The Emotiva XPA-DR1 is a Differential Reference monoblock power amplifier and the entry point into Emotiva’s DR Series — a range that sits above the XPA Gen3 line in the amplification hierarchy. Where the XPA Gen3 series employs High-Powered Single Channel and Stereo Amplifier Modules, the DR series is built around Emotiva’s Differential Reference Amplifier Modules: a fully differential, fully balanced design fed by a dedicated 3 kW regulated switch-mode power supply. The XPA-DR1 ships with a single Differential Reference Module installed, delivering 650 watts RMS into 8 ohms or 1,000 watts RMS into 4 ohms at under 0.1% THD. The chassis accepts up to two additional modules as factory installations, allowing the XPA-DR1 to be expanded into a two- or three-channel amplifier without replacing the enclosure.
Amplifier Topology
Each Differential Reference Module pairs a fully analog Class A/B output stage with Emotiva’s Soft-Switch Class H power supply topology. In normal operation the output stage runs on a lower supply voltage to minimise quiescent power draw; when the signal demands it, the topology switches instantly to a higher voltage rail, ensuring the signal passes cleanly and without clipping. This switching happens continuously in real time, delivering greater overall efficiency, cooler running temperatures, and reduced power consumption compared with a fixed high-voltage supply. The fully differential, fully balanced signal path throughout the module is designed to reject common-mode noise. A microprocessor-controlled protection system monitors each module independently.
Expandable Chassis
The XPA-DR chassis is designed to accommodate up to three Differential Reference Modules. On the XPA-DR1, the two unoccupied module positions are covered with protective rear panels. The front-panel display and the protection system are engineered to support the maximum channel count from the outset, so no firmware or hardware updates are required when adding modules. The chassis is available in a full-size 483 mm (19”) depth configuration and a compact 381 mm (15”) depth option.
Inputs & Control
The XPA-DR1 accepts both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs, selectable by toggle. Input impedance is 33 kΩ on the balanced input and 23.5 kΩ on the unbalanced input. A 12V trigger input and a 12V trigger output allow the amplifier to be integrated into an automated system, powering up or down in sequence with source components.
| Configuration | Monoblock (1 × Differential Reference Module; expandable to 3) |
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| Power Output (8Ω) | 650W RMS (THD <0.1%) |
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| Power Output (4Ω) | 1,000W RMS (THD <0.1%) |
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| THD+N | <0.015% at 100W RMS, 1 kHz, 8Ω |
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| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | >122 dB (A-weighted, ref. rated power, unbalanced); >96 dB (A-weighted, ref. 1W, unbalanced) |
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| Damping Factor | >500 (8Ω load) |
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| Gain | 29 dB |
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| Input Sensitivity | 2.4V (rated power, 8Ω) |
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| Input Impedance | 33 kΩ (balanced); 23.5 kΩ (unbalanced) |
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| Minimum Recommended Load | 4Ω (or two paralleled 8Ω loads) |
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| Power Bandwidth | 20 Hz – 20 kHz (±0.1 dB) at rated power |
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| Broadband Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 50 kHz (+0/−2 dB) |
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| Amplifier Topology | Fully differential Class A/B with Soft-Switch Class H efficiency |
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| Power Supply | 3 kW regulated SMPS |
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| Inputs | Balanced XLR & unbalanced RCA (toggle-selectable) |
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| Trigger | 12V trigger input & output |
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| Maximum Power Consumption | 1,000W |
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| Dimensions | 432 × 203 × 483 mm (17” × 8” × 19”) including feet |
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| Weight | 16.1 kg (35.5 lbs) |
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