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  3. 182164-159065

But is it HiFi? (Crown)

Possible amplifier for my Magnepan LRS?

Today's Score! I've been intrigued by the Crown professional Class D amplifiers. I kept waiting for the XLS1502 to go on sale or maybe I could find a used one reasonably priced. New they are currently $535. Which still seems like a value. Scanning Facebook Marketplace for "Crown Amplifier" I see a photo of what looks like a Crown XLS....But it is listed as a Crown "SLC" 1502.....Fortunately there was a picture of the rear and it clearly stated on the ID tag, XLS1502.........Buyer wasn't getting much action and had it down to $200!  And only a 15 minute drive away! Interesting amplifier with huge power and built in crossover and a few other features. Although not a true HIFI product, it is getting good reviews by the YouTube review crowd. Something to play with when I get back from an extended trip I leave on this Friday.

Features

Power: 775W at 2ω, 525W at 4Ω, 300W at 8Ω

  • Class D amp with Crown's ultra-efficient DriveCore technology weighs less than 11 lb

  • Higher DSP capabilities: More control; has band pass filter per channel

  • Increased lighting functionality; turn off all LED indicators except clip and thermal to reduce distraction in dark venues

  • Selectable input sensitivity; 1.4Vrms and .775Vrms options so that amp can be driven at full power

  • Set sleep mode after specified time without having to press a button

  • Security setting disables menu buttons; menu locked/unlocked by entering combination

  • System reset allows factory settings to be restored

  • Remote power trigger

  • Peakx™ Limiters provide maximum output while protecting your speakers

  • XLR, 1/4", RCA inputs provide flexibility

  • Integrated PureBand™ Crossover System for better performance and control

  • Efficient forced-air fans prevent excessive thermal buildup

https://www.crownaudio.com/en/products/xls-1502

rbertalotto
rbertalotto OP
138 posts
 

I have s number of amps. First Watt F5v2, VTA ST120, Buchardt i150, ICE class D, Sound Artist 200ia….and a fee others…I need a 12 step program! 😁

jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

The Crown naysayers here on Agon are proven wrong! 

johnnycamp5's avatar
johnnycamp5
122 posts
 

They can be great for certain speaker topologies!

As with all things audio, there are no absolutes.

 

I use them mostly for my subs, but they work great for a pair of floor to ceiling line arrays I use (albeit using a tube preamp there).

tsacremento
65 posts
 

I've been using Crown amps off and on in my systems since the days of the old DC-300A. Well built and bullet-proof into just about any load. Many are as audibly transparent as anything else around, so perfectly suitable for use in home systems.

OP, if the fan in your XLS ever becomes an issue, you can always pick up a K1 or K2 on the used market. The K Series amps employ convection cooling, rather than fans. I'm running a K2 that I bought on closeout back in 2000, and it has been outstanding. Quiet, and dependable as sunrise, with massive power on tap for any load.

mastering92
870 posts
 

Pro amplfiiers like those from Crown are best paired with Yorkville speakers and other speakers that are more suitable for convention center/wedding events, live sound, DJing etc.

Such a power reserve is possible due to its Class D design topology.

Perhaps not a wire-with-gain, but it can still drive 2 channel hifi speakers. Although the movement of woofer(s), midrange cones, tweeters etc. or even a concentric design is better served by power amplifiers or a decent integrated amp. Think large filter capacitors and a big power transformer in Class A or Class A/B for 2 channel audio at home.

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