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New SMSL PA200 GaN Fet amplifier

I’m using the PA200 in pure stereo amp mode with my Fosi P4 (Sparkos SS3602) so I can use my subwoofer through the pre-out of the P4. The sound is great and very detailed. I’m not noticing the bass being excessive anymore. The unit gets very warm and stays warm in standby mode when you power off with the remote. It fits perfectly on top of my DL200.
IMG_4151.jpeg
 
Now using the PA200 as an integrated without the Fosi P4. To hook up my subwoofer I had to run two sets of speaker cables from the amp to the speakers and speaker level inputs on my subwoofer.
 
What is the input sensitivity of this amp? Can I run my DAC at full volume (2.5v)?
 
One of my PA200's just died on me. Won't turn on and it just makes a popping/clicking sound about twice every second to my speaker.

Depending on how Apos and SMSL handles this situation, it may be my last SMSL product. I've already complained about their false standby power usage of "0.5 watts", and they won't admit fault.
 
I am using my DAC full volume with this amp in integrated mode, and I definitely can't hear any distortion, but it's weird that I couldn't find the specs for the input sensitivity.
 
As I continue to use this amp, now with my Vandersteens in pure power amp mode, I am enjoying the dimensional, almost tube like sound it produces. Now I know why my vintage Kenwood L-05M’s have been described as sounding “dry” due to their somewhat outdated electronics.
 
Mine just died. No sound in stereo mode (pure and volume controlled.)

Mono mode not working either

Any ideas how to fix it?

Why did this happen? I was bi wiring to Vandersteen Model 2Ce sig2 and using in pure stereo mode.
 
Last edited:
HomerIncognito said:
The PA-X unit tested by amirm died during testing. It seems like these GaN unit might have issues with reliability. Did you contact SMSL?
Click to expand...
I just emailed them!
 
I had V3 Monos but started having problems and sent them back (random clicks and pops in standby). In comparison to PA200 the V3 had more bass but less clarity. Not bad sounding by any means but my Tannoy Saturn 9’s are incredibly revealing of everything upchain. I went from a WiiM Pro to an Ultra and ultimately an SMSL D400. I tried different power cords, speaker cables and interconnects in my price range along the way too. Each either improved, worsened or just changed the tonality or presentation. In other words the PA200 are capable units and no issues aside from Amazon’s delivery failure the first go round.
 
olds1959special said:
They said since I bought it used to contact the seller, so I’m out of luck.
Click to expand...
What does that have to do with anything?
A reputable manufacturer offers a warranty on the device.

Do we have to conclude from this that every SMSL device is worthless if you want to sell it after only a few uses?
That would actually be a reason to think carefully about buying a new SMSL not just three times, but at least five times.
 
Roland68 said:
What does that have to do with anything?
A reputable manufacturer offers a warranty on the device.

Do we have to conclude from this that every SMSL device is worthless if you want to sell it after only a few uses?
That would actually be a reason to think carefully about buying a new SMSL not just three times, but at least five times.
Click to expand...
Its pretty much same with many actually, they would ask for seller details and proof of purchase even if the manufacturing date suggests product is within the basic warranty.
I have had same experience with Wiim as well, except I was original buyer but could not get receipt somehow.
 
Best per dollar clean power I've heard to date. Really nice synergy with my Dali Menuet SEs and Bluesound Icon. The lack of a 12v trigger is my only issue.
 
SoySalsaPicante said:
Just buy one of these. It works with PA200 for 12V trigger automation: https://panamax.com/product/max-8-av-pro-8-ac-coax-and-tel-avm-line-filtration/
Click to expand...
An external triggered A/C switch sometimes works as a workaround. Still not totally satisfying when device has to be woken up manually, too.

So can you confirm:
When using an external triggered AC on-off switch for cutting power, while leaving the device's AC switch in "on" position and device in "power on" mode playing music: Would the amplifier resume into operating mode and keep on playing music when AC power is back?
- Or does it, like many other devices, fall back into standby mode then and needs to be woken up by remote control or push button?
Thanks for answering!

...BTW pondering about the newly released PA400... if there only weren't these reports about early "deceasing" GaN featuring amps by SMSL.
 
pickyAudiophile said:
An external triggered A/C switch sometimes works as a workaround. Still not totally satisfying when device has to be woken up manually, too.

So can you confirm:
When using an external triggered AC on-off switch for cutting power, while leaving the device's AC switch in "on" position and device in "power on" mode playing music: Would the amplifier resume into operating mode and keep on playing music when AC power is back?
- Or does it, like many other devices, fall back into standby mode then and needs to be woken up by remote control or push button?
Thanks for answering!

...BTW pondering about the newly released PA400... if there only weren't these reports about early "deceasing" GaN featuring amps by SMSL.
Click to expand...
It returns to full power on state, else I would not have recommended this.
 
Last edited:
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