Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Emotiva XPA-200 Amplifier (SS) by rkeman

Model:	XPA-200
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$499
Description:	Stereo Power Amplifier
Manufacturer URL:	Emotiva

Review by rkeman on December 31, 2014 at 19:10:58
IP Address: 67.8.25.5 Add Your Review
for the XPA-200

Emotiva is a relatively new audio company aiming to "completely redefine high-end audio." Their internet-direct business model. aggressive pricing, and wide-ranging product line offers much that should interest an audiophile, but do they deliver the goods?

The focus of this review is the recently discontinued Emotiva XPA-200, a stereo power amplifier offering a substantial 150/240 watts per channel into 8/4 ohms. It measures 17”Wx3.875”Hx19”D and weighs a hefty 31 pounds. The black metal chassis is of good quality and comes with silver faceplate trim, two LEDs indicating channel status, and a power button that glows amber in standby mode and blue when active. The rear panel reveals good quality RCA jacks, sturdy speaker binding posts and a 12 volt remote power trigger. A large toroidal power transformer, dual aluminum heat sinks, and a bank of power supply capacitors grace the tidy interior of the amplifier. Initially priced at $499, the XPA-200 should prove to be an even better buy on the second hand market.

The sound of the Emotiva is very good and significantly better than expected for a "budget" amplifier. Inexpensive amplifiers sometimes lose control of the bass, become brittle when pushed hard, or generate unwanted noise - either mechanical or electrical. The XPA-200 displays none of these attributes. It operates quietly and unobtrusively without adding to or subtracting from the source material. Whether driving a small monitor or a 15" subwoofer, the Emotiva controls the speaker with authority. Recommended for those searching for a reasonably priced stereo amplifier that punches well above its class.

Product Weakness:	None at the price.
Product Strengths:	Quiet and clean. Very high value.

Associated Equipment for this Review:

Amplifier: Emotiva XPA-200
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): Emotiva UMC-200, Onkyo TX-NR3009
Sources (CDP/Turntable): PS4, Project Xpression III/Denon DL110
Speakers: DIYSG Fusion 8 Alchemy, Custom Adire Tumult subwoofers
Cables/Interconnects: Various
Music Used (Genre/Selections): Various
Room Size (LxWxH): 14' x 11' x 10'
Room Comments/Treatments: Custom corner bass absorbers and panels
Time Period/Length of Audition: Several weeks
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): Brick Wall surge protector
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner

Amplifier:	Emotiva XPA-200
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Emotiva UMC-200, Onkyo TX-NR3009
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	PS4, Project Xpression III/Denon DL110
Speakers:	DIYSG Fusion 8 Alchemy, Custom Adire Tumult subwoofers
Cables/Interconnects:	Various
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Various
Room Size (LxWxH):	14' x 11' x 10'
Room Comments/Treatments:	Custom corner bass absorbers and panels
Time Period/Length of Audition:	Several weeks
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	Brick Wall surge protector
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner