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Higher-End Class A/B vs. Class A Integrateds

I’ve been thinking about downsizing from separates to an integrated amp. I’ve noticed that some companies have both class A and class A/B amps that are both pretty expensive such as Luxman for example. Hegel seems to be well received and they’re not true class A as far as I know.

I was kind of under the impression that class A was better than class A/B due to lower distortion yet again, there are some well reviewed class A/B amps that are as pricey as some class A amps.

To be clear, it’s really not the price I’m concerned about. It’s the fact that some integrated amps $5000 and up are still only Class AB.

How do these higher priced class AB amps sound in comparison to true class A amps?

nicktheknife
blackbag20
412 posts
 

Unison Research have some beefy Class A units ... 

 

I believe The Music Room is a dealer ....

 

https://unisonresearch.com/en/

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
3,900 posts
 

There are very good class AB integrated amps , Boulder , Gryphons new 333,

accuphase, Luxman ,  if youwant class A Accuphase,and Luxman make them too

up to 100 watts into 4 hours , but they get pretty warm and suck up a ton on electricity, it’s like holding your foot down 24-7 to the gas petal . I owned a pass labs  . What are your speakers ,and  their sensitivity ,at what ohms is most important .

mondonitro's avatar
mondonitro
7 posts
 

Hmmmm people seem to forget SET Tube Amps are Class A by nature. A 845 will get you 20watts so dont over look that option also.

 

vthokie83
672 posts
 

Nicktheknife,

As several have mentioned, listen and borrow if you can. I've heard two Class D amps that I thought had heart and soul, and would definitely audition if/when I consider combining to an integrated; Gato and Aavik. The Gato is around $5,000 and unfortunately the Aavik is well north of that. I have never heard them in my system, but would like the chance at some point

boxcarman
332 posts
 

Class A will usually have a warmer sound signature.  My Hegel H390 has a somewhat warm yet nicely articulated sound.  I like it paired with my Maggie 3.7's.  And yes, class A runs much hotter and takes more juice, even when it's not making music.

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