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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
jaytor's avatar
jaytor
763 posts
 
@djones51 - if your definition of an ideal amp is a perfect voltage source, meaning an amp with zero Ohm output impedance, then a class D amp gets closer to this ideal than any other amplifier topology. Class D amps have much lower output impedance than class A or A/B amps. 
mike_in_nc
1,147 posts
 
@jaytor - For sure. I wasn’t sure I read the spec right . . . the output impedance of the 1ET400A is specified as <65μΩ @ 1kHz.  Sixty-five millionths of an ohm. The output terminals will add more impedance to the circuit than the module itself!
noble100's avatar
noble100
2,419 posts
 

     I've actually grown to like georgehifi and consider him similar to an old dog that's just become a fixture around the Audiogon shop. 
     Sure, he barks at predictable times about predictable topics, grudgingly respects and roots for class D while constantly throwing shade on it, poops inside the house a bit too often, probably has fleas and is generally about as useful as nipples on a male mouse. But aren't these some of the qualities that make him so endearing and lovable, too? 

Tim
djones51
4,947 posts
 
If efficiency is the definition of a perfect amp class D is closer than any other. 
noble100's avatar
noble100
2,419 posts
 

     It's my understanding that efficiency has been the primary advantage and raison d'etre of class D amps since the get go. Their further efficiencies in weight, size and cost are just peripheral advantages. 
     Their further relatively constant improvements in performance and sound quality are, in strictly technical terms, just 'friggin breasts'!

Tim
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