Class D = Trash?


So, I'm on my second class D amp. The first one, a Teac AI-301DA which claimed to use an ICE module, was unlistenable trash. I burned it in for a few weeks, it just couldn't perform, so I sent it back. Following that, I tried the new Emotiva A-300 (class A/B). It was significantly better, but lacking in too many ways for my tastes. So I changed gears, got an 845 SET from China -- and it was an immediate and massive improvement.

So, before I went further down the SET road, I wanted to try a better class D product using a modern class D module. I settled on the D-Sonic M3-800S with the Pascal module and custom input stage. I read from reviews that these things like to have big cables, so I picked up an eBay 8 gauge power cable (Maze Audio, el-cheapo Oyaide copy plugs, braided 4-wire cable) to go along with it.

Mid-range GONE.
Soundstage depth CRUSHED.
Euphonics DISAPPEARED.

Yes, resolution went up. Driver control went up, allowing me to play compressed rock/pop and orchestra with the speakers being able to render it all. But enjoyment in the sound is basically gone. Using my best power cable (LessLoss Original) improved performance, but didn't fundamentally change the amp's nature. I ran back to my headphones (Focal Utopias) to detox my ear canals.

So, how long does a class D need to burn-in? I want to give it a fair shake before writing the technology off forever. 
madavid0

Showing 4 responses by grannyring

Subjective preferences at play here. No more, no less. I owned several 845 amps and liked them. I like my Class D Lyngdorf even bettter however. All about the total system  anyway and it's synergy or lack of it according your your ears alone. 
I dumped several Cass A and A/B amps because they weren't to my liking. I guess they, as a whole group of amps,  are not ready for primetime 😁 I also did not like a couple of tube amps in my audio life. I guess tube amps are ready for the trash. 

Yes this comment is silly, but exactly what I read often times about Class D in posts. Many, many varieties of Class D amps to pick from. Seems a little overreaching to say they are all not yet ready for primetime.  
Again, one experience with ICE modules cannot possibly speak for all Class D amps, just the one amp you heard. Goodness folks. I heard a poor tube dac once so they all must have a ways to go.....crazy thought process correct? 
I have rocks in my head as my SS amp and server are always on. I also keep my air conditioning, heater, computer, night lights, and several other " dangerous" items on at all times. Good thing my neighbor is a fire fighter.