Class D is just Dandy!

So my question is with the main boards themselves being made by a third party, how does one go say from a $1400 D-Sonic amp to a $5000 Bel Canto (or other similar) amp (per pair) up to a Merrill Veritas at $11K plus (pair)? I realize a nicer chassis, etc.

In the "hiend" Class-D's there must be a huge profit margin compared to linear amps, even with the glitzy cases, as what's inside is worth peanuts compared to similar dollar linear amps.

EG:  The $8k Rowland Continuum S2
http://www.theaudiobeat.com/equipment/pics/jeff_rowland_continuum_2_large_inside.jpg
uses one of these Danish modules
http://www.pascal-audio.com/amplifier-modules.html
Which from what I found, are slightly modified Chinese $150 modules I believe from Class-D module manufacturer called Sangaway or something from memory.
And these modules were also used in the far cheaper Red Dragon Class-D amps.
https://www.reddragonaudio.com/products/s500

  Cheers George
  

Thx George.My only experiences are with Class A/B mostly and some Class A. I have heard tube amps but never owned one, and in past thought of Class D as mostly sub type amps (my ignorance). I started reading about the newer Class D amps and the price range is fairly broad. I also recognize pricing is not always linear with cost (whatever market will bring). But it is hard to see how 2 amps using the same identical amp board can vary in price so much which of course begs my question of why.

If the cost of the parts, including cases, connections, etc. as well as the actual amplifier modules is a lot cheaper than their Class A/B counterparts, and their sound quality is close but it results in an overall cost reduction for the buyer than I would be more encouraged. It is difficult for me to hear much of this stuff without buying it. Not many nearby sellers.

But I am probably missing something along the way. If the more expensive units are adding proprietary mods that would be one thing. Otherwise it starts sounding like a prettier case, etc. is adding a lot of cost!

I do though see some advantages regarding heat generated (if that is a concern.. for me it isn't) and size/weight. They offer a ton of power in a small mass versus trying to heft around a 90 pound Class A/B amp or an even heavier (with less power) tube amp.

I do though see some advantages regarding heat generated (if that is a concern.. for me it isn’t) and size/weight. They offer a ton of power in a small mass versus trying to heft around a 90 pound Class A/B amp or an even heavier (with less power) tube amp.

I see my system as something I want to get the very best from, and if I have to compromise and pay for it in less efficiency so be it.

I wouldn’t buy a Ferrari put low octane fuel in it, stick cross-ply tires on it and drive it like a granny just so I could say I’m being kinder to the environment.

But Class-D amps with the promises of higher switching frequencies technology in the future, may become all they need for me to jump camp, then my current amps will become door stops or boat anchors.

Cheers George

Heat and weight are not a concern for me, either. But I can see where those 2 things might be appealing for some. I won't lie in that I am struggling some to be really attracted to Class D for now. The technology seems to be changing rapidly whereas Class A/B at the least is mature. Same reason why in general I do not prefer paying for a DAC built in to the preamp unless the maker has a way for future upgrades. Dropping $5K or $11K for a pair of monoblock Class D amps only to see a much improved amp board emerge in 2 years would hurt my financial feelings. My spousal unit is very good with accepting my expensive hobbies to  a point. Course if that $5K Class D amp already produces sound quality I find superior to every Class A/B amp I can find in the same price category then it may well work. But am giving consideration to some SST equipment (Son of Ampzilla 2 and Theobe II) as well which will not cost as much as some of the Class D options I am looking into! Course maybe I should just stay with my current setup... it is good and is now free :)