« previous next »
Pages: [1]   Go Down

Class A?

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. Read 1465 times.

honesthoff

Class A?
« on: 12 Apr 2009, 01:55 am »
What's the sonic and/or technical difference between Class A amps and all the others? 
Logged

bpape

  • Industry Participant
  • Posts: 4465
  • I am serious and don't call my Shirley
    • Sensible Sound Solutions
Re: Class A?
« Reply #1 on: 12 Apr 2009, 02:05 am »
Class A amps do not suffer from turning on and off the positive and negative amplification stages of an amplifier.  They're both on all the time.  Personally, I think this is the closest thing you'll get to single ended while still allowing the higher power available from non-single ended designs.

Bryan
Logged

ratso

Re: Class A?
« Reply #2 on: 12 Apr 2009, 02:06 am »
Logged

Mike19

  • Jr. Member
  • Posts: 42
  • Carbona, not glue.
Re: Class A?
« Reply #3 on: 12 Apr 2009, 02:10 am »
Hi honesthoff.

Typically, Class A amps are tubed and do not have more than 50wpc. They are used to drive speakers with very high efficiency, like above 91dB. There are people who swear by this configuration.

I do not know the technical difference between the classes (A, A/B, B, and D). We need an expert here.

Me?  I'll take a pair of A/B 1000w SS monoblocks anyday. (And that day will not come in this lifetime 'cause these big boys are really expensive).

Mike
Logged

bpape

  • Industry Participant
  • Posts: 4465
  • I am serious and don't call my Shirley
    • Sensible Sound Solutions
Re: Class A?
« Reply #4 on: 12 Apr 2009, 03:02 am »
Usually, class A amps are solid state.  I think you're referring to single ended, which is something completely different.

Bryan
Logged

BillB

Re: Class A?
« Reply #5 on: 15 Apr 2009, 11:38 am »
Well most SE amps are class A as well so...

A big thing with class A is the in-efficiency, expect a lot of heat as a trade for your great sound quality.

I did not know about the on-off thing, explains why they waste so much heat too.
Logged

Mike19

  • Jr. Member
  • Posts: 42
  • Carbona, not glue.
Re: Class A?
« Reply #6 on: 16 Apr 2009, 01:01 pm »
Ratso - Thank you for the link to the article.  :D

Question: Assuming one wants a "quality" SS amp of at least 200w x 2 to drive speakers of 6 or 8 ohms, is there a difference between Class A/B and Class D amps relative to sound quality? Let's say a Bryston Class A/B versus a Bel Canto Class D.  :?

I would think the speakers would sound the same with either amp and the real differences would be in amp size/weight, amt. of heat generated and amt. of electrical consumption (Class D being "green"). Not?  :dunno:

Mike
Logged

woodsyi

  • Volunteer
  • Posts: 6513
  • Always Look on the Bright Side of Life!
Re: Class A?
« Reply #7 on: 16 Apr 2009, 01:32 pm »
For those who hear it, there could be a big difference.  :(  If you don't, count yourself lucky and go for the cheaper, lighter, cooler switching amp.  :thumb:
Logged

Niteshade

  • Full Member
  • Posts: 2423
  • Tubes: Audio's glow plug. Get turbocharged!
    • Niteshade Audio
Re: Class A?
« Reply #8 on: 16 Apr 2009, 03:23 pm »
Class A is typically more 'liquid' sounding whereas push-pull is more aggressive. It is possible to have a Class A push-pull amplifier. I like both configurations equally well. BUT- if you are into power, say 30 watts and up, it's best to go with a push-pull amp.
Logged
Pages: [1]   Go Up
« previous next »