Pass X vs XA amps sound quality in class A range

According to Stereophile measurements...

While the XA30.5 may give 30Wpc into 8 ohms in class-A (14.8dBW)...the amplifier doesn't actually clip (defined as the THD reaching 1%) until a much higher power level: 130Wpc into 8 ohms (21.14dBW). Even higher powers were available into lower impedances before clipping: 195Wpc into 4 ohms with both channels driven (19.9dBW), and 332W into 2 ohms with one channel driven (19.2dBW).

I assume the other amps in the XA.5 series will be similar in this respect, but I don't know that for sure.

Bryon

Rhyno,
I just read your review of the XA60.5 in PF. Well written and informative review. Thanks for the reference.

Tuong,
They switch into Class AB, not specified in the manuals and then clip at power ratings much higher. The XA.5 series amps are very conservatively rated. They do sound much more powerful than their rated specs would suggest, though I don't know the specifics. Kent at Pass Labs may be able to answer this question.

Thanks again, you folks are first class!

IMHO, if you think you might be pushing it from time to time for parties, etc., I wonder if buying the more powerful Class AB amp might be better. There's probably less chance of frying a tweeter with the more powerful amp, especially if guests get carried away.