For a subwoofer, any difference between UcD and NCore?

[Chromatischism]

Is there anything about the design of these amps that would lead to measurable or audible differences, or other real-world usage implications (operating temp, available power, idle power use, etc), when powering a subwoofer?

For example:

https://www.hypex.nl/product/ucd700lz-oem/61
vs
https://www.hypex.nl/product/nc1200-oem/1

 

[jtwrace]

Short answer, no. However, a lot will depend on what driver and how hard (SPL) you're really looking to drive it.

Details are helpful

I use an NC502MP to drive my UM18-22 and Ciare 18.00SW without any issues. Originally I planned on BTL but do not need it although the next time I set up the system (moving) I'll probably do it just to load balance the module. Does it really do anything other than piece of mind? Nah.

 

[Chromatischism]

It is very different than an Ultimax. It's on the lighter and stiffer side, 15", and excursion range is +/- 20mm. SPL is roughly 107 dB @ 20 Hz in a vented enclosure.

 

[jtwrace]

It is very different than an Ultimax. It's on the lighter and stiffer side, 15", and excursion range is +/- 20mm. SPL is roughly 107 dB @ 20 Hz in a vented enclosure.

Eh, it's really an electrical function not stiffer/lighter. Also, is that the SPL that YOU are tuning for or just the spec of the driver?

I'd think that @hardisj can provide you with more help as he might have tested it.

 

[Chromatischism]

Either way, I can't think of a reason why the two amps would produce a different sound or frequency response or other noticeable differences, but I'm not an amp expert so I thought I'd ask here.

 

[jtwrace]

Either way, I can't think of a reason why the two amps would produce a different sound or frequency response or other noticeable differences, but I'm not an amp expert so I thought I'd ask here.

They won't...

 

[Chromatischism]

So the question is, is the cost of NCore justified for subwoofers?

Lower temps? Anything?

 

[boXem]

So the question is, is the cost of NCore justified for subwoofers?

Lower temps? Anything?

The difference between ncore and ucd from the same generation is only loop gain. So distortion. For comparing the temperatures, look at the idling power in datasheets.

 

[Chromatischism]

I see a small difference in Efficiency: 92% (UcD) vs 93% (NCore). From Hypex, "An idling UcD amplifier draws up to 2% of rated power". That's all I can find.

 

[phoenixdogfan]

The ability to detect distortion is lowest in the bass frequencies b/c of the masking effect. So I would think the higher cost of the cleaner NCore is not justified. Most subs use and ICE powered subwoofer amp.