The Emotiva XPA-9 Gen3 is a nine-channel power amplifier from Emotiva’s modular XPA Gen3 range, designed for immersive home theatre configurations requiring a high channel count without compromise on power delivery. The XPA Gen3 platform spans from two to eleven channels, all sharing the same full-size chassis and power supply architecture. Above the XPA-9 in the multi-channel Gen3 line sits the eleven-channel XPA-11 Gen3, while Emotiva’s Differential Reference XPA-DR series — featuring fully balanced differential amplifier stages — represents the company’s highest-performance amplification. The XPA-9 Gen3 is designed, assembled, and tested in the USA.
Modular Channel Configuration
Unlike uniformly configured multi-channel amplifiers, the XPA-9 Gen3 uses a mixed-module approach suited to contemporary immersive audio layouts. Five High-Powered Single Channel Modules handle the main, centre, and primary surround channels, each delivering up to 300 watts RMS into 8 ohms with a single channel driven. Two Stereo Modules provide four additional channels at 65 watts RMS per channel into 8 ohms, suited to height or effects channels where lower power demands apply. This combination makes the XPA-9 Gen3 particularly well matched to 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 Atmos and DTS:X configurations. Additional amplifier modules can be factory-installed to expand channel count as a system grows.
Amplifier Topology
Each High-Powered Single Channel Module is a fully discrete, dual-differential, high-current, short-signal-path Class A/B design. The modules operate with Emotiva’s Optimized Class H™ power supply topology, which switches between supply rail voltages in response to signal demand, improving efficiency without sacrificing headroom. A high-efficiency switch-mode power supply capable of delivering over 3 kW of fully regulated power feeds all nine channels. Microprocessor-controlled fault protection monitors each channel independently.
Inputs & Control
Each of the nine channels provides a choice of balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA input, independently selected via metal toggle switches on the rear panel. A 12V trigger input and output allow the XPA-9 Gen3 to be integrated into an automated system, powering up and down in sequence with a processor or preamplifier.
| Channels | 9 (5 × High-Powered Single Channel + 2 × Stereo Module) |
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| High-Powered Module (1 ch driven, 8Ω) | 300W RMS (THD <0.1%) |
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| High-Powered Module (1 ch driven, 4Ω) | 550W RMS (THD <0.2%) |
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| High-Powered Module (2 ch driven, 8Ω) | 300W RMS per channel (THD <0.1%) |
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| High-Powered Module (2 ch driven, 4Ω) | 490W RMS per channel (THD <0.1%) |
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| Stereo Module (2 ch driven, 8Ω) | 65W RMS per channel |
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| Stereo Module (2 ch driven, 4Ω) | 100W RMS per channel |
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| THD+N | <0.005% at 100W RMS, 1 kHz, 8Ω |
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| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | >115 dB (A-weighted, ref. rated power, unbalanced) |
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| Damping Factor | >500 (8Ω load) |
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| Gain | 29 dB |
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| Input Sensitivity | 0.8V (rated power, 8Ω) |
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| Input Impedance | 33 kΩ (balanced); 23.5 kΩ (unbalanced) |
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| Minimum Load Impedance | 4Ω per channel |
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| Power Bandwidth | 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.1 dB) |
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| Broadband Frequency Response | 5 Hz – 80 kHz (+0/−2 dB) |
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| Amplifier Topology | Fully discrete, dual-differential Class A/B with Optimized Class H™ power supply |
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| Power Supply | High-efficiency SMPS (>3 kW continuous) |
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| Inputs | Balanced XLR & unbalanced RCA per channel (toggle-selectable) |
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| Trigger | 12V trigger input & output |
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| Maximum Power Consumption | 2,600W |
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| Dimensions | 432 × 203 × 483mm (17" × 8" × 19") including feet |
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| Weight | 24 kg (53 lbs) |
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