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Switch from AB to D

I have a Onkyo TX NR 3007 that eats up electricity because of 4 amps inside. I would like to switch to the Vidar class D from Schitt's. I really like what I've read about it and the reviews. I am handicapped and can't get out to listen to any class D units in my area so I'm going to depend on some people here give me a good idea where I'd be going from class A B to class D what's my sound. I will be using the Vidar with a Audio Experience Symphony preamp with three matching Telefunken tubes that have been in there since I bought it and it's serviced me well along with an Audio Experience Concerto Plus phono preamp. I have an older Soto Sapphire turntable with a clear audio virtuoso cartridge wooden body that has been rebuilt by the soundsmith what a great sound. Oh by the way I have an Oppo 103 Player for my digital along with PSB image five speakers which I got for a great deal of many years ago and they still sound good with my system.
So the bottom line here ladies and gentlemen what am I going to experience putting a Class D amp with a hundred watts per Channel in place of my Onkyo with 140 watts per Channel at class A B power?
Thank you much
Ron in Highland Michigan
vinylrecord61
ebanksms
92 posts
 
I've owned class A/B from the likes of Carver and Marantz and upgraded to class D to get more power.  There are subtle differences in the sound but not enough to bother me either way.  The class D, I own and can recommend are the Peachtree Nova series and Nord's ICE1200AS2 based amps.  I have the Nord in my main system paired with a tube pre-amp and it's a match made in heaven.

Mark
hickamore
725 posts
 
A/B to A/B is apples to apples. The Vidar will blow the Onkyo away. See how it sounds with your old preamp. And when you get a good excuse, audition the Schiit Freya+. 15 days to decide whether the Freya is enough better than your old pre to justify the $900. I'd totally forget about Class D for the moment. Maybe someday a D-powered sub. Many good ones to be had for not much $ if/when you get to that point. 
doni
371 posts
 
I've been very happy with an Ncore Class D diy kit, but also with the Nuforce STA200 which is class a/b.  Both can be had for about $500, and in conjunction with a Schiit Freya, sound heavenly.
msafrick
19 posts
 
I’ve been researching integrated amps, and the name that keeps popping up is Rogue Audio, particularly the Sphinx. I’ve not yet heard it, but plan to audition the v3 in the near future. In many of the reviews and comments, people seemed generally surprised with the sound that’s been achieved with a tube preamp and class D amp and crediting the engineering.  
why0why
70 posts
 
I have had several class D amps over the years. I don't agree with all of the "not ready for primetime" feedback. Your price range is a limiting factor, but I would look at a used Peachtree. 
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