S200 vs Pass Labs X250.8
The X250.8's power @ 8ω is 250W against the S200's 200W, its power @ 4ω 500W against 400W, its damping factor >100 against >300, and its output voltage 0.2V RMS against 1.8V RMS.
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Audio Research S-200 is a high-performance stereo power amplifier delivering 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 400 watts into 4 ohms. Building on the S-100's circuit topology, it incorporates enhanced power supplies, a reinforced output stage, and greater dynamic headroom for demanding speakers. It features a differential JFET input stage, bipolar transistor voltage and output stages operating in Class AB, and a fully balanced signal path from input to output. The amplifier supports both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs via a rear-panel switch, with dual white-on-black power meters on the front panel inspired by ARC's Reference series. Housed in a low-profile chassis with custom-machined heatsinks, it is hand-built in Minnesota, USA, as part of the 2025 55th Anniversary Series. Designed for authoritative sound with precision, control, and musicality, it excels in driving difficult loads while preserving detail and dynamics.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The X250.8's power @ 8ω is 250W against the S200's 200W, its power @ 4ω 500W against 400W, its damping factor >100 against >300, and its output voltage 0.2V RMS against 1.8V RMS.
The FLS10's power @ 4ω is 380W against the S200's 400W and its damping factor >600 against >300. Both share power @ 8ω (200W) and class (AB).
The SA-200.2 ES's power @ 4ω is 350W against the S200's 400W and its damping factor >400 against >300. Both share power @ 8ω (200W) and class (AB).
The M-900u's power @ 8ω is 150W against the S200's 200W, its power @ 4ω 300W against 400W, its damping factor >700 against >300, and its output impedance 0.012Ω against 100000Ω.
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