Why Don't We See More High Current Electronics?
I was listening to a nuclear "expert" from a well recognized American University explain on CNN a few days ago early on in the Japan nuclear fiasco why theoretically there was nothing to really be worried about with the troubled reactors in Japan. These reactors had containment structures, no problem! So much for that theory....... |
But to comment on the thread . . . this is some REALLY well-trodden ground. Please see: http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?aamps&1258580057 I have two main points of contention with Atmasphere's "white paper" to which he frequently links. The first is simply the lack of citation of any historical or scholarly references, or measurement data. This need not be . . . I think that Atmasphere could actually support his design choices much better by a properly researched, documented, and peer-reviewed paper on the subject. The second is the interchangability of pespectives on amplifier output power ratings, output impedance, and circuit design, specifically the use of negative feedback. Obviously, Atmasphere prefers Class A OTL designs with little loop feedback . . . and the consequences are very poor power efficiency and a high output impedance, both of which are key factors in the rated power outputs of Atmasphere amplifiers. The wholly illogical part is the inherent value judgement against amplifiers that have clipping-power-versus-impedance characteristics that are different from Atmaspheres'. Because an examination of this data gives ZERO information about how much current an amplifier will produce, what its output impedance is, or the amplitude of any distortion products in its output. So to answer the original poster's question . . . there are plenty of high-current amplifiers on the market. However, you can't tell which ones they are by examining the clipping-power ratings into various load impedances. |
When I was looking at these kinds of amps for my rig, I looked at power ratings into various loads and specs indicating current delivery capability explicitly. In general, the higher current capable amps seemed to correlate pretty well though not exactly with the ability to at least mostly double down. I recall amps with higher current delivery capabilities almost always did this better at least than those indicating low current in general. I also tending to look for higher damping factor to go along with this for my particular speakers. This approach has worked out well for me. I had a low current, high power 360 w/ch (to 8 ohm) carver m4.ot amp prior to a Musical Fidelity A3CR that delivered 120w/ch. The MF sounded more balanced with my "current hungry" speakers than the Carver, though the Carver could go usably louder. The BC monoblocks I have currently raised the power level level to 500w/ch and also promised good current delivery, doubling down as well based on specs. The results were exactly as expected. Good tonal balance plus ability to go louder and clearer. Mission accomplished! |
