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Pure class A amplifiers = "slow" amplifiers?

Hi folks, I know this is subject of controversy. In general pure class A has been regarded as the best way in solid state amplification to get the purest sound. In my experience many pure class A solid state amplifiers (Accuphase, Pass Labs, Plinius) sound "slow" and are lacking "dynamics". Do they sound that way because they have less distortion than class A/B amplifiers, I mean sometimes a signal is so pure that one is increasing the volume adjustment knob to get a louder sound. With a very pure sound it seems like music goes slower too (= psychoacoustic phenomenon).

Chris
dazzdax
usblues
1,217 posts
 
The term"deep cryoing" is not scientific,simply marketing.Anybody who uses this to describe the process known as Cryogenics which aligns molecules through temps of -300 degrees then slowly bringing back to room temps would 150 years ago be driving from town to town in a wagon selling bottles of Dr.Feelgood and suggesting that coke and morphine were just invented that month.Its a worthwhile process used now for many years in the various fields as alot of us are aware.To combine it with varieties of technological witchcraft is almost as absurd as supply-side economics.Sorry for the hijack,I'm a little hungover from the merry-go-round,cheers,Bob
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,793 posts
 
Tmhaudio, just a FWIW: the use of silver or a particular alloy in a conductor does not change the speed at which a signal flows through it in the slightest. There are many things that can 'speed up' an amplifier but that is not one of them; if an amplifier is 'fast' it is that way for very different reasons!

On a slightly different note I have heard a number of amplifiers that were bright but also slow- and amplifiers that were relaxed ('laid back') but also very fast. I think there is a bit of confusion of terminology and individual experience that can confuse the qualities (bright/relaxed vs fast/slow) and consequently the subject.
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
A system sounds like something, an individual component does not! That being said, a system which includes an amplifier should mimic a live concert (amplified or not). In other words, when listening to your favorite music you should have the sense of excitement and immediacy that is so effortlessly accessed via a live performance. Transparent, dynamic and full of color with everything delivering it's musical envelope to your ears naturaly...not too fast...not too slow...just live! Anyone who appreciates music should be able to hear the difference. Some people want to hear a version of the music they love..so be it, but it is not correct!
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
"just live"

I apologize, but I do not understand. . . could you pls explain? Thanks, G.
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
Live sound is the reference point. One must listen to live music and then choose your system accordingly. In this way you are being honest to the music.
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