Why no Class D integrated love? (from manufacturers)


Unless I'm mistaken, it seems that Class D integrateds are not receiving the same attention from manufacturers as a whole. Sure there are the Peachtrees and NAD's of the world but by and large it seems the better class D tech is going into separates right now and that's somewhat disappointing to me. It's easy to find affordable separates based on the latest Icepower and Hypex modules but almost impossible to find integrateds based on anything but the lower end modules, for example the Nord integrateds.  Perhaps I am missing something? It just seems like this is an area that is ripe for some innovation. Anyone making "affordable" integrateds based on Hypex NC500 or IcePower AS1200 for example?
128x128clarinetmonster2
"I'm Willing to go back to separates if I have to, just it would be nice to have the choice without it being a huge compromise."

     Understood. But it's also a matter of how long you're willing to wait, correct?  As you know, there's definitely advantages to both.  I consider the flexibility to upgrade either pre or amp at any time especially useful at this point in class D amp technology's development.  The use of very fast switching GaN FETs in class D amps allows significant reductions in transistor dead-time which directly results in significant reductions in distortion levels and according to many initial reviews, significant improvements in subjective sound quality.
      The use of GaN FETs in class D amps has already begun but thus far has been limited to use in only the relatively higher priced amps.  At about $3 each, these GaN FETs are not expensive in absolute terms but only in relative terms when compared to the cost of silicon based MOSFETs that have been typically used in class D amps.  
       Even if class D amp makers and assemblers weren't easily able to pass on the costs of $3 GaN FETs to consumers, I believe the competitive advantage gained by using these new FETs would still provide sufficient incentive for most to utilize them in their more affordably priced class D amps rather quickly.  
       I also believe the current shortage you noticed in the number of currently available class D integrated amps may be related to the new GaN FETs since numerous amp makers may have scrapped plans for introducing  integrated class D amp models using traditional MOSFETs and decided instead to redesign them using the superior GaN FETs, which would cause delays and result in an apparent shortage. 

     Of course, the above is admittedly all suppositions on my part based on my current likely limited knowledge and definitely limited logical reasoning capacity.  I welcome the commencement of punching holes in my suppositions and reasoning by all members and readers.
    In the highly unlikely case there are no holes to be punched, however, I would  suggest you have 3 reasonable options:

1.  Wait for an integrated class D amp using the new GaN FETs that meets your performance and budget requirements to be available.

2. Switch back to separates and wait for a class D amp using the new GaN FETs that meets your performance and budget requirements to be available.

3. Switch back to separates, buy a good used class D amp using the current MOSFETs and update to a new or used class D amp using the new GaN FETs that meets your performance and budget requirements at a future time of your choosing.

     I think option 3 may be an especially attractive option if you're willing to wait until there are more affordable class D amps available using the new GaN FETs since there'll probably be a glut of good class D amps using the inferior MOSFETs on the used market at bargain prices.  I'm fairly certain you could buy my excellent sounding D-Sonic M3-600-M class D monos in like-new condition at a bargain price if you're willing to wait.

Tim   
     
Post removed 

kosst_amojan:
"Integrated amps are a budget item. Class D amps are already a budget item. How cheap can you build something before it's believed to be HiFi?"

Hello kosst_amojan,

     Spectacularly uninformed and elitist comment that demands immediate rebuking and ridicule.  The natural and appropriate human emotion for making such a condescending and regrettable statement is tremendous shame.  
      I think you need to reflect on exactly what you are stating and implying.  You obviously have great and unjustifiable disdain for integrated amps, class D amplification and budget audio equipment in general.  You even further demonstrate your blatant arrogant snobbery by dismissingly referring to high quality low price audio equipment as 'cheap' and 'budget' rather than the much more accurate descriptions of 'a great bargain' or 'a steal'. 
       Are you really so inexperienced and naïve to equate price to the performance and sound quality levels of modern audio equipment?
      I suggest you either educate yourself on the great bargains and excellent performance levels of current integrated and class D amplifiers or refrain from making such uninformed and misleading statements.


Thank you,
    Tim



 Report this







 Report this

 Report this     

     
Post removed 
I believe the new Peachtree integrated’s are based on the new  ice power modules. There are a few pretty good reviews of the nova 300.