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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
kgbspy
60 posts
 
there are technical limitations of audio output ics.
1.low wattage .... up to 40-50 watt
2. high THD ....10% 
10% THD is ok for low end consumer electronics like sound from FM stereo  or TV set, but not HIFI units
armstrod
618 posts
 
I own both Atma-sphere M60s and an Audiosector Patek, and right now I wouldn't give up either because they're the best sounding tube and SS amps I've heard. That said, they sound totally different, but both are clearly "high end". Two completely different approaches to design something that sounds great.

Both Ralph's and Peter's intent was spot on.
erik_squires
16,558 posts
 
Hi End - No.  Needs a big 20 lb aluminum face plate.

Hi Fidelity - Possibly. :)


kgbspy
60 posts
 
as for  LM3886  the specs  are quite dissent... but still 50 watt output . with recommended applications    Component stereo • Compact stereo • Self-powered speakers • Surround-sound amplifiers • High-end stereo TVs
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Can an IC based amp be considered 'high end'


Build your own, get a ready made power supply, the "chip amp" put it into a Asian box with heat sinks with 2 rca's and 2 pairs of speaker terminals and see how it sounds.
For the best chip amp go to diy audio, they are the ones who are up to date.
Then after you've built it you can sell it on ebay because they are not hiend "yet"

Cheers George 
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