2. amps-preamps
  3. 1217171355

Pure class A amplifiers = "slow" amplifiers?

Hi folks, I know this is subject of controversy. In general pure class A has been regarded as the best way in solid state amplification to get the purest sound. In my experience many pure class A solid state amplifiers (Accuphase, Pass Labs, Plinius) sound "slow" and are lacking "dynamics". Do they sound that way because they have less distortion than class A/B amplifiers, I mean sometimes a signal is so pure that one is increasing the volume adjustment knob to get a louder sound. With a very pure sound it seems like music goes slower too (= psychoacoustic phenomenon).

Chris
dazzdax

Showing 1 response by dpac996

dpac996's avatar
dpac996
732 posts
 
No. Some of the fastest rise times are from class A.

So if this perceived slowness you think you hear from pure class a, its something else in the system

What i have experienced from class A/AB (Pass x250.5) and class A, sa102, is an incredibly dynamic and lucid presentation. A fine example of a class AB (though it is biased for about up to 5 watts in class a) was my dna 225. Also good dynamics and sense of rhythm, but outclassed by the more expensive amps ive had.

Both the pass and plinius have very "black" backgrounds upon which the musical event is built. The 225 has higher noise floor and dynamic contrasts not as extreme. I think what you are hearing is the purity of the event and maybe used to a more hyped sound from lesser amps.

just my 2 cents
More to discover