AudioCircle

Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Owner's Circles => Digital Amplifier Company Owners => Topic started by: AmpDesigner333 on 24 Apr 2017, 04:19 pm

Title: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 24 Apr 2017, 04:19 pm
Introducing the MEGAschino Cherry Amplifier!

Here's an "old" Cherry PLUS amplifier.  It is one of several versions of what we call the "Classic Cherry"....
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=161330)

We started producing the DAC4800A amplifier in 2006.  It was a pro-sumer type product with a Run/Stand-By toggle button and Power/Clip/Protect/Run LEDs on the front.  We later put the LEDs inside (they shine through the lid vent holes) and added a red anodized 3/8" thick brushed aluminum faceplate.  This was our first Cherry Amplifier®.  Later, we moved to a simple lineup: Stereo or MONO and Standard or ULTRA.  Several faceplate options were added, like silver, black, and even cherry wood.  We still make these amplifiers today.  The ULTRA versions have 1500W transformers and GOLD WBT posts with improved output filters and double power supply capacitance on the MONO ULTRA version.

After years of successful production and great reviews, we introduced the Maraschino Amplifier.  The Maraschino was a new circuit design able to reach 100kHz bandwidth with end-to-end DC coupling for response down to 0Hz and no bass phase shift.  The ground of the amplifier is locked to the preamp (or DAC) ground to eliminate hum and ground noise.  The result?  Customers and pro reviewers alike praise the Maraschino for sonics that go way beyond today's cookie-cutter "me-too" module based high-end amplifiers.

The Maraschino Amplifier product line grew to include Desktop Maraschino, a new shape for monoblock amplifiers, In-Line Maraschino, amplifiers so light, you can hang them from your speakers, yet so powerful, they can deliver up to 1000W into 1.8Ω, and Stereo Maraschino, an integrated amp with front and back inputs plus volume control.  All of these are powered by external switching power supplies, until now.  We are now offering an external linear power supply as part of our rewards on this project, but back to the matter at hand....

Although the Maraschino's power delivery into 4Ω is an admirable 400W (with 60V 1kW power supply), what if you crave even more power with that signature super-clean-and-fast Maraschino sound?  How about more than double the power?

Enter the MEGAschino amplifier: Maraschino sound with Classic Cherry power.  Through years of R&D, we were able to build a new, high-voltage version of the Maraschino.  This was no easy feat.  With this new design, we are able to provide all the benefits of the Maraschino design with the voltage and current carrying capability of the Classic Cherry, and MORE!  With even lower output impedance and wider pulse differentials, you can get approximately 10% more power into your speakers from the same power supply.

As with the Classic Cherry The MEGAschino uses an internal large toroidal transformer (no external power supply) in a built-like-a-tank 16 gauge steel chassis.

This graph shows the difference in sonic performance versus power output of the Cherry Classic, Maraschino, and new MEGAschino:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=161331)

The MEGAschino is ONLY available through our current Kickstarter project at this time. The cost of getting yours will go WAY up once we get into production.

PLUS....  You're in luck if you're a Classic Cherry owner!  We are also offering a motherboard upgrade reward to convert your amp to a MEGAschino (browse the rewards).


Here's our current Kickstarter project, Maraschino Video Series:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/378044010/maraschino-video-series

Thanks.

-Tommy O
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 2 May 2017, 11:14 pm
Preliminary power output of MEGAschino:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=161695)

These are conservative numbers.  We expect between 900W and 1000W with the 1800W transformer (these were available for a limited time, but we may start making them again), and probably 900W+ with the 1500W models.  That's into 4 ohms.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: n2djazz on 19 Aug 2017, 01:54 am
so, is the 1500W transformer equipped Cherry Ultra the same as the MEGAschino?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 19 Aug 2017, 10:02 am
so, is the 1500W transformer equipped Cherry Ultra the same as the MEGAschino?
Had to modify this answer....  No, it's not.  The MEGAschino is a new design.  It LOOKS the same from the outside, and has similar power output (MEGA puts out more power with the same transformer).  However, the MEGAschino has much more bandwidth (150kHz), is DC coupled, has true balanced outputs, and lower output impedance than Classic Cherry Amps.  The MEGAschino uses the same modulation circuitry as Maraschino.  The sound is like Maraschino, but with higher output power.

Thanks for your post.
Title: Status update
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 19 Sep 2017, 03:46 am
We had to divide the design into two boards.  There was just not enough room on one!

So....   The first board is complete, and we're working on the second one now, maybe about 2 weeks from the prototyping phase.
Title: Re: Status update
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 10 Nov 2017, 01:10 pm
We had to divide the design into two boards.  There was just not enough room on one!

So....   The first board is complete, and we're working on the second one now, maybe about 2 weeks from the prototyping phase.
Quick update:  The Channel Boards checked out.  Measurements were better than expected.  We're getting the Motherboards soon (less than 2 weeks) for testing.  So, we're almost there!  Just a few things to do on the side, like the faceplates (for new MEGAschinos, not the upgrades which will use the original plates)....

-Tommy O
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 1 Jan 2018, 06:19 pm
Listening to the first pair of MEGAschino MONOs!  This pair (boards and transformers on the table) is already SOLD....


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=173654)
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 1 Jan 2018, 06:20 pm
Official MEGAschino announcement (prices and more) this week! It will be sent to our newsletter subscribers, so sign up (takes about 10 seconds) here if you're not already:
http://bit.ly/1G8bsxZ
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 2 Jan 2018, 05:38 pm
Official MEGAschino announcement (prices and more) this week! It will be sent to our newsletter subscribers, so sign up (takes about 10 seconds) here if you're not already:
http://bit.ly/1G8bsxZ
Official release only two hours ago and we're already getting pummeled (in a good way) with inquiries!  To those who have contacted us: Thank you for your patience.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 2 Jan 2018, 05:42 pm
MEGA Channel Boards ready....


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=173692)
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 2 Jan 2018, 05:48 pm
Stereo MEGAschino Motherboard with two Channel Boards attached (vertically).

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=173697)
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Don_S on 2 Jan 2018, 05:52 pm
Official release only two hours ago and we're already getting pummeled (in a good way) with inquiries!  To those who have contacted us: Thank you for your patience.

More information in the email release or on your website would have probably saved you some headaches.  :duh:  :lol:

Simple things that I would like to know.  e.g. price, weight. No, I do not buy amps by the pound but I have an upper weight limit. Above that I don't give an amp a second thought.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 2 Jan 2018, 06:06 pm
More information in the email release or on your website would have probably saved you some headaches.  :duh:  :lol:

Simple things that I would like to know.  e.g. price, weight. No, I do not buy amps by the pound but I have an upper weight limit. Above that I don't give an amp a second thought.
We will be sending out a product sheet that covers all the bases. Newsletter subscribers who express interest get the info first.  There are customers (also subscribers) that have waited years for this amp.  Thanks for posting here.

Oh, weight is 42 lbs max across the MEGA product line.
Title: Speakers with MEGAschino Cherry
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 2 Jan 2018, 06:15 pm
We were asked what brands of speakers have likely symmetry with MEGAschino amps.

Here's a list:
    Magnepan
    Martin Logan
    Von S (I don't dare spell it)
    JTR
    GR Research
    Legacy
    KEF
    B&W

If someone would like to help out and add the links to these companies, that would be greatly appreciated (:
Title: Note to Classic Cherry Owners
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 2 Jan 2018, 08:02 pm
Yes, we are still offering upgrades for Classic Cherry Owners!  We simply replace the "guts" (boards), but use the same chassis, transformer, and connectors....
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 5 Jan 2018, 11:11 pm
Updated Jan 25th.

See here:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=149935.msg1661489#msg1661489
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: KLH007 on 6 Jan 2018, 04:21 pm
Tommy, VSA ( Von Schweikert) are a definite match, and from personal experience the Endeavor brand, which is now a VSA brand, can be added to your list of synergistic speakers. I had your In Line Maraschino (ILM) mono amps in house driving the Endeavor E-3 Mk IIs ($8K/pr), using the 4" ultra short speaker cables you supplied and the results were wonderful. The bass control and dynamic excitement were the best I experienced with the E-3s, they seemed to go deeper with chest pounding impact while delineating the bass lines easily, tight powerful low end is an apt description. The soundstage was wide and deep, instruments separated nicely, vocals were focused dead center at the correct height and sounding real, and the top end had the right amount of sparkle and extension, something no Class D amp in my home had done before, nice design Tommy. The ILMs I had were paired with the 48V power supply, not the big boy 60V, so even more performance is available, and now Tommy announces the MEGAschino line, I'll have to hear these sometime. Thanks Tommy for not resting on your laurels and pressing onward for uber performance.
Kemper
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: carmaniac13 on 11 Jan 2018, 08:20 pm
I had a chance to visit Tommy last week and listen to the new MEGAschino monos.  He had them hooked up to JTR Noesis 210RTs, speakers that can readily take advantage of the tremendous power on tap.

The combination produced an effortless and invisible reproduction of everything we listened to. The JTRs offered razor sharp imaging, and the MEGAschinos got out of the way and just delivered to the JTRs whatever was sent to them from the DAC DAC HS and Squeezebox Touch source. Regardless of the volume, from whisper quiet to deafeningly loud (110dB measured at the listening position, and we didn't turn it up all the way), the system maintained a realistic finesse that sets this equipment apart from the competition. The sound pressure this setup can reach is deceptive, because there's absolutely NO strain or distortion. Lows remain tight and well controlled, maintaining tonal balance and good punch at any volume, and highs stay articulate and refined, with zero harshness.

Tommy has another winning product, delivering on his goal of complete transparency and ultimate control of whatever speaker load you decide to feed, with a bottomless pit of power to play at any volume you dare.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: GETRDUN on 11 Jan 2018, 09:06 pm
It would be interesting to know how these MEGAschino amps would compare to Mike's (Mavaria Audio) Icepower 1200AS2 amps being offered at this link: http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=153645.0 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=153645.0)
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Wind Chaser on 11 Jan 2018, 11:02 pm
Once people start receiving Mike's amps I suspect you'll hear some good things about them... But how good are they compared to the Maraschino's and MEGAchino's is another question. Tommy has been doing Class D for a long time. And he doesn't source off the shelf chips from anyone.  :thumb:
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: GETRDUN on 12 Jan 2018, 12:27 am
Once people start receiving Mike's amps I suspect you'll hear some good things about them... But how good are they compared to the Maraschino's and MEGAchino's is another question. Tommy has been doing Class D for a long time. And he doesn't source off the shelf chips from anyone.  :thumb:

Nice, Thanks! Guess we'll see when the Icepower amps hit the new owners!  :thumb:
Title: This just in.... MEGAschino Specs and Features
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 12 Jan 2018, 02:50 am
Updated Jan 25th.

See here:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=149935.msg1661489#msg1661489
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: JerryM on 12 Jan 2018, 02:58 am
Price? :scratch:
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 12 Jan 2018, 04:08 am
It would be interesting to know how these MEGAschino amps would compare....
We design all the circuits, so Cherry Amps are not built from "inflated-price, one-size-fits-all, pre-fab modules".

Side story: We worked with SANYO years ago on high-performance Class-D.  They were using an ice power circuit in a multi-chip module design that was cancelled.  They told us even our old technology was light years ahead of ice power but the cost of our high-power Class-D was too high for mass market.  We explained that our technology was intended for ultimate audio performance, not cheap mass market consumer audio.

We pride ourselves in a unique high-performance technology built with patented and proprietary circuits that WE DESIGN.  Our technology doesn't require gobs of negative feedback as used in mass market pre-fab modules.  Some say high-feedback amplifier designs are responsible for screechy highs and smeared imaging like the Class-AB amps of the 1980s.  We also don't require complex compensation networks allowing much less output filtering for flat, extended response into difficult loads.  Our extended response also allows better control at high frequencies.  Other Class-D designs are adversely affected by speaker reactance, some so bad that capacitance on the output changes their operating frequency.

We design our hardware FROM SCRATCH (down to the smallest component) to fit the product, and we design the entire product around our own circuits.  Therefore, we don't need to make sonic sacrifices in order to fill as many "sockets" as possible.  This allows us to reach new levels of performance on the bench, but more importantly, into your ears.

The MEGAschino is like (sonic wise) the well-regarded Maraschino with even more extended bandwidth and massive added headroom.  The result is an elegant and luxurious sounding amplifier capable of driving just about any speaker on the planet, even the BIG power-hungry ones like Legacy Whisper, Tekton Double Impact, Magnepan 3.7i, big JTRs (210RT, 212RT, 215RT), etc.

Here are some MEGAschino differentiating features:
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 12 Jan 2018, 04:11 am
Price? :scratch:
LIST PRICES:
    Stereo MEGAschino: $6100
    MONO MEGAschino: $9800/pr
    Stereo 1500W Transformer Upgrade: $800
    MONO 1500W Transformer Upgrade: $1600/pr
    Stereo Double Rail Capacitors Upgrade: $600
    MONO Double Rail Capacitors Upgrade: $1200/pr
    MONO Quadruple Rail Capacitors Upgrade: $2000/pr

However, we are running a pre-order special (ends soon).  For more information, email Support@DigitalAmp.com.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 12 Jan 2018, 04:13 am
I had a chance to visit Tommy last week and listen to the new MEGAschino monos.  He had them hooked up to JTR Noesis 210RTs, speakers that can readily take advantage of the tremendous power on tap.

The combination produced an effortless and invisible reproduction of everything we listened to. The JTRs offered razor sharp imaging, and the MEGAschinos got out of the way and just delivered to the JTRs whatever was sent to them from the DAC DAC HS and Squeezebox Touch source. Regardless of the volume, from whisper quiet to deafeningly loud (110dB measured at the listening position, and we didn't turn it up all the way), the system maintained a realistic finesse that sets this equipment apart from the competition. The sound pressure this setup can reach is deceptive, because there's absolutely NO strain or distortion. Lows remain tight and well controlled, maintaining tonal balance and good punch at any volume, and highs stay articulate and refined, with zero harshness.

Tommy has another winning product, delivering on his goal of complete transparency and ultimate control of whatever speaker load you decide to feed, with a bottomless pit of power to play at any volume you dare.
Thanks for your kind thoughts.  Glad you enjoyed the MEGAschino MONOs!
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 12 Jan 2018, 04:41 am

VIEW ON A WIDE SCREEN !

                                                          Minimum  Channels     Wpc        Wpc       USD List
Model                        Type            Bandwidth     Load     per amp   into 4Ω    into 8Ω    Price (new)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MEGAschino Stereo            Stereo Amp      0 - 150kHz     2Ω         2       660        400         $6,100
MEGAschino MONO              Mono Amp        0 - 150kHz     2Ω         1       720        430         $9,800/pr

Classic Cherry Stereo        Stereo Amp      1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         2       600        360         $2,100
Classic Cherry MONO          Mono Amp        1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         1       650        390         $3,000/pr
Classic Cherry ULTRA Stereo  Stereo Amp      1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         2       675        400         $3,900
Classic Cherry ULTRA MONO    Mono Amp        1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         1       770        420         $7,000/pr
Desktop Maraschino           Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       145 (36V)  70  (36V)   $2,500/pr
                                                                               250 (48V)  125 (48V)   $2,500/pr
                                                                               400 (60V)  200 (60V)   $3,500/pr
KING 60V Desktop Maraschino  Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       400        200         $4,000/pr
Golden Cherry                Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       400        200         $6,900/pr
In-Line Maraschino           Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       145 (36V)  70  (36V)   $1,900/pr
                                                                               250 (48V)  125 (48V)   $1,900/pr
KING In-Line Maraschino      Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       400        200         $3,100/pr
Stereo Maraschino            Stereo Int Amp  0 - 100kHz     2Ω         2       70  (36V)  70  (36V)   $1,200
                                                                               125 (48V)  125 (48V)   $1,200
KING 60V Stereo Maraschino   Stereo Int Amp  0 - 100kHz     2Ω         2       400        200         $1,700

Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 16 Jan 2018, 06:14 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=174637)
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 16 Jan 2018, 06:15 pm
Stereo MEGAschino board set with Double Capacitance:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=174638)
Title: No Heat Sinks ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 17 Jan 2018, 06:15 pm
We were asked to comment about the lack of heat sinks in the MEGAschino design....

The MEGAschino directs heat through the motherboard into the chassis.  The chassis, or enclosure, it heavy gauge steel, and a massive heat sink.

You don't need heat sinks for powerful sound.  The MEGAschino approaches 1000Wpc into 4 ohms, so there's proof heat sinks aren't necessary.  With reasonably efficient speakers (mid 90s), you can reach SPLs of 110dB or even 120dB without significant distortion ---- from the amplifiers, anyway.  There are not many speakers than can run such high SPL without loads of compression (distortion).  JTR is one quick example.

We appreciate the onslaught of interest in the MEGAschino.  Who would you like to see review this amp?  We're looking for someone with at least a double digit pro review history and very high quality speakers....  Thanks.
Title: Re: No Heat Sinks ?
Post by: Wind Chaser on 17 Jan 2018, 06:57 pm
Who would you like to see review this amp?

How about The Absolute Sound or Stereophile?
Title: Re: No Heat Sinks ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 17 Jan 2018, 07:30 pm
How about The Absolute Sound or Stereophile?
We have tried many times, but since we don't advertise there, they have declined.  I guess it's no problem to ask again, but we have reviewers from other publications (not at liberty to disclose) asking US to review the MEGAschino!  Thanks.
Title: New MEGAschino MONO Board Set Photos
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 18 Jan 2018, 03:41 am
MEGAschino MONO board set with standard capacitance:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=174703)

MEGAschino MONO board set with Double Capacitance:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=174702)

MEGAschino MONO board set with Quadruple Capacitance:
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=174704)
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: sumoking on 18 Jan 2018, 06:31 am

                                                          Minimum  Channels     Wpc        Wpc       USD List
Model                        Type            Bandwidth     Load     per amp   into 4Ω    into 8Ω    Price (new)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MEGAschino Stereo            Stereo Amp      0 - 150kHz     2Ω         2       660        400         $6,100
MEGAschino MONO              Mono Amp        0 - 150kHz     2Ω         1       720        430         $9,800/pr

Classic Cherry Stereo        Stereo Amp      1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         2       600        360         $2,100
Classic Cherry MONO          Mono Amp        1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         1       650        390         $3,000/pr
Classic Cherry ULTRA Stereo  Stereo Amp      1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         2       675        400         $3,900
Classic Cherry ULTRA MONO    Mono Amp        1Hz - 60kHz    4Ω         1       770        420         $7,000/pr
Desktop Maraschino           Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       145 (36V)  70  (36V)   $2,500/pr
                                                                               250 (48V)  125 (48V)   $2,500/pr
                                                                               400 (60V)  200 (60V)   $3,500/pr
KING 60V Desktop Maraschino  Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       400        200         $4,000/pr
Golden Cherry                Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       400        200         $6,900/pr
In-Line Maraschino           Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       145 (36V)  70  (36V)   $1,900/pr
                                                                               250 (48V)  125 (48V)   $1,900/pr
KING In-Line Maraschino      Mono Amp        0 - 100kHz     2Ω         1       400        200         $3,100/pr
Stereo Maraschino            Stereo Int Amp  0 - 100kHz     2Ω         2       70  (36V)  70  (36V)   $1,200
                                                                               125 (48V)  125 (48V)   $1,200
KING 60V Stereo Maraschino   Stereo Int Amp  0 - 100kHz     2Ω         2       400        200         $1,700



Can't wait to get my KING 60V Desktop Maraschino Mono Amps...
Hope they do the trick in my system; Exogal Comet DAC, Custom Tube preamp, and Spatial M3 Turbo S's   !!!

Cheers!   Sumo
Title: Updated Specs and Other MEGAschino Info
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 26 Jan 2018, 03:52 pm
MEGAschino Specifications (prelim 25-JAN-2018):
    Gain: 25.6dB
    SNR: 120dB
    1W THD+N: 0.005%
    Size: 17.0" x 14.3" x 4.6"
    Power Stage Efficiency: 95%
    Output Impedance: <0.04Ω at 1kHz, <0.08Ω at 10kHz
    Sensitivity: 3.0Vin for 400Wout into 8Ω
    Weight: 30-40 lbs (depending on version)
    Input Impedance: 20kΩ true balanced
    Frequency Response: 0Hz to 150kHz (DC coupled)
    Output Power (standard 750W transformer):
        Stereo Version: 660Wpc into 4Ω, 400Wpc into 8Ω
        MONO Version: 720Wpc into 4Ω, 430Wpc into 8Ω
    Output Power (1500W transformer):
        Stereo Version: 750Wpc into 4Ω, 440Wpc into 8Ω
        MONO Version: 850Wpc into 4Ω, 460Wpc into 8Ω
    Protection: Thermal, Current, Voltage, Auto-Recovery
    Output Connectors: WBT Gold Binding Posts
    Input Connectors: Neutrik Gold XLR (RCA-to-XLR adapters included)
    Idle Power Consumption:
        Stereo Version: 36W
        MONO Version: 20W
    Sleep Mode Power Consumption:
        Stereo Version: 11W
        MONO Version: 8W
    AC MAINS: 120VAC nominal, 230VAC upon request

MEGAschino Features (prelim 25-JAN-2018):
    * Auto-Sleep: Amp sleeps after 8 minutes of no audio and wake up when audio returns
    * Enclosure: Heavy Gauge Steel in Black, Black Faceplate (looks like Classic Cherry)
    * Power Supply: Massive Linear Transformer, separate channel rails with stereo version
    * Remote trigger: 2.5mm DC jack, 3V-12V
    * Ultra-High Sound Quality: Muscular and Graceful

MEGAschino Amplifier Prices, pre-order special (ends 31-JAN-2018):
    Stereo MEGAschino: $4600 ($6100 regular price)
    MONO MEGAschino: $7400/pr or $3800 each ($9800/pr or $5000 each regular price)

Classic Cherry to MEGAschino Amplifier Motherboard Upgrade, pre-order special (ends 31-JAN-2018):
    Stereo: $2200 ($2900 regular price)
    MONO: $2700/pr ($3600/pr regular price)

MEGAschino Add-On Prices, pre-order special (ends 31-JAN-2018):
    Stereo 1500W Transformer Upgrade: $600 ($800 regular price)
    MONO 1500W Transformer Upgrade: $1200/pr ($1600/pr regular price)
    Stereo Double Rail Capacitors Upgrade: $450 ($600 regular price)
    MONO Double Rail Capacitors Upgrade: $900/pr ($1200/pr regular price)
    MONO Quadruple Rail Capacitors Upgrade: $1500/pr ($2000/pr regular price)

Email Support@DigitalAmp.com if interested.


Here are some MEGAschino differentiating factors:
 * DC coupling end-to-end ---- response down to 0Hz and NO BASS PHASE SHIFT
 * Low output impedance across the entire audio band ---- other amp manufacturers rate output impedance (or damping factor) only at 100Hz while we measure it at 100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz
 * Optimized for SONICS above all else ---- we start with amazing bench specs, like 128dB SNR, then we tweak for sound AFTER that
 * Black background and micro-dynamics ---- 120dB SNR, 0.005% THD+N at low power
 * High power ---- MEGAschino channel boards are capable of comfortably driving up to 1000W into 4Ω and up to 2000W into 2Ω
 * Extended bandwidth ---- up to 150kHz
 * Patented and proprietary circuitry designed in-house ---- we are one of the few amp manufacturers that still designs circuits as opposed to dropping yet another module into a fancy box!
 * No Heat Sinks ! ---- Our proprietary thermal design channels heat into the large steel chassis.
 * Experience ---- Our most important feature is experience.  With more than 30-years of Class-D amplifier design experience, we stand ready to deliver the highest level of technology for truly state-of-the-art performance.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Shear Bliss VMPS on 26 Jan 2018, 11:13 pm
MEGAschino reviews ?? Absolutely Anybody but Stereophools or Absolute Idiots as their as biased as the Democratic Party!! They both sugar-coat for their paid audio advertisers and cater to them with glowing reviews when another non-advertising concern is clearly head an shoulders superior!!

A good case in point is Tekton Designs various loudspeaker line, many of which have been reviewed by both rags esteemed reviewers with glowing praise, but which will never make a publication issue because its taboo, they don't pay advertising fees. Why else would well heeled audiophiles be dumping their $20 Grand to $50 Grand speakers for the Tekton Double Impact or Double Impact SE loudspeakers ?? The Double Impact SE in automobile gloss paint and loaded internally, with all upgrades tops out around $ 7000.00 ... you do the math.

The "new MEGAschino" will be in the exact same situation with these pay to play folks! Shameful their reviewers voice will not be heard because of silly biases. The subscribers from both rags deserve better. This amp is going to be stellar in every way with the power of the Classic Cherry design with the Maraschinos clean clear extension!! People this new power amp is going to be something very special ... period!

Regarding both fore mentioned rags ..... both only useful for upper Michigan rustic outhouse duties.

DW
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: BruceSB on 27 Jan 2018, 03:32 am
Congratulations on a fantastic new product.
I have just a few questions:
I wonder if you could tell me what would make the most difference, the bigger transformer upgrade or the higher capacitance upgrade?
What is the maximum power consumption?
Are there going to be faceplate options like red or white or silver?
Keep up the good work.
This is very exciting!
Thanks.
Bruce
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 3 Feb 2018, 05:54 pm
It may be obvious to some of you that I am much better at designing amplifiers than marketing.   I was recently asked by a large publication editor (no guesses, please) what amplifiers are in the "MEGAschino genre".   Can you help me out and suggest some models to compare against in the $3,000-20,000/ch range?  By the way, "old stuff" still counts, if it's still being sold by the manufacturer.  We realize many brands haven't put out new amps recently.  I'm also interested in who's actually designing amplifiers and building them with their own technology these days.  I heard Levinson is doing that.  Other big names have fired their designers and turned to modules.  Has anybody gone the other way?  Thanks for any help you can provide.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 3 Feb 2018, 06:00 pm
Congratulations on a fantastic new product.
I have just a few questions:
I wonder if you could tell me what would make the most difference, the bigger transformer upgrade or the higher capacitance upgrade?
What is the maximum power consumption?
Are there going to be faceplate options like red or white or silver?
Keep up the good work.
This is very exciting!
Thanks.
Bruce
Well, for low level to medium level listening, neither are necessary.  However, more caps are great for low to medium level listening as well as loud "pulsating" music.  For continually loud music, bigger transformer.  For "knock you off your seat" type playback, both!  Thank you for your kind post.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 12 Feb 2018, 07:12 pm
It may be obvious to some of you that I am much better at designing amplifiers than marketing.   I was recently asked by a large publication editor (no guesses, please) what amplifiers are in the "MEGAschino genre".   Can you help me out and suggest some models to compare against in the $3,000-20,000/ch range?  By the way, "old stuff" still counts, if it's still being sold by the manufacturer.  We realize many brands haven't put out new amps recently.  I'm also interested in who's actually designing amplifiers and building them with their own technology these days.  I heard Levinson is doing that.  Other big names have fired their designers and turned to modules.  Has anybody gone the other way?  Thanks for any help you can provide.
Bump
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: LarryD56 on 13 Feb 2018, 01:20 am
I'd heard that Jeff Rowland was all excited about his Class D amps when he came out with them, but went back to solid state.

Larry D.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 13 Feb 2018, 02:19 am
I'd heard that Jeff Rowland was all excited about his Class D amps when he came out with them, but went back to solid state.

Larry D.
Do you mean Class-A/B?  They are the perfect candidate for Maraschino Modules.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: LarryD56 on 13 Feb 2018, 02:44 am
Yes, I believe he went back to Class A/B. A friend of mine has bought several of his amps including his Class D mono-blocks (he always buys mono-blocks) and used to sell his products, so he and Jeff communicate a good bit. He actually came up here last year to deliver a pair of B&W Nautilus speakers to the guy. I missed my chance at meeting him. Anyway, my friend stays in contact with many of the manufacturers which are still his friends.

Larry D.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 13 Feb 2018, 04:27 am
Yes, I believe he went back to Class A/B. A friend of mine has bought several of his amps including his Class D mono-blocks (he always buys mono-blocks) and used to sell his products, so he and Jeff communicate a good bit. He actually came up here last year to deliver a pair of B&W Nautilus speakers to the guy. I missed my chance at meeting him. Anyway, my friend stays in contact with many of the manufacturers which are still his friends.

Larry D.
Larry,

Let's talk about this offline. There's a mutually beneficial opportunity here.  Thanks again.

-Tommy
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: olesno on 16 Feb 2018, 03:42 pm
I don't post here too often but I thought maybe I should share some of my observations about the MEGAschino with you guys.  Last Saturday I had a pleasure to host Tommy and his friend Mike in my house with a single goal...., listen to my setup with the new stereo MEGAschino.  We figured that the best way to evaluate the amp is to drive it directly from my OPPO UDP-205 using it's digital volume control.  My speakers are the Tekton Double Impact which are the best speakers I ever had, considering I've been in this crazy audio hobby for well over 40 years.  I sold my Kef Blade 2, purchased the Tektons and never regretted that move.  We spent almost 6 hours listening to music through the MEGAschino and playing various CDs, SACDs and Blurays.  We also listened to music using Tidal / Roon via the UltraRendu and my current DAC, the Mytek Brooklyn +.  Whatever we played, it sounded just perfect to me.  Besides the point that I think the MEGAschino and the Tektons are a perfect match, if it wasn't for the MEGA I wouldn't hear what the music was supposed to sound like (in my opinion).  The sound of the instruments and vocal was very balanced from top to bottom, detailed but not analytical, smooth but very dynamic and absent of any brightness or edginess that scares off many potential buyers of digital amps.  The amps are very powerful and my speakers are 99dB efficient. Many use them with 15W amps.  This was not a problem for the MEGA.  Some of what we listened to was played at high volume levels and there was always the feeling of ease and no sign of strain whatsoever.  The imaging was unbelievable, especially when we listened to Roger Waters - Amused to Death (Master Sound CD).  I think Tommy has another winner on his hands and potentially many new customers.  Like I said, we spent almost six hours listening to music.  If it wasn't great, I wouldn't do it.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Wind Chaser on 16 Feb 2018, 10:16 pm
What amps do you normally use?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: olesno on 16 Feb 2018, 10:32 pm
I own the Golden Maraschino Cherries.  Great amps which I bought about year and half ago. 
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Wind Chaser on 16 Feb 2018, 10:53 pm
Do you plan on replacing them with the MEGA?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: olesno on 17 Feb 2018, 12:19 am
I like my Golden Cherries a lot.  I have to figure out my budget and make a decision based on that.  The MEGA is definitely worthy a very serious consideration by anyone who is looking for a spectacular amp at a price that is not crazy high.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: mfsoa on 17 Feb 2018, 12:40 am
I spent a day with a Mega. It's better. Sorry  :icon_lol:. I'm in talks with Tommy to upgrade but need to wait just a bit.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: mfsoa on 17 Feb 2018, 12:41 am
I will surely miss the placement flexibility of the Maraschinos.  My rig is all set up to not have an amp in the rack.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Shear Bliss VMPS on 17 Feb 2018, 02:01 am
I like mfsoa on the upgrade path. I too need to wait just a bit. After listening to the Maraschinos on my Acoustat 1100s I was totally sold!! Problem was they craved more juice, hence their return for a Classic Cherry build. I believe the MEGA will be a monster having all the traits of the Maraschinos in a single sexy chassis plus all the power anyone could ask for. ( Audio mag reviewers are forewarned )

I understand a newer Maraschino is in the works, ridding the hospital power supplies for a toroid ,,, fantastic!! As I asked Tommy years ago, why not halve the Classic Cherry cases into two mono-blocs ... sexy sells! No added baggage for me!! I missed out last year but will not this upcoming Kickstarter offer. I await listening to the MEGA upgrade in my own system.

DW
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Wind Chaser on 17 Feb 2018, 04:37 am
I spent a day with a Mega. It's better.

How so?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: ottablue on 17 Feb 2018, 06:26 am
One of the reasons I got myself pair of In-Line Maraschino (ILM) 60v and 48V is for their size and ease of placement!!! I have never owned class D amps before due to lots of questionable reviews so I stuck out with A/B amps for a while. I took a chance and bought a pair In-Line Maraschino (ILM) 60v and 48V and so far I am very happy!!! Everything that people have mentioned on the forums holds true: transparent, quick and great punchy Bass. I use 48v for my rears Dynaudio contour SR speakers and they CAME ALIVE, considering sensitivity 86db!!! As for center channel, Martin Logan Focus ESL C18 (90db) I paired it with 60v In-Line Maraschino (ILM) and also have GREAT Results!! Now here is a rub and maybe someone could guide me when I paired Legacy Audio Aeris with In-Line Maraschino (ILM) 60V the speakers did not sound right at all!!! Is it possible the amps are not powerful enough?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: richidoo on 17 Feb 2018, 02:01 pm
Legacy's need a good amount of break in. The ribbon tweeter especially changes a lot during breakin. You have to play them very loudly to achieve good break in. That's what they're meant for, so let it rip. And if they have never been played loudly, then they are not broken in, no matter how old they are. Seriously. You have to beat them.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: mfsoa on 17 Feb 2018, 04:22 pm
Quote
How so?
Some of it is the corny "removal of stuff that I didn't realize was there". We compared to Golden Cherries on Tekton Double Impacts.

The bass on the Mega reminds me of the older Cherry amps - It has more of the stump-puller quality than you get with the Maraschinos. Bass was just as quick on the Mega but with added extension and clarity to the midbass at the same time.

The Mega was just so unperturbed. A Lab compared to the Spaniel of the Maraschino.

-Mike
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Wind Chaser on 17 Feb 2018, 04:30 pm
So I take it isn’t a wholesale improvement across the board?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: mfsoa on 17 Feb 2018, 06:01 pm
Hard to quantify what Wholesale means for each of us.

The three of us there thought that the system sounded better with the Mega. It doesn't change the fact that my Maraschinos are fabulous amps themselves. I think that a linear PSU upgrade for the Maraschino would get you some of the way toward a Mega.

BTW the Mega was a base model, stereo, with no upgrades.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Wind Chaser on 17 Feb 2018, 06:47 pm
Hard to quantify what Wholesale means for each of us.

I was thinking... "large scale" or "extensive".

Spec wise the MEGA's obviously measure better, but I don't need/want more power.

Oh, and I'm not of the opinion that a linear power supply sounds better than a SMPS. I've experimented with both approaches on a DAC and much preferred the SMPS.

Having said all that, I may consider the MEGA's down the road. Right now I am certain the Maraschino's are definitely not the weak link in my system. These wonderful little amps are vastly superior to any amp I've ever heard regardless of price.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: ottablue on 17 Feb 2018, 07:56 pm
Legacy's need a good amount of break in. The ribbon tweeter especially changes a lot during breakin. You have to play them very loudly to achieve good break in. That's what they're meant for, so let it rip. And if they have never been played loudly, then they are not broken in, no matter how old they are. Seriously. You have to beat them.
Richidoo thank you for reply, thing is I have Luxman m900 amp and everything plays just fine so it could not be the break in issue but when I plug in line v60 the sound just falls through and trying to figure it out. I used short speaker cables supplied with the in line cherries will try to use my long speaker cables I got with the cherries see if that helps.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 18 Feb 2018, 12:33 am
I will surely miss the placement flexibility of the Maraschinos.  My rig is all set up to not have an amp in the rack.
Amp stands ?
Title: A reviewer worth mentioning...
Post by: Wind Chaser on 18 Feb 2018, 01:06 am
Who would you like to see review this amp?  We're looking for someone with at least a double digit pro review history and very high quality speakers....  Thanks.

Tommy, there is one specific reviewer that comes to mind; his name is Steven Stone. He writes for both The Absolute Sound and Home Theater Review. Unlike some writers, he can elucidate his thoughts straight up without requiring one to read in between the lines. He's a member of Audio Circle and checks in every so often. I don't know how he determines if he's writing for one publication or the other, but that's a discussion you might want to have with him. Here's a link to his profile...  :thumb:

https://hometheaterreview.com/steven-stones-associated-equipment/ (https://hometheaterreview.com/steven-stones-associated-equipment/)

Title: Re: A reviewer worth mentioning...
Post by: 777BigAnt777 on 18 Feb 2018, 07:47 pm
Tommy, there is one specific reviewer that comes to mind; his name is Steven Stone. He writes for both The Absolute Sound and Home Theater Review. Unlike some writers, he can elucidate his thoughts straight up without requiring one to read in between the lines. He's a member of Audio Circle and checks in every so often. I don't know how he determines if he's writing for one publication or the other, but that's a discussion you might want to have with him. Here's a link to his profile...  :thumb:

https://hometheaterreview.com/steven-stones-associated-equipment/ (https://hometheaterreview.com/steven-stones-associated-equipment/)

Yes, SS always seems straight up.  I used to rely on Richard Hardesty's experience and reviews, but he has sadly passed on.  Who has a similar noBS approach and is independent, i.e. no ads?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 22 Feb 2018, 06:33 am
I received a message regarding the technology difference between Maraschino and MEGAschino ("MEGA").

First, MEGA is NOT just a higher power Maraschino.....

The MEGA uses 12 output devices per channel, and the Maraschino uses 4.  This is like comparing a V4 engine to a V12 engine.

We developed a superior method for removing spurs in the passband at low levels, thus allowing an even lower "spike free" noise floor, and it's only used in the MEGA.

The huge headroom and DC coupling deliver stunning bass with "hit you in the chest" transients.  This amp can deliver current!  With a strong toroidal transformer based power supply and ultra low output impedance into the upper registers, instruments and voices are rendered with unrivaled clarity on even power hungry speakers.  It's like a bottomless pit of super clean power!  Plus, the highs have a silkiness that allows the proper fade to cymbals, and super fast transients are no longer inhibited.  The most surprising thing of all is the performance at low volumes.  You don't need to crank it up to get refined focus and locked-in imaging.  The MEGA is meant to produce better sound on your existing speakers.

If you haven't tried Cherry Amps in your system, you might not believe changing the amps could make such a difference.  It can.  We get compliments on the improvements Cherry Amps make almost daily.  If you have pre-MEGA Cherry Amps, imagine the next step up capable of a feather touch as well as the brute force of previous "super amps".

So far, reviewers have said things like it's the best amp they've ever heard, regardless of price.  Some say they never thought a Class-D Amp could sound better than Class-A, but MEGAschino shatters that barrier.

Thanks for reading my post.

-Tommy

 
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 27 Feb 2018, 02:15 pm
MEGAschino now available on our new Kickstarter !

Here's the link:
http://kck.st/2CH4sLB

We are also introducing the 130dB+ DAC DAC 2 HS and our new Digital Preamp.  Details in the project text (click "Read more about the campaign").

Check it out!  Thanks.

-Tommy
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Early B. on 4 Mar 2018, 11:26 pm
Is there any significant benefit to upgrading Cherry amps if your speakers have very high efficiency and you never listen at ear bleeding levels? In other words, do Cherry amps have basically the same sound signature and high level of resolution, but just have differences in power depending upon one's needs?
   
For instance, my ILMs have 140 wpc into 8 ohms and I use 98 dB speakers. If I upgraded to a Cherry Stereo with 360 wpc or a MEGAschino with 1,000 wpc, are we talking about subtle, significant or negligible improvements?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Goosepond on 5 Mar 2018, 01:49 pm
I'm glad you asked this. I often wonder just what improvement I might hear but also wonder why I would need a gazillion watt amplifier when I normally probably maybe just sometimes hardly get past that magical first watt!!!  :green:

Gene
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 5 Mar 2018, 01:55 pm
Is there any significant benefit to upgrading Cherry amps if your speakers have very high efficiency and you never listen at ear bleeding levels? In other words, do Cherry amps have basically the same sound signature and high level of resolution, but just have differences in power depending upon one's needs?
   
For instance, my ILMs have 140 wpc into 8 ohms and I use 98 dB speakers. If I upgraded to a Cherry Stereo with 360 wpc or a MEGAschino with 1,000 wpc, are we talking about subtle, significant or negligible improvements?
Maraschino owners have been surprised at the difference made by going from 36V or 48V power supplies to 60V power supplies.  The difference is essentially additional headroom, with the same sonic "signature" (speed and clarity).  This is especially true for high efficiency speakers.  Some high efficiency speaker owners had 36V Maraschinos and upgraded to 60V.  In every case so far, when the Maraschino owner compared 36V to 60V in the same system (the upgrade allows time with both power supplies), they stayed with 60V.  There just seems to be a "limitless" feel to quality high efficiency speakers driven by 60V Maraschinos (KING or Golden Cherry types).  Not sure if I would call this subtle.

You bring up a very good point about volume levels as well.  I've been spending a lot of time listening to the MEGAschino at low levels.  It's simply intoxicating!  It's like going from a 60V power supply to a 90V+ power supply.  There are other differences between the MEGAschino and Maraschino, other than operating voltage.  However, they are very similar sound quality wise.  Listening at low levels shows the difference all that headroom can make, even if the massive drive current on reserve isn't being tapped.  Thanks.

-Tommy O
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Shear Bliss VMPS on 5 Mar 2018, 10:22 pm
Same reason they put all that horsepower in a Dodge Demon or Vette, doubtful it will ever to totally utilized, but damn fun just the same!
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: Early B. on 5 Mar 2018, 11:23 pm
Same reason they put all that horsepower in a Dodge Demon or Vette, doubtful it will ever to totally utilized, but damn fun just the same!

Not sure that's a good analogy. My previous amp had twice the horsepower of the ILMs, but there's no decrease in headroom with the ILMs. In fact, the opposite occurred.  I'm sure there's lots of other factors.

This begs the question -- what does "headroom" sound like?  More headroom, I suppose, sounds like increased dynamics, greater micro detail, and an unrestrained, effortless (i.e., cleaner) sound???
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 6 Mar 2018, 12:10 am
Not sure that's a good analogy. My previous amp had twice the horsepower of the ILMs, but there's no decrease in headroom with the ILMs. In fact, the opposite occurred.  I'm sure there's lots of other factors.

This begs the question -- what does "headroom" sound like?  More headroom, I suppose, sounds like increased dynamics, greater micro detail, and an unrestrained, effortless (i.e., cleaner) sound???
Yes, great way to put it!  "Effortlessness" is the top pick for how I would describe the sonic implications.  Thanks again (:
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: barrows on 9 Mar 2018, 06:00 pm
Tommy, can you post measurement curves for the Megs?  I am sure many here would be curious to see:

Distortion vs power @ 4 ohms
Distortion vs frequency @ 4 ohms and 200 watts
! kHz square wave @ 4 ohms
10 kHz square wave @ 4 ohms
1 kHz distortion spectrum
18.5 kHz + 19.5 kHz IMD spectrum @ 4 ohms/200 watts
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 10 Mar 2018, 11:43 pm
Tommy, can you post measurement curves for the Megs?  I am sure many here would be curious to see:

Distortion vs power @ 4 ohms
Distortion vs frequency @ 4 ohms and 200 watts
! kHz square wave @ 4 ohms
10 kHz square wave @ 4 ohms
1 kHz distortion spectrum
18.5 kHz + 19.5 kHz IMD spectrum @ 4 ohms/200 watts
"Static" measurements/specifications are posted earlier in this thread:
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=149935.msg1661489#msg1661489

Here's an FFT of -60dB @1kHz:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=177330)

Pardon the "screen shot", but this was the fastest way to get a plot on here.

Regarding the other plots you mention, we haven't documented those results just yet.   Thanks.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: mfsoa on 13 Mar 2018, 11:58 pm
I ordered a Mega via the kickstarter - 750 watt, stereo, extra farads.

Ever since the day I spent with the Mega at olesno's (thank you, olesno!! Maybe I'll have the pleasure of reciprocating someday :thumb:) I've been thinking of the Speed Racer episode where there is this engine, something like "The Melange" that was so powerful, so mega (he he) that it drove the driver insane. But the drivers of course HAD to have more. Anyway the engine gets buried because it's so evil but someone exhumes it and Speed of course ends up behind the wheel etc.)

The Mega is The Melange - Once heard it must be experienced again and again and...

(edit - OK totally wrong about the name of the engine...)
(edit - It's GRX)
Title: The Audio Beatnik ---- Reviewing the Digital Amp Co’s MEGAschino Cherry
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 24 Mar 2018, 01:56 am
"The top-end is the best I have heard from a Class D amp so far. It is nicely textured and extended, but compared to my reference Pass 30.8, there is an ever so slight amount of homogenization in the upper octaves, but it is ever so slight.The top-end is nicely detailed, and it has no glare or edginess. The truth is that it is quite beautiful."

"It has a bit of the bloom in the midrange that I most often associate with single-ended Triode tube amps. It also lets you hear the layering of the music like SET amps. Now don’t get me wrong, the MEGAschino will never be mistaken for a SET tube amp, but it does give you just a touch of their magic but with much more power. I was rather surprised by this."


Much more:
http://theaudiobeatnik.com/reviewing-the-digital-amplifier-companys-megaschino-cherry-amp/
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: LarryD56 on 24 Mar 2018, 05:51 am
After listening to the Mega for a couple weeks I love the soundstage. It's much larger than the Ultra, which I thought was large. There's much more detail and body to the music which is one of the things I listen for. I took the Mega to my buddy's house (who is the former president of our local audio club and a musician) and his comment was that he enjoyed the huge/wide soundstage the Mega put out. He did not hear that with his Rowland monoblock digital amps as clearly as he did with the Mega.  He noticed how the instruments were individually spread out across the soundstage on good recordings (which is all we used). The more I listen to the Mega the more I hear those things that draw me into the music even deeper. That's my quick/short update on my couple weeks with the Megaschino.

Larry D.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: maty on 24 Mar 2018, 09:38 am
After listening to the Mega for a couple weeks I love the soundstage. It's much larger than the Ultra, which I thought was large. There's much more detail and body to the music which is one of the things I listen for. I took the Mega to my buddy's house (who is the former president of our local audio club and a musician) and his comment was that he enjoyed the huge/wide soundstage the Mega put out. He did not hear that with his Rowland monoblock digital amps as clearly as he did with the Mega.  He noticed how the instruments were individually spread out across the soundstage on good recordings (which is all we used). The more I listen to the Mega the more I hear those things that draw me into the music even deeper. That's my quick/short update on my couple weeks with the Megaschino.

Larry D.

[The admin warns me not to duplicate the posts, so only the link]


Re: Are we on the verge of a SS revolution??? by maty

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=156250.msg1675163#msg1675163
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 24 Mar 2018, 01:56 pm
After listening to the Mega for a couple weeks I love the soundstage. It's much larger than the Ultra, which I thought was large. There's much more detail and body to the music which is one of the things I listen for. I took the Mega to my buddy's house (who is the former president of our local audio club and a musician) and his comment was that he enjoyed the huge/wide soundstage the Mega put out. He did not hear that with his Rowland monoblock digital amps as clearly as he did with the Mega.  He noticed how the instruments were individually spread out across the soundstage on good recordings (which is all we used). The more I listen to the Mega the more I hear those things that draw me into the music even deeper. That's my quick/short update on my couple weeks with the Megaschino.

Larry D.
Larry,

Thanks for bringing the MEGA to your buddy's house.  Glad he enjoyed the audition.   8)

-Tommy O
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 26 Mar 2018, 01:51 am
Only 21 hrs left to get a discounted MEGA (and lots of other cool Cherry Amp products):
http://kck.st/2CH4sLB
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: maty on 26 Mar 2018, 08:15 am
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/378044010/megaschino-world-class-high-power-audio-amplifier

Quote
* Optimized for SONICS above all else ---- we start with amazing bench specs, like 128dB SNR, then we tweak for sound AFTER that

* Black background and micro-dynamics ---- 120dB SNR, 0.005% THD+N at low power

* High power ---- MEGAschino channel boards are capable of comfortably driving up to 1000W into 4Ω and up to 2000W into 2Ω

* Extended bandwidth ---- up to 150kHz !!!


The 1200AS2 about 70 kHz at -3 dB. With this trick -like many others amps- increases SNR. Well, 70 kHz is a good compromise, bandwith greater than other class D amps.

Class D poweramp with great efficiency and bandwith <- very good engineering here.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 26 Mar 2018, 12:35 pm
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/378044010/megaschino-world-class-high-power-audio-amplifier


The 1200AS2 about 70 kHz at -3 dB. With this trick -like many others amps- increases SNR. Well, 70 kHz is a good compromise, bandwith greater than other class D amps.

Class D poweramp with great efficiency and bandwith <- very good engineering here.
Thanks for the compliment, but it's important to note the difference between SONICS and specifications.  Yes, we have great specs, but our primary concern is sound qualityHave you read the first post on this thread?
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: maty on 26 Mar 2018, 01:47 pm
The sound quality is subjective, the specs do not. When I commented on the great improvement in the sound of my cheap tweaked KEF Q100 coaxial speakers, diyers do not believe it or do not want to believe it because it is subjective so it does not make sense to argue about it.

I had not read it. At that time I was more aware of other things: how to solve/reduce my very great problems at home: DC, high voltage, noise, RF/EMI interferences...

Your amplifiers meet the necessary conditions to have an excellent sound, it is the only thing I can say without having heard them.
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: geek101 on 20 Oct 2018, 05:26 am
Richidoo thank you for reply, thing is I have Luxman m900 amp and everything plays just fine so it could not be the break in issue but when I plug in line v60 the sound just falls through and trying to figure it out. I used short speaker cables supplied with the in line cherries will try to use my long speaker cables I got with the cherries see if that helps.

Ottablue,

I am so glad I found this thread. I just got myself a pair of Legacy Aeris and looking for a good class D amp and was also considering Luxman AMPs (M800A, M700) etc.

Did you resolve the issue with your Aeris, I would love to find out more.

thanks
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 22 Oct 2018, 05:14 am
Ottablue,

I am so glad I found this thread. I just got myself a pair of Legacy Aeris and looking for a good class D amp and was also considering Luxman AMPs (M800A, M700) etc.

Did you resolve the issue with your Aeris, I would love to find out more.

thanks
The guy that owns all these Cherry amps also has Legacy Aeris.  I’ll try to find the photos.  You can see the crossover from outside the enclosure, I seem to recall....


(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=185800)
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 22 Oct 2018, 05:22 am
The guy that owns all these Cherry amps also has Legacy Aeris.  I’ll try to find the photos.  You can see the crossover from outside the enclosure, I seem to recall....


(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=185800)
Here’s one of the photos.  There are more somewhere.  He would probably enjoy speaking with you about the combination of our Cherry MEGA and Maraschino amps with the Legacies.  He’s also driven the them with Classic Cherry amps as well as many non-Cherry Amps.  Send me a PM if you’d like to get in touch with him.  Thanks.

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=185801)
Title: MEGA in Red !!
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 5 Nov 2018, 06:49 pm
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186377)

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186378)

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186379)

(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186380)

Anyone know why Audio Circle wrecks the image quality or how to fix that?  These original files of these images are super clean!
Title: MEGAschino Review by Steven Stone for Home Theater Review
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 11 Dec 2018, 05:57 pm
Steven Stone reviewed our Stereo MEGAschino Cherry Amplifier for Home Theater Review.

some quotes:

“During the review, the MEGAschino was connected to three different loudspeaker systems: the Elac AF-61, Spatial X-2 prototype, and Spatial X-2 production spec. version.”

“As you might expect from a designer with Tommy O'Brien's objectivist outlook, the MEGAschino is definitely the most uncolored power amplifier I've ever heard. That doesn't mean it sounds sterile or lacking in complexity. No, what you get is music--straight, with no chaser, as Thelonious Monk would say...”

“The MEGAschino is the embodiment of the longstanding audiophile ideal of a straight wire with gain.”

“If you need a powerful, carefully engineered power amplifier that does not try to voice or alter the sound in any way, you need to give the MEGAschino a serious listen.”


The full review:
https://hometheaterreview.com/digital-amplifier-company-megaschino-power-amplifier-reviewed/
Title: Re: What is the MEGAschino Cherry ?
Post by: AmpDesigner333 on 28 Jan 2019, 09:03 pm
Introducing the MEGAschino MK2!
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=162057.0

There's an opportunity hidden within (: