I picked up a Class D Audio SDS-470c from a fellow Agon member just for fun and added it in my showroom. Paired with my Legacy Focus SE's it outclassed an extremely powerful Class AB amp in dynamics and extension. While not the last word in detail and transparency, it is the first Class D amp that had enough warmth and musicality for me to enjoy for extended periods of time. I actually love it. Arguably the best amp you can buy under $1k.
Class-D recommendation
Looking for a class-D recommendation for the base portion of a multi-amp system w/ active xover. The amp will be powering a pair of 15" 4Ohm woofers from 30 - 600Hz. Need at least 400W, very high damping, and clean into the midrange. Everything above 600Hz is taken care of by a class-A amp. I would prefer to spend <$2k used.
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Look into Digital Amplifier Company (DAC)! DAC has been mentioned a few times and here’s another strong recommendation. Tommy sometimes has demos and trade ins available at a discount. All of them are put on the bench and certified before they go out. Contact Tommy and he will help to figure your needs. https://www.cherryamp.com/ |
The real question is which one of the aforementioned Class D amps can approach reference Class A or a good push/pull without sounding overly dry. Anyone who has directly A/B tested a lot of Class D amps against competing technologies will immediately notice how dry and brittle most class D amps sounds in comparison. Instruments can lack that sense of air and can sound smeared and congested. Of course this is only revealed if you do a back to back test and swap gear. Most people who are living with a Class D day in and day out probably won't notice it. But once you hear it and identify the dryness, you can't go back. |
- 30 posts total