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
@rbertalotto Wrote:
If you like the way it sounds that's all that matters. In my opinion. The Crown Studio Reference 1 amp is the best sounding amp Crown made for reproducing audio playback. All the power you will ever need in a home hi fi rig 780 watts per channel @ 8 Ohms class AB. The Crown amplifier, is below the floor of my listening room so, the fan noise is a non issue for me. I would say the Crown Studio Reference 1 amp is, high fidelity. FWIW: I run the Crown Amp on a dedicated AC 240 volt 20 amp circuit. 😎 Mike
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Built three systems around serviced Crown PS-200 solid state analog workhorses. No fans, brilliant chassis, great specs (especially damping) and clever multi mode Class A/AB/AB+B output stages. Sinister rack mount look and lots of high current overhead. Dissed by the elites, loved by budget hobbyists :) |
I have 4 crown xls amps - one I use in my living room system driving totem Sttaf speakers. I chose it because it’s in a cabinet with only ventilation from the back, and it’s a tight fit thru the door for a large chassis A/B amp. It sounds great, runs cool, and the fan has never come on. Another I use to drive the PA system in a jam studio. We play loud - and drums, keys, and guitars all play through it. If the fan has ever come on, I haven’t noticed it. |
I once had a Crown CE4000 powering small ProAc speakers and the sound had all the attributes of a very good hifi amplifier. The fan was annoying at low volume so I replaced it with a K2 but the latter didn't sound as good. I guess you have to try the amplifier within your system if you want to know. |
