Improving on Classic Amps

hold on cw, you have classics here...cult status is more than deserved....you're 'more than fine' with this pair.

Guidocorona

Hmmm....thank you and interesting points, but not so sure about these digital amps... Why so many for sale and at such discounts?

Jaybo

Thank you - on reflection, I guess I don't want to end up on the which component do you you most regret selling thread....

Of course, it is fun to change systems once in a while!

My other thought was Pass Labs....but yes, maybe the cult status of what I already have is deserved.

Cwlondon, actually class D amps are analog devices. . . the "D" is just a counter, like in A B [C] D. . . problem is that I have no idea where class C amps have gone (snickers!)
As for them being heavily discounted. . . some are, while some brands/models definitely are not. Yet, I do understand your natural mistrust for the diminutive. . . . I used to suffer of the same problem. . . and perhaps I still share some of it. . .after all, my JRDG 312 does weigh a hefty 80 Lbs. . . is this perhaps the reason why there are so few of them on Agon? (grins!)
As far as I know, the latest Levinson flagship runs in class D.

Thanks Guidocorona for clarification - from Wikipedia

"The letter D used to designate this amplifier class is simply the next letter after C, and does not stand for digital. Class D and Class E amplifiers are sometimes mistakenly described as "digital" because the output waveform superficially resembles a pulse-train of digital symbols, but a Class D amplifier merely converts an input waveform into a continuously pulse-width modulated (square wave) analog signal. (A digital waveform would be pulse-code modulated.)"

Naturally, as an audiophile, I am inclined to believe that any amplifier which is heavier, runs hotter and/or has dangerously sharp edges probably sounds better.

Also from Wikipedia:

"Class D amplifiers for driving subwoofers are relatively inexpensive, in comparison to Class AB amplifiers.

A 1000 watt Class D subwoofer amplifier that can operate at about 80% to 95% efficiency costs about $250 USD, much less than a Class AB amplifier of this power, which would cost several thousand dollars."

This second point might also explain some skepticism, heavy hype and promotion from certain manufacturers and the rapid fall in resale values for some.

Old school Class A amps seem to retain their value pretty well.

I do believe that the TacT amps can accurately be described as "digital" amps, that is if they are indeed amps at all.