2. amps-preamps
  3. 1337544476

Explain Class A amp to non audiophile friends

How do I explain a Class A amplifier and a Class A/B amplifier to my non audiophile friends? I tried by saying a Class-A amplifier power devices are conducting a continuous current meaning they are always on. They did not understand and maybe neither do I.

Can someone please explain how a Class A amplifier works vs a Class A/B amp in non technical terms so I can explain it to my friends.
hgeifman
hgeifman OP
2,250 posts
 
I want to thank everyone for the above explanations of how a Class A amplifier works. I explained Class A to someone at my gym today and he got. A miracle! Thanks again to everyone. Great job.
manitunc
795 posts
 
How about, Class A is like a lightbulb that is on all the time, but increases in brightness as the music demands more power, whereas Class AB, the lightbulb is being switched on and off as needed.
bradluke0
163 posts
 
Hi all ! Here is my standard answer....like driving a car , in class AB you drive around and vary speed with the gas pedal . In class A you hold the gas pedal to the floor and use the clutch to vary your speed . Not perfect , but effective .
More to discover