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So what do you think of Class D amp for subwoofers

I am curious to hear what folks think of Class D amplifiers for driving subwoofers. An interesting aspect of this is the switching frequency is ~1000x higher for the frequencies in question, as opposed to using a Class D amp for full range.

My home theater is Class D (Dolby 7.1) and my next major upgrade is replacing the amps with Class AB amps, although I will keep the low signal processing part of the amp.

In the high end system, I found a four channel, 450W into 8 Ohms Class D amp from Marantz to drive the four subwoofers. The price was right and I am not living in a fantasy land that it is a JC1 sitting there!

I have formed my opinions but I wonder if others share my opinions as well.

Thanks!
spatialking
sidssp
1,077 posts
 
A common problem of Class D amp is the switching noise it generates which can cause mid and high frequency sounded edgy and dry. But its high efficiency and cool running is perfect for subs. IMHO.
johnk's avatar
johnk
1,490 posts
 
Many of the more cosly sub plate amplifiers are class D
mikelavigne
1,274 posts
 
what they said.

the JL Audio line of subs uses class D. i've owned a pair of f113's.

my Evolution Acoustics MM3 speakers have integral powered subwoofers which use the 1000 watt ICE modules.

as mentioned above, ruthless neutrality (or switching noise?) is a detriment to music in the mids and highs, but a real advantage in the bass. Class D amps are small, efficient and don't get hot. they are also relatively cheap to make.

conventional amplifier circutry has problems with linearity in the bass; not so Class D in my experience.
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