Physically Stacking Class A Amps

[vdi_nenna]

Hey,

Sorry for asking a question that may seem obvious to some, but it's not to me.
Yes, I did search the forums.

Is there a problem stacking Class A amps that have heat sinks vertically arranged? We've seen all the pictures, but are they really plugged in and powered on?

pass labs amps - Bing images

I'm running out of room. Four large Class A amps are taking up a lot of real estate. Using two mono-blocks and two stereo amps.

Will the heat moving up cause the second amp to get hotter or does the air movement actually help? I'm guessing the former is the answer but it's a guess.

Thanks,

Vince

 

[Zen Mod]

everything is perfect as long just one in stack is powered on ......



(palm rule , after temp. equilibrium , on all sides )

 

[vdi_nenna]

Ok. Makes sense. Hope it works.

 

[Zen Mod]

there is always best solution - use bigger speakers , then put amps on them

 

[vdi_nenna]

Glad you're amused.

 

[Zen Mod]

well , even if I am , your question isn't trivial ....same as my answers ; having something heavy on top of speaker cabinet (if possible) is always beneficial , believe it or not

 

[rayma]

Will the heat moving up cause the second amp to get hotter or does the air movement actually help?

The class A amplifier's thermal design assumes a normal range of ambient air temperature, so the top amplifier will run too hot.

 

[jacco vermeulen]

pass labs amps - Bing images

Jams can be stacked, the one and only can't.

(but stacked amps require a bypass)

 

[JR_W]

From the Pass Labs website (copied from the manual of some of the smallest monoblocks, the XA60.5)

"You can put this amplifier anywhere you want, but it must have good
ventilation. Do not place it in enclosed cabinets or small closets
without means for air to circulate freely. Stacking these power
amplifiers directly upon each other is not recommended for the same
reason. You should have a minimum of about 6 inches clearance to
the top and sides for adequate air circulation."

 

[vdi_nenna]

From the Pass Labs website (copied from the manual of some of the smallest monoblocks, the XA60.5)

"You can put this amplifier anywhere you want, but it must have good
ventilation. Do not place it in enclosed cabinets or small closets
without means for air to circulate freely. Stacking these power
amplifiers directly upon each other is not recommended for the same
reason. You should have a minimum of about 6 inches clearance to
the top and sides for adequate air circulation."

That about answers it.

Thanks.