Fun Hardware Facts

XA60 Owner’s Manual

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.

Speaker cables should be firmly tightened down at the speaker output terminals, but not with a wrench. Output terminals will not withstand the levels of torque that may be easily applied by wrench. Hand tightening without excessive force is plenty. Cleaning contact surfaces with one of the commercially available electronic contact cleaners should be part of your annual system maintenance.

The XA60 has a single large power transformer, under actual conditions in the amplifier, it supplies but a fraction of its rated power. This very conservative rating contributes to exceptional voltage regulation figures and low noise figures at the loudspeaker.

The XA60 has a significant number of power supply filter capacitors. These caps are used to create the unregulated output stage rails, RC filtering is used to passively remove ripple from the supply rails.

All the power transistors in the product are hyper-matched parts, with gate voltages matched to 0.5% and all devices taken from the same manufacturing lot codes (made on the same wafer).

So how long will this hardware last? It is our experience that, barring abuse or the odd failure of a component, the first things to go will be the power supply capacitors, and from experience, they will last

15 to 30 years. Fortunately they die gracefully and are easily replaced by a good technician. After that, the longevity will depend upon the number of operating thermal cycles, but we can say that we have had amplifiers operating in the field in excess of 20 years with no particular mortality, and we don’t have good information beyond that. More to the point, you should not worry about it. This is a conservatively built industrial design, not a frail tube circuit run on the brink of catastrophic failure. If it breaks, we will simply get it fixed, so sleep well.

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Pass Labs XA60 owner manual Fun Hardware Facts
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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.
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