The Truth about Modern Class D

..and that’s just it Erik. I am a single ended fanatic. With solid state I find I usually prefer a good A/B over even class A amplifiers for some reason.

There are always exceptions that might tickle your fancy in a different way and that’s what I hold out for. I’ve found exceptions in most categories now, just not in Class D. The units I’ve heard (rather not mention) were bountiful in the bass but presented artificially. There were other artifacts throughout the spectrum but the bass stood out the most to me. The units I tried were not world-class but not trash either.

Maybe natural was the wrong word and organic fits better. It all felt too etched to me, like overdoing the sharpness on a television.

Mola Mola was on my short list to try and I recently had another one recommended to me (by another single ended fan at that), though the name escapes me at this point.  I definitely am not closed-minded to them - just waiting for the right one.

To say class D is bright means you are not very well versed in quality class D.

This is correct as they can be either too bright (hard) or to opaque (soft) or a milder mix of both, and it nearly always comes down to how savage the output filter is that attenuates the switching frequency. As it's phase shift effects can be measure within the audio bands upper frequencies right down to 5khz, especially, the "opaque sounding one". You never hear of anyone criticizing the bass, that's because it good!

There are those that for the life of them can't hear anything wrong, good luck to them I say.

Cheers George

audiothesis : 

Aha! :) 

I knew you were one of those OTL scoundrels! 

J/k : But the truth is if OTL is what you like, then talking about good Class D amps is not going to be your cup of tea.

Best,

E

I'm new to digital music, but not analog.  I have a vintage McIntosh system that's been my main system for almost 20 years.

I started building a listening room digital system about 4 months ago.  I'm mostly-retired and didn't want to spend too much on it.  I got a good deal on a new NAD M12/M22 v2 combo, a used pair of Tannoy 8 dcti speakers; and a demo Innous Zenith MK2.  

At first, I was not very happy with my new purchases.  As the equipment has aged and I've bought better speaker wire, interconnects, and power cords, I've experienced a dramatic improvement in SQ - but at times, the highs are still too bright.  I plan to treat my room within the next 30 days, hoping that will help enough.  If not, I'll have some decisions to make.

Old school, get professional help from GIK,

and don't neglect the flooring, between and behind the speakers. Try using pillows and blankets to test with for free.  :) 

Best,

Erik