Crown XLS 2502 amp review, enough watts to power a starship!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ต.ค. 2024
- #Crown #XLS2502 #hifi #speakers #audiophile
Adoramas Crown XLS 2502 Product Page:
www.adorama.co...
Interview with Itai on class D amp
• Best of both worlds? T...
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DAC, Preamp and amp used in this video.
Exasound E28
www.exasound.c...
Musical Paradise MP-D1 MK3
musicalparadise.ca/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=61&product_id=98
Denafrips Ares II
www.denafrips....
Burmester 897
Schiit Freya
XTZ Edge A2-300
www.xtzsound.c...
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Speakers used in this evaluation:
Silverline Sonata
Polk Audio LSIM 707
www.adorama.co...
Qacoustics 3050i
www.qacoustics...
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Track: Crystal Eyes - Airixis [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: • Crystal Eyes - Airixis...
Free Download / Stream: alplus.io/crys...
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Non-affiliated link and this video is not sponsored by Adorama. They did send me the unit for review.
www.adorama.com/crxls2502.html
Interview with Itai on class D amp
th-cam.com/video/DIl3yRmJ-fU/w-d-xo.html
Sound demo (Sorry, I forgot to adjust the time stamp in the video)
Burmester 12:33
Schitt Freya 13:33
Thomas, you didn't tell us about imaging, soundstage, intruments seperation about XLS 2502.
Usually when there are many reviews on a product, I skip all those in the goal to keep the video short. Check out Sean's video where he goes into detail. I would say the soundstage is not as deep as my other amps.
@@ThomasAndStereo Thomas, there is only 1 other review of XLS 2502 and that is of Sean. You keep telling us to watch seans review. If that is the case, why are you running your channel. Have you watched sean's review of XLS 2502?? In his review, he says this amp has very neutral sound. But in your review, you said its a very lively amp. Now tell whom to believe? I don't find sean's review good. I will never buy any product according to his review. I only find your reviews genuine. The way you explains a product, no one does it better than you. Excellent job, keep it up.
@@HarshKumar-ts9mu th-cam.com/video/yeQPx-FrYZw/w-d-xo.html & th-cam.com/video/HZUIeoqlzdU/w-d-xo.html
I think you did a great job at trying to remain objective with this review, Thomas, lol! Nicely done. This Crown definitely needs some tubes in the stream...the sound demo with the Burmester preamp was quite dry compared to the Freya...and grats on the partnership with Adorama...I vouch for Adorama to send you the Yamaha A-S3200 integrated amp in sexy silver for review, but I think the A-S1200 might be a better review, as you could compare how it matches up to your separates and how close it approaches them, and price wise, the A-S1200 is reachable by a larger segment of the population.
Hi Thomas, I was watching this video and saw you said the Crown XLS 2502 is a "lively" amplifier. Crown has always aimed for accuracy above all. The "expressive" top end is just because the amp is truly transparent.The controlled bass comes from high "damping factor".Crown Professional amplifiers are designed for high power output versatility and accuracy.High fidelity amps are designed to sound "pretty". BTW for those who look down upon Crown, they got their start in High Fidelity and grew into professional sound.So it is no surprise that they are sonically accurate,transparent and control speakers with aplomb.The heightened treble is just the amp's ability to put out what you put into it.Anyone who unsubscribes because of the positive points you've brought forth about the Crown is ignorant and elitist, don't worry, you don't need them.
I have several amplifiers, both HiFi and professional, including a Marantz Model 30, a Yamaha S2000, a Crown XTI 4002 and a Crown SLX 2002, with the same speakers and the same SPL, I don't hear any difference in sound quality between any of them, so I can say that the SLX 2002 is a great amplifier that has nothing to envy of HiFi amplifiers double or triple its price.
Good video, my like goes!
Tengo varios amplificadores, tanto HiFi como profesionales, entre ellos un Marantz Model 30, un Yamaha S2000, un Crown XTI 4002 y un Crown SLX 2002, con altavoces iguales y mismo SPL, no noto diferencian en su calidad de sonido entre ninguno de ellos, por lo que puedo decir que, el SLX 2002 es un gran amplificador que no tiene nada que envidiarle a los HiFi y profesionales aunque estos dupliquen o tripliquen el precio del SLX 2002.
Buen video, va mi Like!
I have two (2) of the Crown 1502's and am thinking of buying two (2) more in order to make my speakers' crossovers active. I cannot afford the expensive high-end amps; so for the price . . . it comes down to what can I afford and still enjoy the presentation. It comes down to my ears, my choice, my satisfaction, and my opinion . . . and with that said, when I find someone like Thomas who works overtime trying to be honest to his subscribers and true to his own ethics, I respect such people's opinions -- it is just being able to live with your own decisions and being accountable for them . . . not someone else's. After all, they are not responsible for my decisions nor I of their decisions . . . they become guides -- not laws.
Good review. I recently purchased the Crown XLS1002 (the baby brother of the 2502). Your comments on the character of the sound are spot on. I think it comes down to what you're looking for the amp to do. What it does, it does admirably. It's not pretending to be something that it's not. If you can appreciate the Crown for what it is, it is very enjoyable. It's just not going to be for everyone.
Your honesty is respected my friend.
When will you review affordable Tube Preamp..... so we can buy one to match a $500-1000 Class D Amp....
Focal Trio11 please! Arguably one of the best active speakers available that’s musical enough for consumers while loud enough for home theater
I am using the Crown XLS 1502 with my Arcam AVR850 to drive my Revel Performa 3 F208 speakers and could not be happier. It is very neutral and I love crystal clear audio. I have also treated my room and that made the biggest difference.
Too bright of a system with the revels and crown, poor combination. Bright, thin and hard with fatigue induced listening.
@@fendergibs not for me lol.i love the sound.
Ryan Cramer I’m surprised, especially in the upper mid range and higher frequencies. I do however love the fact that they give you a electron a crossover as that would be nice in a bi camping situation.
So I am just getting into this hobby and bought a pair of Polk LSIM 705s. I have a Marantz SR5014 connected to one of these Crown 1502s and I’ll say this. For your average listener, for the money, you really can’t complain. Most people don’t have the money to build Thomas level systems so for people like me these Crowns make a TON of sense. You can spend more of your budget on higher quality speakers and let this little guy run them for $400.
I got my set ready to get hooked up for some movies...
I got mine from Adorama for $650 a piece. Retailed @ $1,500 a piece, cant beat it. Bought the $1,200 center channel (706c) for $550. Such a steal for quality like this
Peter Missureli I bought a dinged up pair to put in my bargainphile HT set up and I’ll be using the crown 1502 as the amp to drive them. Here is a secret that people don’t really want to talk about- under a given context the sonic experience will rival high end system. Kind of like floating in the center of your above ground pool with your eyes closed on a 90 degree day. Same difference if you were doing so in an in ground or in an Olympic sized pool...
i pared a Marantz NR 1510 and a Crown 1502 and it works great.
I have the same speakers LSIM705 with Denon AVR-X6700H matched with XLS1002 instead of 1502.
I'm wondering if I should upgrade my 1002 to 1502.
I'm worried that 1502 maybe too powerful??
What level of your gain knobs set at the 1502??
You missed a golden opportunity to label this the “Thomas Crown Affair”
Dammmm!
The Thomas Crown affair call med was right on. It always amazes me to see how someone describes sound characteristics of an app of our sexual lucid and impossible terms you can’t reflect anything he says it’s all bullshit eloquent bullshit pleasant well spoken quiet attitude no criticism of persons but impossible to verify so much dependent upon individual test to compare to excellent amplifiers and hear a difference here a difference is the truck is hard to believe that my friend I’ve been at this for 30 years plus I’ll bet in a good line test I could kick you out
@@harryconover289 Siri voice transcription is making minced meat out of your message. Maybe read before pressing send!
I am calling this my Clown test - any reviewer who can't hear this amp is being strangled with its measly 48K ADC doesn't deserve any further attention.
This comment is so strong that I am replying to it three years later
I love my crown 👑 1502 amps they sound 🔉 fantastic bridged 1050 watts per channel! My polk 707's truly came alive with these amps very pleased!
Great review! Very smart to open on the potential to polarise viewers. On my system, the crown paired with an iTube 2 brought oodles of warmth and body that my Rega Brio integrated couldn't achieve. Now I know the Crown itself is not contributing to that warmth, which is great as it gives me more freedom to swop and 'play' with different preamps to produce different results.
Hi Thomas,
I bought the XLS2502 after watching your review. When I paired it with a solid state preamp , the mids warmth was not very enjoyable and I packed up the amp and kept it away. Recently I bought the ifi tube 2 buffer / preamp. I remembered you mentioning using a tube in the signal path and I did that. Configured ifi tube 2 in preamp mode with 9db gain. Enabled the 3d mode and walla .....
What a superb sounding combination it is now. Fantastic mid warmth, highs are beautiful and bass is amazing. I am amazed to hear deep bass at a very low volumes. So very enjoyable.
Thanks a lot for a brilliant review. I could verify your observations.......
Now thinking why the hell I spent buying other 4times costly amps....,,
Class D amp with a tube in signal path is magical....
Thanks for sharing your story. Glad it worked out for you.
I have the Freya, and was eyeballing the Crown as the standalone amp in my two channel setup, are you still impressed with your tube/Crown mix? I'm looking at the little brother to the Crown that Thomas reviewed, the $339 XLS, it will be paired with two SVS Ultra bookshelf speakers, along with two SVS SB3000 subs.
The pictures of your children in the background are priceless!!
I'VE DONE THAT! I've heard a piece of gear at the store for a few minutes under optimal conditions and then acted shock when it didn't sound the same in my home!
You are on point. Had the 1502 which i think is the one below this amp and i can say that for the price this amp is good for specific purpose. I used it with my lsim 707 and wow its fast and gives it a good bass. Good video!
"my lsim 707 and wow its fast and gives it a good bass." What makes an amp "fast" ? Why does it have better bass than another amp ? Frequency response ?
I tested the Crown XLS 1502 drivecore 2. It was very good. I don't have it now, but I would not have any problems living with one if I was on a tight budget. For the price they are almost unbeatable.
As long as your honest with your review...I have this amp. I am not married to any of my gear. I always have an open ear to other views and other opinions. TY Thomas!
Nice, it is always good to have an open mind.
KUDOS Thomas for getting a sponsorship deal- I have recently bought a dinged up pair of LSIM 705’s for $400 delivered! based on your liking them when that blowout deal was going on last year. Manny was super cool at the store and I appreciated his help on the order. Try for those high end Yamaha receivers- I’ve put them on my list of potential “next amps” but I’m thinking I might just wind up with a Hegel 390 or the Pass Labs Int 25...
Hegel 390? I really like the Hegel H300 I had for a while.
The Crown XLS Drive Core 2502 is a hell of a great amp. I had the 1002 and was amazing.
Great review Thomas . We sell high end audio gears , Crown doesn't get us that profits when we sell but its performance is undeniably exceptional for the price and i see all happy customers and some wondering about their high cost amps and its value !!
Interesting, thanks for the info.
Exactly, the keyword is "value", and this is coming from me who currently own a Bryston 14B3 and have absolutely no issues with my Crown XLS2500 during audio comparison.
Different strokes for different folks.
Nice review as usual Thomas.
Thanks, glad you enjoy it.
I decided on the crown for my system. I am driving Avery difficult to drive Magnapan MGllas and I have to say that I am thrilled with the results. The Maggie's have come alive under this smp. For one aspect, there is no lack of power over the entire band. The bass is full and fast, even when I take the subwoofer out of the system. Mids are smooth and accurate, and with me being 63 years old, with a past full of bring a rock musician throughout most of my youth(a drummer) I would be lying if I didn't admit to a significant loss of hearing, especially in the upper range of my hearing. I find the highs pleasant and do not notice a rollout, which would probably be more noticeable for someone with more normal hearing. I appreciate the way you do your reviews, by adding perspective from other reviewers that are a part of uour circle of friends. This adds a depth to the review that other reviewers would not have. Thank you,so much for your honesty and the rich depth upon which you draw. You are a gem.
Thank you Stephen for the heart warming comment.
Great review. Bottom line: comes down to equipment / speaker matching and appropriate level of expectation.
I love how you put it, appropriate level of expectation.
I bought this amp almost a year ago now, its a beast. I have a pair of QLN Artech 12 speakers wich need alot of power. With this power amp they become absolute monsters. Have Also tried driving two subs at once with different dsp settings on both, this amp is just awesome!!
Mr. Thomas, I really appreciate your honesty. I wouldn't worry about those people who doesn't take consideration in the environment they are using and listening the equipment. Please keep up with your honesty.
Great review. I took the plunge and bought one, the XLS1502. Driving my front speakers (B&W 604 S3) in a 5.0 setup. Great control and base and steady detail. But definitely better stronger lower base than the AVR Marantz SR6015.
I am planning to do the same but I am skeptical about the fact that it hasn’t trigger 12v port .
@JUNAutoMechanic I made small trigger unit for it. Converts the 12V trigger to a closed switch for the XLS1502. It's a simple relais in a box and works perfect.
Thomas, Your input is welcome and always fair and informative.
Hey Thomas, it’s always our pleasure to hear candid, honest remarks on this equipment. Generally Caucasian people appreciate these attributes, so perhaps a little cultural difference; don’t stress out about minor issues or ‘roll off’ your personality on this topic man. Interestingly you used Polk Lsim 707 on the test, tells me plenty 👍🏼 Have yourself a good day
The iPad mini 4 could not handle the bass on this occasion (unusual); this system must be excellent to listen too
You were right on. And those amps are often better than many other supposedly "high end" over hyped amps! Saying this, you have to see every component as a transfer function (like an equalizer for those who don't know about signal processing theory, every component are not perfectly linear / flat) and the sum of all the transfer functions makes the final sound to you ears. Even the room has its own transfer function! You probably know about component matching, this is why some very high end amp / preamp / speakers don't work well with each other. If every component could be perfectly flat, we would hear the sound as it was recorded / mixed. Recent quality Class D are sometimes labeled as "dry" or "bright", look the other components you use with it! And most of the distortion and non linearity come from the speakers and the room!
It took me a long time to match my Freya tubes and interconnects to make the Crowns sing, but am finally happy with it's performance. It is now top notch in my system. I have found the higher powered models to be glassy sounding, but the 1000 and 1500 models not so. Overall Crowns are relatively neutral, and when fed from a warmer tube preamp they can sing.
Which tubes did you match to your Freya?
I bought our Crown 1502 so that I could baseline what reviewers are saying. It has helped me to understand the terms in order to gain perspective when listening to reviews of other equipment. It turns out that I like it too. Currently, we have it connected to a Topping E30 in our exercise room and love the combination driving some Klipsch KG 4.2s. Thank you for this review. To me, it is one of your best. I like the way you are adding the perspectives of others in addition to your own.
The Crown sounds like the ideal amp for bi-amping purposes. Connect it to the bass drivers and use a smoother amp for the tweeters.
"A smoother amp" ? What makes an amp "smoother" ?
Was thinking the same thing, you beat me to it 🙂
When it comes to class D it's mostly the output filters. Because it's effectively sampling the input signal hundreds of thousand times a second. The output needs to be smoothed by a filter to take the edges off the sampled signal.
@@chrisvinicombe9947 And some analog amplifiers use decoupling caps or transformers on the output. What is your point ? There is nothing inherent in having a filter on the output of a class D that provides it with a specific character.
@@SomeTechGuy666
But unfortunately there is an inherent negative characteristic to class D, and it's attributable to the output filter.
You mention output transformers. Vacuum Tube amplifiers have benefitted greatly from it being a fully mature technology.
Even with sonic irregularities, since the strengths are significant in class D, every facet of the design is being explored.
Just as much thought and effort is put into the ideal output transformers, similarly output filtering on class D is being scrutinized as the fundamental problem.
Fortunately, we're relatively early in the big picture with class D optimization.
Hey Thomas, you’re the only reviewer I never missed the video from! Great job my fellow citizen!
I wish you could get your hands on Yamaha's NS5000 $20k speakers (and Yamaha top of the line stuff in general). I keep seeing them at shows but no one seems to review these.
I agree! very well built stuff.
RadoDani ... I’ve had a good listen to the whole 5000 series set up. It’s just clean, punchy, crystal clear. Not harsh at all. If you like that sort of sound, it’s great.
It does not give you that extra holographic soundstage that seems to be what many want. If you lean towards the tube sound, the 5000 series won’t excite you.
hushpuppykl Thank you!
And it could double as a casket to bury you in.
Nice to hear your impressions and your friend’s. Ill never criticize you for giving us your honest opinion whether I agree or not. I’ll spam Adorama with equipment review requests! ;-)
Haha, bring it on!
Good job as usual. Would like to see you review Yamaha A-S1100 if possible.
Cool, one more vote for it.
The XLS Crown is a great class D amp. It has three variable band pass filters, it sounds precise, it’s very adjustable and is easy to use, it’s efficient and very powerful, and I’ve never heard its fan or any other unwanted noises. I am using pair of mono-blocked Crown XLS 1002s to drive a set of Skar DDX15-D2, 1000-watt RMS sub woofers in my home theater. Even though the XLS series of Crown pro amps have RCA ins and a sensitivity adjustment, using them only gives about 60% of the rated power. I needed to run the Crown at full power. So, to solve this issue, I used an ART Cleanbox Pro between my theater amp and the two Crowns. I am also using a Crown XLS 2502 as a mono block to drive another sub. But in this case, the cleanbox is not needed. As this amp alone has plenty enough power to drive any sub or set of standard home speakers.
I own a XLS 1002 and love this amp. Does what it needs to do and I didn't break the bank doing it. I do run a tube buffer between the pre-amp and the amp and this takes out the sterile aspect of the sound. Might try to put in a tube buffer and see what you think.
Ah, nice.
Same unit for me, with a tube buffer. My ls50 love it.
Can you recommend me a preamp and where I can find a tune buffer? Sorry for the dumb question but I'm just starting to research about "separates" and going to buy the crown amp. Thanks for any advice.
@@zombielandiii2711 I have a Emotive BasX PT-100. Using a FX-AUDIO TUBE-03 Tube Preamplifier with upgraded tubes, Riverstone Audio - Tested/Matched Pair (2 Tubes) 7-Pin GE JAN 5654W Fully-Tested Vacuum Tubes. Very cheap solution and it sounds great.
Another neophyte/noob question: i think the answer is 'no', but does a tube pre-amp or tube-buffer provide the dimensional/soundstage depth/layering that tube pre-amps & amps are known for providing more of, or is a class D, however transparent, incapable of passing this quality on to the speakers? Thanks in advance.
Curious things these Crown amps, seem to have a bit of a following now with more of the high end audio guys wanting to have a look. I think its fantastic that a lot of audio guys are reviewing these things without shame, because the hobby is supposed to be fun
Yeah, they've been crapping on them without trying them out for 10 years or so and now some of their buddies have given in and it's "OK" to give them lip service!
Thomas, please have Adorama send you the Yamaha A-S3200 integrated amplifier for review!
Ah, I would love that too, I just need more people voting for it.
@@ThomasAndStereo OK, I vote for it too.
Me 3
Yamaha yes however can we settle on the 2200 instead? (Due to pricing)
Thanks for a great review- you can never please haters so just keep you honesty and integrity!-I bought 2x XTZ on your recommendation and use them bi wire with excelent results in spaciosness and seperation - I actually think this is a pretty amazing value- it also gives that extra oomph too you suggested may be missing at higher volumes -thanks Thomas!
Thanks for the feedback. Glad the XTZ worked for you! Yes, great value for the money.
Thomas, great honest review. I got this amp just a couple of days ago. I went with Sean's (zero fidelity) review of this piece. I also debated buying the Orchard audio and XTZ after your review. This is my first Class D. I hooked the Crown up to my Double Impacts and was pleasantly surprised immediately. The bass got deeper and tighter. The mids are definitely not thin to me and the highs are sharp but not too accentuated. I don't know what "dry sound" or "glassy" means and so I can't comment. I actually turned off my SW's. The soundstage got wider and on some tracks, the sound stage became weirdly enveloping (almost like I have surround speakers)! I love this amp. Definitely a keeper. Preamp: NAD C 658.
Congrats!
@@ThomasAndStereo But for us that don't have/want to spend $1500 on a preamp..... what is a better match...? But a great review. Not sure people/I know what glassy means. Maybe you should do a video on speaker vocabulary...
@@oscarjung5405 www.stereophile.com/content/sounds-audio-glossary-glossary
I bought one 3 months ago and will never get rid of it. I am an audiophile myself. The amp is a shocker for the price.
@Ratt Wood Polk SDA SRS & Polk SDA 1Cs
It's an 11 lbs amp. With 8 output transistors total,, 4 per channel. This is the way amps are headed. The switch mode power supply is here to stay and takeover.
I have been using xti 2002 hooked up to klipsch cf4 for almost 10years,its fun listening to juicy lively sound and yes value for bucks and again yes a bit backround noise is there but you cant go wrong with crown audio.give it a try if you like you like if not at least it will heal your new gear itching.after watching many reviews about crown audio the next thing that i want try is a tube preamp.thanks for nice and informative review.
I have the crown 1502 running JBL L65 and it is a great amplifier. Quite neutral but with a dip in the mid range, however this got better after it was run in. I wasn't sure about amplifer burn in but this amp was quite detailed but lifeless. After running it in for a while the sound got a lot better and sounded like it had more soul in the music
Hey Thomas, been really appreciating your insightful content and excited to hear you have a sponsor now! Soo... I've been waiting/hoping for you to review the new Focal Chora 806 and looks like now you can :D
Awesome, just need more votes.
The longer I am in the audio community the more I am confused by people stating that such and such amp is better because it is more this or less that. Should an amp not be judged by how accurately it can output power into various loads (and varying loads) and at various gains, as well as the ease of correcting any non-linear response that shows us? Maybe the better way to review amplifiers would be to hook up a hard to drive speaker, and record the voltage between the terminals on the back of the speaker with an extremely high report rate oscilloscope, then compare that to the same data at the source. Do the same thing with a few speakers of varying resistance, and at various output levels, and if it matches perfectly, its a good amp. If it doesn't match perfectly, how easy is the discrepancy to correct? If easy, it is a better amp than one that requires more work.
I prefer some coloration in my music, but speakers will always have coloration, and the frequency response can be further adjusted with a miniDPS or something... I say leave the coloration to the components in which coloration is unavoidable. Everything else should be flat as glass.
I've often wondered this very same thing.
It is not that simple. Good speakers do not colorate the sound. Exagerated (or lacking) transient harmonics in the signal chain do. And the ear is such a revealing instrument that even much more sophisticated measuring equipment than a voltage-meter can not measure musicality, body and character of the sound reproduction. Some gear just sings, and some is just dead, to simplify my point.
@@monkeypunker it is impossible for speakers to not color the music, even the most expensive, "best" speakers.
Finally
Do consider using Crown amp to drive your subs exclusively
And so I need your XPA review now!
Ah, that amp is almost 180 degrees from this one.
@@ThomasAndStereo I would love to hear your opinion on it as I have a used version in my area very tempted to get.
Thomas's RELs are active, so he didn't test this. Should have tried biamping though.
@@Academicidiot T7i has HF input its perfect
@@HungryEatNow i know, that doesn't make the sub passive though.
I'm holding out until Crown comes out with a million watt amp that will fit in my pocket for $99.
and duplicates as a coffee maker too.
Plus, next year. Minus, it will be made in China.
Great video! I've had a Crown Xti2000 for over 10years and keep it as a back up amp, thats how i started with audio. Was always skeptical when i used to see all those expensive amplifier that puts out a fraction of what the crown can put out! With time though after some "higher-end" amplification such as Rega, Burson, Blue Circle, i can definitly tell that amps certainly makes a big difference in sound reproduction. But even until now, as you say in this video, i have yet to find a similar value to the Crown.. Definitely has its place for raw power and great dsp features, the best bang for the buck and it should be a staple for anyone into audio!!
Thank you so, so much Thomas! This was exactly what I wanted to hear. I have a pair of Wharfedale Denton 80th Anniversary speakers that need some livening up, and I've been trying to figure out which way to go with them. This amp was already on my list, because I figure worse case scenario. Even if it doesn't work out as my main amp. I can use it as a sub amp, because eventually I'm going to try subs in my room anyway. And it has XLR in. I really want to try a balanced preamp and/or DAC, and amp. So I can run long interconnects, and short speaker cables. Right now I'm doing the opposite, and that's not optimal at all. Plus I can't afford good 20 ft speaker cables, but I can afford short ones.
Not sure if I'll get this one, or the XLS 2002 yet, but I've read that those are the best ones to get in the XLS series. Although a pair of XLS 1002, or XLS 1502 run as bridged monoblocks, or bi-amped would be real nice too, I'm sure. And I don't know if I'll go used, or new. But if I do go new. I'll definitely get it from Adorama. Just because of their relationships with you, and Sean. I trust you two guys more then the rest. That's for sure. And am sure you wouldn't work with a bad company. Thanks again, and have a great night my friend. ✌️
Hey, nice to have you drop by. Thanks for the support, really appreciate it.
I'm running the XLS 2500's(2); each runs a sub and main speaker. Figures out to about 700+ watts to each sub and around 600 watts to each main. It sounds clean, effortless, and punchy. Used for 2.2 HD and Stereo. No worthless(in my opinion) center channel. If you need a center channel, something isn't set up right. I love them. They never get hot, never run out of power, never draw attention to themselves.
I purchased my 1st adult stereo in 1973, I chose McIntosh. But while deciding, the salesperson did A/B the McIntosh with a huge Crown. That demo has remained clearly etched in my memory for its lasting impression. And that impression was that the Mcintosh massaged my mind and heart, while the Crown (to me) sounded like a bag of glass dropped on steel.
Correct 👍
You lose both ways. I wanted you to like it more.Rich folks can critiize it,they can pay 10 times more for that extra 10%.But I love it with my freya+ and bluesound node.Fair review.
You probably won’t be reading this as it’s an old video. Anyway, I use this amp with a Harmon Kardon 10 band EQ. Plus I’m one that does think and say cables matter, 10 gauge ofc and the brightness people complain about just goes away. I’m pushing 2 power hungry Cerwin Vega DX9 and they sound really good. This is my garage system so no it isn’t like my living room stereo or my main listening room but it’s an 1/8 of the price too. Great video, glade you made this one. I’m playing catch up on Thomas videos today.
one of Yamaha new line please A-S1200/2200/3200
The second sound demo really opened the soundstage up. Tx Thomas
I have the Crown XLS1002 and have always had trouble integrating it in my system with my JBL Studio 590s; its currently sitting in a closet. Too much noise (even with a Rolls MB15b), and to my ears, my OSD A5500 sounded much more dynamic and clear than the Crown. It may come down to the speakers, or personal preference of Class AB vs. Class D, or that the 1002 is more limited compared to the higher end models. I really want to find a good use for it, but the noise was a bit off putting.
I had to remove the 1002 from my system due to noise as well. Not only the minimal hiss but I was having a random static noise that I couldn't get rid of. Switched to the monolith and never heard any noise in the system again.
I just tested it at my place, with a highly revealing speakers and a great tube amp. So glad I did not buy the amp. Now, let me say it straight that I do agree with you Thomas on quite some points. You make the right observations, like the glassiness, drynes (big problem!), and the lack of body (related to dryness I would say). The good things you point out are also right, like clean sound, imageing, and crazy tight bass). But - and you will not(!) "solve" it with tubes and cables - there is quite some noise present all the time, dryness is still there, but most important for me, the musicality, the emotions, warmth of vocals.. are just not there. Hope that helps anyone, cheers.
Had one for a year now to drive my jbl jrx subs never breaks a sweat. And tons of features, bridge capability, balanced inputs, crossovers , shit ton of power
And you forgot to add in bridged this amp does 2400w @4 ohm
Yeah, I have 2 of the older ones and each is driving a DIY sub and an Odyssey Lorelie main. No hiss, great bass, and as for the mids, I think I MIGHT want just the tiniest bit more warmth. But it seems that voices sound correct most of the time and some of my favorite music would sound muddy if I got that little bit "extra" warmth I think I want.
Something else, I don't use a center speaker and truthfully it would be a waste. I actually have a couple around, but why complicate things with superfluity?
I enjoy your honest to the point no bullshit reviews. Listening to you I have decided to try tube preamps.
At least try 3 before making a conclusion. Thanks!
Not sure where I can vote, but very interested on Yamaha AS-1200 and iFi Classic S50 Tube integrated!
Thanks, you just voted!
One vote more for the Yamaha AS-1200 please thanks 🎶🎶🔉
I use an XLS 2502 to drive a pair of LS50 Metas for my PC audio system, along with a FiiO K9 Pro ESS dac and SVS 3000 Micro subwoofer. I'm extremely pleased with the performance and expect to stick with this setup for the foreseeable future. The only other amp I might try is one with the new Purifi technology. Great video, mate!!
If you run out of power, you will hear distortion. The Crown measures well and provides gobs of power with that distortion and noise kept under control. In a perfect world, the Crown would be kept on bass duty freeing up a more finessed amp for the other frequencies, but there is no shame in using this beast full range.
The 1502 doesn't measure as well as the 2502, but much of the same applies. No shame in running either of these affordable powerhouses.
"a more finnessed amp" LOL.
There are amps out there that measure a lot better than the Crowns. Now whether or not those measurable differences are audible, perhaps to those golden eared few...
Great Review , your right in orther to give an opinion you need to own one of this XLS' s Amps , I do and the reason i bought one its because my pioneer A-757 integrated was strougling with the low end with 2 JBL Speakers 1 has 2 15"s woofers the other one 1 18" sub so i bought the Crown based on many good reviews like yours , all i can say its wow , wat a game changer the xls2502 is i use it to handle my lows with the active crossover and my pioneer is handling the med and highs , know i got the sound i always dream of without breaking the bank , for what you pay for you get the power of a 3k amp and like other people say the sound quality is great it needs some fine tuning that's it
Thanks as always, Yamaha A-s3200. Curious what Yamaha's top end is capable of
That’s not those top of the line, C5000 & M5000 separates are top of the line. A-S3200 A-S3000 is top of the line as far as intergrated amps go, I’d love to have A-S2100 or A-S2200.
I enjoyed this review very much. I have no horse in the race, I have my midfi Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II tube integrated which I love for it's power and control and the way it tames my Sabre DAC. I like the honest perspective of value for money which you describe, The amp may not be for everyone but it has it's place. Thank you...stayin' subscribed (sung to the tune of stayin' alive).
I use a Crown XLS 1502 on my ELAC Vela 407 speakers with Analysis-Plus Apex cables. So reviewers fear to losing their credibility if they say budget gear is great sounding.
Thomas, you have convinced me to look into a different amp. The Crown was great when I had soft dome tweeters, but these true German AMT drivers are much too revealing. Thanks.
Bill Crane What is your impression on the AP Apex cables?
I am currently using AP Crystal Oval Solo RCA interconnects and think they are great. However, my friend let me hear his AP Silver Oval interconnects and was blown away by how much more transparent they were.
I’m thinking I might as well get the Apex interconnects. Please take a moment to describe their sound characteristics in comparison to other cables you have tried. Thanks in advance.
Also can you name some speakers you have listened to and we’re bested by the Elac Vela 407?
I have a feeling those are great as well. Sounds like you have very dynamic and transparent system. What preamp do you use?
@@cgambarrotti I'm a dealer for my entire system. There was still a slight improvement in transparency when I moved from the Silver AR cables to the Apexs. It should be a final system tweek IMO.
I use a Yamaha 5200 pre-pro because I have one reference system for both stereo and surround. A customer has a Marantz 8500 and it may be better sounding but I have not heard them side-by-side - with all of the cabling and set-ups that would be difficult.
Yes it is a very fast, revealing and dynamic system. Like most audiophiles I'm always looking to improve it (within the budget).
@@bilguana11 Thanks for your response. The Apex will be the next interconnects I will get.
Bill Crane do you have a website for the Audio equipment you sell?
@@cgambarrotti Yes, but I need to seriously update it: cranehometheater.com
Do you know how many Audiophiles are afraid of reviewing this amplifier? It is so good for what it is intended for and more. I love my XLS-1002 in my bedroom project studio. Always does what I want. Cheap, sounds fine, runs cool, and will drive a 1 ohm load all day, all night and not melt. What else do you need?
haha, my friend Mr Kanta conclusion too.
Cheap speaks to quality. Cost speaks to price. I really dislike when people confuse the two, as I expect you have.
Vincent Chen It’s fugly as sin though. Looks like a car amp - cheesy wotsits
@@SomeTechGuy666 Nope Symantec syntax. Cheap as in price. For years cost and price are used interchangeably. Still a great Amplifier.
Love your reviews Thomas, your warmth and honesty are so refreshing. It feels like a friend has invited me round to chat HiFi!
I appreciate that! Yeah, that is the goal of my channel.
You have to have a great pre amp
Yes, that is one of the important key.
@@ThomasAndStereo You always suggest Tube Preamps for Class D, but using a $900 Shiit Freya+, defies the whole purpose of this budget crown amp, I think spending x 1.5 on a preamp is the wrong $ allocation, so what is the alternative matching budget preamp?
@@oscarjung5405 I dont know. My freya was the first gen Freya so it was $699 and given the crown is $649, it was a fair match. What is good tube preamp in the budget world to use with it? I have no idea as I have to try it at my place to know.
I have couple of the Crown 2502's. I can max the volume without pushing a signal to the amp... I only hear a slight hiss with my ear almost against the tweeter. Not enough that you could even hear in a dead silent room. I have had vintage audio equipment of pristine status that was on par with the Crowns. My speakers sensitivity are 98db SPL too. I have owned quite a bit of high end gear. The Crown's can hold their own. For the money, they can't be beat for power, efficiency and features. Not yet... The Crowns match very well with the Emotiva PT-100 (which has a decent DAC built in, or use of a different good DAC (Aune X8 Magic DAC, JDS Labs EL DAC II, The ES9038Q2M SABRE32 Reference DAC, AK4490 - AK4499 etc.) and also using tubes as a buffer, if you want a fuller bodied richer sound. I would use good quality JBL or Klipsch speakers at least. People can get Audiophile grade gear on the cheap these days!!! What can be had for $5,000 today, would have cost you $50,000 or more 20yrs ago. Think about it...
For me it's all about tone and timbre. I find these cheap amps all seem to have an artificial sheen that masks the true character of the instrument or voice. So do ss amps in general compared to tubes, but with class D amps, especially cheap mass produced ones, it's more pronounced. Staging, deep controlled bass...none of that matters if the illusion of real instruments is broken. As always ymmv.
I do see where you are coming from. The possible explanation I can think of is most people don't play real instruments like me, so we are more forgiving when it comes to tone and timbre. I mentioned this in my last Rogers speaker video regarding my observations on tone and timbre and that I listen more for stagging and so forth.
"tone and timbre" ? "Artificial sheen" ? "So do ss amps in general compared to tubes, but with class D amps, especially cheap mass produced ones, it's more pronounced. Staging, deep controlled bass...none of that matters if the illusion of real instruments is broken." Give me a friggin break.
You forgot the monster cables and vinyl to get the highest quality audio.
@@SomeTechGuy666 just because you cant hear a difference doesnt mean Rockinghorse Winner (RW) cant hear one. If you are determined to do some trolling however, go after RW on account of the dumbass RW moniker, I'd 100% support that.
With other words you never owned a xls before thanks for clearing that up
@@MichelLinschoten true, and I'm sure I would be pleasantly surprised. I just couldn't buy one for myself at this point. Maybe at some point I'll get one for a spare room or something, and fall in love with it. Or any class d. But for now, I'll stick with linear amps. ;)
I picked up one XLS 2502, and a Peavey SP118, to give my Frankenstein stereo setup some bottom end. Holly molly ! The nabes hate me now I am sure, lol. It performs very well indeed, built in DSP, LP, BP, HP filter Crossovers per channel (sold it for me). It got me to get 1 more, another 18" and two EKX 12" EV's, and then another is coming soon :) Clear, loud, real sounding system. It plays all genres with ease. I like it, better than some of the very expensive audiophile systems I have heard in my days. No refinancing the house, selling the Bugatti, and two race horses for an amp.
I can't hear differences between amps. Am I a noob, or a economic audiophile?
Maybe the 2 amps you AB tested sounded very similar and there was no difference. Also, depends on the song , volume, speaker and so forth
I too struggle with telling the difference when swapping components. You often see responses like “Your system is not resolving enough” or “You don’t know how to listen”. I second Thomas’s assertion that maybe your two comparisons are not very much different from each other, can’t say. I’m not running a super high quality system myself by audiophile standards, so I don’t take personally the idea that maybe my system isn’t good enough to hear the difference, and I won’t disregard the posters who do in their systems. However, I also stopped swapping out components that don’t make an easily discernible difference to my ears - it’s a waste of time and money when all you can say is “I THINK that it sounds better”.
Hi from Toronto....I really enjoy your channel and appreciate all the hard work. I have saved for an amp to drive my Walsh Ohm 3 speakers and have narrowed it down to the Willeston R8 or the Crown XLS 2502. BTW I also have the Elacs DBR62 speakers...thanks Thomas
That is a big difference in sound! One is tube and one is class D. With the XLS 2502, you need a preamp too and I heard so many good things with the R8.
@@ThomasAndStereoThomas, appreciate your reply will go with the Willeston R8. Be safe and your subscribers I'm sure appreciate all your hard work...
RUN MY SUBS ON THIS CROWN AMP AND ITS GREAT
Thanks, was about to ask about that
@@frediebouy works great in my set up as i build all my speakers and powering the bottom end separate is better as i can leave the subs off at night for late listening stay safe gareth
Love your video and well spoken. I just not D class type but very nice PA amplifier and very nice design
I added a Crown xls 1002 to my PS Audio sprout 100 very happy with it can highly recommended.
You did gain some new subscribers today! 😊 Great review.
Thomas, I like your reviews, because whether I agree with you or not, I appreciate your honesty and that you acknowledged that we are not all looking for the same sound, or, listening to the same music.
One more thing that I like, is that like myself, you would rather talk about what you like and share your enthusiasm for it, than look for something to tear down, in a vain attempt to indirectly prove that you are the supreme arbitrator of all thing audio. Keep up the good work. 👍Respect!✊🙂
Thanks appreciate that! Yes, we don't have to agree on everything and as long we are all respectful, that is all that matters.
Thomas & Stereo , exactly!
I study film criticism in uni and one of the things that I learnt, was that more often than not, the things that I disliked were often more informative to me and resonated with me more than those that I liked. It was because they made me look deeper into what it was about them that made me disliked them, as compared to things that I liked, and for the most part easily accepted them as being “good,” without further questioning myself on that. With things that I disliked, more so, if I was in the minority, it was the opposite reaction.
Thomas, I would like to share something with you. I have been playing several instruments for over 40 years, I love music and I appreciate nice equipment with which to listen to it. With that being said, I never personally, refer to myself as an audiophile. When I hear people describe themselves as such I think, oh boy, another "expert" on the subject of sound reproduction equipment. I would not want people to react to me the way that I react to hearing some people say that. Being an audiophile does not make one an expert. I wish people would truly absorb the concepts of subjectivity and objectivity. There is nothing worse than a snob. Some audiophiles are indeed experts, but I find that to be subjective, as well. I appreciate your position in that you are trying to please your entire audience. You are forced to be a politician, of sorts. I appreciate your reviews. They are subjective and comprehensive. You always present information and observations from your perspective. I have gleaned much information with which to consider in making choices of at least a few different pieces of equipment. I just want you to know that I appreciate your subjectivity and honesty, this review included.
Thanks for taking the time to write a nice comment, I appreciate it.
I Paired a my crown with the ELAC Uni-Fi UB5, and it brought them to life for my home theater 7.2 setup. I lost a little of the 3 dimensional sound but they are really clean and detailed now for movies.
Impressive, ran into your video clip and ended up buying one XLS 2505 for my HT to see if I can replace the Anthem MCA amp for my front LR channel.
Excellent honest review. We all have a different budget and different test.
I have a Schiit Freya tube preamp feeding the 1502 xls crown for my polk 5.1 speakers and its more than enough for my needs. This mainly drives the feed from my computer hooked up to the tv through a denon receiver. Couldn't be happier, more than enough for my needs at the moment.
Crown's xls drivecore series is great for the pro and even home market as it has both xlr and rca inputs with software adjustable input sensitively, .775 volts or 1.4volts, it certainly isn't a studio quality bryston with a 20 year warranty, but it is still decent for the cash and are known to be quite reliable and efficient amplifiers. Though the internal dac is limited to 48khz, this amp has so many useful features that it makes system integration a lot easier and more then makes up for the few flaws it has. Especially in a tri amp or bi amp set up. It has Bandpass filters, 24 db per octave high pass and low pass filters that you can use separately on each channel, basic amplifier diagnostics, "which ive used extensively, all of its features work as you would expect" you can see the temperature of each channel as well as the powersupply and what its voltage rails are. It has clip lights on each channel, it runs very cool even when pushed.... Fairly close power ratings "within reason" like i dont expect the crown xls 2502 to get 2400 rms at 4 ohms bridged out of a 15 amp outlet, that is just physically impossible, its power ratings are takin at 1khz which mean little to nothing... But those features and weight and price point are great and make up for that, even dispite its 1khz power figures, you will STILL get decent and reliable power, you will get at least 750 to 800 rms per side at 2 ohms per channel and at least 650 a side at 4 ohms with the 2502... A bit inflated, but not by much. To say it is terrible is foolish, to say it is the greatest thing in the world is foolish as well. It's solid for the money, these amplifiers are designd to make money night after night being abused in venues around the country. If you say it is terrible, that is simply ignorance showing, it's build quality alone is worth it. I have the tiny 1002, and have been very impressed so far, it has fairly good power output for what it is, it is fairly close with that, close enough that you won't really be able to tell much. Ive used it to power two 8 ohm 12" subwoofers in parallel to get just about 300 rms into both, i have it crossed at 80hz and than the other channel is crossed over from 81hz and up to run a set of optimus bookshelf speakers for the mids and highs. It's wonderful, I've even used it bridged at 4 ohms just below clipping for hours powering two 18's getting about 450 rms per sub playing very bass heavy material, got hardly warm, but never shut down, nice and solid low end! When i run each channel as two separate amps however, my tablet has a software stereo mono converter in it to play things to it in mono stereo, though that is one of the features I wish it had, when using its input y or bridge mode, ive used this amp with many different dacs, setups and far out setups before, never had any issues. Realistically speaking, a person cannot hear anything below 1% thd, almost nobody can.... I'd say this amp is more then good enough in most cases unless you're a super snob that turns their noses up at even decent products just because it lacks a pretty face and a huge price tag. At rated power or rather "slightly less as ive talked about above" all of the xls line will be exactly 0.5% or lower thd, however, especially if you get the xls lines biggest amp with all that head room, if you are only pushing 50, 80, 100, 150 rms out of it, its thd specs will be vanishingly low at that lower power rating.. "not that you can even notice it when its driven just below clipping as it is still very clean" These are GREAT AMPS, especially if you run a tube preamp before the amplifier, don't listen to people who say it's terrible just because... buy only directly from crowns website, you will be happy!
Very nice review. I am having an XLS 1000 driving a pair of on wall magnepan as center channel. Love this little amp for the job. Try this on front speakers, find them very capable but also find the top end fatiguing though. However, when my daughter comes in and check out the piano song, she says "it gets the top end of the piano sound right". And she is a very good pianist practicing on the Steinway hours a day! So to each her own :)
That is one comment I hear before. Real instruments sounds harsh sometimes and that is how they really sound. That is why I always say, I don't built a system to chase after that realism but rather what is pleasing to my ears. It might not sound 'real' but it sounds smooth to my ears.
Another vote for Yamaha A-S1200/2200/3200 , they look gorgeous and when it is time to upgrade i would love to have one of them if they sound as good as they look!
nice to see cheap but good amps on your channel
Thanks for sharing your honest thoughts and feelings with us!
Since there is a video made on this product, as you mentioned, means you like it. What would be interesting is for you to provide a list of audio components that you had an opportunity to review but chose not to. Now that would be very telling and of interest to your listeners. Great content, keep providing it.
Thanks. In case you have not seen it, I made a video explaining why. Sometimes, just because I don't make a video on it does not mean it is bad. For example, the Schiit Vidar.
th-cam.com/video/3fN6LaH8GRE/w-d-xo.html
Cool to see the adcom in the video. I have owned an adcom gfa 5500, 5800, my father has the gfa 5802 and in our oppinion they are some of the best you get for their price.
We've bought every amp used. Currently using them on ProAc Response 3.5 speakers and it sounds amazing! Would be very interesting if you could get ahold of some adcoms and review them against others. Love your videos, best regard!
I had the 5802 a few years ago actually.
@@ThomasAndStereo Oh nice! what's your opinion of it? Wondering what potential upgrades we should look for :)
There are snobs in the audiophile community and sometimes it blinds them to trying something just because of brand. There are many who would thumb their noses up at the Mention of Carver or Infinity Interlude speakers but I have lived with them for 17years and have been very satisfied with the sound. The Infinity were designed during the Dr. Floyd Toole time at Harmon and are based on the technology of the Intermezzo line of speakers. They got a bad rap from people who hooked them up to cheap electronics and then complained they sound like crap. Upgrading my pre-amp to the Marantz av7005 stepped the sound quality to another level. Dont get too hung up on the names if the music sounds great then you're doing something right. Thanks Thomas for your open mindedness.
1st : I don't love Crown,
2nd : I'm not against Crown,
3rd : I am always curious about new products!
Thanks for this review!
I will give the crown a chance!
One vote for Yamaha AS1200. Thank you, Thomas. Good review as always.
Thomas ! It’s very nice and an accurate review!
I put a pair of XLS 2500's (first edition Drive Core amps )on my Magnepan 3.6R's just to see how they would sound, in Y mode one per speaker. They stayed there for 6 months, sounded really good. Tons of power with gain knobs at 2 o'clock, never heard the fans