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Pass X vs XA amps sound quality in class A range

If you are one of those lucky enough and has the means to upgrade from the X (or X.5) to the XA (or XA.5) Pass labs amps, is there enough of SQ differences in low power ranges, say between 5-25W, where they all perform in class A mode, supposedly. Thanks for any insight!
tuong9906

Showing 2 responses by rockitman

rockitman's avatar
rockitman
417 posts
 
I love my XA 100.5's. Replaced a long in the tooth Mark Levinson 27.5. They also warm up quick, say within 1/2 hour for good sound. I push Wilson W/P 8's with them. never once have they left class A bias. Great sounding SS power amps.
rockitman's avatar
rockitman
417 posts
 
However, my speakers are 86dB with a 4ohm load and I just played the Chesky Drum Track LP at 95dB and my needles were moving all over the place, not pegged, but they moved about 3/4" every time the kick drum was struck.

My speaker sensitivity is 92dB, so the 100.5's play way loud enough and the bias meters barely budge from their starting position.
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