MOSFET or GANFET or Class A/AB?????

[Desertpilot]

Hi folks, I need a new 3 channel amp for my front three speakers (Spatial Audio X3s). Currently, I am using a Parasound Halo A52+. It's only 5 channels and I need more. My current thought is to buy the Parasound A31 since I have really enjoyed the sound from my A52+. While I do use my setup for home theater, my purchase decision is primarily for multichannel HiRez Classical music.

As I have researched this, there is a growing following for either MOSFET or GANFET Class D amps. The discussions can get quite heated, pro and con. Other than buy each and send them back within the return period (15 or 30 days), I cannot make a good decision. I hope Audioholics gets into this MOSFET vs. GANFET debate with some realistic measurements and listening tests. I trust Gene and Matt to give me an honest opinion.

Amps I am considering:
MOSFET amp: Buckeye Purifi 1ET400A Amplifier, 3-channel
GANFET amp: Class D Audio Mini GAN 5 mono block

The broader question: Is GANFET really all that superior to MOSFET?

Thanks, Marcus

 

[TLS Guy]

Hi folks, I need a new 3 channel amp for my front three speakers (Spatial Audio X3s). Currently, I am using a Parasound Halo A52+. It's only 5 channels and I need more. My current thought is to buy the Parasound A31 since I have really enjoyed the sound from my A52+. While I do use my setup for home theater, my purchase decision is primarily for multichannel HiRez Classical music.

As I have researched this, there is a growing following for either MOSFET or GANFET Class D amps. The discussions can get quite heated, pro and con. Other than buy each and send them back within the return period (15 or 30 days), I cannot make a good decision. I hope Audioholics gets into this MOSFET vs. GANFET debate with some realistic measurements and listening tests. I trust Gene and Matt to give me an honest opinion.

Amps I am considering:
MOSFET amp: Buckeye Purifi 1ET400A Amplifier, 3-channel
GANFET amp: Class D Audio Mini GAN 5 mono block

The broader question: Is GANFET really all that superior to MOSFET?

Thanks, Marcus

I don't think you need to worry about Class D amps of good provenance. You must look at the data and not subjective reviews. I not familiar with that GANFET amp, but the data on Purifi amps is outstanding.

If I had to replace my power amps, there is no doubt in my mind it would be class D now. They are far more efficient, run cool and have outstanding measurements.

Purifi have been around for a while and have walked the walk. As in all things class D amps are not created equal.

In answer to your last question, it has no relevance. If you could make a better amp, it would be quite impossible to hear any difference.