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Post by geebo on Dec 18, 2017 18:00:08 GMT -5
I think I’m somewhat qualified to respond to this. I’ve owned an XPA 3 an XPA 2 and XPA 1 monoblocks to replace the XPA 2, all generation 1. I recently purchased a Gen 3 XPA 3 to replace the Gen 1 XPA 3 after one of the channels kept going into protect mode (sold it to a guy who only needed 2 channels). I’ve been comparing the Gen 3 to the monoblocks because I am interested in what the sonic differences between generations might be. Not a fair comparison since we are talking different configs, but here’s what I have found. The monoblocks are somewhat brighter with more slam when really pushed. The Gen 3 sounds warmer to me, but missing some of the impact of the monoblocks as might be expected given the power differences. It’s not a large difference, but noticeable. I have to say I really like the gen 3 sound, especially for music, enough so I might purchase an XPA DR 2 to replace the monoblocks. I think the takeaway here is the the gen 3 amps are just fine with the switching power supply. I did have reservations before purchase, but not anymore after listening for a few months. They sound great and image like crazy in my setup. Now as to the long term reliability of the power supply, who knows. I am hoping it’s a non issue. I'll second the imaging performance. |
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LCSeminole
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Res firma mitescere nescit.
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Post by LCSeminole on Dec 18, 2017 18:04:25 GMT -5
I just looked up the OP's ip address and it shows he's somewhere in Russia, so I'm going to go out on a limb and say he most likely won't get to demo an XPA Gen3 if he does indeed order one.
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hemster
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Particle Manufacturer
...still listening... still watching
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Post by hemster on Dec 18, 2017 18:16:53 GMT -5
As someone who HAS Paradigm speakers and HAVE USED an XPA-5 before, I can attest that they are a great match!
SMPS uses smaller components so don't go by the size of the transformer.
I cannot tell you what to buy but if I was deciding between the 2 models, I would get the XPA-5 without a doubt. It will not leave you wanting.
That said, the BasX is great value but for me, the extra power of the XPA-5 will be worth it because it would really make the Paradigms sing.
I know, as I have run this combination before and loved it.
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Post by andrik on Dec 19, 2017 3:42:25 GMT -5
What can you say about the model BasX A-5175? Worth it to pay attention? How it will sound? I've not heard the 5175 so cannot comment as to their sound. But if you put a premium on two channel then I would recommend an XPA-2 Gen 1 2 or 3. The Gen 3 has the added benefit of being able to have more channels added at a later date. And if you buy new from Emotiva you have 30 days to return it for any reason. Thanks for the reply! I live in Russia and for me it will be difficult to return it within 30 days if I don't like it.  |
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Post by pknaz on Dec 19, 2017 3:51:33 GMT -5
If the XPA-5 is within your budget, my recommendation would be to go with that.
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Post by andrik on Dec 19, 2017 3:57:27 GMT -5
As someone who HAS Paradigm speakers and HAVE USED an XPA-5 before, I can attest that they are a great match! SMPS uses smaller components so don't go by the size of the transformer. I cannot tell you what to buy but if I was deciding between the 2 models, I would get the XPA-5 without a doubt. It will not leave you wanting. That said, the BasX is great value but for me, the extra power of the XPA-5 will be worth it because it would really make the Paradigms sing. I know, as I have run this combination before and loved it. I understand you. Thank you! In Russia we have a XPA-5 Gen3 promise to start selling in late January. |
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