2. amps-preamps
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Mono blocks that can provide that golden sound...

I cureently own a pair of Pass Labs XA160.5s. They are a incredible sounding pair of mono blocks but they tale a very long time to warm up and settle down. I refuse to listen to them untill they are warmed and settled as when they are first turned on the sound is 2D, flat, non ingaging and just not much enjoyment at first. When they are warmed up they are to die for and would be lifers for me if not for the long warmup time which can take 1-2 hours of playing music. I can't afford to just let them stay on 24/7 as I tried once and they added $100+ to my electric bill and wife was not happy about it.

So, can anyone reccomand a pair om mons that provide the same or very close to the signature sound of the Pass that require very little warm up time like 30mins or less? Alos must be new or used under $13K. Not 100% sure to keep or swap out yet. Thanks!
rampage60

Showing 1 response by rtn1

rtn1
535 posts
 
I think warm-up time is a constant for any piece of equipment. One or two hours is relatively short compared to other solid state amplifiers. I had the X.5 series, and those required 6-8 hours, and really sounded their best after 12-24 hours. The XA.5 is considerably less dependent upon time for me. Even tubed equipment can benefit from 1-2 hours.

I would recommend the Tripoint Troy, which is an external grounding system for all your components. You will not complain of your system sounding 2D, flat, and non-engaging. This is precisely the effect it has. Your system will sound great at start-up, it will only get better after that hour.

With all the care required for quality connectors and power, I would not use a timer.
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