Speaker Interface

INT-30A Owners Manual

We go to a lot of trouble to make products reliable, and the failure rate of our amplifiers 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 amplifier beyond the first few hours of operation. You will very likely notice the difference in sonic character between cold and normal operating temperature over the first hour, so we recommend letting these amplifiers warm up before any serious listening.

This generation of amplifiers warms up faster and is more bias-stable during warm up than previous versions, but we still recommend an hour for critical listening. At the factory we adjust the bias and offset values initially and then after warm-up and then again after 48 hours, if necessary. The “sweet spot” is a sink temperature between 50 and 55 degrees C., but this is not critical, and will vary with your room temperature. You should be able to put your hands on the heat sinks without undue discomfort for 5 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. This is a very rare occurrence, and would indicate a serious problem.

We have a general recommendation about interconnects, and speaker cables: 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 as to your purchase of cables. Under all circumstances you should unplug power cords before changing signal cables…. you’ve been warned!

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 usually a very good idea. For long runs balanced cables are highly recommended for their inherent rejection of 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.

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

We have found that about 90 per cent of bad sounding cables are really bad sounding connections, and we recommend that attention be paid to cleanliness of electrical contact surfaces and proper connector fit.

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Pass Labs 1INT-30A owner manual Speaker Interface
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1INT-30A specifications

Pass Labs is renowned for its high-quality audio equipment, and the Pass Labs 1INT-30A integrated amplifier exemplifies the company's commitment to excellence. This amplifier is designed for audiophiles seeking a blend of superior sound quality, innovative technology, and robust build.

At the heart of the 1INT-30A is its powerful Class A amplifier topology, which is one of the distinguishing features of Pass Labs products. Class A operation is known for its linearity and minimal distortion, providing a warm and natural sound. The 1INT-30A is capable of delivering 30 watts per channel into 8 ohms, which might seem modest compared to high-powered amplifiers, but the purity of the sound is where it shines. This amplifier can also drive speakers with lower impedances effectively, making it versatile for various audio setups.

One of the standout technologies featured in the 1INT-30A is its Fully Balanced Differential Circuitry. This design helps to minimize noise and interference, ensuring that the audio signal remains clear and accurate from input to output. This attention to detail in the circuit design is instrumental in delivering the pristine sound quality that Pass Labs is known for.

In addition, the 1INT-30A incorporates a high-quality volume control that ensures precise adjustments. The volume is not only easy to operate but also designed to maintain sonic integrity across its range, allowing users to enjoy dynamic performances with minimal compromise.

Another important aspect of the 1INT-30A is its exploitation of minimalist aesthetics combined with sturdy craftsmanship. The amplifier is housed in a beautifully crafted chassis with a front panel that is both elegant and user-friendly. The build quality reflects the high standard typical of Pass Labs, with an emphasis on longevity and reliability.

Connectivity options on the 1INT-30A include multiple analog inputs, allowing for integration with various audio sources like CD players and turntables, which makes it highly adaptable for different audio setups. The inclusion of a high-quality headphone output also adds to its versatility, catering to listeners who prefer private listening experiences.

In summary, the Pass Labs 1INT-30A represents a harmonization of innovative technology and superior sound engineering. From its powerful Class A output to its Fully Balanced Differential Circuitry, every aspect of the amplifier contributes to an exceptional listening experience. With elegant design and meticulous craftsmanship, the 1INT-30A is a testament to Pass Labs' dedication to producing high-fidelity audio equipment that satisfies the exacting demands of audiophiles.
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