Class D Technology


So I get the obvious strengths of Class D. Efficiency, power output & running cool which allows for small form factors. I also understand the weaknesses somewhat. 1. Non-linear & lots of distortion that needs to be cleaned up with an output filter. 
So my question is, if it weren't for efficiency & power, would there be any reason to own a Class D amp? Do they beat Class A in any other categories that count for sound quality?  
seanheis1

Showing 1 response by redhouse

Lots of good discussion here. Going back to OP, I would simply answer that there are few really good reasons to own any amp other than sound. 

Like others, I've owned and / or auditioned solid state, single ended, push-pull, OTL, Class A & A/B. Some behemoths, some hibachis. If the sound was good, I never spent much time thinking about efficiency, heat, form factor, etc.

I had a chance to audition Merrill Thor and Veritas and the sound convinced me. Both were better than anything I've heard before. I bought the Veritas and could not be happier, but the performance to price point on the Thor is simply incredible. Yeah, it's nice that the Class D amps are small, cool, efficient,etc, but in my experience there was no trade off in sonics - only improvement. 

I think it's more likely that taste may vary (YTMV) and that's OK. But if you value open, relaxed, quiet, highly dynamic with expansive soundstage, there is no reason IMO not to investigate Class D amplification.