2. amps-preamps
  3. 188313-187633

Class D, "Control (Variable Gain)," Amplifier versus Class A/B Separates?

Hello, all!

I am currently running a quite old PS Audio GCC-100 in my chain. It is a variable gain, class-D solid state power amplifier with balanced stereo inputs (functionally a balanced integrated amplifier). I recently purchased and am quite enjoying a pair of KEF LS50 Meta loudspeakers, but have been hearing from numerous people that they may sound even better with Class-A or Class-A/B amplification. I am curious what benefits, if any, I might get from making a switch. I am currently considering selling the GCC-100 and replacing it with a Schiit Kara preamplifier combined with a pair of Outlaw 2220 monoblocks. Any and all advice about what I might expect from such a swap would be greatly appreciated! And in case it matters, source is a Denafrips Ares II R-2R DAC playing lossless Apple Music.

-Ed

eddnog

Showing 2 responses by decooney

decooney
1,905 posts
 

 

@mashif I have the Schitt Kara. ...

However, there are two issues that are annoying. ...

The other is its sensitivity to static electricity. A slight touch and it will go into some strange mode and has to be power cycled. ...

I have 5 Schiit products. I returned one. Their CS is terrible and it’s nearly impossible to communicate with anyone besides AI. ...

---------------------------------------------

 

A deal breaker for me. I thought about trying the new Kara in a 2nd system. When they have Schiit Customer Service, and don’t return emails, [I’ve sent 3], what can we look forward to with customer service later when the Schiit breaks, no thanks.

Their AI engine is Schiit too. Who wants to talk with that, I sure don’t. Waste of time. Makes me appreciate the boutique designer builders even more.

decooney
1,905 posts
 

@mashif "...I wouldn’t reject their products over that issue. It’s in keeping with their generally snark attitude."

 

I would. Attitude is important. Emotional intelligence is not that difficult. If we lack most of all five elements of EI, consumers eventually get bored and move on.

"There are five key elements to EI: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.". Good Marketing & Support involves mindful communication too. Letting AI do most of that for you becomes self-defeating in time. Many people still appreciate a little human interaction too. That's all.  

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