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August 30, 2021, 11:43 AM #1
I replaced a linear power supply with an SMPS
I'm talking about this because a lot of folks firmly believe that a linear supply is pretty much always better than a switching supply. My swap puts that very much in question, at least for me.
OK, the swap was for my backup a Class D Audio SDS-258 module-based DIY amp that I've had for over a decade -- so NOT a critical piece of equipment that I couldn't afford to destroy if it came to that. Actually, my principal objective was to make the amp a lot lighter, not so much to improve the sound.
Unusual for a class D amp, Class D Audio has never offered a SDS-based amp or kit with an SMPS. (A few years ago they offered an SMSP for automotive use, never for AC power).
So I ordered a Connexelectronics SMPS800RE supply with +/- 60 VDC output to duplicate the linear supply. The removal of the linear supply, (also a Connexelectronics model), and replacement was an easy DIY task. Below are Before and After pics.
The sound is just fine: excellent detail, dynamics, and bass, remarkably close to my VTV Purifi amp. A little brighter in the treble than the Purifi, but hey, you wouldn't expect the old CDA to sound quite as perfect. The device has be operating with no problems for several days now. (Beware: neither of the class D amps is going to appeal to any hard-core tube lover.)
Last edited by Feanor; August 30, 2021 at 01:03 PM. Reason: correction
~ Bill
Win10/Foobar2000 => Topping D90 DAC => Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE+ preamp => VTV Purifi 1ET400A stereo amp with Sparkos SS3602 op amps => Zaph Audio ZRT speakers (DIY) + PSB Subsonic 5 subwoofer
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August 30, 2021, 12:04 PM #2
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Re: I replaced a linear power supply with an SMPS
You are not alone in thinking that... All depends on implementation.
Watch the video, it is interesting.
Audio Myth - "Switching Power Supplies are Noisy" - Benchmark Media Systems
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August 30, 2021, 12:20 PM #3
Re: I replaced a linear power supply with an SMPS
There are no absolutes in audio (nor with most things.) Jeff Rowland has made some monstrous amplifiers over many decades and has a great reputation for achieving excellent sonic results. He originally used linear power supplies but after years of refining his implementation of advanced Switched Mode Power Supplies (SMPS) he found he could achieve superior performance than the best linear supplies. Unlike many cheap SMPS like in wall wart or basic cost compromised designs, in order to reach such high levels of performance he found it actually cost more to build his SMPS implementations than his previous linear supplies. There are many that bash all SMPS designs as being inferior to linear supplies, but when done right an SMPS can outperform a conventional linear supply in both stability and noise levels. As audiophiles we should remain open minded when listening and comparing different designs.
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August 30, 2021, 01:22 PM #4
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- Aug 2014
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Re: I replaced a linear power supply with an SMPS
i am not a techie, nor do i play one on TV.
certainly agree that SMPS's can potentially wreak havoc on a signal path, particularly when inserting a piece of gear into a system not designed for hifi use (see my active anti resonance platforms....eventually had to switch them to linear power supplies to get the full benefit from the positive things they did).
phono stages are especially sensitive to power supply noise as they take the tiniest weakest signals and have to amplify them to line level. so you would assume that a SMPS would not be a good candidate for a phono stage. however; it turns out that the lowest noise phono stage i have heard uses battery power and a SMPS......the CS Port C3EQM2.
Phono Equalizer Amplifier C3EQM2 | Products | CSPort
so how might that have happened?
well, it turns out that the designer of that phono stage, Toshimichi Machino, was the chief researcher and later CEO for a large maker of industrial power supplies. he likely knows more about power supply design than the whole high end audio industry put together. he started CS Port after retiring from that large power supply company.
http://wales.clsa.com/biosmain.asp?ctrlid=3239
Company Overview | Company Info. | COSEL Co., Ltd.my system on Audiogon; https://www.audiogon.com/systems/615
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August 30, 2021, 02:29 PM #5
Re: I replaced a linear power supply with an SMPS
Hi, Mike. I've been a huge admirer of you system and listening room for many years now, like most everyone else.
I suppose one can't argue with at guy like Machino re. power supplies. But I'd guess the SMPS have their place; they are certainly used nowadays on all class D amps that are regarded as SOTA. Any way, it seems to be doing a good job in my case. I have not noticed any negative effects on my DAC or FM tuner. As far as phono stages are concerned, I haven't listen to vinyl in a decade of more.~ Bill
Win10/Foobar2000 => Topping D90 DAC => Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE+ preamp => VTV Purifi 1ET400A stereo amp with Sparkos SS3602 op amps => Zaph Audio ZRT speakers (DIY) + PSB Subsonic 5 subwoofer
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August 30, 2021, 04:57 PM #6
Re: I replaced a linear power supply with an SMPS
I would hazard a guess that the engineers designing and building top-notch Class D amps might know a bit more about SMPS's than most OEM suppliers. Also note that the SMPS Mike mentions does not include an AC to DC convertor, as most implementations do.
It's hard to argue against listening for oneself (probably not in a DBT )Rob
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Tascam BR-20; Technics 1506 with tape path upgrades, FM head, DeHavilland 222 tape head pre; Modwright Oppo 205 full tube mod w/LPS; Euphony Summus server, EtherRegen, HDPLEX LPS; MSB Discrete DAC (dual PS, ISLPro, balanced out); Pass Labs XP-12, XA60.8 (pair); Daedalus Audio Apollo 11’s, VMPS Larger Sub; Daedalus/Wywires, Acoustic Zen, Sablon Audio, Wireworld, Shunyata Research cables; Core Power Equi=Power;
Adona rack, Stillpoints, IsoPods, ASC, GIK Acoustics accessories
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August 30, 2021, 07:16 PM #7
Re: I replaced a linear power supply with an SMPS
~ Bill
Win10/Foobar2000 => Topping D90 DAC => Sonic Frontiers Line 1 SE+ preamp => VTV Purifi 1ET400A stereo amp with Sparkos SS3602 op amps => Zaph Audio ZRT speakers (DIY) + PSB Subsonic 5 subwoofer
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!
Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com
Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.
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According to the Roon website it takes a 19 volt power supply. Also those LHY PS from AliExpress are grey market and have no warranty. There is a US Distributor in Texas with full warranty and free...
Nucleus one