2. amps-preamps
  3. 129071-76532

Class D = Trash?

So, I'm on my second class D amp. The first one, a Teac AI-301DA which claimed to use an ICE module, was unlistenable trash. I burned it in for a few weeks, it just couldn't perform, so I sent it back. Following that, I tried the new Emotiva A-300 (class A/B). It was significantly better, but lacking in too many ways for my tastes. So I changed gears, got an 845 SET from China -- and it was an immediate and massive improvement.

So, before I went further down the SET road, I wanted to try a better class D product using a modern class D module. I settled on the D-Sonic M3-800S with the Pascal module and custom input stage. I read from reviews that these things like to have big cables, so I picked up an eBay 8 gauge power cable (Maze Audio, el-cheapo Oyaide copy plugs, braided 4-wire cable) to go along with it.

Mid-range GONE.
Soundstage depth CRUSHED.
Euphonics DISAPPEARED.

Yes, resolution went up. Driver control went up, allowing me to play compressed rock/pop and orchestra with the speakers being able to render it all. But enjoyment in the sound is basically gone. Using my best power cable (LessLoss Original) improved performance, but didn't fundamentally change the amp's nature. I ran back to my headphones (Focal Utopias) to detox my ear canals.

So, how long does a class D need to burn-in? I want to give it a fair shake before writing the technology off forever. 
madavid0
sfseay's avatar
sfseay
496 posts
 
Anybody here running or have auditioned Auralic Merak monoblocks?  Just purchased a couple and should be arriving today.  Moving to these from a Parasound Halo A23
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georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
May not be trash for long madavid0.


Class-D that can finally equal or better hi-end linear amplifiers, tube or S/S.

 It's closer than you think.

Why We'll Soon Be Living In A Class D World 

"In fact, that transistor technology is available today and is increasingly being used by manufacturers to create near perfect sound quality for Class D audio systems. The greater switching speed of Efficient Power Conversion's (EPC's) eGaN® FETs allow amplifier designers to increase PWM switching frequencies, reduce dead-time, and drastically reduce feedback; in turn, producing a sound quality previously limited to large, complex, heavy Class A amplifier systems. Further, this innovative high-speed switching technology has already disrupted myriad other industries, including telecommunications, medical, and automotive to name a few.  
A high-definition eGaN FET-based system with higher PWM switching frequency, reduced feedback, and higher bandwidth produces the sound that has the warmth and sonic quality that audiophiles demand; while actually improving upon the power efficiency of traditional Class D. Class A audio's historic lesser child Class D is coming of age with eGaN technology. And in the next decade, these systems will replace Class A technology, as well as the silicon MOSFET Class D systems in active use today. 

Significantly, audio manufacturers are taking notice and incorporating GaN-based Class D FETs in their systems. This is why, in another two or three years you will start seeing a slew of new Class D amps - ones based on GaN - rolling out to the market; and, for such varied uses as home theatre, car, boat, portable wireless speakers, along with high-fidelity home systems."  


Cheers George
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa
4,867 posts
 
I've heard Dusty's (Chanel Islands Audio) mono blocks a few times and was impressed by the sound. Very dynamic and musical. Most impressive was the power to weight and cost ration. Very affordable. 

http://www.ciaudio.com/

Not my cup of tea, as I much prefer the added realism provided by good tube gear. 

A good source tells me that Dusty has a giant killer phono stage about to be unleashed for under $1000.  I'd like to compare it with my ARC PH8 and write a review afterwards.

Frank


gaal
64 posts
 
I use a Class D Classe Sigma AMP2 which works very well with my Audible Illusions L3A line stage preamp driving Martin Logan Ethos speakers. The Sigma seems to be very neutral to the music and inputs no signature sound. If more power is a requirement one can audition the Classe CA-D200. For me the sound is best when used with balanced ICs.
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