For desktop audio, is there any real benefit to going beyond mini-D amplifiers?

[elshaddai]

I'm talking about bookshelf and smaller speakers that are at most 3-4 feet away from your listening position. 60-70dB is typical, maybe +10-20 if you want to go crazy. If I understand the general math correctly, we're talking about just a few watts of power. So, is there any realistic difference between a mini D, premium D (hypex, purifi, etc) and AB amplifiers in that context?

 

[Chrispy]

Amp class if executed decently will make no difference IMHO. You can imagine it easily enough, tho. At low power needs why even worry about it?

 

[elshaddai]

Amp class if executed decently will make no difference IMHO. You can imagine it easily enough, tho. At low power needs why even worry about it?

Lol, FOMO? I'm going to be happy with my little RSL and stop reading reviews and eBay listings...

 

[Chrispy]

Lol, FOMO? I'm going to be happy with my little RSL and stop reading reviews and eBay listings...

FOMO wasn't a consideration but now that you point it out, sure....

 

[Chrispy]

FOMO wasn't a consideration but now that you point it out, sure....

FOMO is fear of missing out....consumerism is hard

 

[JSmith]

So, is there any realistic difference between a mini D, premium D (hypex, purifi, etc) and AB amplifiers in that context?

Yeah, not much point comparing amp classes only like that... compare the measurements for each amp regardless. Look at metrics with reference to the low power requirements.


JSmith

 

[kemmler3D]

The one impetus to upgrade from cheap / small Class D amps would be to avoid load dependency. Other than that, if you have the SINAD and power you want, not much reason to keep looking.

 

[elshaddai]

Look at metrics with reference to the low power requirements.

What specifically would I be looking for to determine low power performance?