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

@erik_squires

Class A amplifiers have no crossover distortion at the 0 point because they use a “single” device to handle a complete waveform. This structure is incredibly power consuming, heat creating, and low on efficiency (usually around 25%) and power (25-30W is an average ouput).

Class B amplifiers use two, or more, devices in a complementary pairing with the “top” one handling the positive half of the waveform and the “bottom” one handling the negative half. The two outputs are then summed to give you the complete waveform with the point that the waveform goes from positive to negative (and back) being called the crossover point. Because of the lack of perfect linearity between devices there will always be some distortion at the point of crossover. Class B amplifiers are usually used for high power work.

A class A/B amplifier uses a class A stage for low power work and then “switches” to the class B stage for higher power work.  

See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power_amplifier_classes for help, too.

Too bad Hegel and Krell are both made in China. 

Are you looking for just a Stereo integrated amp? Do you need HDMI inputs? If you are just looking for Stereo and no HDMI, I can recommend Outlaw Audio, I have there RR2160MKll and it is awesome and M8 Subwoofer. It can handle speakers down to 2 ohms has Analog Bass Management has a fantastic phono pre amp. But also has a digital side with internet radio and a nice app for streaming (ethernet port and wifi). Plenty of analog RCA inputs but a couple of toslink digital inputs and a good DAC. They only sell manufacturer direct so it is priced good. It’s a beast!! There headquarters is just a few towns over from me in Easton Ma. https://outlawaudio.com/shop/

Steve Guttenberg does a good review on it here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEelX9wGTLQ&t=458s

@pcolvin

How do you think any of your post, some of which is wrong, refute or illustrate my post?

The idea that Class A is always lower distortion than Class A/B is simply not correct. It is only correct about one particular type of distortion. Pass for instance is famously and proudly high distortion even in Class A operation.

@nicktheknife 

Hegle is an excellent brand and now is a great time to be looking at the brand. They just replaced the H590 with the H600 and they are selling their remaining H590’s at about half price! The rumor is that the H390, ( which is what I have) is going to be replaced soon with the H400 and I believe they are on sale for $4000 instead of $6000.Both are class A/B and seen to be built like tanks. If I can convince the wife, I’m hoping to get the H590 soon.

All the best.