That was great information. Thank you for taking the time to provide it. 
I'll be sure to check out all of those links.
GaN FET Amps vs. Traditional Class D Amps
I'm trying to get a better understanding of GaN FET amplifier technology. Whenever I see a write up on GaN FET based amplifiers they are always compared against class A or class A/B amps. What I'm more interested in is how they compare to the current generation of 'traditional' class D designed amplifiers, both technically and sonically. Can anyone explain it to me?
Thank you.
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- 29 posts total
GaN operates at a much higher switching frequency and allows for less noise, higher efficiency and less distortion. There are quite a few Class D types out there and each has its own "sound" based on the designer and the quality of the output filter. A lot of Class D has a very neutral sound, for example the 3255 adds no distinct flavor at all. I find GaN to be a bit more easy on the ears and a bit more musical. Of course you can add to this with tubes in the input stage even direct heated triodes (DHT). https://quarkhifi.com/products/master-series-dht-gan-fet-hybrid-amplifier-300wpc |
Class D amplifiers barely scratch the surface of the capabilities of GaN semiconductor devices. Compared to Si devices, GaN can operate a higher frequencies, higher voltages, higher power and higher temperature. An amplifier can be designed to take advantages of these greater capabilities. Just swapping out Si devices with GaN devices would do little to change the amplifier but if you design the amp to run a higher frequency with fewer devices then things may sound different. |
@tosnc +1 |
Again, thank you to everyone for adding to the discussion. - 29 posts total