Class D Volume Control

[kitsap2]

Why does adjusting the volume on a class D amp differ from a class AB amp(the only other amp I've owned)? Here's what I mean, as best as I can explain:

Up until that last few years, I've always used an AB amp. When I wanted to kick up the volume, I'd turn the volume knob to about the 10 o'clock position, and if I really wanted to rock out, I'd turn it to 12 o'clock. Mostly, the speakers I was using (varying through the years) were not very efficient, somewhere between 85-87db bookshelves. But, at 12 o'clock, they were loud!

Now I'm using a class D amp, with volume adjustments made wirelessly with an app on either my phone, iPad, or laptop via Airplay2. When I want to crank it up, and this entirely depends on the material, I advance the volume slider sometimes all the way to the 3 o'clock position. Again, it depends on the material. I only once, or twice went beyond the 12 o'clock on the AB amps.

Currently using efficient tower speakers rated at 95dB, 4 Ohms, & 200 watts power handling.

 

[krautmaster]

You're comparing apples to submarines: It all depends on how the volume control is designed, it really has nothing to do with class A/B vs class D.
For example, my Parasound P6 has a bizarre volume curve that goes from 00 to 99, with 00 to 20 the volume raises 1Db per number. From 20 to 60 it increases 1/2 Db per number, from 61 to 99 it goes back to 1 Db per number. When you get to 75 that is considered "1/2 way". I've never been able to go above 70- just too loud. My old Onkyo P-306RS and P-304 can only go to about 9 O'clock before it is too loud.

 

[kitsap2]

You're comparing apples to submarines: It all depends on how the volume control is designed, it really has nothing to do with class A/B vs class D.
For example, my Parasound P6 has a bizarre volume curve that goes from 00 to 99, with 00 to 20 the volume raises 1Db per number. From 20 to 60 it increases 1/2 Db per number, from 61 to 99 it goes back to 1 Db per number. When you get to 75 that is considered "1/2 way". I've never been able to go above 70- just too loud. My old Onkyo P-306RS and P-304 can only go to about 9 O'clock before it is too loud.

Thanks for your input, krautmaster! Nice to know there are differences, and similarities and that you have experienced a wide range of differences. I feel better now.

Happy listening!