EP 059 ICEPower & our Class D design project. Not An Audiophile builds an amp
Updated: Aug 27
ICEpower Class D Amplifiers: Can a Blind Listening Test Reveal What Audiophiles Really Hear? Can a modern Class D amplifier sound as good as a premium Class A, Class AB or valve amplifier? Host Andrew Hutchison meets ICEpower designer Patrick Bostrom at High End HiFi Show Vienna to investigate the technology behind the ICEpower SC400A2 amplifier module. Delivering up to 400 watts per channel into four ohms, this compact stereo module combines substantial power, exceptionally low distortion and efficiency approaching 97% at high output.
Public perception of Class D is changing
However, its real significance may be what it reveals about changing perceptions of Class D amplification, amplifier sound quality and whether long-standing audiophile prejudices still reflect current engineering.
Early Class D amplifiers developed a reputation for sounding harsh or clinical, partly because some designs produced higher distortion at frequencies where human hearing is particularly sensitive.
Improvements in Class D Amp technology has removed the “cold” sound Says ICEPower
Bostrom explains how improvements in amplifier topology, feedback, component selection and circuit layout have substantially reduced these problems. The SC400A2 also addresses performance beyond the traditional 20kHz measurement bandwidth, with improved high-frequency behaviour and exceptionally strong channel separation. At some operating levels, its distortion is so low that conventional measurement equipment becomes the limiting factor. Yet impressive measurements do not automatically settle the question that matters most: does a Class D amplifier actually sound better when you listen?
QUOTE
"And this is the first at ICE power. • • So using a 45 kilohertz bandwidth to measure - We also have customers from Japan that ask for that because when they compare Class D to linear amplifiers, they can see a difference at high frequencies.." Patrik Bostrom ICEPower
Class D offers improved reliability, repairability and replacement modules
The discussion also examines an often-overlooked concern: Class D amplifier reliability, repairability and replacement modules. Andrew, an experienced electronics technician, questions whether modern amplifier modules will remain available long enough to support expensive HiFi equipment years into the future.
ICEpower’s response is encouraging: some older amplifier modules have remained in production for decades, while certain discontinued internal technologies have been replaced with updated, backwards-compatible designs. For amplifier manufacturers and HiFi enthusiasts alike, long-term parts availability may prove just as important as power output, efficiency or distortion specifications.
Can Audiophiles Tell Class D from Class A in a blind test?
The Not An Audiophile “Ice Breaker” Ice Power Project
To investigate the real-world performance of the SC400A2, Not An Audiophile is building its own ICEpower Class D integrated amplifier as part of the IceBreaker amplifier project. The design will use a straightforward signal path, carefully selected components and a custom timber-and-aluminium chassis before the finished amplifier faces a blind listening test against established Class A, Class AB and potentially valve amplifiers. With brand names, price expectations and amplifier preferences removed, the project asks an uncomfortable question: can experienced listeners genuinely hear the differences they claim to recognise? Follow Not An Audiophile and the IceBreaker project to discover whether modern Class D amplifier technology can challenge the assumptions behind high-end HiFi.
Thanks to these fine Global HiFi Brands for their Support.
PEOPLE MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Andrew Hutchison - Host
BRANDS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
Phillips
Hypex
Purifi
MODELS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
THIS EPISODE
Andrew Hutchison - Host
Sharron Hayden - Editing Copywriting
