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High end Class D amps?

Just an observation and a question. Are there 'high end' Class D amps out there that are just as good as Class A, A/B amps? I realize that's a sensitive question to some and I mean no disrespect---but whenever I see others' hifi systems on social media, all of the amps are A or A/B. There's always Pass, McIntosh, Moon, Luxman, Accuphase, etc. Where are the Class Ds? For folks out there that want more power for less efficient speakers and can't afford the uber expensive Class As, A/Bs, what is there to choose from that's close to those brands? Thanks
bluorion
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,772 posts
 
Atmashpere, how would one ever test that variable independently outside of other amplifier qualities? Plenty of seasoned audiophiles and reviewers alike that would argue subtleties in how a woofer is damped is second only to an amps ability to provide current into load variance in determining the best match.
@petland  Actually its pretty easy to determine if a woofer or other driver is overdamped with a fairly simple circuit. An amplifier does not need to be involved. This was demonstrated by the chief engineer of Electro Voice back in the late 1950s (it was EV and MacIntosh that led the way using the voltage rules for driving speakers). The physics of course hasn't changed since then.


Here's D.J. Tomcik's article, in case you are interested:

https://pearl-hifi.com/06_Lit_Archive/07_Misc_Downloads/1385_Critical_LS_Damping.pdf

bullitt5094's avatar
bullitt5094
266 posts
 
I A/B tested LTA, Odyssey and Lyngdorf in my home. I auditioned them for my wife, with exceptional hearing as tested, and my Daughter, also excellent hearing, and neither having any idea about the technology. The Lyngdorf 2170 was the overwhelming choice for all three of us. I was very surprised. I've since constructed a Pass "First Watt" F5 power amp and B1 Korg preamp. The Lyngdorf sounds better than the Pass too. And that includes both digital and analog inputs. Just offering my personal experience.
klh007
621 posts
 
@bullitt5094, Do you use RoomPerfect, and if you do is it a major factor in how good the 2170 sounds? 
phd
1,312 posts
 
Raise your hand if you like Class D amps! I'll let someone else count the results, definately not the democrats.


tweak1
3,645 posts
 
+1 phd, especially the vote counters
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