2. amps-preamps
  3. 1363965138

Can a Pass Labs XA160.5 Drive a Set Of Thiel CS7.2

I have a pass Labs X600 which is being used to drive a set of Thiel CS7.2's. I'm considering upgrading my amp to either a Pass Labs X600.5 or a Pass Labs XA160.5. Everyone seem to love the XA160.5's. However, I'm concerned that the XA1605.5's won't have enough current to drive the big Thiels. I've had Threshold T400's and Pass Labs X350 paired with the Thiels in the past and I was unsatisfied with the dynamics.
thresholdman
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
Congrats on your purchase! I felt the same way when trying both the 350.5 and the Ayre V-1xe (200/400 wpc). Completely different speaker with the X600s and ended up with the Krell 650M monos. I'm wasnt in any where near the size room your in and still felt the 7.2s didnt open up to what they should without huge power.
thresholdman OP
12 posts
 
I talked with Kent at Pass Labs and he recommended the xa200.5 or the x600.5. He did not recommend the xa160.5 for the Thiel's. I ordered the X600.5's and will fire them up on Friday.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
We will keep open ears and open eyes for a mini or regular review on the new amp. Congats on the purchase no matter what.
skootb
69 posts
 
Does anyone know what the XA160's actually put out at full Class A/B power?

I believe there's 6db of headroom in AB, so that means 640 watts at 8ohm
skootb
69 posts
 
I take that back. there's 6db for the xa30.5, but measurements of the xa100.5 were less than 200w total

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/power-amplifiers/power-amplifiers-reviews/pass-labs-xa-1005-pure-class-a-monoblock-power-amplifier/page-4-the-pass-labs-xa-100-5-power-amplifier-on-the-bench.html

so I'm not sure what the xa160.5 can do
More to discover