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Class D vs. class AB amps

I run a pair of class D monoblocks that drive a pair of Magnepan 1.7is. The current draw is minimal, based on the fact that my power regenerator
(max output 300w) has NEVER gone into shutdown mode.

Now let us consider a pair of 300/600 watt (8/4 ohm) output class AB amps.
The ABs pull about 6 times the power at idle as the D; the ABs basically require their own dedicated circuit, based on their current draw at full output; the Ds can coexist comfortably on the same 15 amp circuit as the rest of the gear in you system. The ABs cost 2x to 3x the Ds.

My question is: why would you prefer class AB amps over class D amps? I know, I know, you might say that the ABs sound marginally better. The ABs
run much hotter, require their own dedicated electrical circuit, cost a lot more to purchase, require 3 men and a healthy boy to move, have huge heat sinks, and cost a bundle to ship.

I do not understand running class AB amps in this day and age. Maybe someone out there can enlighten me as to the supposed benefits of class AB amps.

Lack of skill dictates economy of style. - Joey Ramone


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Topic - Class D vs. class AB amps - Mike K 07:52:01 08/15/23 (54)

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