Audio T Verdict
The Advance Paris X-A220 EVO is a powerful monoblock amplifier designed for systems where loudspeaker control, dynamic headroom and complete separation between the left and right channels are priorities.
Each amplifier delivers 220W into 8 ohms and 350W into 4 ohms, supported by a 700VA toroidal transformer, 40,000µF of reservoir capacitance and a triple push-pull transistor output stage.
Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, High-Bias operation, trigger control and adjustable VU-meter illumination make the X-A220 EVO a compelling partner for the Advance Paris X-P700 or another suitably equipped preamplifier.
Advance Paris X-A220 EVO Mono Power Amplifier
The Advance Paris X-A220 EVO is a monoblock power amplifier containing one high-output amplifier channel.
Each unit powers one passive loudspeaker. A conventional stereo system therefore requires two matching X-A220 EVO amplifiers, with one connected to the left preamplifier output and the other connected to the right.
This approach gives each stereo channel its own enclosure, transformer, power supply, amplifier circuitry and loudspeaker connection.
One Amplifier for Each Loudspeaker
A monoblock differs from a stereo power amplifier because it contains only one amplifier channel.
Using one X-A220 EVO for each loudspeaker provides complete physical separation between the left and right channels and prevents them from sharing a transformer or power-supply reservoir.
This can be particularly beneficial during demanding musical passages, where each amplifier can draw entirely upon its own power supply.
Two Units Are Required for Stereo
The X-A220 EVO is supplied as an individual mono power amplifier.
Two matching units are required to power a conventional stereo loudspeaker pair. Confirm current pair pricing and availability with Audio T before ordering.
220W into 8 Ohms
Each X-A220 EVO delivers 220W RMS into an 8-ohm loudspeaker load.
This provides substantial headroom for musical peaks and allows the amplifier to work without operating continually near its maximum capability.
Its output makes it suitable for many large floorstanding loudspeakers, lower-sensitivity designs and systems installed in larger listening rooms.
350W into 4 Ohms
Output increases to 350W RMS into a 4-ohm load.
The increase in available power as loudspeaker impedance falls demonstrates the amplifier’s ability to supply additional current into a more demanding load.
Compatibility should still be considered using the loudspeaker’s complete impedance curve, electrical phase behaviour, sensitivity and recommended amplifier range.
Arrange a Complete System Demonstration
Power figures alone cannot determine how an amplifier and loudspeaker will perform together.
An Audio T demonstration can establish whether a pair of X-A220 EVO amplifiers provides the tonal balance, control, scale and listening level required by your chosen loudspeakers.
Class A/B Power Amplification
The X-A220 EVO’s main output stage operates in Class A/B.
This design allows the amplifier to deliver substantial continuous and peak power without the constant heat and energy consumption associated with a 220W pure Class A amplifier.
The output stage automatically handles the transition between its complementary transistor devices as the music signal changes.
Selectable High-Bias Mode
A rear-panel High-Bias selector increases the standing bias applied to the output stage.
When enabled, the amplifier operates in a manner comparable with Class A over its first watt before progressing automatically into Class A/B as greater output is required.
This combines higher-bias operation at lower listening levels with the substantial power reserves of the main Class A/B amplifier stage.
High-Bias Ventilation Requirements
The X-A220 EVO generates more heat when High-Bias mode is enabled.
Advance Paris recommends approximately 5cm of free space at the sides and 10cm above the amplifier.
Do not install it inside a sealed cabinet, position it on a soft surface or place another component directly over the ventilation openings.
700VA Toroidal Transformer
A substantial 700VA toroidal transformer forms the foundation of the X-A220 EVO’s power supply.
The transformer supplies the energy required by the rectification, reservoir and amplifier circuits during both continuous playback and sudden musical peaks.
Toroidal transformers are widely used in high-performance amplifiers because they can deliver considerable current while maintaining a relatively low external magnetic field.
40,000µF Reservoir Capacitance
Four 10,000µF capacitors provide a total power-supply reservoir capacity of 40,000µF.
Each capacitor is rated at 80V and helps smooth the rectified supply while storing energy for the power-amplifier output stage.
This reservoir supports stable power delivery when the amplifier is asked to reproduce sudden dynamic changes.
Triple Push-Pull Output Stage
The X-A220 EVO uses a triple push-pull arrangement of complementary bipolar output transistors.
Advance Paris identifies the devices as NJW0281G and NJW0302G high-current power transistors.
Sharing the output requirement across multiple devices helps distribute current and thermal demand across the generously sized heatsink.
Large Internal Heatsink
The amplifier’s substantial 200mm cabinet height allows space for a large power-transistor heatsink.
The heatsink draws heat away from the output devices and dissipates it through the amplifier enclosure.
This becomes particularly important during sustained high-output use or when High-Bias mode is selected.
Rigid Steel Construction
The internal assembly is supported by a rigid steel frame.
This provides a stable foundation for the heavy transformer, capacitor bank, heatsink and amplifier circuitry.
The enclosure weighs 21kg before packaging, so it requires a properly supported equipment shelf or amplifier platform.
Compartmentalised Internal Layout
The major internal sections are arranged rationally and divided by function.
Quality components are mounted on separate printed circuit boards rather than crowding every function onto one shared assembly.
The compartmentalised construction helps separate the high-current power supply and output stage from the amplifier’s lower-level input circuitry.
Balanced XLR Input
A balanced XLR input allows the X-A220 EVO to connect to a compatible balanced preamplifier, DAC, streamer or AV processor.
Balanced transmission can provide improved rejection of external electrical interference, particularly when longer cables are required between the preamplifier and monoblocks.
The balanced input impedance is specified at 38k ohms.
Unbalanced RCA Input
An unbalanced RCA input is also provided for compatible preamplifiers and source equipment fitted with conventional RCA outputs.
The unbalanced input impedance is specified at 32k ohms.
A well-screened analogue interconnect is recommended, particularly where the source and power amplifier are positioned close to mains cables or other electrical equipment.
RCA or XLR Input Selection
A rear-panel selector determines whether the X-A220 EVO uses its balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA input.
The two inputs are alternative connections and must not be used simultaneously.
Switch the amplifier off before changing the input selector or connecting and disconnecting analogue interconnects.
1.4V Rated Input Level
The manufacturer publishes a rated source level of 1.4V.
This is the approximate signal voltage required to drive the amplifier to its rated output under the stated test conditions.
A suitable preamplifier should provide enough clean output voltage while retaining a useful range of adjustment through its volume control.
30dB Voltage Gain
The X-A220 EVO has a published voltage gain of 30dB, with a tolerance of plus or minus 1dB.
Gain describes how much the input voltage is increased by the power amplifier.
This should be considered when combining the X-A220 EVO with other amplifiers in an active, bi-amplified or home cinema system.
Requires a Separate Preamplifier
The X-A220 EVO is a dedicated power amplifier and does not include conventional source selection or a front-panel volume control.
It should normally be connected to a compatible component with a properly implemented variable output, such as:
- A dedicated stereo preamplifier
- A streaming preamplifier
- A compatible DAC with safe volume control
- A network player with variable output
- An AV receiver or processor with preamplifier outputs
Do Not Connect an Uncontrolled Fixed Output
Connecting a fixed-level source directly to a high-power amplifier can produce an immediate and dangerously high listening level.
Confirm that the connected component has a safe variable output before switching on the X-A220 EVO.
Matching X-P700 Preamplifier
The Advance Paris X-P700 is the natural matching preamplifier for a pair of X-A220 EVO monoblocks.
It provides source selection, volume control, balanced and unbalanced outputs, analogue and digital connections, headphone amplification and a configurable phono stage.
Its left output connects to the X-A220 EVO powering the left loudspeaker, while the right output connects to the amplifier powering the right loudspeaker.
Compatible with Other Preamplifiers
The X-A220 EVO is not restricted to the matching Advance Paris preamplifier.
It can be partnered with another suitable component that provides compatible variable RCA or balanced XLR outputs.
Output level, gain structure, connector wiring, grounding and cable length should all be considered when selecting the partnering equipment.
Home Cinema Integration
A pair of X-A220 EVO amplifiers can power the front-left and front-right loudspeakers in a compatible home cinema system.
The corresponding preamplifier outputs from an AV receiver or processor connect to the individual monoblocks.
Volume, delay and channel-level calibration are then handled by the connected AV equipment.
Trigger Input and Output
A 12V trigger input allows a compatible preamplifier or processor to switch the X-A220 EVO on and off remotely.
A trigger output can pass the control signal to another suitable amplifier or component.
This is especially useful with a stereo pair of monoblocks, allowing both amplifiers to follow the power state of the preamplifier.
Trigger connections carry control voltage rather than an audio signal.
Single-Channel Speaker Terminals
One pair of high-current loudspeaker binding posts connects the X-A220 EVO to the loudspeaker assigned to that amplifier.
The terminals accommodate suitable connection types including:
- Properly prepared bare speaker cable
- Pin connectors
- Compatible spade connectors
- 4mm banana plugs
Advance Paris specifies loudspeakers with a nominal impedance of 4 ohms or higher.
Maintaining Correct Speaker Polarity
Connect the red positive amplifier terminal to the positive terminal on the loudspeaker.
Connect the black negative terminal to the corresponding negative loudspeaker terminal.
Repeat the same polarity arrangement for the second monoblock and loudspeaker.
Switch the amplifiers off before connecting or disconnecting speaker cables.
Use Suitable Speaker Cable
A system with this level of output should use properly terminated speaker cable with an appropriate conductor size.
Ensure that all connections are secure and that no loose conductor strands can bridge the positive and negative terminals.
Your local Audio T store can advise on suitable cable, terminations and lengths for the complete system.
Protecting the Loudspeakers
The X-A220 EVO’s power reserves do not mean that every loudspeaker can safely absorb its maximum output.
Excessive clean power can overheat a loudspeaker voice coil or drive a bass unit beyond its intended mechanical limits.
Increase the volume progressively and reduce it immediately if the loudspeaker begins to sound strained, compressed or distorted.
Large Illuminated VU Meter
A large illuminated VU meter dominates the front of each X-A220 EVO.
The meter provides a visual representation of amplifier activity and complements other Advance Paris Classic Line components.
It should be treated as a visual guide rather than a precision measuring instrument.
Adjustable Meter Lighting
The rear-panel meter-light control allows the backlight to be adjusted or switched off.
This can be useful when the amplifiers are installed in a dark listening room or incorporated into a home cinema system.
Changing the illumination does not affect audio performance.
Front Standby Control
A front-panel standby button switches the amplifier between standby and normal operation when the rear master-power switch is on.
The button illuminates red in standby and changes to white after the amplifier has completed its start-up delay.
The delay allows the internal supply and protection circuits to establish normal operating conditions before the loudspeaker output is enabled.
Low Standby Consumption
Published standby power consumption is approximately 0.45W.
For extended periods without use, switch the amplifier off using the rear master-power control and disconnect it from the mains if appropriate.
Automatic 115V or 230V Operation
The official operating instructions state that the amplifier automatically selects the appropriate 115V or 230V mains configuration.
The rear master-power switch should be in the off position before connecting the mains cable.
The amplifier must be connected to a correctly earthed mains supply.
Wide 10Hz to 80kHz Bandwidth
The published frequency response extends from 10Hz to 80kHz at the manufacturer’s stated minus-3dB limits.
This extends beyond the conventional audible range and allows the amplifier to cover the full audio spectrum without an abrupt roll-off within the listening band.
Published Distortion and Noise
Advance Paris specifies distortion below 0.08% and a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 100dB.
The performance of a complete system will also depend on the preamplifier, sources, cable routing, grounding, loudspeakers and mains environment.
No Bridged Mode Required
The X-A220 EVO is already a dedicated single-channel monoblock.
It does not need to be bridged from stereo into mono operation, and no user-selectable bridged mode is specified.
Each amplifier should be used to power one loudspeaker channel.
No Built-In Source Facilities
The X-A220 EVO does not contain:
- A network streamer
- Bluetooth reception
- A phono stage
- A digital-to-analogue converter
- USB audio
- HDMI connectivity
- A headphone output
- A source selector
These functions must be provided by the connected preamplifier or source equipment.
Installation and Equipment Support
Each X-A220 EVO measures 430mm wide, 200mm high and 450mm deep.
The amplifier weighs 21kg before packaging, so a stereo pair has a combined net weight of approximately 42kg.
Each amplifier requires a strong, stable and level rack shelf, platform or floor stand capable of safely supporting its weight.
Allow Space for Connections
The published 450mm depth does not include the additional room required by the mains cable, interconnect, trigger cable and speaker cable.
Allow generous clearance behind the amplifier, particularly when using stiff or heavily terminated cables.
Do not force the amplifier against the rear of a cabinet or wall.
Positioning a Stereo Pair
The two monoblocks may be positioned together on a suitably rated equipment rack or placed closer to their individual loudspeakers.
Positioning each amplifier near its loudspeaker can reduce the required speaker-cable length, although longer interconnects may then be required from the preamplifier.
Balanced XLR connections are particularly useful where longer preamplifier-to-amplifier cable runs are necessary.
Do Not Stack the Amplifiers
Directly stacking the two X-A220 EVO amplifiers is not recommended because of their weight, heat output and ventilation requirements.
Provide each unit with its own properly supported and ventilated position.
Do not place another component directly above the ventilation openings.
Safe Handling
Each amplifier has a packaged weight of approximately 24.5kg.
Care should be taken when removing it from its carton and positioning it inside an equipment rack.
Retain the original packaging for future transport, servicing or relocation.
Key Features
- High-current monoblock power amplifier
- One amplifier channel per unit
- Two matching units required for stereo
- 220W RMS output into 8 ohms
- 350W RMS output into 4 ohms
- Class A/B power-amplifier design
- Selectable High-Bias mode
- Class A-like operation over the first watt
- 700VA toroidal transformer
- Four 10,000µF/80V reservoir capacitors
- 40,000µF total reservoir capacitance
- Triple push-pull output stage
- Complementary NJW0281G and NJW0302G transistors
- Large internal heatsink
- Rigid steel construction
- Compartmentalised internal layout
- Separate circuit boards divided by function
- Balanced XLR analogue input
- Unbalanced RCA analogue input
- Rear balanced and unbalanced input selector
- 38k-ohm balanced input impedance
- 32k-ohm unbalanced input impedance
- 1.4V published rated input level
- 30dB published voltage gain
- Single-channel loudspeaker binding posts
- 4-ohm minimum loudspeaker impedance
- Bare-wire, pin, spade and banana-plug compatibility
- 12V trigger input and output
- Large illuminated front-panel VU meter
- Adjustable or switchable meter lighting
- Front-panel standby control
- Automatic 115V or 230V mains selection
- Approximately 0.45W standby consumption
- 10Hz to 80kHz published frequency response
- Less than 0.08% published distortion
- At least 100dB published signal-to-noise ratio
- 21kg net weight per amplifier
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the X-A220 EVO a stereo amplifier?
No. It is a monoblock power amplifier containing one amplifier channel.
How many X-A220 EVO amplifiers are needed for stereo?
Two units are required, with one powering the left loudspeaker and the other powering the right.
Is the listed price for one amplifier or a pair?
The X-A220 EVO is an individual monoblock. Confirm current pair pricing and availability with Audio T.
How powerful is the X-A220 EVO?
Each amplifier delivers 220W RMS into 8 ohms and 350W RMS into 4 ohms.
Does it operate in pure Class A?
Its main design is Class A/B. High-Bias mode provides Class A-like operation over the first watt before the amplifier progresses into Class A/B.
Does High-Bias mode produce more heat?
Yes. Advance Paris recommends around 5cm of free space at the sides and 10cm above the amplifier.
What transformer does it use?
It uses a 700VA toroidal transformer.
How much reservoir capacitance does it have?
Four 10,000µF capacitors provide a total of 40,000µF.
Which output transistors are used?
The output stage uses complementary NJW0281G and NJW0302G high-current transistors in a triple push-pull arrangement.
Does it have a balanced input?
Yes. One balanced XLR input is provided.
Does it also have an RCA input?
Yes. One unbalanced RCA input is provided.
Can XLR and RCA be used simultaneously?
No. A rear-panel selector determines which input is active.
What are the input impedances?
The balanced input is specified at 38k ohms and the unbalanced input at 32k ohms.
What is the rated input level?
The published rated source level is 1.4V.
What is the amplifier gain?
The published voltage gain is 30dB, with a tolerance of plus or minus 1dB.
Does it have a volume control?
No. Volume must be controlled by a suitable external preamplifier, DAC, streamer or processor with a variable output.
Can I connect a CD player directly?
Only where the CD player has a properly implemented variable output. A normal fixed-level CD output should be connected through a preamplifier.
Can I connect a streamer directly?
Yes, where the streamer provides a safe variable output and suitable volume control. Fixed-level outputs should be routed through a preamplifier.
Which preamplifier is the natural partner?
The Advance Paris X-P700 is the matching partner, although other suitable RCA or XLR preamplifiers can also be used.
Can the X-A220 EVO be used in a home cinema system?
Yes. A pair can power the main front-left and front-right loudspeakers from compatible AV preamplifier outputs.
Does it have trigger control?
Yes. Trigger input and output connections allow compatible equipment to coordinate power operation.
How many loudspeakers does each amplifier power?
Each X-A220 EVO powers one passive loudspeaker.
What is the minimum loudspeaker impedance?
Advance Paris specifies loudspeakers with a nominal impedance of 4 ohms or higher.
Which speaker-cable connections are supported?
The binding posts accept properly prepared bare wire, pin connectors, compatible spades and 4mm banana plugs.
Can the VU-meter lighting be switched off?
Yes. The rear-panel lighting control allows the meter illumination to be adjusted or switched off.
Can the amplifier be bridged?
No bridged mode is required or specified because the X-A220 EVO is already a single-channel monoblock.
Does it include a DAC or network streamer?
No. It is a dedicated analogue power amplifier.
What is the frequency response?
The published frequency response is 10Hz to 80kHz at the stated minus-3dB limits.
What is the signal-to-noise ratio?
The published signal-to-noise ratio is at least 100dB.
How much power does it use in standby?
The published standby consumption is approximately 0.45W.
How large is each amplifier?
Each unit measures 430mm wide, 200mm high and 450mm deep.
How much does each amplifier weigh?
The published net weight is 21kg per unit.
Can the two amplifiers be stacked?
Direct stacking is not recommended because of their weight, heat output and ventilation requirements.
Related Advance Paris Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Independent advice from experienced Hi-Fi specialists
- Monoblock and preamplifier system matching
- In-store demonstrations at participating branches
- Loudspeaker power and impedance guidance
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection advice
- System gain and volume-control guidance
- Home cinema power-amplifier integration
- Equipment-rack and ventilation advice
- Speaker-cable and interconnect recommendations
- Home demonstration options where available
- Click and Reserve from participating stores
- Nationwide UK delivery on eligible products
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching a pair of Advance Paris X-A220 EVO monoblocks with your preamplifier, loudspeakers and listening room.