Source: Press Release, Last Accessed: 2017/04/17

Pass Labs has started shipping their new XA25 Class A Power Amplifier, the most affordable power amplifier in their current line. With 2x25W at 8 ohms, 2x50W at 4 ohms and 2x100W Class A/AB at 2 ohms, and priced at $4,900, the XA25 is not meant as merely an "entry-level” model, but rather, a more affordable way for consumers to experience the Pass Labs line and all its renowned traditions of founder Nelson Pass’ comprehensive design, construction and performance.
The XA25 is a smaller Class A stereo amplifier at a lower price and takes advantage of the lower power requirements to have simpler single-ended circuitry and fewer parts in the signal path. This also allows elimination of degeneration, “that other negative feedback,” in all stages, the company states.
According to the press release, newer power FET technology replaces banks of parallel small transistors with a single pair of industrial devices, each having a 700 watt/40 amp rating. With no current-hogging issues and a new constant-current bias circuit to compensate for temperature drift, they connect directly to the loudspeaker without ballast resistors for lowest possible distortion and highest damping factor. No degeneration also increases the efficiency and Class-A operating current, allowing greater Class-A operation into low impedance and reactive loads.
The simple front end circuit uses two pairs of NOS complementary FETs in common-source mode in a current feedback (CFA) configuration. The amplifier is direct coupled and has no DC servos or frequency compensation. Inputs from the preamplifier or DAC are RCA.
According to Nelson Pass: “As with all Pass amplifiers, the technology and construction are strictly in the service of the listening experience. The XA25 measures superbly, but its subjective qualities are most special. In an industry where products with great specs are often found to be dry and boring, this amplifier breathes new life into the music. It follows the philosophy of PL amplifier design – still greater performance with still simpler circuitry.”

For more information: https://passlabs.com/

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