I've had the M700's for over a month. I first got a PS Audio DirectStream DAC w/Bridge II for streaming MQA. I noticed the M700 on the PSA forum but was hesitant to replace my custom built Stratos. I had done a shot-out for my 3.6 speakers by buying several used amps: Butler, MacIntosh 205, a class A heater, and a tube amp. The Stratos won out on detail. I resold the other amps. When I got the M700's I read they take a long time to burn-in. I let them run when I was away. I knew that the Stratos amps were underpowered for the 3.6's. I use the DirectStream as a pre. The M700's handle the 3.6' with effortless agility. Sometimes you think the musicians are in the room - a little spooky. The sound stage is locked in place. My Maggies have never sounded like this. The Stereophile online review is out and paper is on the way. The M700 was favorabley compared to $12,000 speaker.
Class D Technology
So I get the obvious strengths of Class D. Efficiency, power output & running cool which allows for small form factors. I also understand the weaknesses somewhat. 1. Non-linear & lots of distortion that needs to be cleaned up with an output filter.
So my question is, if it weren't for efficiency & power, would there be any reason to own a Class D amp? Do they beat Class A in any other categories that count for sound quality?
So my question is, if it weren't for efficiency & power, would there be any reason to own a Class D amp? Do they beat Class A in any other categories that count for sound quality?
Showing 3 responses by oneartist
PS Audio has a home try out program. You can try out M700's and if you decide you don't like them they pay shipping both ways at no cost. On a PSA forum one person tried out a S300 amp. He returned it before it was burned in. PSA did their own burn-in and sent it back for another trial. He kept it and loves it. I just take a chance for a 33% discount from Steve at HighPerformanceStereo. No disappointments here. |
The Stereophile reviewer liked the PSA M700 amps so much that he bought the amps and is now on the PSA forums to add to his initial review. https://www.stereophile.com/content/ps-audio-stellar-m700-monoblock-power-amplifier |