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The Future of Audio Amplification

I have recently paired an Audio Research DS225 Class D amplifier with an Audio Research tube preamplifier (SP8 mkii). I cannot believe how wonderful and lifelike my music sounds. The DS225 replaced an Audio Research SD135 Class AB amplifier. Perhaps the SD135 is just not as good as some of the better quality amps that are out there, but it got me thinking that amazingly wonderful sonance can be achieved with a tubed pre and Class D amp. I have a hunch that as more people experience this combination, it will likely catch on and become the future path of many, if not most audiophile systems. It is interesting that Audio Research has been at the forefront of this development.
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Showing 3 responses by lhasaguy

lhasaguy's avatar
lhasaguy
355 posts
 
This discussion regarding class D amps reminds me of all the people over the kast 30 years telling me that soccer was going to be the next big thing.

In my mind, serious SS amps as well as tube power will always have a major role in audiophile choices.

Class D will also have a pkace in the audio world, but I doubt in the front rank of desirable amps among the serious audiophiles.

For myself, tube pre amp and strong SS amp is the sweet spot.
lhasaguy's avatar
lhasaguy
355 posts
 
2Channel8,

There is a difference between liking a particular combination and believing it is the future for over half the community.

And where does obscene money begin?  I understand the price point of D class amplifiers.  Money is relative IMHO, I tend to think of my system in terms of percent of my vehicle cost.
lhasaguy's avatar
lhasaguy
355 posts
 
Interestingly, I have a pair of McIntosh 501s that are worth over $5,000 that I bought 10 years ago.   Sell, I think not.

What is you 10 year old class D expensive amp worth today?

Tweak1, think before you condemn other amp types to the dustbin.

McIntosh will be alive and well 10 ulyears from now.  Academic research has proven the best predictor of will you be in business next year is how long you have been in business.  For McIntosh that is 70 years.

I shall not bash other equipment types, but know the imbedded customer base for both tube and SS McIntosh amps is not going anywhere.
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