Are There Any Inherent Advantages to Class A amps?

Good thread guys, thanks for your kind words. BTW, nothing against [or for] Google, but I've always used and liked www.ixquick.com for metasearches [where I searched for class A amp operation]. On systems, Everything is the sum of that which preceded it as Ozfly points out. But Class A does seem to be an excellent point of departure. My single-ended Class A amp has been in my various systems longer than other component. "Only" 50 watts but every one is as sweet and unforced as can be, and has driven a dozen very different speakers with grace and ease. Same for my 35 watt custom 85# brute, truly an iron fist in a velvet glove. Good luck to all, whatever Class you choose! Tripp

The Krell FPB amps are class A to their full rated power. The sustained plateau bias helps to prevent (through magic and witchcraft) the amp from running as hot as Class A amps have in the past.

It is true that Krell amps before the FPB series were only class A for the first 25 or so watts, which is where most of our listening is done anyway. The Krell monoblocks are very expensive, but I think they are worth it. The Pass Labs X 600 are a great pair of monoblocks, and as mentioned previously will only cost about half the price of the Krell.

In my limited experience Class A amps sound better than class AB or those wretched digital amps. They are more 'there.' So yes, along with the drawbacks there are many real advantages.

...and dats da name ah dat tune!

Don't forget the oil savings in the winter, as you can turn down your thermostat a few notches :)

Dear Mitch4t: I think that the JC-1 by Parasound it will be a good alternative to you and for the price you can get four units for bi-amp instead two Krells/Pass
Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

Rauliruegas, can the Parasounds drive low impedances and deliver serious slam on the bass?