2. amps-preamps
  3. 162052-34747

suggestion for a SS class AB amp that sounds like a class A ... if such a thing exists

Looking for an amplifier below 2K for my Altec 620A (99 db efficiency). My actual amp is a Sugden A25B, which has 34 watts/chanel in class AB. Although quite musical, it lacks transparency and details. Of course, the best amplifier would be tube or class A but I'm trying to avoid these because of the heat and the electricity bill (my amp is on all day long). My short list include :

  • Audio by Van Alstine Set-120
  • Ayre AX 7e (used)
  • Sugden Mystro (class AB)
  • Benchmark AHB2 (used)

NOTE : please, no class D since I'm not familiar with it (and pretty skeptic too).
alaindexe
decooney
2,358 posts
 
alaindexe’s Altec 620A speakers are close to 100db sensitivity @1w, 4-feet away, right?. Can operate well with two (2) really good watts. Low watt delicacy of targeted 20-30w musical amplifiers like Firstwatt, Sugden, Pucini sound would be the ticket for these speakers.  Quality watts needed more than quantity watts in this case.  

@ebm
Audia Flight Stremento #4 mk 2 sounds like the best class A plus its very musical with plenty of power.
Good grief, is that 28 Mosfets (14 per side) in that Stremento #4? 250/500 watts? https://www.hifinews.com/images/719audia.ins.jpg




alaindexe's avatar
alaindexe OP
75 posts
 
@ decooney according to the Altec catalogue, their sensitivity is 100db with 1 watt at 4’ on axis... when I had VOT (A-7), I had a pair of 14 watts Leak mono tube amps and it was plenty... and the VOT we’re 101 db... so yes, a low wattage amp if fine... Any thought on the Audio Sector products (gain clone) ?
jg2077
160 posts
 
Pass Aleph 3.  Yes, I know its class A.

I pair mine with Altec Malibu.

Good luck in your quest, and enjoy in good health, 

Jose.
jtgofish's avatar
jtgofish
517 posts
 
Well there is no such thing as a Class A sound.I have owned several Class A SS amps and they sounded as different to each other as Class A/B amps. .
decooney
2,358 posts
 
@alaindexe
Any thought on the Audio Sector products (gain clone) ?

I’ve never built one and read up on some stuff Darko was doing years back. Reviewed the DIY LM kits, not much help to ya. Maybe check the DIYAudio site, folks there can possibly help a bit more on that one. Good luck.  
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