Class D = Trash?


So, I'm on my second class D amp. The first one, a Teac AI-301DA which claimed to use an ICE module, was unlistenable trash. I burned it in for a few weeks, it just couldn't perform, so I sent it back. Following that, I tried the new Emotiva A-300 (class A/B). It was significantly better, but lacking in too many ways for my tastes. So I changed gears, got an 845 SET from China -- and it was an immediate and massive improvement.

So, before I went further down the SET road, I wanted to try a better class D product using a modern class D module. I settled on the D-Sonic M3-800S with the Pascal module and custom input stage. I read from reviews that these things like to have big cables, so I picked up an eBay 8 gauge power cable (Maze Audio, el-cheapo Oyaide copy plugs, braided 4-wire cable) to go along with it.

Mid-range GONE.
Soundstage depth CRUSHED.
Euphonics DISAPPEARED.

Yes, resolution went up. Driver control went up, allowing me to play compressed rock/pop and orchestra with the speakers being able to render it all. But enjoyment in the sound is basically gone. Using my best power cable (LessLoss Original) improved performance, but didn't fundamentally change the amp's nature. I ran back to my headphones (Focal Utopias) to detox my ear canals.

So, how long does a class D need to burn-in? I want to give it a fair shake before writing the technology off forever. 
madavid0

Showing 8 responses by toddverrone

@sanvara - I had a crown xls1500 that sounded great. Recently bought a used pair of Ghent audio monoblocks and they sound even better.. they're using the ICEpower ASP modules, I believe. I was doubtful they'd sound better.. but they do.
@phd that's interesting you find class D weak in the bass without an analog power supply. I've found class D to absolutely kick booty in the bass department with the normal switching power supplies. 

Is there anything consistent in audio?!
Erik, your reasonable manner is so refreshing after some of the epic thread battles of late.

Thanks for your input on ICEpower when I was in the market. I'm loving my ghentaudio monoblocks and was sceptical before I spoke with you.
Henry, thank you. While I understand only half of what you're talking about, the detail and knowledge in your post is superb.
The valium is inside the amp. The pills look a lot like resistors.. just pull them off the circuit board. It'll be fine
@pcrhkr - I had a crown xls 1500, which was the first gen if they're more tech. It was a great amp, especially considering it can be had new for not much more than $300. 

I recently bought a used pair of class d monoblocks by Ghent audio.. they are noticeably better than the crown. Just putting that out there.