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Higher-End Class A/B vs. Class A Integrateds

I’ve been thinking about downsizing from separates to an integrated amp. I’ve noticed that some companies have both class A and class A/B amps that are both pretty expensive such as Luxman for example. Hegel seems to be well received and they’re not true class A as far as I know.

I was kind of under the impression that class A was better than class A/B due to lower distortion yet again, there are some well reviewed class A/B amps that are as pricey as some class A amps.

To be clear, it’s really not the price I’m concerned about. It’s the fact that some integrated amps $5000 and up are still only Class AB.

How do these higher priced class AB amps sound in comparison to true class A amps?

nicktheknife
erik_squires
15,791 posts
 

@pcolvin

 

How do you think any of your post, some of which is wrong, refute or illustrate my post?

The idea that Class A is always lower distortion than Class A/B is simply not correct. It is only correct about one particular type of distortion. Pass for instance is famously and proudly high distortion even in Class A operation.

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,186 posts
 

@nicktheknife 

Hegle is an excellent brand and now is a great time to be looking at the brand. They just replaced the H590 with the H600 and they are selling their remaining H590’s at about half price! The rumor is that the H390, ( which is what I have) is going to be replaced soon with the H400 and I believe they are on sale for $4000 instead of $6000.Both are class A/B and seen to be built like tanks. If I can convince the wife, I’m hoping to get the H590 soon.

All the best.

nicktheknife OP
194 posts
 

@ronboco 

I could be wrong but I think the Krell K300i is made in the US.  Their lowest model is made in China I believe.

nicktheknife OP
194 posts
 

@curiousjim 

Hegel still intrigues me. They're not off my list anyway.  Especially if they will be available for a good price. 😁

nicktheknife OP
194 posts
 

Pass is now sounding intriguing as well.  

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