At a time when many companies are extending their product lines on the lower end, Crown has gone the other way with its new Xs Series amps. They are the new entries in Crown's group of road amps. The most affordable Crowns are the XLS amps, intended for bands stretching to get a decent system together. The next step up is the CE series amps, which are the current standard for sound reinforcement. The new Xs amps are a step above the CEs, with more power, design refinements, and superior performance. Still their prices aren't out of the zone for anyone serious about sound. Obviously, Crown expects great things from its Xs Series amps.

Another really cool feature of the Xs amp is its protection circuitry. Just in case something does go wrong, it provides complete protection via microprocessor-controlled circuitry that detects problems and responds appropriately. When MF gave me the amp to try out, they passed on Crown's assurance that about the only way I could burn the thing up would be to pour gasoline on it and light a match. Crown is so confident of the Xs amps' durability and reliability that they back them with an exceptionally strong guarantee: 3 years, full coverage, no weasel words, no questions asked. It's even transferable. If you've got a band playing a lot of gigs or a busy P.A. for hire, this guarantee is especially significant.

• Analog Inputs: 2 x Combo Jacks; Barrier Strip
• Analog Outputs: 2 x XLR
• Fan: Yes
• Power Supply: Internal
• Watts per Channel: Dual 500 watts @ 4 ohms