2. amps-preamps
  3. 175659-171875

Class A or Class D solid-state amplifiers (modern designs)

Hey guys.

 

Class A is supposedly superior. Something to do with a conduction angle of 360 degrees...so the entire signal gets processed in one go without crossover distortion.

But in terms of sound quality (subjective enjoyment) is there a benefit to Class A? Can class D provide the same level of enjoyment?

 

The dealer I’m talking to says that really nice Class A amplifiers are designed for "reference quality" meaning completely true to the real life performance.

 

Let’s compare and contrast. Which one is technically better?

 

In other words, could you have equal technical performance and quality in a Class D amp?

 

- Jack.

jackhifiguy
tweak1
3,655 posts
 

In the last 5 years I have owned quite a few class D amps, the EVS 1200 being the best of them, but when I tried the LSA Voyager 350, I was shocked and remain very happy 1.5 years later

yyzsantabarbara
4,800 posts
 

@lancelock

My dealer says he’s bringing the AGD Gran Vivace over for a listen so we will see how it stacks up to the Coda. Price wise it’s more apples to apples.

Did you ever do the comparison of the Gran Vivace to the CODA #16? I also own the #16 and a PeachTree GAN1 (modded). The modded GAN1 is almost as good as the #16 but a real PIA to use because it is more than an amp.

I am looking to get a GAN amp and the Gran Vivace is something that I am considering. Main reason for the GAN decision is because the Peachtree GAN1 sounds really good, and I need something with a very small form factor and some power behind it.

The CODA #16 will stay in my office system. I need an amp for my Livingroom system.

rh67
307 posts
 

AGD will be at THE SHOW next month, you could ask Alberto for a home trial.

yyzsantabarbara
4,800 posts
 

That will give me a reason to go to the LA show. I used to go to all the shows, but I am now almost done shopping for gear so the desire to see new gear is not so great. 

Just need a DAC and amp.

rh67
307 posts
 

Yeah, i just go for something to do. Sound is sometimes wanting at shows even the best equipment can sound so so at a show.

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