Hi George
I'm not a fan of multi input devices period for purist listening, they're noisy. The amplifiers I have listened to using multi-inputs and the same amplifier with the inputs removed (except for one input), the single input sound far more dynamic and clean (effortless). This is true with all types, but I am noticing things with the chip amps and the way most of them are made on smaller boards that are audible. For example, add inputs to the chip amp too close to the chip itself and you can hear the distortion. Plug ICs in with nothing hooked up and you can hear it as well. Now go back to one input wired and there's more meat on the bones.
Another thing, I'm surprised these designers are making the boards as small as they are. My design is going to have the parts separated more from each other and I will also be using a different material for my boards.
These chips are sensitive and certain parts too close to the chip can make these amps sound odd. I'm not going to share too much because I'll be making my own, but these chips are fascinating when it comes to their surroundings.
I'm also not understanding why so many are putting these chips in aluminum chassis. These chips do not like being placed in aluminum enclosures. Again I'm playing with different types of chassis and metal seems to be a no no with these chips. I have a problem with chassis period and metal (including aluminum) close in the sound.
While we're taking the time to develop the chip amp we should also revisit metals and shielding, from a field and listening point of view. Now is the time to revisit theory making and get rid of this whole audio shielding thing. Audio parts being too close together and then throwing shielding in is a bad practice.
I don't know if I answered your question, sorry if I didn't. I'm use to listening to parts and pieces and that's how my mind works as I redo electronics.
mg
