AMP Classes D?, A/B? What does this mean?

[KREGER]

I am thinking about running 4 JL 12W6V2 subs on my boat and driving it with an Orion 2500D. Looking into amps, I do not know the difference between these different classes of Amps? Thanks for the input!

[thechris]

Originally Posted by KREGER I am thinking about running 4 JL 12W6V2 subs on my boat and driving it with an Orion 2500D. Looking into amps, I do not know the difference between these different classes of Amps? Thanks for the input!

efficiency is the major difference. classD refers to a broad range of "switiching" amplifiers, while class AB refers to a limited range of "linear" amplifiers.

in all amps, you have a power supply voltage, maybe 20V. if the output voltage is to be 10V, and the output current 2.5A (10/2.5 = 4ohms) then the speaker gets 25W, and the amp burns 25W... This is what happens in linear amps at least.

switching amps send pulses at a very high frequency. these pulses are averaged, and as a result you get audio. switches have two states, either 0V and high current, or high voltage and 0 current. both use 0W. thus an ideal classD amp is 100% efficient. real world is 90% or so

[KREGER]

Originally Posted by thechris efficiency is the major difference. classD refers to a broad range of "switiching" amplifiers, while class AB refers to a limited range of "linear" amplifiers. in all amps, you have a power supply voltage, maybe 20V. if the output voltage is to be 10V, and the output current 2.5A (10/2.5 = 4ohms) then the speaker gets 25W, and the amp burns 25W... This is what happens in linear amps at least. switching amps send pulses at a very high frequency. these pulses are averaged, and as a result you get audio. switches have two states, either 0V and high current, or high voltage and 0 current. both use 0W. thus an ideal classD amp is 100% efficient. real world is 90% or so

So is A/B is less eficient?? D is the Best? Thanks

[Duct Tape]

Originally Posted by KREGER So is A/B is less eficient?? D is the Best? Thanks

class d amps are used to power subwoofers. class a/b amps are used for highs and subs. there is no best. but if you want alot of power with less strain on the charging system, go for the class d amp.

[KREGER]

Thanks for all the help!