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The Future of Audio Amplification

I have recently paired an Audio Research DS225 Class D amplifier with an Audio Research tube preamplifier (SP8 mkii). I cannot believe how wonderful and lifelike my music sounds. The DS225 replaced an Audio Research SD135 Class AB amplifier. Perhaps the SD135 is just not as good as some of the better quality amps that are out there, but it got me thinking that amazingly wonderful sonance can be achieved with a tubed pre and Class D amp. I have a hunch that as more people experience this combination, it will likely catch on and become the future path of many, if not most audiophile systems. It is interesting that Audio Research has been at the forefront of this development.
distortions
fleschler
766 posts
 
The first time I got so excited that I danced to a music system was when I was about 5 listening to a six way mono really big box speaker through Heathkit tube gear in 1961 listening to Dvorak Slavonic Dances and Brahms Hungarian Dances on Capitol.

Since then, I have experienced many excitable recordings.  Even my wife claps after a really great recording/performance.  The most recent was In A Jazz Orbit by Bill Holman and Tchaikovsky Sym. No.1 with Michael Tilson Thomas and Boston Sym.   Toe tapping (former) and jumping up and down fun music (last movement latter).
arctikdeth's avatar
arctikdeth
99 posts
 
Amp classes are like school grades. 

Closer to F the worse the sound.

a/ab still the best.

D is low level tripe
mr_m
1,087 posts
 
So you see, this type of thinking is the problem.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
7,068 posts
 
@fsonicsmith
If you get a chance, look into the Tour Divide Race, from Banff to Antelope Wells.
@vt4c
+1
kosst_amojan
2,095 posts
 
@mr_m 

I don't think so. Measurements reflect it. If you listen to half way sensitive speakers, 90dB/watt or better, .02% high order distortion is going to be problematic. 
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