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Can an IC based amp be considered 'high end'?

I'm fairly new to this forum so apologies if this has been asked before (I've searched the threads and can't find this question being raised), so here goes...

Most, if not all amplifiers that are regarded as 'high end' are either valve or solid state designs. Is there any reason why an amplifier based on an integrated circuit (chip) shouldn't be considered high-end as well? 47 Labs produced the Gaincard back in 1999 and DIYers have taken the design forward over the intervening years, improving performance, power etc. but there aren't many commercial products based on ICs. In my experience a very well designed IC based amplifier can give any other type of design (with a similar power output) a run for its money, I'm just interested why there aren't many about and whether there is a general opinion that they aren't 'high end', whatever that means.

pragmasi
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,931 posts
 
So, do you go for 'high end' or do you favour some of those criteria over others?
I'm a manufacturer. So my criteria might be a bit different, but I'm also an audiophile. We all like to think we're getting good quality and we try to search for it; that is certainly what I do. I don't like getting something and finding out its so much junk... Most of the gear I own I've also auditioned in some form before purchase. In your case that will be your first move if you get serious about this amp.

All audiophiles know that no matter what the spec sheet says, what the dealer says, what the reviewer says, you have to bring it home and audition it. Even people that rely on specs only do that :) Irony is still in.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,405 posts
 
Sure if you charge enough for it. 
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,405 posts
 
I have one of these and sounds pretty darn good.   Might pass as high end in a blind listening test  but not much to look at. 
https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-Audio-Amplifier-Receiver-Integrated/dp/B076XSBCCL/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ke...
abraxalito
93 posts
 
Going back to the early 90's IC amps had a pretty bad rep for SQ. Then National brought out the LM3886 which contributed significantly to IC amps becoming 'respectable'. So I think given the correct implementation, IC based amps can be 'high end'. Just implemented according to the datasheet application schematic though, I would doubt it, as 'high-end' sound requires attention to many small details in the layout (amongst other things).
rwortman's avatar
rwortman
41 posts
 
The audiophile world has had the idea that discrete designs are better for a long time.  If it was ever true, it isn’t now.
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