4
X2.5 Owner’s Manual
Next to the inputs on the rear panel, the preamplifier offers tape
inputs through both XLR and RCA connectors. This output is a
direct connection to inputs 1, 2, 3, and 4 when they are selected
from the front panel. Input 5 (TAPE IN) is deliberately not
available through the tape output connection. Input 5 is designated
for use with a tape recorder if you have one, and we have arranged
that it will not place its output on the tape out, which will prevent
you from accidentally creating a feedback connection with your tape
machine.
The main outputs are located at the left-hand side (viewed from the
rear) of the rear panel, two male XLR connectors, and two RCA
connectors, “R” (right) and “L” (left). The RCA connector’s ground
is in parallel with pin 1 of the XLR outputs and the RCA hot is fed
from an independent summing junction that maximizes the X circuit
benefits. The RCA, single-ended, outputs are buffered from the
balanced outputs. You may use both the single ended and balanced
outputs at the same time. On the XLR, pin 1 is ground, pin 2 is
positive, and pin 3 is negative.
The rear 5-way binding post can be used to turn on any X series
power amplifier.
In application the X2.5s front panel controls and alphanumeric
display are quite straight forward, and intuitive. We encourage you
to become familiar with their operation prior to establishing any
input connections with this unit. Experience indicates that engaging
in a few minutes of exploration and playtime will add much to your
ultimate enjoyment of this exceptional Pass Labs product.
The two front panel mode switches move the preamplifier and it’s
display through 10 different functions. From left to right these
functions are as follows: Volume, Input, Mute, Tape, Balance,
Display, Mono, Unity, Amp (power-amplifier control), and Gain.
Actuating the mode < switch moves the function to the feature
immediately to the left, and conversely actuating the mode > switch
moves the function to the feature that is immediately to the right.
The two Select switches (designated by up and down pointing
arrows) then alter the displayed active function. The select arrows
toggle the following functions either off or on (the up pointing
arrow representing “on” and the down pointing arrow representing
“off ”) Mute, Tape, Mono, and Amp.
The leftmost function as selected by the two mode switches is
Description of Operation
