Pass Labs X1 - Manual (Page 5)

5 X1 Owner’s Manual
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.
The X1 maintains the integrity of its received signal by treating
all sources internally as balanced signals and converts seamlessly
between balanced and unbalanced inputs and outputs without any
additional components in the signal path. This was a conscious
effort by Pass Labs to enhance the consumer’s ability to integrate
source components and power amps with otherwise incompatible
requirements through a virtually transparent control center.
The rear mounted pair of five-way binding posts are intended to
control the on/off function of our own X series power amplifiers
from the X1’s front panel, or via the four button remote. When
the preamp mode “Amp” is selected it allows the user to switch a
nominal 12 volts DC at maximum draw of 50 milliamps to these
binding posts. In some instances this voltage may have the ability
to control products from other manufacturers, but we by no means
have a comprehensive listing of their compatible features. If you
have questions about compatibility, your service technician and dealer
are an excellent source of information.
In application the X1’s front panel controls and alphanumeric
display are quite straightforward 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 Mode switch moves between 10 different functions. They are
Volume, Input, Mute, Tape, Balance, Display, Mono, Unity, Amplifier
(power amplifier turn on / turn off), and Gain adjust. Actuating
the Mode “<” switch moves the display to the function one step
to the virtual left and “>” button moves to virtual right, one step.
The Select switch then alters the function of the displayed mode.
The knob on the right is always the Volume control, and it is always
active. The Select “^” button turns on a function or increases its
value it is also balance right. The select “v” turns a function off or
Description of Operation