SMPS VS LINEAR PS

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic. Read 1997 times.

justinm

  • Jr. Member
  • Posts: 19
SMPS VS LINEAR PS
« on: 19 Jan 2014, 06:17 pm »
Hi all, very inexperienced with how this stuff all works, but love to build it myself. Have several questions about power supplies. I have a couple ClassDaudio amps with the stock linear power supplies with 28000MFD capacitance. I am wondering if sound wise there is an advantage to a linear PS over a SMPS? For example if they are both of decent quality does one of them sound better than the other? The other question is the importance of the size of the power supply. I have read a lot of people increasing the size of the capacitors in their linear PS to help the low end and deal with more demanding loads and help improve the amplifier overall I guess? My question is does the same thing hold true for SMPS. For example if the amp is rated for a max power of 600watts in to 4 ohms and 300 in to 8, would using a SMPS(A1000SMPS) with a rating of 1000w continuous and 1600w peak be any better than say the recommended SMPS(SMPS800RE) with a rating of 800w cont. and 1000w peak power? The main reason for the interest in SMPS is convenience and size. Less parts no large transformer needed with separate PS board means smaller enclosure. Sound quality is still the most important thing to me over all. Thanks for any advice/help in advance   

Folsom

Re: SMPS VS LINEAR PS
« Reply #1 on: 21 Jan 2014, 07:27 pm »
I would say they generally do need more capacitance than they come with. (well for better sound)

They both benefit from power conditioning. The SMPS, even more most the time. There are some very high end units with low noise, but do you like the sound? Might be another debate.

JohnR

Re: SMPS VS LINEAR PS
« Reply #2 on: 27 Jan 2014, 09:01 am »
OP, perhaos try it and report back? One possible advantage of an SMPS is that it is regulated (not all are, but some are, rare with linear high power supplies).

justinm

  • Jr. Member
  • Posts: 19
Re: SMPS VS LINEAR PS
« Reply #3 on: 2 Feb 2014, 11:51 pm »
I have been reading a lot about the Connexelectronics smps used with ClassDaudio amps in cheapncheerful circle and plan on trying the A1000SMPS power supply. I have three ClassDaudio amps all with linear power supplies and will report back with my comparisons when I get a chance to order one and install it. Thanks for the suguestions

justinm

  • Jr. Member
  • Posts: 19
Re: SMPS VS LINEAR PS
« Reply #4 on: 8 Feb 2014, 02:26 am »
Well I ordered the Connex SMPS2000R power supply after talking to the company owner I think. This power supply is capable of delivering 2000watts and should completely cover my amp with room to spare. Will try to remember to post results when it comes in the next 3 to 4 weeks.