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High end Class D amps?

Just an observation and a question. Are there 'high end' Class D amps out there that are just as good as Class A, A/B amps? I realize that's a sensitive question to some and I mean no disrespect---but whenever I see others' hifi systems on social media, all of the amps are A or A/B. There's always Pass, McIntosh, Moon, Luxman, Accuphase, etc. Where are the Class Ds? For folks out there that want more power for less efficient speakers and can't afford the uber expensive Class As, A/Bs, what is there to choose from that's close to those brands? Thanks
bluorion
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
Most toroid transformer manufacturers supply mounting hardware, and if you use it the transformer will run hotter than it should. This is because the mounting bolt is steel
A least that’s one you got right and we can agree on, this has been known btw forever since toroidal’s were first released, and especially when the bolt is in contact with the chassis earth, sorry but you did not discover it. (so no self back pats) My Hungarian EE boss (rip Steve De’Ratz) back it the 80’s told me about this, as his family tree had something to do with the first ones. And it also applies to any air core chokes, in speakers, amps, anything.
zaphod2006's avatar
zaphod2006
7 posts
 
i have Nuprime MCH-K38 and MCX-4 which use the same proprietary power boards, class A and D hybrid, the former can be bridged and in that mode has more control, detail and punch. Next week I will be comparing these family offerings to the Starke Sound AD.320, which can also be bridged and is starting to get great reviews but is new. The construction quality is excellent and it too uses proprietary power boards, again not ICEPower or Hypex Ncore, and is a class AB and D hybrid. All amps should be considered for muti channel high end class d systems.
ricevs
1,543 posts
 
Actually, you do not want any conductive material at all for a transformer bolt.  Even a brass or non magnetic stainless steel bolt will degrade the sound compared to no bolt or plastic bolt.  You want nothing conductive above, below or in the middle of a toroid.  Again, mount the toroid off the chassis on wood and use glue and tie wraps or wooden plate on top with plastic nut and bolt.  Likewise shielding a toroid with copper, etc. will close down the sound.  If you want to shield then do it a couple of inches away from the toroid......let the toroid radiate its field.  I also do not generally like shielded wires.
verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,499 posts
 
Huge thread...can’t read it all.  Not sure if the AVM Evolution A5.2 was mentioned.  Incredible integrated with tube input stage for $6500 and has optional phono-stage and DAC cards.  185w of awesome power.

I hope the Rogues were mentioned, Sphinx and Pharaoh integrated amps along with the Hydra and DragoN power amps.  
spoutmouzert
72 posts
 
Would love to hear the AGD amps, any news on his active speaker collaboration? Cheers
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