GaN FET Amps vs. Traditional Class D Amps


I'm trying to get a better understanding of GaN FET amplifier technology. Whenever I see a write up on GaN FET based amplifiers they are always compared against class A or class A/B amps. What I'm more interested in is how they compare to the current generation of 'traditional' class D designed amplifiers, both technically and sonically. Can anyone explain it to me?

 

Thank you.

mcraghead

@mapman Thanks for the link. I am not able to discern if the amp supports having RCA and XLR connected at the same time. I need a switch to toggle between 2 sources since 1 source will always be on.

I am going to be try and sell the best amp I ever owned to buy the second-best DAC I have heard, the Meitner MA3i. I am listening to the DAC now and unfortunately it is a rather big improvement over my cheaper Schitt Byggy DAC.

I always have the Schiit Wotan amp that I can buy again but I wanted to see if there is a GAN or Purifi solution to consider.

@yyzsantabarbara I’d send an email to the vendor to inquire about that. 
 

I use XLR in from Schiit Freya.  Source DAC is Topping d90III Sabre xlr out to Schiit. Also have phono source using Denon DL103R cart via step up x former. 
 

This is a very revealing yet musical combo. I run to both KEF ls50 meta + powered sub in a smaller room and Ohm Walsh F5 series 3 speakers in adjacent larger room.

Thanks for the suggestions, better than ChatGPT.laugh

Here is a response from Tom at Class Audio

 

Keep in mind that a large part of our customer base use Magnepan speakers. Our amps really excel with them. Our older amps had a switch for RCA and XLR but this design it is not needed. If you haven't read yet, please read our customer reviews here to see how our amps compare to others...