Explain Class D amps to "non audiophile friends"


Hey folks, I was really enjoying the thread explaining class A amps to class B and AB, wheni was wondering where Class D comes in. I would love to be a snob and say its for my friends, but I have to admit I am doing the learning here! (I am not implying that the other guy who posted was asking the question for his benefit)

Thanks for your help!
Jeff
jeffatus

Showing 2 responses by bombaywalla

You will find PWM modulation in other places where it has nothing to do with efficiency. For instance SACD is the same as class D before filtering (operating at 2.8MHz). Also Sigma Delta DAC operates on the same principle.
Kijanki, what you wrote is absolutely correct but what you'll find is that a class-D amplifier is a very minor tweak of a switched-mode power supply (SMPS) where the input (DC) voltage reference is replaced by a (modulating) music signal. Do this simple swap & you have a class-D power amplifier. Compare a class-D audio amp & a SMPS & see for yourself.....
is that a class-D amplifier is a very minor tweak of a switched-mode power supply (SMPS)

05-22-12: Kijanki
Bombaywalla - it is the other way around. Class D was invented tweaking SMPS.

Kijanki, I think that we are saying the same thing.... :-)