2. amps-preamps
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High end Class D amps?

Just an observation and a question. Are there 'high end' Class D amps out there that are just as good as Class A, A/B amps? I realize that's a sensitive question to some and I mean no disrespect---but whenever I see others' hifi systems on social media, all of the amps are A or A/B. There's always Pass, McIntosh, Moon, Luxman, Accuphase, etc. Where are the Class Ds? For folks out there that want more power for less efficient speakers and can't afford the uber expensive Class As, A/Bs, what is there to choose from that's close to those brands? Thanks
bluorion

Showing 4 responses by mikem

mikem
260 posts
 
@jjss49  No doubt class D is getting better with each  iteration..  I’ve had several of them, Tripath, ICE, Hypex ..  Yet I will continue down the road of linear PS, inefficient Class A topology..  Experience has shown me that Class A gets the vocals,  textures, etc more Lifelike than other topologies..  Bruno Putnzey has really improved the Class D sound.. I’m sure it’s only going to keep improving too.. Each class type of amps have their strong and weak points.. like everything else.. I’ve moved on to different speaker/amp combination and I’m now enjoying music more and topologies less.
Happy Holidays !
mikem
260 posts
 
Class D done right can sound very good.. I had the Bel Canto Ref 600M based on the hypex 400 modules.  cool running, silent and very dynamic. I replaced my BAT VK75SE with them..
I had them paired with some Focal 1028’s and found them to be too bright on top,  Just couldn’t listen for too long without turning it down or fatigue, Not a great match for my tastes.. 
I moved to a Pass Class A amp and now I have more heat, mass and cost.. but Now I have music I can listen to for hours on end.. 
Well worth the trade off I’m afraid.. 
mikem
260 posts
 
@noble100  Thanks Tim.. Appreciate the response, but I’m not giving up my Inefficient, heavy Pass class A amp anytime soon..  It sounds too good and checks all the boxes that I find important in an amplifier, and it’s executed so very well. Appreciate the response and Happy Holidays !!
mikem
260 posts
 
@noble100 
Thanks ! Appreciate the response..   I have the pass XA25 which gets really warm, but it’s not a room heater like the higher output XA amps can be. I’m in NC too, which is why I eventually let my BAT VK75SE monos go. I was using various class D amps during the summer months. Those were driving my Vonschweikert VR7’s. Have since moved on to some Daedalus Speakers which are 95db sensitive, but need current to come alive. The Lil pass does a good job and sounds SET like without melting the surroundings. Been a great hobby during all the home time.. 
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