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Discussion of Class D Amps Application & Experiences

With all the time off that our current situation has allowed recently, I became intrigued by the idea of class D amplification. I have always been against this type of amplifier but the more I have read the more I have also learned. There are lots of threads here on this subject many of which result in arguments about which amplifier class is better. I do not want to do that here. As I consider a class D amp I need to let you know that I currently use a fairly powerful class A/B SS amp and pre-amp into an efficient pair of speakers rated at 4 ohms. My choice of equipment has always been focused on musicality over absolute detail. I want the music to sound natural and not sterile. I seem to have achieved that sound. If I switched to class D amplification that would also be my intended goal although a bit more refined detail would be fine. I have considered pairing the amp with a tube pre to help achieve my desired sound. So why would I change? My goal would be to save money over my current gear while maintaining my desired sound.

I have researched brands such as Nord, Primare, AGD & Nuprime. I have also looked at brands such as Jeff Rowland & Merrill but those are way out of my price range. My target would be $6000 - $7000 or less. I'm about performance not price. So given that background information I would like to hear from those who have made the leap, what your experience has been (likes and dislikes), what amp did you replace and any comments about one brand over the other. Your experience with demos etc. Do you use a tube or SS line stage?
Thanks
falconquest
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,702 posts
 
My other Class D amps  (in addition to afore-mentioned Bel Canto ref1000m monoblocks in my main setup)  are: 

  • Bel Canto c5i digital integrated amp in family room second system
  • Fosi Audio BT10 that does very well driving a pair of old Boston Acoustics A40 in a small 2-channel A/V system
  • 4 Class D amps built into Vanatoo Transparent One Encore powered speakers in my wife's sunroom
soix
10,129 posts
 
Years back I was at a NYC audio show and I gasped as I saw Jeff Joseph was running his Pulsars with BC Ref500Ms.  Given my prejudices at the time I was prepared to hear dry, brittle, lifeless sound but instead was treated to what I thought was one of the best sounds at the show, and my perception of Class D amps changed instantly.  I wouldn’t hesitate to try used Ref500Ms with something like a Linear Tube Audio ZOTL or Sachs SP14 preamp as I think that’d make for a glorious combination.  And if the amps don’t work out you can sell with little/no loss given BC is fairly liquid on the used market.  Definitely worth a try I’d say.  I’d make sure to have some good power conditioning for any Class D amps though.  Best of luck. 
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,702 posts
 
I use power conditioning with all my gear but not the amps. No need. They are dead quiet with delicate detail. Not an issue with a good Class D design these days I find.
The ref1000ms do draw a lot of current at power up so there is that to consider though I leave mine on most of the time.

Yes I have heard the Joseph Audio Pulsars at a show with BC Class D amps as I recall. KEF ls50s I run off them in one room reminds me of those though I use a powered sub also with the little KEFs.
djones51
4,947 posts
 
The most neutral Class D amplifier at the moment would be one that uses Purifi Amp modules at least they are the best measuring after that the Ncore modules. As far as neutral amp with detail I haven't seen one that betters the Benchmark AHB2 With SINAD of 113@5Watts 4 Ohm but that's class AB.
falconquest's avatar
falconquest OP
1,108 posts
 
I certainly appreciate the replies thus far. I use a BPT 2.5 Signature power conditioner and figured I would try the amp(s) both through that and direct.
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