Ported speakers and class D amps


Been using a pair of 8" 3 way ported bookshelf speakers for 20 years. They are tuned to 34hz. They have always had enough bass, but it has been a little loose. Recently bought a PS Audio S300 class D amp and the bass control is a considerable improvement. Just finished an Orchard Audio Stereo Ultra class D amp tour. Even more woofer control.

When notes drops below the tuning frequency the port can't control the woofer. Does the class D, super high damping factor, mean this isn't as big a problem? I'm hearing bass extension and control that I'd never though possible.

Thanks,

aldnorab 

aldnorab

Of course, it is rare we blow speakers, just saying, that below that frequency the displacement grows very quickly compared to sealed.

@atmasphere thanks for the info.

@erik_squires I definitely want to avoid ballistic. Luxman are sweet.

@ml8764ag many amps thru the years, including Dynaco 416, Hafler DH 200 & 500, Pass Labs 30wpc, Series 20 M22, VTL ST150, and others. My PS Audio S300 is replacing the VTL at the moment. A new set of tubes cost almost as much as the 300. 

@soix didn't buy an amp to solve the bass problem. Didn't even get to hear the S300 before PSA shipped it. I was just surprised at the magnificent bass. I tried the OA Stereo Ultra because it was almost free to do so.

Thanks everyone,

aldnorab 

I think you’re throwing $$$/attention at the wrong problem.  What speakers are you using and where are they positioned.  My strong inclination is it’s time to finally look for better speakers but could be wrong. 

@atmasphere Wrote:

. I seriously doubt that damping factor has anything to do with it. 

I agree!

What amp are these class d amps going up against? It probably doesn’t matter your ps300 is awesome…maybe just accept that? Mine replaced a Musical reference tube amp!

 

It isn't so much that the amp can't control the woofer, it's that the suspension of the air, the springiness vanishes and the woofer's displacment, or motion goes ballistic.  Sometimes literally. :)

In general, Class D amps have fabulous bass. 

My Luxman A/B beats my last class D, but there was nothing wrong with the bass. :)

When notes drops below the tuning frequency the port can't control the woofer. Does the class D, super high damping factor, mean this isn't as big a problem? I'm hearing bass extension and control that I'd never though possible.

If there is any energy below the port frequency the woofer can still flop around. I seriously doubt that damping factor has anything to do with it. I'm sure if you find a recording with low enough bass you'll still notice it.