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Class D with high efficiency speakers

I'm currently running PS Audio BHK Pre / Atma-Sphere S30 Mk3 OTL into Avantgarde Duo Omega horns (107dB/W 16ohms). I've been very happy with the sound of the OTL's the past 12 years and since retiring have been listening to my system throughout the day as well as evening. This is obviously impacting valve life (although Atma-Sphere amps seem very kind on valves) and my electricity bill.

I'm therefore keen to explore whether any of the new Class D amps would be a suitable match in my system.

I've seen a lot of reviews where Class D amps are feeding low efficiency / low impedance speakers and I can see the benefit of their ability to supply current etc.

My question is, does anyone have any experience of running a new Class D GaNFET amp into high efficiency / high impedance speakers?

rocketiii
fatdaddy2
380 posts
 

Duos with class D? But...why?

rmdmoore
163 posts
 

I know your question was about Class D but with the efficiency of your speakers you can get away with very little wattage, either tube or solid state. Have cou considered a very low wattage tube amp, like 5 watts or less? Alternatively, maybe a firstwatt from Pass? I'm about to try some MA-1 amps from Atma-sphere but part of the issue is that to do that transformer less you need A LOT of tubes which makes tons of heat. A 300b or 845 amp will run significantly cooler. Just a thought 

daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1
563 posts
 

Take a right turn.  Try a Pass XA25.  I will never sell mine!

I know, it is Class A.  I have left it on for days and didn't notice any electricity use increase.  Class D will be detailed but so is this one.  This unit is single ended only, no balanced output.  It is very quiet(S/N).  A demo from Reno HiFi would be about $4k.

tweak1
3,655 posts
 

@jaymark 

Is your Voyager stock?

jonwolfpell
386 posts
 

The Avantgarde Duos have self powered sub woofers so low bass performance of any amp will not be a factor. They are amongst the most revealing, most dynamic speakers ever made & until you actually listen to them properly set up with top quality ancillary equipment, most will not truly understand what they can do & how great they can be.

I powered mine for years w/ an Art Audio PX 25 tube power amp (5 watts / side) & it was truly magical at any volume. They will be a real test for a class D amp & any shortcomings it might have. I’m very curious to hear how that all turns out.. please keep us updated. Thanks

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