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Class D Technology

So I get the obvious strengths of Class D. Efficiency, power output & running cool which allows for small form factors. I also understand the weaknesses somewhat. 1. Non-linear & lots of distortion that needs to be cleaned up with an output filter. 
So my question is, if it weren't for efficiency & power, would there be any reason to own a Class D amp? Do they beat Class A in any other categories that count for sound quality?  
seanheis1
nferre66
9 posts
 
@mr_m I bought mine with upgraded tubes and had a bunch of upgraded power cords around. You are right. Amazing.
limniscate
233 posts
 
Somehow people cannot comprehend that class D amp is purely analog and switching itself is inaudible. Switching is present all the time - even without input signal. Place ear against the tweeter and you will hear very low typical amp’s hiss - likely much less than with any class AB amp.

That wasn’t my experience between a Spectron Musician III mk2 (Class D) versus a Sanders Magtech (Class AB). Although the Spectron is quiet, it’s not as quiet as the Magtech. Both are inaudible at the listening position though.
tmare
44 posts
 
I think I can tell if the amp I’m hearing is Class-D or Class A.

In my experience, Class-D always makes me think, "hmm, nothing wrong. great sound!", and a good Class A makes me think "how you can do this? what’s going on here!". Cheap class AB’s has a typical glassy haze, but I have never heard the same thing with cheap Class-D.
murgeshj
81 posts
 
I own Class-D from Spec corporation, it sounds clean, plenty power for 50 watts, taut bass, smooth high, compact size........, however I just  don't get connected to the music as opposed to 'tubes' amps
The magical sound is only from 'tubes' ... that for my ears
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shadorne
7,333 posts
 
Great discussion and lots of valid points. I agree with those who feel Class D is not ready for prime time - great for PA and subwoofers but perhaps a few more years are needed for them to become viable to the majority of critical audiophile listeners. The black background many listeners can hear with Class D indeed suggests the heavy filtering is in some way affecting the audible sound. 
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