2. amps-preamps
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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
tweak1
3,666 posts
 

I bought the GCC 250 when it first came on the market. Still humming along. The GCC 100 garnered many excellent reviews and can be upgraded, as I did mine

I think it was Chris from Parts Connection

Also upgrading power cord, interconnects, and vibration devices are all positive

hth

eddnog OP
58 posts
 

@tweak1 what kind of internal upgrades did you have done? My remote is quite worn, so I could really use a replacement remote. Or perhaps I could just get a universal programmable remote. Hmm…

-Ed

soix
9,538 posts
 

It really depends on what improvements and sound characteristics you’re looking for from the new amp.  An older Class D amp shouldn’t be too hard to significantly improve upon. What’s your budget, and are you looking for new or used?

ellajeanelle's avatar
ellajeanelle
386 posts
 

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. 

 

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