Maybe you need to try a different brand. You know even analog amps sound quite different from brand-to-brand. I have a class A/B amp on my main system and tried many As and A/Bs on both it and my second system. I just bought a Bel Canto (Class D) amp for my second system and the bass is very good. Also it didn't take long to break in and doesn't need to be left on all the time, although I think idle power draw is only 17 watts so it wouldn't matter much in that regard. I turn it off because I prefer the blue power diode off at night in my bedroom although it's not bad (not like the Pass backlight that lit up the whole room). It sounds great right on power up. I suggest you consider a different amp. Especially for bass only, you shouldn't need to worry about any of the criticisms on Class D. In fact Class D amps are almost universally regarded for their bass performance.
ICE amps vs analog amps for bass
I'm currently running Legacy Helix loudspeakers. The bass and subwoofers are being driven by two pair of 500 watt ICE amplifier modules while the Midrange and treble frequencies are being driven by two pair of Levinson 436 amplifiers. While originally auditioning the speakers I heard them with analog amps on the bass, treble, and midrange sections and the sound was superb. However, I was assured that the ICE amps would be sufficient to drive the bass sections so I've given them a try. However the bass sounds funny. I don't hear the impact, definition, and subtle "spatial cues" that I know are in the recordings.
I partially am blaming the ICE modules. I'd sure like some input in solving the problem. I can "upgrade" to "analog" amps for the bass if I choose, but for space reasons and economic reasons, would prefer to continue to use the ICE amps. I'm considering Parasound JC-1s, or Bryston 7bs, for the bass if I switch.
Thanks for your help in advance.
Steve
I partially am blaming the ICE modules. I'd sure like some input in solving the problem. I can "upgrade" to "analog" amps for the bass if I choose, but for space reasons and economic reasons, would prefer to continue to use the ICE amps. I'm considering Parasound JC-1s, or Bryston 7bs, for the bass if I switch.
Thanks for your help in advance.
Steve