should be able to put your hands on the heat sinks without discomfort for 10 seconds or so.

The amplifier has a thermal cutout that will disconnect AC power if the temperature exceeds 75 degrees Centigrade. This thermal cutout should never occur in real life.

You may remotely operate the stand-by mode by applying 12 volts DC to the single pair of 5 way connectors on the rear of the amplifier. The positive of the 12 volts DC goes to the red connector, negative to the black. This connection has an actual operating range of about 9 volts to 15 volts. This switching feature will override the front panel button, only when the front panel button is in the standby position and the rear panel switch is in the “on” position.

The XA60 is optimized for 8-ohm speaker loads. Having said that; we are not aware of any speaker on the market that presents an unusual or difficult load for these amplifiers.

The XA amplifiers do not care particularly about the reactivity of the load. Reactive loads typically will have slightly less distortion at a given voltage/current level than resistive loads. The XA circuit was designed to be quite happy driving electrostatic speakers and any other esoteric loads we know of.

We have a general recommendation about interconnects, and speaker cables; which is that 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 always in good taste. For long runs balanced cables are highly recommended for their inherent rejection of common mode 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 meters length.

Fortunately this amplifier is not sensitive to the capacitive/inductive character of some of the specialty speaker cables, so feel free to experiment.

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.