2. amps-preamps
  3. 187035-96030

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
mesch
3,411 posts
 

Seems to me the rating for the Kinki at 8ohms was highly overstated and the relative low increase in rating at 4ohms indicates that amp is not suited for for a 4ohm speaker.  

jacobsdad2000
433 posts
 

Sad to say live and learn. Some really nice Simaudio gear on USAM and TMR right now, trade that kinki and be done. 

nicktheknife OP
194 posts
 

It seems the KInki may be better suited to a speaker with higher efficiency and more like an 8 ohm load.

The reviews I’ve read, all very positive btw never mentioned it having a problem driving certain speakers. In retrospect, perhaps I should have paid more attention to the speakers they were using in their review.

That said, I wouldn’t mind owning a pair of speakers that are easy to drive with almost any amplifier. It would give me more options.

joc3021
100 posts
 

In this class, if you have a chance, I would strongly suggest you check out Ayre.  I'm a fan boy and have landed there after trying lots and lots of gear over the years. Also, made in the USA and great customer support. Quality and reliability also top class.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
mindhead1
8 posts
 

Kinki Studio EX-M!+ owner here. I think the amp is great. I primarily use it with Buchardt S400 MKII speakers which are 4 ohms and the amps has no trouble driving them with authority. I also use them with my Triangle Comete EZ with great results.

On the volume front I'm usually between 60-75 when listening to vinyl which will have the music in the 75-85 DB range. When listening to digital I'm at 55-65 on the volume dial for 75-85 DB range.

I can push the amp and speakers to uncomfortable listening levels without distortion.

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