Class D Technology


So I get the obvious strengths of Class D. Efficiency, power output & running cool which allows for small form factors. I also understand the weaknesses somewhat. 1. Non-linear & lots of distortion that needs to be cleaned up with an output filter. 
So my question is, if it weren't for efficiency & power, would there be any reason to own a Class D amp? Do they beat Class A in any other categories that count for sound quality?  
seanheis1
I'm not sure what this "class A input stage" is.  Input stages are almost always class A (would be stupid not to), but class D amp is pretty much one stage - a modulator + output transistors.  Any additional input stage is not advantageous to class D amps. What they call "Analog Cell" is just class A Mosfet input stage very common in many class A or AB amps.  It sounds like a lot of hot air (for class D).
I'm not sure what this "class A input stage" is. Input stages are almost always class A (would be stupid not to), but class D amp is pretty much one stage - a modulator + output transistors.
I thought the Class A input stage is what voices the amplifier and keeps it from being a clone amp in a pretty box. 
Perhaps in traditional multistage amps.  I'm not also sure what the "voicing" means.  Would this imply that two different amps with the same Mosfet input stage are voiced exactly the same?  As I said - a lot of hot air.  Manufacturers of expensive gear have to come up with some exotic names, like "Analog Cell", in order to differentiate them from competition and justify high price.  Icepower is self contained amp.  It doesn't need additional input stage unless it serves a purpose (Common mode noise rejection, input impedance increase etc), or "voicing" is just a fancy name for added "coloring" of the sound (at the expense of transparency).
I'm not sure what this "class A input stage" is.  Input stages are almost always class A (would be stupid not to)
+1
I've never seen anything but Class-A input stages, it BS advertising to con the gulible.

Cheers George
Kijanki - Yes I meant voicing as a coloration to differentiate a boutique amp from a stock Ice Module. Some feel that adding a custom input stage and not using the stock power supply creates a superior sound to their ears...which I can't argue with. 

mapman14,180 posts01-03-2017 2:58pmI do not have "ice modules" . i have stated repeatedly I have BelCanto Ref1000m amps. These use ice modules but also custom input and power circuitry and the price and sound reflects that accordingly.

Again generalizing and glazing over facts and details to help an argument helps nobody and is a disservice.

I would likely not have been satisfied using that older revision of vanilla Ice modules to drive my speakers which is why I opted for a better design. The original Bel Canto ref1000 was vanilla icepower (and much cheaper) and the differences between the two are well documented.