2. amps-preamps
  3. 187035-96030

Higher-End Class A/B vs. Class A Integrateds

I’ve been thinking about downsizing from separates to an integrated amp. I’ve noticed that some companies have both class A and class A/B amps that are both pretty expensive such as Luxman for example. Hegel seems to be well received and they’re not true class A as far as I know.

I was kind of under the impression that class A was better than class A/B due to lower distortion yet again, there are some well reviewed class A/B amps that are as pricey as some class A amps.

To be clear, it’s really not the price I’m concerned about. It’s the fact that some integrated amps $5000 and up are still only Class AB.

How do these higher priced class AB amps sound in comparison to true class A amps?

nicktheknife

Showing 1 response by vthokie83

vthokie83
1,011 posts
 

Nicktheknife,

As several have mentioned, listen and borrow if you can. I've heard two Class D amps that I thought had heart and soul, and would definitely audition if/when I consider combining to an integrated; Gato and Aavik. The Gato is around $5,000 and unfortunately the Aavik is well north of that. I have never heard them in my system, but would like the chance at some point

More to discover