AB Vs. Class D characteristics
#1
I hope my neub questions aren't getting tedious, but can anyone tell me if AB Vs. Class D amps have definitive sound characteristics, or does it depend on the design and/ or other variables. It seems to me AB gets the nod for SQ focused systems and D is preferable for SPL. Is this an oversimplification?
#3
The class D is usually not a full audio range amp. (Zapco does make full range amps with a chopping PS) the efficiency of a PWM/ chopped Power Supply is very attractive for SPL systems with thousands of watts. I do not think they are louder per watt than an AB in fact the more robust PS of an AB could have an advantage in SOME setups. Bottom line, if I was an SPL guy I would probably use class D
Opinion portion:
I have never heard a specific 'sound' associated with a D or an AB PS. Though I will state my opinion the distortion a D amp will cause to the DC power supply would keep me from using it in an SQ setup AT THIS TIME. I could be wrong but D has an SQ disadvantage (this could be engineered around but from my experience it is not cheep)
Opinion portion:
I have never heard a specific 'sound' associated with a D or an AB PS. Though I will state my opinion the distortion a D amp will cause to the DC power supply would keep me from using it in an SQ setup AT THIS TIME. I could be wrong but D has an SQ disadvantage (this could be engineered around but from my experience it is not cheep)
#4
Salty, your description is apt. Class D is great for power, efficiency, and in many cases,dollars per watt. However, I believe class AB amps retain more control over the woofer. Personally I prefer to use class AB amps for both speakers and subs.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post