Class D Amplifier

[Jim]

Hello,

New to community, I am considering Arendal speakers for my home theater upgrade and trying to choose an amp. I’ve read a lot about class D amps and was wondering if anyone is using one for their Arendal speakers. How does the sound compare to class A/B amps? Monolith has just released an 8 channel class D amp that looks good. I’ve also researched Cherry, and Buckeye amps. The class D amps are smaller, weigh less, less heat, and more efficient, but my main concern is sound quality. If a class A/B will sound better with Arendal speakers I would get a Monolith or Outlaw 7 channel amp.

Thanks for your input

Jim

[Ralph Spataro]

I just upgraded my Emotiva amps with 3 VTV amplifiers. They have extremely low noise and are really good. I’m also looking at Apallon amps as well to channel my surrounds and heights. Want to get into the class D myself as they are highly efficient amplifiers.

[brian-w]

I agree with many comments on the Try em. Over the years I have listened to many amplifiers. I firmly believe you can hear a difference in amplifier sound qualities. Some amps are light and airy, some have a wide and deep sound, some punchy or bright. The differences may be small, but there are differences. Listen to as much as you can for as long as you can. Time listening is critical to getting familiar with a sound. Take notes on what you hear, how you heard it, how you felt listening at different volumes. Was it crystal clear and full when at a whisper? Did it maintain balance as the volume increased? Did you feel tired or want more? Also keep in mind that your hearing tends to change over the years, so what is perfect today, may change in years to come. Most of all, have fun and enjoy what you enjoy. Keep on listening!

[neil-h]

I’ve heard people say the “class” of amp isn’t that important. Admittedly I’ve not heard them all. On a cheap system that may be true, but on  higher end components Class D just doesn’t do it for me like a high end A/B. One big advantage of Class D, is you can put many channels in a relatively small chassis, something difficult if impossible to do with A/B.