Hi Erik, I tested them with a USB external DAC with my PC, also with a Marantz AV receiver, and with a Chromecast audio....all streaming Tidal for the source material...I never did balanced input. I can see how a linear power supply would be nice. With my PC I got ground loop until I plugged it into a ground removal adapter. Same thing happened to me using studio monitors with Class D amps built in so I assume it's the switching power supply causing the ground loop.
- ...
- 32 posts total
The amp is back up for sale on ebay if anyone is interested. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bang-amp-Olufsen-Ice-Amp-125ASX2-Class-D-B-amp-O-Amplifier-/162157800297?&am... |
I have two Icepower based amps. I have never heard an Icepower amp that could be described as "warm" sounding though I do use an ARC tube-preamp with one and that does add just a nice touch. My second is a digital integrated amp with more recent Icepower. Its a great sounding unit but not at all for those seeking "warmth". |
seanheis 1, Sorry the Ice amp didn't work out for you. Like many have mentioned, class D amps are very neutral and add nothing to the source signal. I own 3 and they all have that quality. With my 1st (CassD Audio SDS-440-SC), I paired it with a VTL preamp with NOS Mullard tubes that warmed things up more to my preference at the time. Over time, however, my taste has changed and I now prefer my music detailed and unadorned. I sold the VTL to a friend about a year ago and, surprisingly, I haven't missed it. On the plus side, my system is now so quiet and neutral that I can easily notice any upstream changes, including cabling and power chords. But I understand everyone has their own sound preferences and I think you now at least better know your own. If I was aware you preferred a warm sound, I would have advised against a class D amp unless you wanted to use a good tube preamp. Wish you the best, Tim |
@seanheis1 Yes, PC's are notorious for causing ground loop issues, using any metal plugs. For analog outs from a PC the best solution is an isolation transformer from Jensen. Almost all USB DAC's now have galvanic isolation built in, and of course if your PC has optical S/PDIF outs then your good too. :) Actually any conducting interface in any good dac these days (AES, coaxial, USB) should be isolated, though I'm sure some are too cheap to do this. Occasionally I'll still read that DAC x has high noise, or jitter, and the tester finally realized there was a ground loop involved. << sigh >> Best, Erik |
- 32 posts total