XPA-1L or XPA-1 Gen 1

[me262]

Hey guys I need some help.

I am planning to buy either 2 used XPA-1s (Gen 1) or 2 new XPA-1Ls. I am powering a set of Emotiva ERT-8.3s, and am running through an XSP-1 with a Balanced Schiit Gungnir. What do you guys think the XPA-1s are going to cost me about 140 more then the pair of 1Ls. Are they worth it, or just stick with the 1Ls?

[garbulky]

They are both excellent amps. You already have the XPA-2. If I'm not mistaken an XPA-1 L and the XPA-2 has close to the same output per channel. So I would go with the XPA-1 especially if it's really jhust $140 more for two. I think it's worth it imo.
Edit: Oh you mentioned used gen 1's not the gen 2's eh?
Well good question. I don' know.
The main difference is that hte XPA-1 L's don't have a humungous power supply that the XPA-2 or the XPA-1 has. It is a 400 VA unit. Other than that, the power, and the obvious class A difference (10 watts XPA-1 gen 1, 30 watts XPA-1 L, 60 watts XPA-1 gen 2) I can't think of many differences.
My vote I guess is for XPA-1 L's. It's the most recent redesign and probably incorporates some of those gen 2 improvements. But if I could, I would hold out for used XPA-1 gen 2's.

[me262]

I cannot justify the cost of the Gen 2 XPA-1's but I am feeling the same as you, cheeper, new, and would be a closer match to my XPA-3 gen 2 amps topology probably.

[novisnick]

Jul 10, 2014 16:15:17 GMT -5 garbulky said:

They are both excellent amps. You already have the XPA-2. If I'm not mistaken an XPA-1 L and the XPA-2 has close to the same output per channel. So I would go with the XPA-1 especially if it's really jhust $140 more for two. I think it's worth it imo.
Edit: Oh you mentioned used gen 1's not the gen 2's eh?
Well good question. I don' know.
The main difference is that hte XPA-1 L's don't have a humungous power supply that the XPA-2 or the XPA-1 has. It is a 400 VA unit. Other than that, the power, and the obvious class A difference (10 watts XPA-1 gen 1, 30 watts XPA-1 L, 60 watts XPA-1 gen 2) I can't think of many differences.
My vote I guess is for XPA-1 L's. It's the most recent redesign and probably incorporates some of those gen 2 improvements. But if I could, I would hold out for used XPA-1 gen 2's.

Hi Gar, the only problem that I can find with your though is that ,,,,most likely!,,,,,,,you'll have to tear a pair of USED  gen 2  XPA-1s out of someone's cold dead hands ,,,,,,,if you want that amp any time in the near future.

I do think I have a valid point here!  

[me262]

I went with the XPA-1L's they arrive tuesday. Could not resist at that price.

[sahmen]

Here's a question about this amp. When switched to Class A mode, it acts as a 35 watt amp, and switches to AB mode when that wattage is exceeded. The issue is that I have not heard anyone claim that they can hear a difference in sq between the Class A and the class AB mode of operation.  In a way, that is understandable, since a drop in sound quality with the switch from Class A to Class AB, would make the amp seem like a bad performer... However here's my question: given that there appears to be no discernible difference in sq between Class A and Class AB operation (and assuming that this claim is fully valid), what is the advantage of ever starting the amp in Class A mode at all? Why not keep it functioning in Class AB mode all the time, in order to avoid the rather expensive power consumption associated with Class A operation, as well as the overheating problems that are come with it. Is there something I am overlooking? All thoughtful inputs are welcome and appreciated.

[Gary Cook]

Jul 21, 2014 1:38:07 GMT -5 sahmen said:

Here's a question about this amp. When switched to Class A mode, it acts as a 35 watt amp, and switches to AB mode when that wattage is exceeded. The issue is that I have not heard anyone claim that they can hear a difference in sq between the Class A and the class AB mode of operation.  In a way, that is understandable, since a drop in sound quality with the switch from Class A to Class AB, would make the amp seem like a bad performer... However here's my question: given that there appears to be no discernible difference in sq between Class A and Class AB operation (and assuming that this claim is fully valid), what is the advantage of ever starting the amp in Class A mode at all? Why not keep it functioning in Class AB mode all the time, in order to avoid the rather expensive power consumption associated with Class A operation, as well as the overheating problems that are come with it. Is there something I am overlooking? All thoughtful inputs are welcome and appreciated.

My view is that some people can hear a difference (their ears, their speakers, in their room) and that would be in music (not HT) listening. Even the type of music being played may hinder or help the differentiation. For example I wouldn't expect to be able to hear a Class A versus Class AB difference when listening to ACDC. Over the years I've had a number of Class A amps (although not currently) and where I have been able to enjoy the advantages are strings, violins, harps, etc, alto sax, right hand piano and particularly the female voice. Basically upper mid range and tweeter territory, where not a lot of power is needed to reproduce the frequencies involved. That's where the clarity of a good Class A amp shines.

If I was listening to music (content or volume) that prompted the amp to be frequently switching between Class A and Class AB then I'd be tempted to leave it in the Class AB position. Obviously the 60 watts in an XPA-1 gives a little more Class A headroom, but 35 watts as found in an XPA-1L would do just fine for my listening levels.



Cheers
Gary

[sahmen]

Jul 21, 2014 2:03:19 GMT -5 Gary Cook said:

Jul 21, 2014 1:38:07 GMT -5 sahmen said:

Here's a question about this amp. When switched to Class A mode, it acts as a 35 watt amp, and switches to AB mode when that wattage is exceeded. The issue is that I have not heard anyone claim that they can hear a difference in sq between the Class A and the class AB mode of operation.  In a way, that is understandable, since a drop in sound quality with the switch from Class A to Class AB, would make the amp seem like a bad performer... However here's my question: given that there appears to be no discernible difference in sq between Class A and Class AB operation (and assuming that this claim is fully valid), what is the advantage of ever starting the amp in Class A mode at all? Why not keep it functioning in Class AB mode all the time, in order to avoid the rather expensive power consumption associated with Class A operation, as well as the overheating problems that are come with it. Is there something I am overlooking? All thoughtful inputs are welcome and appreciated.

My view is that some people can hear a difference (their ears, their speakers, in their room) and that would be in music (not HT) listening. Even the type of music being played may hinder or help the differentiation. For example I wouldn't expect to be able to hear a Class A versus Class AB difference when listening to ACDC. Over the years I've had a number of Class A amps (although not currently) and where I have been able to enjoy the advantages are strings, violins, harps, etc, alto sax, right hand piano and particularly the female voice. Basically upper mid range and tweeter territory, where not a lot of power is needed to reproduce the frequencies involved. That's where the clarity of a good Class A amp shines.

If I was listening to music (content or volume) that prompted the amp to be frequently switching between Class A and Class AB then I'd be tempted to leave it in the Class AB position. Obviously the 60 watts in an XPA-1 gives a little more Class A headroom, but 35 watts as found in an XPA-1L would do just fine for my listening levels.



Cheers
Gary

Hi Gary:  Thanks for that nuanced response, and for highlighting the types of music for which the Class A mode tends to shine.  This is very helpful.

[dt]

Hi guys,

I have a couple questions regarding this topic. Is it worth trading in 2 XPA 1's Gen 1 for 2 XPA 1L's at their great price point?

I have 2 XPA 1's I bought back in Nov 2009 and I have never opened the boxes so I don't even know how they compare to my current XPA 2. I have had to move overseas a couple of times and have not wanted to drag them along, so they have been in storage. I might have to move a couple more times before I can retire and the smaller amps would be nice especially since they will not take up as much room in my Sanus rack.

Does the class A amp difference of the XPA 1L's make it that much better for music compared to the 10 watts on the XPA 1? When I can finally stay put I plan to power some Tekton speakers (Enzo or Seas Pendragons, I hope), not sure if that should be taken into account on my decision.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks guys.

[garbulky]

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

Hi guys,

I have a couple questions regarding this topic. Is it worth trading in 2 XPA 1's Gen 1 for 2 XPA 1L's at their great price point?

Haven't heard them but my suggestion would be to stick with the gen 1's.

[novisnick]

Aug 5, 2014 23:43:24 GMT -5 garbulky said:

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

Hi guys,

I have a couple questions regarding this topic. Is it worth trading in 2 XPA 1's Gen 1 for 2 XPA 1L's at their great price point?

Haven't heard them but my suggestion would be to stick with the gen 1's.

If you are still moving around and wish to take some gear with you that is much easier to tote then I would suggest the -1Ls but if your not going to take them with you it's your call. The smaller amps pack a beautiful punch and are much easier to move but the XPA-1 are a lot of power and amp, great for settling down but really bad to move them, that's why your not using them now.
you want your music??? You need the -1Ls to take with you,!, period.
good luck with your desision.

Nick

[hemster]

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

Hi guys,

... Is it worth trading in 2 XPA 1's Gen 1 for 2 XPA 1L's at their great price point?

I'm for the XPA-1Ls as they are really sweet sounding amps and that velvety, chocolatey class A goodness will win you over...unless you feel you really need all the grunt of the XPA-1s.   

[Dark Ranger]

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

Is it worth trading in 2 XPA 1's Gen 1 for 2 XPA 1L's at their great price point?

In my opinion, no, not based on sound quality.

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

I have 2 XPA 1's I bought back in Nov 2009 and I have never opened the boxes so I don't even know how they compare to my current XPA 2. I have had to move overseas a couple of times and have not wanted to drag them along, so they have been in storage. I might have to move a couple more times before I can retire and the smaller amps would be nice especially since they will not take up as much room in my Sanus rack.

If the XPA-1L amps appeal to you based on weight and size, then that's a better reason to buy the 1Ls in my opinion. I can understand where you're coming from on that front. The 2RU size and lower weight of the XPA-1L were two of the reasons I bought 'em.

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

Does the class A amp difference of the XPA 1L's make it that much better for music compared to the 10 watts on the XPA 1?

In my opinion, no. I cannot tell any real difference between low-bias and high-bias modes with my XPA-1Ls (and I have pretty resolving speakers). Emotiva did such a good job with the amplifier in A/B mode that the only difference I notice is a higher electric bill (and a warmer room ).

[novisnick]

Aug 5, 2014 23:58:50 GMT -5 hemster said:

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

Hi guys,

... Is it worth trading in 2 XPA 1's Gen 1 for 2 XPA 1L's at their great price point?

I'm for the XPA-1Ls as they are really sweet sounding amps and that velvety, chocolatey class A goodness will win you over...unless you feel you really need all the grunt of the XPA-1s.   

Listen to the sock puppet , I mean hemster,,,,,,yeh,,,,that's it ,,,,hemster,,,,,,,,,,!!!

[hemster]

Aug 6, 2014 0:13:46 GMT -5 novisnick said:

Aug 5, 2014 23:58:50 GMT -5 hemster said:

I'm for the XPA-1Ls as they are really sweet sounding amps and that velvety, chocolatey class A goodness will win you over...unless you feel you really need all the grunt of the XPA-1s.   

Listen to the sock puppet , I mean hemster,,,,,,yeh,,,,that's it ,,,,hemster,,,,,,,,,,!!!

When it comes to calling me a name, you're not a novice..nick! (see what I did there? novis-nick?)   

[Gary Cook]

Aug 6, 2014 0:00:24 GMT -5 Dark Ranger said:

In my opinion, no. I cannot tell any real difference between low-bias and high-bias modes with my XPA-1Ls (and I have pretty resolving speakers). Emotiva did such a good job with the amplifier in A/B mode that the only difference I notice is a higher electric bill (and a warmer room ).

I'm intrigued, what kind of music do you listen for the differences in? For example, I just scored a copy of the BBC Big Band CD which I reckon might make for a good Class A versus Class AB comparison. Alto sax, right hand piano, cymbals, flute, trumpet, clarinet etc. Unfortunately no Class A amps right now, so I can't test my theory.


Cheers
Gary

[jackpine]

Aug 5, 2014 23:41:04 GMT -5 dt said:

Hi guys,

I have a couple questions regarding this topic. Is it worth trading in 2 XPA 1's Gen 1 for 2 XPA 1L's at their great price point?

I have 2 XPA 1's I bought back in Nov 2009 and I have never opened the boxes so I don't even know how they compare to my current XPA 2. I have had to move overseas a couple of times and have not wanted to drag them along, so they have been in storage. I might have to move a couple more times before I can retire and the smaller amps would be nice especially since they will not take up as much room in my Sanus rack.

Does the class A amp difference of the XPA 1L's make it that much better for music compared to the 10 watts on the XPA 1? When I can finally stay put I plan to power some Tekton speakers (Enzo or Seas Pendragons, I hope), not sure if that should be taken into account on my decision.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks guys.

Sell the XPA-1's while they still have warranty left on them. Emotiva won't give you a premium for them because they were never taken out of the box, but a buyer should. Don't buy anything right now if you won't be using it for an indefinite period. Yes the speakers you buy can be taken into account for your amp choice. Tekton's are pretty efficient you shouldn't need 600 Watts for them. If you will use the XPA-1L's now or soon and are very like to buy Tekton's then go for it. If you don't know when or what you'll be buying for speakers wait on making an amp choice.

[novisnick]

Aug 6, 2014 0:30:20 GMT -5 hemster said:

Aug 6, 2014 0:13:46 GMT -5 novisnick said:

Listen to the sock puppet , I mean hemster,,,,,,yeh,,,,that's it ,,,,hemster,,,,,,,,,,!!!

When it comes to calling me a name, you're not a novice..nick! (see what I did there? novis-nick?)   

Just couldn't sock stop myself,,,,,,he,,,,,,he,,,,,,,,he,,,,,,,,,  .    

[novisnick]

Aug 6, 2014 1:20:46 GMT -5 Gary Cook said:

Aug 6, 2014 0:00:24 GMT -5 Dark Ranger said:

In my opinion, no. I cannot tell any real difference between low-bias and high-bias modes with my XPA-1Ls (and I have pretty resolving speakers). Emotiva did such a good job with the amplifier in A/B mode that the only difference I notice is a higher electric bill (and a warmer room ).

I'm intrigued, what kind of music do you listen for the differences in? For example, I just scored a copy of the BBC Big Band CD which I reckon might make for a good Class A versus Class AB comparison. Alto sax, right hand piano, cymbals, flute, trumpet, clarinet etc. Unfortunately no Class A amps right now, so I can't test my theory.


Cheers
Gary

Gary, you must have been last in line with that CD,,,,he,,,,he,,,,,, I thought WE ( forum members amass ) had all ready purchased every known copy of that great CD! It does sound great in Class A ,,but it sounds great anyway you can get that Cd. Wish they had done a vinyl!! Enjoy my friends,!  

[novisnick]

Good of place as any to ask,,,,,,,,,,,,why doesn't UPS deliver at 4:37 AM? Gezzzzzzz
Wish they would come soon!!!!