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Class D amps that are superior to all or most?

Recently, I have heard about some Class D amps that may be close to the best there is regardless of class. Certainly, this technology has been in development for decades. The main issue has always been the switching power supply. In this regard, I have taken notice of AGD. They have created a whole new power supply that “switches” at a frequency 100 times the normal silicon based MOSFET. The designer uses a gallium nitride based PS. Interesting, it is enclosed in the KT88 glass envelope that sits on top of his amps. I am aware of two more pricey amps that seem to be also at the top- the Solution and the Merrill. There must be others that compete for the title. After my thread, “Is there a SS amp that can satisfy a SET guy?”, I am still on the quest.
Don’t want to spend $50K!
mglik
tweak1
3,576 posts
 
@ricevs

So, does muting my EVS1200 have a benefit, and if so how often and for how long?

ricevs
1,539 posts
 
The capacitors will last longer if they are turned off most of the time. This is the same for any amp, no matter what the class. However, do you really care that the caps might need replacement (both amplifier boards in your case) in 10-15 years? Do you really think you will keep your amp that long? ha ha ha. All amps will become boat anchors....some sooner, some later. Does the amp sound better after it has been on for some time? Listen and find out. Some say class D needs to be on for two days to reach its sonic potential. Some say it does not sound different if warmed up. It does not matter what George says......he will always say the same thing.....even without listening. It does not matter what anyone says.....believe only your own ears. Find out for yourself. Don’t be lazy.

Two factors that stress capacitors are large current draws and high temperature. In a class D amp the current draw in minimum (the opposite of class A) and so is the temperature. Class D amps are super efficient and cool running. Still, it is a good idea to replace all the main electrolytic caps in any amp every 10-15 years.

Look at all the new amps coming out now......some will be modifiable....do you think your amps will be with you through next year? I doubt it. We have the Atmasphere amp, the Mytek amp, The Wryed for Sound amp, the new higher powered Orchard, the Premium Audio and the LSA amp all with GaN output devices....all either released or about to be. I am sure there are more on the way. A higher power Purifi module is about to hit the streets as well.

I just now noticed a pic of the insides of the new LSA Voyager amp......"lots of stuff to mod there"......he says, wringing his hands....he he.
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
So, does muting my EVS1200 have a benefit, and if so how often and for how long?

Stop calling it a mute, (as by ricevs, IF correct?) the amp is OFF!, and yes all the electro caps are drained and everything is de-powered and charged up from empty when you turn it on again. (good for the caps)

And it is NOT on and in a warmed up state 24/7 as some😵 here think!!!

A mute only stops the input signal and leaves the amp switched on!
It may possibly have a input sens circuit (standby) which can turn the amp all on when a music signal is detected at the input like a subwoofer standby.

tweak1
3,576 posts
 
@ricevs 

Thanks Ric. I am supposed to be getting the long awaited Voyager soon, but until I actually hear it I cannot say whether I will also keep my beloved EVS1200. Keep in mind my room volume is HUGE, and so far I have needed big power to properly energize this room
Also I am 73, so even though I expect to live well beyond my mid eighties, will my ears be as discerning then as they are now?
ricevs
1,539 posts
 
You can see the insides of the Voyager on Underwood's site.  You will want it modified.  Lots to do there.
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