Atma-Sphere Class D… Amazing

Well, I just put in my order for a pair of Atmasphere Monoblocks.

I was not considering Class D amps, but when Ralph embarked on this new path, I have been very interested in giving them a try.

And, as many know, I am a Vandersteen guy, so owning a Time and Phase Correct speaker meant using a Zero Feedback amp for optimal results.

Atma's new Class D amps use feedback, but Ralph believes that Class D allows for more Gain Balance Feedback that conventional amp do, and without the negative effect of adding high ordered harmonics.

(I hope I got this right Ralph...)

Bob

B

One of the reasons I have bought Atmasphere's products is that Ralph can clearly and simply describe why his equipment works as good as it does.- As well as how we perceive sound.

Bob

@mglik ,

I, too, own Atma gear (MP-1, MA-1-stock).

We both know Ralph is a consummate stereo equipment designer.

So, for me, I have put my deposit on his new Class D amps.

The big question, as a Vandersteen owner, is the fact that it uses Feedback. Ask any Vandy diehard, and you'll know that amps with Zero Feedback work best for these speakers.

So, am going to give these a try, and also try to get my dealer to set up a demo comparing them to  his Zero Feedbackamps, if possible.

Bob

Well, Ralph has outdone himself and shipped my new Atma Class D amps (with black face plates) sooner than thought. As I am in the middle of putting all my gardens to bed and hopefully overwintering the non hardy material, I have to put their installation on the back burner for a little while.

The amps are a bit more compact than comparable Class A, A/B amps, but are quite heavy, -Something I was not expecting, as many Class D amps seem to be quite smaller than these. But, I haven't had any experience with other Class D amps and have relied upon only visual depictions.

Once I get them 'run in', I hope to visit my dealer, John Rutan, and schedule a time to demo them, and compare them with other amplifiers.-Of course, if Johnny is willing. I really want to do this as I have heard so much about Class D, and know Ralph is a great designer who would only release a product if he felt it to be of deserved quality.

Who knows, maybe my MA-1's will be for sale, soon.

Bob

Bob

@avanti1960 ,

Your post doesn't provide enough information. What equipment was your friend using? What did he/she find unacceptable? Inquiring minds want to know.

B

@snapsc ,

I'll try to upload a shot in the next couple of days. But, to be honest, it looks pretty much like any other black faceplated piece of equipment.

My question:

Why do you need pics?

Bob

I leave the Atma Class D's on and shut off everything else.

Luckily, the Belles preamp turns on with the Mute switch engaged, so no thumps.

Though I wonder if there is a way to mute a tube preamp when turning it on...

Bob