[john dozier]

Would those who have heard both please comment on the differences, espcially on symphonic music. I currently have a ClassD Spiral Groove and am wondering if it is worth the cost to change to the Ncore. Thanks

[Letitroll98]

I think you might get a lot more answers to your question over on the N-core owners circle as many of them have had class D amps before.  With your permission I'd be happy to move your thread over there.  You're kinda new here and the multitude of circles to pick from can be confusing at first.  So rather than just move it where it should go unilaterally, which seems to upset new members, I'm going to try asking first.  Oh, and welcome to AC, hope you enjoy it here.

[genjamon]

I would heartily agree with Letitroll that the Hypex Owner's Circle is where you'll get the most feedback.

[wushuliu]

Hot potato! 

[john dozier]

I have no objection. Just looking for as much info as I can obtain. Thanks

[Barry_NJ]

The prices are different by a rather large order of magnatude... Though I've never A/B'd them, I was more impressed with the NCores than the Class D Audio amps I'd heard. That said, I've also only heard the CDA boards and not the superior SDS versions from Class D Audio.

[Letitroll98]

I have no objection. Just looking for as much info as I can obtain. Thanks

Consider it done.  Com'on back to the C&C circle and say hello from time to time.

[Nick77]

I currently own the SDS254 ClassD Audio amplifier and also got to hear the Ncore tour model amps. I started with a CDA series and upgraded to the SDS and it had much greater control, less distortion and better dynamics. The Ncore was a similar experience, much better control, dynamics and resolution, the bass is tight and abundant. I could easily do without an external sub while using these amps. The gap between the two upgrades weighed more toward Ncore, its distortion levels are clearly exhibited in its sound. At well over twice the price the Ncore is clearly superior but the SDS is no slouch at its bargain price and responds well to mods.

[Barry_NJ]

Not sure if the OP is still monitoring this thread, but this direct comparison was recently posted...

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=105310.msg1131569#msg1131569

[steve k]

I'm sure the ncores are very system sensitive. In my experience they were bright and this could be the Magnepan ribbons which are very sensitive to high frequencies. So I'm only qualifying my comparison to the ClassD amps because they may not be true in other systems. With regard to classical music, I would say the ncores did a better job of extracting detail and micro detail from the source and were more dynamic. As a result, I am moving on to higher powered ClassD amps in my system to attempt to ratchet up the dynamics a bit. I haven't received the higher powered amp yet so I have nothing to report yet.

On the other hand, perhaps due to the brightness, the ncores sounded a bit hard and clinical in my system which I found to be a detriment to their reproduction of classical music. I prefer a sweeter, more musical sound and the Class D amps deliver that. They are ever so slightly on the warm side---almost like tubes but much quieter.

I suggest you try to find someone in your area who will let you audition the ncores before you decide.

steve k