pass TM X1 Owner’s Manual Aug 10, 2006 X1 Owner’s Manual 1
Introduction The X1 is an ultra high quality minimalist audio preamplifier that features a remote control and external power supply. It combines a completely new circuit topology with traditional construction representing thirty five years of amplifier design. This preamplifier flows from a commitment to create the best sounding product: a simple circuit with the most natural sonic characteristics.
Setup The preamplifier main chassis / control unit has four sets of input connections, both single-ended and balanced output connections, a tape loop and a full function remote control that mirrors the front panel functions. The main chassis also has a DB-25 connector that connects to the remote power supply and a single pair of 5-way binding posts that are used for remote amplifier turn-on. The preamplifier’s voltage and current rating are indicated on the bottom of the power supply.
If your signal source is unbalanced, input will always occur through the RCA input connector. Inputs 1 and 2 give you a choice or either single ended or balanced inputs. When single-ended inputs are used on input 1 and input 2, a shorting plug, which is provided, should be inserted between XLR pins 1 and 3 of the associated connector. This plug shorts the negative input to ground thus optimizing the input connection. You can run the X-1 without this shorting plug, but performance will not be ideal.
noise and distortion superiority of balanced signal, coloring what you eventually hear. Pass labs through its unique patented “Supersymmetry” topology maintains the advantages of a true balanced signal throughout the electronics chain. The salient point of this approach affords significantly less signal manipulation, higher input impedance, as much as a 100:1 (20dB) reduction in distortion while providing greater gain, and twice the dynamic headroom of identical circuits running single ended.
decreases its value; and is also balance left. If any control is used the display reverts to the last saved output level, therefore we suggest you reduce the volume before switching inputs. The remote control uses the same four-button protocol, though it is physically arranged slightly different than the X1’s front panel. The far left button “<” is mode left and the far right button “>” is mode right. The top button “^” is select up, and the bottom button “v” is select down.
totally transparent. When the user chooses “Unity” this sets the X1’s gain to the low (+4dB) setting, regardless of how it was previously configured. When at Unity both left and right level controls on the X1 will have a displayed value of 24, and any previous balance settings will be lost. Both of these default conditions are intentional, and intended to make the most advantageous use of your source electronics.
takes imagination and hard work to get as much of these as possible at once without trading them off adversely against each other. Other Design Comments We recommend the use of the balanced output mode where possible. It will retain the character of the input mode, but offers less distortion, less noise, more gain, and more voltage swing, without compromising the sound.
supply cable does not carry any audio signals or digital clock lines and is filtered against noise. Muting relays, which delay connection during turn-on and shut off the output when insufficient power supply is available to maintain regulation, guard the output of the X1. The preamplifier is designed to run constantly, and will exhibit optimum measured performance within about 10 hours of turn-on. The omission of a power switch is intentional. The X1 consists of two full-size aluminum chassis.
X1 Specifications Gain selectable 4 dB or 14 dB balanced output selectable 4 dB or 14 dB single-ended output Freq. Response -3 dB @ 2 Hz, -3 dB at @ 100 kHz Distortion < .1 % THD typically .
Warranty Information Please check with the factory-authorized distributor in the country you are purchasing this product for specific warranty information. All Pass Laboratories products purchased from an authorized Pass Laboratories dealer in North America are covered by a transferable, limited 3-year warranty. This warrantee includes all parts and labor charges incurred at the repair facility in addition to return shipping to the domestic customer, exclusive of subsequent damages.
For your protection please read the following: Water and moisture: Electrical devices should not be used near water ( as per example, near a bathtub, washbasin, kitchen sink, laundry tub, wet basement or swimming pool ). Care should be taken such that objects do not have the opportunity to fall, and that liquid is never spilled onto or into the device enclosure through openings.
