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The Future of Audio Amplification

I have recently paired an Audio Research DS225 Class D amplifier with an Audio Research tube preamplifier (SP8 mkii). I cannot believe how wonderful and lifelike my music sounds. The DS225 replaced an Audio Research SD135 Class AB amplifier. Perhaps the SD135 is just not as good as some of the better quality amps that are out there, but it got me thinking that amazingly wonderful sonance can be achieved with a tubed pre and Class D amp. I have a hunch that as more people experience this combination, it will likely catch on and become the future path of many, if not most audiophile systems. It is interesting that Audio Research has been at the forefront of this development.
distortions
erik_squires
16,325 posts
 
Saying Class D is as good as Class A is like those hyping Digital is a good as Vinyl. Are your ears truly that bad? Does a digital piano sound as good as an acoustic? No. End of story.

Someones feelings are hurt. NO no no. I meant to say that good Class D is better than several Class A amps.

Please stop comparing it to such inferior technology better suited for cold climates and drafty hallways.
erik_squires
16,325 posts
 
I find Brunos definitions kind of useless. 
Most Class D have no Analog to Digital Conversion (ADC) stage, but do have comparators. Hence the feedback required.

The Technics on the other hand, really does have an ADC, and once calibrated, the output behavior is deterministic.
Best,
E
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Class D is not digital. 
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
good Class D is better than several Class A amps.

Maybe against backyard junkers.

It’s not yet, only in the bass. But soon hopefully maybe everywhere.
erik_squires
16,325 posts
 
We have achieved a major scientific breakthrough. Audiogon managed to hook this website up to 1982 and found this:


Maybe against backyard junkers.

It’s not yet, only in the bass.




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