XA200.5 Owner’s Manual

pin 3 is inverted (negative) input. Pin numbers are marked on the XLR. If you re-install the jumper incorrectly or leave it lying about, the amplifier will not work properly, and you will be able to tell.

Choose either XLR or RCA inputs. If you run both at once from different components, the sound is not likely to be optimal, but it shouldn’t cause damage anywhere.

Now that the source component is connected, turn the volume all the way down. Plug the power cord back into the wall, and turn on the rear power switch.

Push the front panel button to activate the amplifier. The lights will come on.

You are ready to play music

With any luck, you can now enter that blissful state, and we won’t expect you back for a while.

It’s always possible that something may go wrong. If so, don’t get excited. We know It’s really aggravating when a product doesn’t work, but it will get fixed, and often it’s something really simple.

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

8

Page 8
Image 8
Pass Labs XA200.5 owner manual You are ready to play music

XA200.5 specifications

The Pass Labs XA200.5 is a distinguished power amplifier that epitomizes high-end audio engineering, renowned for its exceptional sound quality and performance. Designed to cater to audiophiles and serious music lovers, the XA200.5 combines innovative technologies with elegant craftsmanship to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.

At the core of the XA200.5 is its Class A topology, which is celebrated for its ability to produce warm, rich sound with minimal distortion. The amplifier is capable of delivering 200 watts of power into an 8-ohm load, and it can double that output for 4-ohm loads, making it suitable for driving a wide range of loudspeakers, from modest bookshelf models to demanding floor-standing designs. This impressive power reserve ensures that the XA200.5 can handle dynamic peaks effortlessly, providing a sense of authority and control over the music.

One of the standout features of the XA200.5 is its proprietary "current source" design. This technology allows the amplifier to deliver musical dynamics with precision while maintaining a linear response across the audio spectrum. Pass Labs emphasizes the importance of low signal distortion, and the XA200.5 achieves this through meticulous engineering, including high-quality components and a robust power supply. The power supply not only supports the high current demands of the amplifier but also contributes to the overall stability and performance of the unit.

The build quality of the XA200.5 is exceptional, with a substantial chassis constructed from high-grade aluminum. This not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also enhances durability and minimizes resonance, ensuring that the internal components function optimally. The amplifier features a distinctive design with large heat sinks that facilitate efficient thermal management, keeping the unit cool even during extended playback sessions.

Another notable aspect of the XA200.5 is its single-ended input configuration, which is designed to enhance musicality. This input sensitivity allows for direct connection to source components without the need for a preamplifier, ensuring a pure signal path. Additionally, the amplifier includes balanced input options for those who prefer using balanced connections.

In summary, the Pass Labs XA200.5 is a powerhouse of an amplifier that beautifully marries technological innovation and elegant design. With its Class A operation, proprietary current source technology, and exceptional build quality, the XA200.5 delivers a remarkable audio experience that is both impactful and refined, making it a top choice for discerning audiophiles.