Merrill Element 118 Class-D is on it's way using the new GaN transistors.

[georgehifi]

Merrill audio have used the new EPC GaN transistor for quote "which allows fast switching" in their new Element 118 Class-D monos, they didn't say what the speed the switching is now at like Technics did with the SE-R1 at 1.5mhz using the GaN transistors. But it's just as expensive at $35kusd.

At least it's a start to what the future may bring for good sounding Class-D amps hopefully at the $1k mark

http://www.enjoythemusic.com/superioraudio/equipment/1018/Merrill_Audio_Element_118_Monoblock_Amplifiers_Review.htm

 

Cheers George

 

Edited December 30, 2018 by georgehifi

[bzr]

I was of the impression that class D was all about the same power at a tenth of the cost??? Am I missing something here George or is it just the usual gouging hohum  shite??

 

[georgehifi]

2 hours ago, bzr said:

Am I missing something here George or is it just the usual gouging hohum  shite??

That, you'll have to find that out for yourself, no one would know yet.

Edited December 30, 2018 by georgehifi

[georgehifi]

If Merrill are using a switching frequency as high as the Technics SE-R1 at around 1.5mhz, EPC (GaN inventor) said in an email a few months back, that their small GaN transistor modules will have to have larger heatsinks on them as the higher switching speed equals more heat generated. If left at the present day 600khz no heatsink is required.

Looking at the vents on the sides, and this quote: chances are they are taking the switching frequency to 1.5mhz limit. No internal pics are available as yet.

Quote: "Using 8 pounds of pure copper per monoblock, the highly refined heat distribution system maintains a steady temperature environment on the PCB boards, a condition absolutely essential for linear operation."

 

This is very impressive if it can do this, without them understating the 8ohm and 4ohm wattage to get the 2ohm wattage to look like it's doubling.

400 watts into 8 ohms 

800 watts into 4 ohms 

1,600 watts into 2 ohms

 

Forgot to mention they are 30kg each!!

Could be they use linear power supplies and what looks to be regulated as well, as the Technincs SE-R1 has at 54kg. 

Cheers George

 

 

Forgot to mention the Merrills are 30kg each!!

 

Could be they use linear regulated power supplies as well, as the Technincs SE-R1 has at 54kg below 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited December 31, 2018 by georgehifi