The Advance Paris X-A160EVO is a stereo power amplifier from the French manufacturer's Classic-Line EVO range. Positioned alongside the X-P700 preamplifier as its natural partner, the X-A160EVO delivers 2 x 160W RMS into 8Ω and 2 x 240W RMS into 4Ω, making it capable of driving a wide range of loudspeakers with authority.
Amplification and High Bias Mode
The X-A160EVO operates in Class AB as standard, but a rear-panel switch engages a High Bias mode that extends Class A operation to approximately 10W per channel. Above this threshold, the amplifier transitions automatically into Class AB. The High Bias mode is designed to deliver a warmer, smoother character at lower listening levels, where Class A operation is at its most effective.
Power Supply and Construction
At the heart of the X-A160EVO sits a 700W toroidal transformer feeding a high-capacity power supply. The output stage uses NJW0281G and NJW0302G high-current power transistors — the same devices found in Advance Paris's flagship MAA 1000. The chassis is compartmentalised, with each circuit section physically separated to minimise interference between stages. The front panel is crafted from 10mm black methacrylate, a robust polymer that resembles dark-tinted glass whilst providing shatter resistance.
Connectivity
The X-A160EVO accepts both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs, with separate left and right channel connections for each input type. A 12V trigger input allows automatic power-on from a compatible preamplifier. Speaker outputs use five-way binding posts for each channel. A rear-panel dimmer switch provides three brightness levels for the front-panel VU meters (normal, off, and maximum).
VU Meters
The front panel features two backlit VU meters calibrated in both dB and Watts at 8Ω, providing a real-time visual indication of output level for each channel. The illumination can be adjusted or switched off entirely via the rear-panel dimmer control.
What the Press Says
- "Their warmth and fullness of presentation contributed to an engaging listening experience." — Home Theater HiFi (August 2025)
| Amplifier Type | Stereo power amplifier (Class A/AB) |
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| Power Output (8Ω) | 2 x 160W RMS |
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| Power Output (4Ω) | 2 x 240W RMS |
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| Frequency Response | 10Hz – 80kHz |
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| Total Harmonic Distortion | < 0.07% |
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| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | > 120dB |
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| Channel Separation | > 80dB |
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| Input Impedance (Unbalanced) | 20kΩ |
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| Input Impedance (Balanced) | 38kΩ |
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| Inputs | 1 x RCA (unbalanced), 1 x XLR (balanced) |
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| Speaker Outputs | Five-way binding posts (L + R) |
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| Trigger Input | 12V |
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| Power Transformer | 700W toroidal |
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| Max Power Consumption | 500W |
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| Standby Consumption | < 0.5W |
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| AC Input | 115V/230V (automatic switching) |
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| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 440 x 160 x 420mm |
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| Weight | 19kg |
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| Finish | Black |
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