I think the comments that generalize about tube amps and HF rolloff (and "too buttery", etc.) is a criticism that some amps and preamps have earned. But that is simply not the case with higher-end tube components in today's world. The clarity, linearity, and tone are all there in spades when the tube amplification is well-designed and quality components have been rigorously integrated. There is a warmth, breathtaking clarity, and intimacy that hits gold when it all comes together. Apparently, some SS systems do a very nice job as well. I had years of enjoyment in a tubeless system. Then I switched and will never go back. You may have to pay more to get where you want to go, in any system chosen. Good luck in your hunt!
What going fully Class D has taught me.
Over the past year I’ve been working on a project to transform my main L and R 2-way speakers to active 3 way by adding a woofer tower with a 3-channel plate amp underneath. This project is finally completed. My Luxman integrated now sits dark and disconnected.
The plate amps are made by Hypex, though I have previously used ICEpower based amps as well.
What I can confidently say is that the old Class D memes have no reason to exist anymore. I can also say I miss my Luxman sound for music.
I’ve done this swap before. I went from Parasound to ICEpower to Luxman, and while I really liked the Luxman sound I was still compelled to attempt a new speaker / amp project. Many of my objectives have been met. Very low distortion, high dynamic range, excellent off-axis response and seamless integration. It sounds very transparent, and realistic for movies. The low distortion makes high volume listening deceptive. You don't realize how loud it is because there's absolutely no distortion. Some of t
What am I missing? The liquid smooth midrange, buttery treble of the Luxman, which was the main reason I went from Class-D to it in the first place. What I don’t have is all the normal tropes that used to float around here about how bad Class D sounds. It doesn’t, it actually sounds really good. What I need now is a juicy smooth two preamp with HT bypass.
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- 40 posts total
- 40 posts total