Class d amplification


Anyone have any experience, comments, recommendations on either Atmasphere class d or Mytek manhattan class d . Would also consider bi-amping. Speakers would be KEF blade1 meta or Joseph Pearl Graphene.  Large room, 15 x20x10

 

thanks

digitaljoseph

I'm now looking at the new LAiV GaNM monobloc's.  I never thought I'd go that route, however after seeing and hearing class D amps at the Tampa Audio Expo, I'm going to give them a try.  LAiV has developed their own class-D amplification which most other Mfg's have incorporated external sourced class-D power supplies.  6-Moons has a really good review of them.  After e-mailing LAiV support with some technical questions, I'm about ready to get these.

To those with class D mono experience, which ones are closest to tubes or give that warmth that most of us want? Seems they’ve come a long way and I’d like to dip my toes into the pond. Atmosphere sounds intriguing. TIA!✌🏻

@rwmiler 

It’s a good question though it might be difficult to answer as few of us would have experience with all the options out there. It’s a growing list. 

I have direct experience with a few which I’ve previously owned: a PS Audio Stellar S300, an NAD M22 and NAD M33 (integrated) - all class D but different topologies.

In my second system, I now own Atmasphere Class D monos.  As I’m guessing you know, Ralph Karsten, the owner/designer for Atmasphere built his well-regarded reputation on tube amps and preamps. The Atmasphere monos are significantly better (to my ears) than the others I’ve owned - as they’re more musical, detailed, yet harmonically rich, without introducing tube colorations. I’m sure there are other fine options, too. 

Please be aware that like most amps, they take a long time to break in. Assume a minimum of 100 hours, but realistically they need >400 to sound their best.  

I am driving them with a tube preamp (also an Atmosphere) and it’s quite a musical combination. But I auditioned the amps in my primary system which has a solid state pre.

I’ve heard other Class D options, some of which I liked, some which I did not. But as I owned the aforementioned versions, I can speak of my experience more directly. 

Best,