Class D, "Control (Variable Gain)," Amplifier versus Class A/B Separates?


Hello, all!

I am currently running a quite old PS Audio GCC-100 in my chain. It is a variable gain, class-D solid state power amplifier with balanced stereo inputs (functionally a balanced integrated amplifier). I recently purchased and am quite enjoying a pair of KEF LS50 Meta loudspeakers, but have been hearing from numerous people that they may sound even better with Class-A or Class-A/B amplification. I am curious what benefits, if any, I might get from making a switch. I am currently considering selling the GCC-100 and replacing it with a Schiit Kara preamplifier combined with a pair of Outlaw 2220 monoblocks. Any and all advice about what I might expect from such a swap would be greatly appreciated! And in case it matters, source is a Denafrips Ares II R-2R DAC playing lossless Apple Music.

-Ed

eddnog

No offense to any Schiit owners but I would not recommend anything from them.  I purchased 3 different components from them, and they all had issues.  I had to return all of them. Also, their customer service is awful.  The company doesn't even list their phone number and anything you have a problem with takes days of back-and-forth messages/ arguments.  For those of you that are happy with Schiit, congratulations.  My statement is based on my own personal experience.

As far as amplifier class, there is a lot of fondness for class A or A/B amplifiers in the audio community and a lot of prejudice toward class D amps, which are unfounded with today's technology.  I own or have owned pretty much every class of amplifier and combination (hybrids) etc. and I can say that a well-designed class D amplifiers of today sounds excellent and often far better than others.  Currently, my favorite amps are my class D.

I have not heard the Outlaw amplifiers, so I don't have an opinion on those.  I do own several PS Audio components and they are all keepers!

If I were you, I'd listen to the components that you are interested in and buy them from a seller that offers in home trials with no questions asked returns and without restocking fees.  People's opinions help, but each person's opinions are based on their own experience alone, word of mouth or what they read on the internet that "never lies"!  In the end, your own ears are the only true judge!  Good luck. 

 

I would not so much concentrate on the technology used, but the sound of the components. 
 

I’m not sure you would not be better off keeping the PS Audio preamp. I have not heard it, but it was higher level preamp when made. It seems your Denfrips is much higher end than is your preamp or amps. I would look for used higher end equipment. 

The Gato dia 400s number one class D. I have in the past cello,conrad,krell but the gato is one of the best. And for his price.

I have bought 6 items from Schiit and never had an issue with any of the products.

They were very responsive when I needed advice once.

Recommend them highly. Just felt I had to add something here.

My remote died over a year ago. Good News; the new PS Audio remote is available. Just call them

As to the mods I had mine done as new. There are likely newer upgrades. Just call Parts Connection