Accuphase Class AB vs Class A

[meltemi]

Originally Posted by Iansr

Do Accuphase Class A amps operate purely in A or do they move into AB when more watts are required?

The watts in Class A specified by Accuphase are guaranteed and you should also pay attention to the fact, that the specs are not only given for 8Ω, but also for 4Ω, 2Ω and on some models even for 1Ω.

As an example an E-650 is specified for 30w class A @ 8Ω, 60w class A @ 4Ω and 120w class @ 2Ω (they call it guaranteed linear power).
This is significantly more power (current) than a 30w tube amp has to offer, especially for the low impedance / low frequency range of a speaker.

In addition, on some models there is a 'headroom' of 2 - 3 dB before clipping.

Martin