Class D amplifiers. What's the future look like?

I forgot to mention that the NAD C298 is a class D design.

The company’s you mentioned have so much of their current value wrapped up in the glory of their house sound and history of famous amps I doubt it makes sense to try and market the newest thing(class d) unless it is obviously superior sounding.  That said what do I know I have only really heard consumer class a/b amps.

Greg

Ummm a lot

I thought a while ago that class D would quickly overtake amplifier design type mainly due to profit margin which I think would be much greater than A/B and tube. I'm not saying the other design styles would go away, just that D would be the most common style.  Clearly my prediction is not panning out

I think not.  Sounds like you’re missing the newer generation of amps employing the likes of GaN and Purify technology and are garnering huge praises.  When Ralph at @atmasphere introduces a GaN amp and in some ways prefers it to his incredible OTL tube amps, well, that’s about as big of a statement I could think to hear about how far the newer technology has progressed.  To me, the handwriting seems to be on the wall where this is going as designers better learn to “tune” the latest digital components as they wish.  I think your prediction is absolutely panning out and in the next few years will come to fruition. 

1. Sound Quality Perception: Audiophiles are often very discerning about sound quality. While Class D amplifiers have improved significantly, some enthusiasts may still perceive differences in sound quality compared to traditional amplifiers. These differences may be real or perceived, and audiophile preferences often lean towards the warmth and character that tubes or Class A/B amplifiers can provide.

2. Brand Reputation and Loyalty: Established high-end audio manufacturers, such as Bryston, Luxman, McIntosh, and others, have built strong reputations based on their Class A/B and tube amplifier designs. Brand loyalists may resist change and prefer to stick with what they know and trust, even if Class D technology has advantages.

3. Market Segmentation: High-end audio is a niche market, and the demands and expectations of audiophiles can be different from mainstream consumers. Some audiophiles appreciate the traditional craftsmanship and aesthetics of tube or Class A/B amplifiers, which may not be achievable with Class D designs.

4. R&D and Innovation: Manufacturers may indeed be experimenting with Class D technology, but the development cycle for high-end audio equipment can be lengthy. It takes time to perfect new designs, ensure they meet audiophile standards, and maintain the desired sonic characteristics. Manufacturers may also want to preserve the mystique and allure of traditional amplifiers.

5. Profit Margins: While Class D amplifiers can be cost-effective and offer good efficiency, profit margins in the high-end audio market may not be the primary driving factor for manufacturers. These companies often prioritize craftsmanship, high-quality components, and sound performance over cost-cutting measures.

6. Speaker Compatibility: As you mentioned, the choice of amplifier can also depend on the type of speakers used. Some speakers may benefit more from the characteristics of Class A/B or tube amplifiers, especially if they are less efficient or have unique impedance curves.

It's important to note that Class D amplifiers are widely used in professional audio and consumer electronics, where efficiency and power output are crucial. They have made significant inroads in these markets.

While Class D technology may continue to advance and gain acceptance in the high-end audio world, it's likely that traditional amplifier designs will coexist for the foreseeable future, catering to different preferences and market segments. Manufacturers may continue to offer a variety of amplifier options to meet the diverse demands of audiophiles.