Installation and Connections

AC Power Considerations

Ensure that the unit is plugged into an outlet capable of supplying the correct voltage and current specified for your model. Remember to account for the electrical power that other components will require if they share a common wall socket or electrical circuit. The majority of household electrical sockets in places other than the kitchen and garage are 15 amperes maximum. Most DVD players and other source components are fairly low current items. The Emotiva XPA-1 requires a minimum of 10 amperes @ 115volts or 5 amperes @ 230 volts. It should be sufficient to allow the other devices such as preamplifiers and A/V source units to share a wall socket, but power amplifiers such as the XPA-1 and a video display (big screen TV or video projector) should be provided a SEPARATE electrical connection on a SEPARATE circuit. As the XPA-1 has a minimum requirement that can can consume nearly one entire circuit, please use a second (separate) electrical connection for other devices. DO NOT plug the XPA-1 into a power strip or extension cord unless the device is specifically specifically designed and rated for high current use.

Refer to your preamplifier, A/V source component(s), and video display owner’s manuals to learn the power requirements so you can safely plan your electrical power requirements for your home entertainment system.

Upon powering up the XPA-1 with the front panel switch or via 3.5mm trigger input (switch on the

rear panel must be set to “ON”), you will notice the front panel LED lighting starts off red for 5 seconds and then turns to blue. This indicates the amplifier is “on”, functioning normally , and ready for operation. If you experience no LED light or a blinking red LED light while the amplifier is on during (otherwise) normal operation, please refer to the troubleshooting section of this manual.

Physical Placement

Place the XPA-1 on a flat, level surface. Please distribute the weight equally on the four feet. Please give this unit adequate ventilation for proper cooling when placing. If this unit is placed in a cabinet, please make sure that the cabinet’s rear is open to fresh air and there are at least 6 inches of free air space above the amplifier and 1 inch on each side. If the amplifier is located on a carpeted surface, place a board under the amplifier’s feet. If the cabinet’s design will not accommodate an open rear, install two small brushless DC fans (such as those used in computer cases) to provide continuous air flow into and out of the cabinet.

Do NOT block the ventilation holes on the XPA-1. The XPA-1 is equipped with a massive torroidal power transformer. This transformer generates a magnetic field that could induce a hum in a turntable (particularly a turntable equipped with a moving coil cartridge). Do NOT place a turntable directly above or directly adjacent to the XPA-1.

Before placing the XPA-1 on a shelf,verify that the weight bearing capacity of the shelf is 80 lbs or greater. The amplifier is heavy and should be placed toward the bottom of an audio rack to minimize the rack being unnecessarily top heavy.

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Emotiva XPA-1 manual Installation and Connections, AC Power Considerations, Physical Placement
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XPA-1 specifications

The Emotiva XPA-1 is a powerful and sophisticated monoblock amplifier designed for audiophiles who demand high performance and exceptional sound quality. With a power output of 1000 watts per channel into 8 ohms, and doubling the power to 2000 watts into 4 ohms, the XPA-1 is engineered to drive even the most demanding speakers with ease.

One of the key features of the XPA-1 is its fully balanced design. This configuration minimizes distortion and improves dynamic range by reducing the noise floor, allowing for a cleaner and more detailed sound. The amplifier employs a Class A/B topology, ensuring that sound quality remains pristine while delivering the high power needed for demanding audio applications. This hybrid design combines the efficiency of Class B operation with the low distortion characteristics of Class A amplification.

Thermal management is another critical aspect of the XPA-1. The amplifier is equipped with a robust heat sink and thermal protection circuitry, ensuring that it operates safely and efficiently even during extended listening sessions. The design allows for quiet operation, minimizing the impact of fan noise, a common concern with high-power amplifiers.

The XPA-1 features high-quality components, including custom-wound toroidal transformers, which provide a stable power supply. This contributes to the amplifier's impressive transient response and dynamic capability, allowing it to handle complex musical passages and peak demands effortlessly. Additionally, the use of high-grade capacitors further enhances performance, ensuring that audio playback is not only powerful but also accurate and lifelike.

Another notable feature is the XPA-1's RCA and XLR inputs, providing versatile connectivity options for various audio sources. This enhanced flexibility allows users to integrate the amplifier seamlessly into their existing audio systems, whether for home theater setups or high-end stereo configurations.

Emotiva's attention to detail extends to the build quality of the XPA-1. With a sleek and sturdy chassis, the amplifier is designed to endure the rigors of everyday use while complementing any high-end audio environment. The front panel features a unified design with neatly arranged controls, making it user-friendly and aesthetically appealing.

In summary, the Emotiva XPA-1 is a high-performance monoblock amplifier that combines advanced technology, exceptional power output, and robust build quality. Its fully balanced design, powerful Class A/B amplification, and high-quality components make it an attractive option for audiophiles looking to elevate their sound systems to new heights. Whether for music or home theater applications, the XPA-1 delivers an uncompromising listening experience that truly captivates.
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