Originally Posted by
User211
Class G/H is not similar to class D. So this is a little irrelevant I guess, but some blub from the Apart Champ manual:
"In the following pages we will explain how we have reached our goal. Champ-One features an
exceptionally dynamic output stage, a unique combination of class G and H amplifier topology,
all packed in a two unit fanless enclosure. While our competitors are struggling with often poorly
designed so called energy efficient class D digital amplifiers…well, we have taken a close look
and listened carefully to some of these designs, and we were not impressed. We got inspired to
make something APart from all the rest, and started from scratch.
Take a look at our new champion with his striking design and powerful set of features that will
exceed the demands of passionate music lovers as well as system integrators. Designed with a
continuous 4 ohm, 2 ohm dynamically stable high current output stage, Champ-One will surprise
you with its sonic excellence and dynamic capacities. Remember, this unique amplifier has been
developed with the impact of live music dynamics in mind. A true beauty, inside as well as outside,
but also a beast if necessary."
This amp easily beats the very expensive NC1200 and SMPS in my book, with a MUCH cheaper preamp than an M8. Massively so. It just sounds waaayyy better than that combo.
...and moving on.....
That quote is 100% meaningless marketing drivel! Class G and H are basically adjuncts to other amplifier classes and can be used with class A, class B, class AB or even class D. It can even combine any of the previous classes! Class G and H (I won't describe the difference between G and H as it's not that relevant to the discussion and means the opposite anyway depending on in Europe or USA) are rail switching topologies. To put it simply a low powered amp is used, say 5W, which can be taken up to being say a 200W amp on peaks only, or when the extra power is required, by switching the voltage rails of the amp to a much higher voltage in synchronisation with the music. This is called commutation. The idea is that say 70% of the time only the low power setting is switched in and so it only consumes the power and gives the heat of the low power amp for most of the time. The first commercial use in hi fi I can recall was the Hitachi "Dynaharmony" range....
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