Channel Islands use Hypex UCD. This is what the owner told me this week. |
I know that amps from both companies have received good reviews, but I would like to see a comparison between the two. Even though they are both class D, they are based on different modules. I do like that Classdaudio manufactures their own modules, which is probably why they can pass the savings onto the customer. |
This is exactly why it's so hard to choose. Class D Audio is such a great value. The owner is so nice and helpful too. |
So according to your experience, you put the Channel Islands amp ahead of the Class D Audio one... very interesting. |
Audiozen,
I'm thinking about buying an assembled version since I've never made anything. Tom said it's pretty simple to put together, but I'll probably still have a hard time. The assembled ones are still a great value. |
Stratahead,
I was also interested in the Digital Amp Co. cherry amps, but they are more expensive than other class D amps. Have you heard these amps? These would have to sound at least 4 to 5 times better (to my ears) than the Class D Audio amps to justify the higher price. |
Audiozen,
I was also impressed with all the customer reviews on Class D Audio amps. You're right - higher prices don't equate to better sound. I need to keep reminding myself of this and not fall into big manufacturers' marketing traps.
I have a friend who used to be a dealer. I was astonished to learn that speakers usually have a 50% dealer markup and most other audio gear have a markup of up to 40%. So basically, customers are paying for the dealer to operate a business. I guess this is what happens when you have a middleman. So I wonder how much a $5,000 amp is really worth after you figure in expenses for marketing, advertising, employees, dealers, and so forth. It seems like most people pay a price for a recognized brand name.
Anyway, I've also been looking for a good class D amp besides ICE. I guess we're in the same boat. Did you look into the Hypex NCore technology? It seems like the responses have been very favorable. I can't afford the retail version, but there's a DIY version. I have a strong feeling that I'll probably just buy an assembled Class D Audio amp. Yes, do let me know how it goes if you purchase one. |
Audiozen,
That's very disconcerting to hear about Class D Audio. I noticed that there was no phone number anywhere on the website. I actually found the number on the internet when I called.
I'm still trying to find a good class D amp. I think I crossed off D-Sonic from my list because it's made in China. I prefer to buy American made. Do you have any other suggestions? |
Guidocorona,
Actually, I read on a forum that the amps are made in China. I should have made sure instead of making assumptions. Anyway, I just called D-Sonic, and I was told that they are made in Texas... yay!
I'll definitely look into D-Sonic, but I'm still seriously considering the Class D Audio amp since it's half the price of D-Sonic. |
Audiozen,
It doesn't bother me too much that the Abletec amps are made in China since D-Sonic assembles the amps in the U.S. Hopefully quality control isn't an issue.
Which D-Sonic amps are Abletec and which are Pascal? I'm interested in the M3-800S. What are the differences between the two? You seem to know a lot about class D amps.
I'm still very tempted to purchase a Class D Audio amp. I wish I can compare these amps side by side. Unless I hear a significant difference, it wouldn't be worth it for me to purchase the D-Sonic at double the price of Class D Audio. |
Audiozen,
I don't understand why Dennis refuses to answer questions about the products he sells. Consumers have a right to know what they're buying. It's not an unreasonable request, but his refusal bothers me. It makes me not want to buy his products because it feels like he's hiding something. Perhaps he doesn't want to give away his technology... I don't know.
As for made in USA, Dennis told me himself that the amps are made in Texas. I hope he wasn't making it up... who knows? There are too many uncertainties with this company and amps. I think I'll just stick to Class D Audio for now. |
Oh good grief. I wish he would have just been honest about it. I don't appreciate the fact that he blatantly lied to me. |
Guidocorona,
Thanks for clearing it up. :) |
Everyone, thanks for all your input. I'm still interested in class D amps, but I'll wait until more advancements and improvements have been made. It seems like they're getting better and better. I went ahead and bought a Parasound A21 amp. This is my first amp, so I guess I wouldn't know any better since I can't make any comparisons with other amps. |
Which manufacturers use Abletec in their amps/integrated amps besides D-Sonic and Marten? |
Are there any class D amps that have a high bandwidth? Not all manufacturers publish this information. |
