Class D and class AB amplifiers are the most popular amp for car audio. These are different in power efficiency. But class d amplifier vs class ab: which class amplifier is best for sound quality?
Class D amplifiers are around 90% efficient but it can’t eliminate distortion like class AB. On the other hand, the AB class can use 70% power energy and eliminates maximum distortion. So, AB is considered as the best amplifier for maximum sound fidelity and minimum Distortion in Class.
This guide will discuss Class d amplifier vs class ab classes. Also, you will know how an Amplifier Class Works for Audio Quality. Most importantly, you will learn why class AB amplifiers are best for sound quality. So, stay tuned to learn more!
Contents
- Different Types of Amplifier Classes Comparison
- Class A amplifier
- Class B amplifier
- Class AB amplifier
- Class D amplifier
- Class D Amplifier vs Class AB: Which Class Amplifier is Best for Sound Quality?
- Why Is Class AB Amplifier Best for Sound Quality?
- Which Class Amplifier Is Best for Bass?
- What Are the Two Best Class AB Amplifiers for Car Audio?
- Final Words
Different Types of Amplifier Classes Comparison
Amplifiers are divided into different classes based on efficiency and sound output stage. Besides, these are different in sound. To choose an amp for the preferred sound output, proper knowledge about amplifier classes.
Class A amplifier
The output transistor of a class A amplifier runs continuously whether there is an input signal or not. However, the transistor power amps turn into heat without an input signal. On the other hand, if there is an input signal, the transistor power goes to the speaker terminals. In the meantime, class A amplifiers can amplify both positive and negative voltage and add more heat generation due to added workload.
Good to know that class A can be efficient up to 25% and around 75% power turned into heat. There are no cooling cycles; turn on and turn off the system so the signals can produce maximum distortion-free sound. But class A amplifier is expensive and rarely used in car audio components
Class B amplifier
Class B amplifiers consist of two transistors in a push-pull arrangement.
Each of the two push-pull transistors lightens the workload of the output stage. In this, one transistor operates for a negative voltage of one waveform and the other for a positive voltage. Then, the two transistors combine to provide the output. Also, note that each transistor is off half the time and on the other half.
Class B amplifiers are 50% more efficient than class A amplifiers. However, class B produces some crossover distortion, so it is considered more efficient with low fidelity.
Class AB amplifier
Like class B amplifiers, class AB amplifiers have a push-pull pair. However, their push-pull pairs are each on more than half the time. Most importantly, they do not turn off suddenly. Class B acts like a class A when the weak signal exists, but it acts like a class B when the power is high.
Class AB amp is far more efficient than class A and produces less distortion than class B. Besides, class AB is relatively affordable. This is why class B is ideal for home theater and car audio.
Class D amplifier
Class D is a notably efficient amplifier that uses around 90% energy for a car audio system. The output transistor stays fully closed or turned-on during operation. Besides, a class D amplifier eliminates all linear regions of transistors.
Class D Amplifier vs Class AB: Which Class Amplifier is Best for Sound Quality?
Let’s compare between class ab and class d amplifiers sound quality based on some features.
| Features | Class AB | Class D |
| Efficiency | Around 60% efficient | Highly efficient |
| Size and weight | Larger and heavier than class D | Pretty smaller and lighter |
| Sound quality | Best | class d amplifier sound quality is average |
| Distortion | Less | More |
| Bass Response | Medium | More |
Why Is Class AB Amplifier Best for Sound Quality?
Class AB can be up to 70% efficient. In the meantime, it produces very little distortion. Due to higher power efficiency, class AB will allow you to hear louder music. Likewise, the AB amplifier is designed to eliminate crossover distortion. Another important point is that the class AB amplifier market price is less than conventional amplifiers and is available. So, because of these reasons, class AB amplifiers are best for sound quality in car audio systems.
Which Class Amplifier Is Best for Bass?
Class D amplifiers are considered the best amps for bass. We have researched Quaoar’s customer experience with class D amplifiers. They have said that class D amps are much lighter, smaller, and more power efficient than linear amplifiers like class A and class B. That is why class D amplifiers can produce more bass pound-to-pound and watt-to-watt.
What Are the Two Best Class AB Amplifiers for Car Audio?
Now you know why AB amp is considered the best for delivering great sound in car audio. What if we introduce you to two of the best, extremely reliable amplifiers?
Gemini Sound XGA-5000 Class AB
Gemini XGA is a professional grade 5000-watt power amplifier. It is available in a variety of styles and patterns. It also has digital amplification along with a sleek design.
Features
- Built for excellent live sound reinforcement, venue installs and mobile rigs.
- Its 2x 550W RMS at 4Ω stereo and 10 to 50,000 Hz frequency response Will Dive you into a sonic realm.
- Offers flawless connectivity for all XLR, 1/4″ or RCA inputs.
- It is built from robust metal chassis, vents, cooling fans, and protection circuits.
Lanzar 4-Channel High Power MOSFET Amplifier
Lanzar is a high-quality 2000-watt amplifier. It is designed and engineered for several years of performance for your car audio. Lanzar 4-channel comes with the latest technology. Besides, it is very affordable.
Features
- It gives 500 W x 4 output at 4 ohms that ensures perfect musical output from car audio.
- It is built with special metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors that work for full to non-conduction.
- Lanzar is equipped with a 2×30 amp maxi-type fuse that protects the amplifier and electric parts.
- Slim size design and easy mounting.
Final Words
We hope you already know Class d amplifier vs class ab: Which Class Amplifier Is Best for Sound. All amplifier classes are individual in their features and benefits.
On average, class AB amplifiers are considered the best for sound quality. Ab amps are 60% power efficient and produce very little distortion. Since, AB produces lowest distortion than any other amp class, so it is best for sound clarity.
Besides, it is the most used amp in all types of car audio and easily available in nearby markets and automobile shops.
