I’d save up more $$$ to get something that’ll provide a substantial improvement and just stick with your amp in the meantime. I assume you’re also using the amp as a preamp?
Class D, "Control (Variable Gain)," Amplifier versus Class A/B Separates?
Hello, all!
I am currently running a quite old PS Audio GCC-100 in my chain. It is a variable gain, class-D solid state power amplifier with balanced stereo inputs (functionally a balanced integrated amplifier). I recently purchased and am quite enjoying a pair of KEF LS50 Meta loudspeakers, but have been hearing from numerous people that they may sound even better with Class-A or Class-A/B amplification. I am curious what benefits, if any, I might get from making a switch. I am currently considering selling the GCC-100 and replacing it with a Schiit Kara preamplifier combined with a pair of Outlaw 2220 monoblocks. Any and all advice about what I might expect from such a swap would be greatly appreciated! And in case it matters, source is a Denafrips Ares II R-2R DAC playing lossless Apple Music.
-Ed
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- 27 posts total
@soix yes, I’m currently using the GCC-100 in integrated amplifier fashion. The subwoofer is attached to the Aux outs on it as well. -Ed |
@eddnog (good username!) that advice from @ghdprentice as applied to amplifier Class (D vs. A/AB) is worth heeding. To this day some folks feel dismissive about Class D / switching amps and assume by default A/AB are superior; there is no sound support (pun!) for this generalization. Selling something you like to make a newer but perhaps lateral move is not without risks. If you’re so satisfied as you suggest, perhaps also try some different source files than what Apple offers - if you vary the masters you access (I suppose many streaming services use the same edition(s)), you might find vocals effects you like more.
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@benanders @soix @mashif @tweak1 @ghdprentice So at the end, I went a different route and accidentally got what I wanted. I was using some inexpensive, 28" stands with glass bases and platforms from Amazon, and I upgraded to the KEF S2 bolt-on, color-matched stands for my LS50 Metas, filled them with sand, and discovered that the change in stands resulted in a more full-bodied sound, bringing vocals more forward, which is exactly what I wanted (even though that was not specifically done looking for that result, I just wanted something less likely to get broken or knocked over by my 4- and 6-year old sons!). Since it sounds the way I want now, I went ahead and ordered a new/upgraded remote control from PS Audio too, since my original one that came with the GCC-100 is quite worn out. Cheers to all and enjoy the music! -Ed |
- 27 posts total