2. amps-preamps
  3. 1180365171

question about switching, Class D, and Class A

I've been reading about Class D amps (which I believe is the same thing as a switching amp). From my reading it looks like class D amps are clearly inferior to class A. So I've pretty much ruled them out. How do you know if the amp is Class D? I don't find it in the specs for, say, the McIntosh MA6300 which I've heard is a "switching" amp. I heard switching amps are Class D.

The thing is in the past I've owned amps where Class A could be switched on and off. In Class A mode the amp ran much hotter. I mostly didn't use it because I didn't think the improvement in sound was worth all the extra heat.

Now I'm thinking about buying a new int. amp. My top two contenders are McIntosh integrateds and a Krell 400Xi. I understand the Krell is class A all the time and can get quite hot. Is this true? Also I was thinking about a Mchintosh MA6300 which I think might be class D. I needed something with a smaller footprint was why I was considering the MA6300 over the MA6500. I've listened to a lot of different manufacturers and the McIntosh sounded really good to me so I'm leaning that way.

What is y'alls thoughts on this whole class D/switching amp business vs. buying something else that going to generate a lot of heat? Is there something in-between?

regards, David
wireless200

Showing 1 response by atmasphere

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
12,099 posts
 
David, class A is the purest form of amplification, be it tube or transistor, known to man. All other forms are compromises that have nothing to do with sound quality, and everything to do with heat.

If you choose your system based on the heat it makes, it will not sound anything like one that is based on choice for ultimate sound quality. Making good sounds is what the system is for :)

Comparison between the two is the sort of thing that you can hear in five seconds flat. Its not subtle.
More to discover