Does Class A really need to be on for days...

[TOGA]

What I don't like about Accuphase is that, when switched off, they are 100% off and cool.
Not even tiny watt too keep some essential circuits warm. I almost never turn off DP900 and Dc901.
Except during days away from home.

Toga

Originally Posted by jdandy

Ivan.......After reading the article I don't think the writer was suggesting the A200 sounded bad when not left on. He simply pointed out that there was a difference in the sonic signature when shut off and turned back on versus being left energized continuously. We already know this as it is also true of our Class AB amplifiers. If I owned a pair of Accuphase A200 Class A amplifiers, there is no way I would leave them on 24/7. I might develop the habit of turning them on an hour or so prior to any serious listening, but I would not want the constant heat being released into my room or the constant energy waste. It is also interesting to note the the 230 volt version on the A200 automatically switches itself off after 120 minutes of inactivity. Accuphase calls this Eco Mode.

Sage advice Dan. The A200's are beautiful amps

[PlanarSpeakerFan]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

Does Class A really need to be on for days to sound it's best?

Great article, but the thought of leaving the system on for days to sound it's best is a turn off.

http://www.accuphase.com/review_pdf/...0_02_2013e.pdf

Hi Ivan,

I've never heard the Accuphase amps but I do have quite a bit of experience with Pass Labs Class A amplification. With my XA-100.5 monoblocks, I would break it down this way as a percentage of maximum sound quality. Please keep in mind, these are only estimates based on my personal listening experience. I never leave my amps on continuously. Too much power draw and heat in the summer.

1 Hour = 80%
2 Hours = 90%
3 Hours = 95%
4 Hours = 100%

Best,
Ken

[Masterlu]

Interesting, thanks Ken.

[chessman]

Ivan, unless the sound reproduction sinks to a "disqualifying" level, I never find myself enjoying the music less, even when I discern the difference. Sometimes our love for this hobby steals our happiness.

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by chessman

Ivan, unless the sound reproduction sinks to a "disqualifying" level, I never find myself enjoying the music less, even when I discern the difference. Sometimes our love for this hobby steals our happiness.

Randy... The only thing these A200's will be stealing is a lot of cash.

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

Randy... The only thing these A200's will be stealing is a lot of cash.

Ivan.......So, can we safely assume a decision has been made to go with the Accuphase A200 mono amplifiers?

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by jdandy

Ivan.......So, can we safely assume a decision has been made to go with the Accuphase A200 mono amplifiers?

Look at Dan, going for the assumed close

I do still have an eye on the M6000's too; it will be one or the other.

[imprezap2]

Hi Ivan,

A-200 or M-6000, both will require the C-3800 :-), to really shine
I heard both the C-2420 / C-3800, it stopped me buying the 2420.

Olaf

[bvdiman]

Hi Ivan,
Hope to address some of your concerns re A200s here..

Power : I should think the A200s should be plenty of power for TADs in most normal/medium sized rooms.
In my 4.8m x 12m x 2.9m room, my normal listening level peaked on average with meters reading only 5watts, rarely passing 50watts - when loud. Occasionally when in mood, I thrashed them to peak 280watts with some materials, and they still cruise effortlessly - windows at far rear rattling.
Don't let their numbers detract you, they seem to be conservatively rated with plenty of reserves on tap despite their measly rating. (Speakers are 88db, 6 Ohm).

Warm-up : (After 3-4mths of proper break-in, 500hrs+)
Within 1hr of playtime, they should be about 80% there and pretty much listenable. Will be at their peak (100%) at 2nd-4th hour depending on loudness and type of materials thrown. So worry not about having to leave them on for maximum performance, to me they already sounded great/acceptably so usually only after half through my first CDs.. that's about 30-40mins!

Heat : They only run *mildly hot to the touch and not charringly so as most other Class-As do. (*air-conditioned room).