High End Amp Price Collapse musings

@bcgator 

I think we in the lunatic minority are much more prevalent in this thread than has been in the past.  Rowland, Cary, ATI to name just a few high end companies seem to be developing (at least some) of their amps using D Class modules.  They wouldn't be doing that if Class D wasn't good.   Takes a while to break a stigma but I think it's getting there.

I'd be curious if McIntosh, accuphase,etc produced a Class D amp how it would compare to their normal line

Good thread.

I have twin Luxman M 05s in my system (Class A) and although 30 years old the sound is superb.  Far better than the Bryston 14b SST they replaced, despite the age difference.  I think, however, after hearing a few Class D amps they have a long way to go.  They DO however, make excellent sub amps, which is why you get subs now with the high power for long excursion (the first being the Sunfire True Subwoofer, IIRC correctly).  But subs don't need treble sweetness or soundstaging or imaging as a amp for mains would need.  Moreover, they are not nearly as pure in the treble and midrange liquidity as a good Class A amp can provide.  In fact, I doubt seriously that the Class D amp will compete in this regard, although I do see a time when Class D could compete with Class A/B amps.  I think Class A (either solid stage or tube) is just a step above and those whom have heard them (like me) are willing to pay the premium for the sound.  I cannot see myself ever going back from Class A and sure hope that there are offerings around when I do need it.  The Accuphase A 200 mono Class A amps are my dream go-to amps, now if only I could find a way to afford them.

Speaking of pricing......

@blackfly 

Class D amps have come a long long way since their inception when they were used solely as sub amps.  I'll argue that they don't have a long way to go as many of us in this thread feel they are equal if not superior to the Class A and A/B amps we've used, some very expensive.  I can almost guarantee that your 30 year old amps have nowhere near the low noise floor, damping factor, etc. of the NAD M22.  Amplification of sound is still science and people are starting to refer to Class D as possible near perfect amplification. The soundstage and imaging of this amp in my setup is off the charts - it's not a cheap amp at $3000.00.   My 2 little KEF LS50 speakers have disappeared from my room.  I think you need to take another listen.

Future generations will look at amps that are not class d or digital as dinosaur fossils . There will be no mass market makers of class A or ab or anyone to service them . I don't think I will be around when this happens but class A , AB  inevitably will disappear .