Is there a market for small class D power amps?

[ole Jason]

If someone came out with a 500w power amp in this size it would be a huge hit.

Does it exist? As far as I'm aware there aren't any bass amp manufacturers rolling their own Class D power amps, almost everyone uses the ICE modules. The last time I looked only the 200w module made by ICE was small enough for a micro head like that, maybe they've come out with something since then though.

I'm pretty sure that's why all the really tiny amps are 200w.

 

[Wasnex]

There is a market, but it is extremely small. Not enough demand to draw a lot of companies in. Also not enough demand for a lot of companies to stay in the market.

Sometimes it's good to rediscuss things every decade or so.

The question is regularly asked in different ways...but it's pretty much still the same question. One of the most recent threads on this subject: Do you think portable power amps (for stage) will start growing in popularity? | TalkBass.com

From the OP of that thread:

Why don't we see more portable class D amplifiers without a preamp?

 

[Wisebass]

One of the most recent threads on this subject

Zombie thread! December first last year!

 

[lermgalieu]

Forgive me the thread is a little outdated given today's products with all but one page 2011-2015. Sometimes it's good to rediscuss things every decade or so.

There is a thread like this from like 2 weeks ago

 

[Wasnex]

Zombie thread! December first last year!

Last comment from that thread:

It doesn't matter how small or light it is if you don't need it at all.

 

[hasbeen]

Generally not without test data or an engineering review by the test lab. There is also interface circuitry that is still required, it's not just a module in a box.

There's also the cost of managing the different sheet metal, PCBs, tooling, documentation, inventory, distribution, etc.

Amen.

 

[agedhorse]

Amen.

And who do you think I originally learned about this from?

 

[Bar Band Bassman]

I'm one of those geezers (not THAT Geezer) who uses speaker cabs! Class D amps and Neo speakers are the universe's gift to bassists! My gig bag weighs more than my cab, my bass weighs more than my amp! A far cry from the SVT and 2 8x10's I used to gig! I'm good with that. Can't carry my bass or cab in my pocket so I have no need for a pocket-sized amp. Just my 2 cents.

The Bar Band Bassman

 

[hasbeen]

And who do you think I originally learned about this from?

You're funny. Happy New Year mi amigo....miss you bud.

 

[dbsfgyd1]

Just get a head and think of it as getting a Power Amp with a free Preamp and DI Box built in.

Hurry, Operators are standing by.


Seriously, hurry. We ain't got no chairs until we make our sales numbers.

Good post. I'm not so sure that the preamp stage isn't more expensive than the output stage making an integrated head a preamp with a power amp thrown in on the deal….

Egads, somebody thinks an Elf is too big?? LOL!! If that is indeed the case, the heck with it, go wireless.

 

[Turnaround]

I use the Demeter Minnie 800D. Small, light, 800 watts @ 4 ohms. On/off switch and Volume control.

 

[JKos]

Sounds like that meets the OPs needs.

 

[N. Kentucky Bass]

If someone came out with a 500w power amp in this size it would be a huge hit.

I'm using one called the Straight Ahead power amp. It's 300 watts at 8ohms and 500 watts at 4ohms. No certifications that I can see. But I like it. The builder, Jay, is a great guy.
https://www.talkbass.com/threads/jay-ganz-straight-ahead-power-amp.1278608/

 

[BlueTalon]

The closest thing to this type of product from a notable name brand. It has no preamp gain control but the EQ and other features make it look almost like an "amp" and not just a power section.
Duncan Power Stage 700w - $699 - Rack size & EQ with stereo operations.
Duncan Power Stage 200w - $499 - Pedal size & EQ/Sim features.
Duncan Power Stage 170w - $399 - Pedal size & EQ
PowerStage Pedal Amps - Guitar Pickups, Bass Pickups, Pedals

Since there's no real advantage to offering such an amp in a conventional format (head or rackmount), the only way it makes sense to spend any R&D money on a power-only amp is with a pedal format. And then add more features.

 

[Axtman]

What about this? Carvin pedal/amp.

MACH100 100W (50W/50W) Stereo Pedal Amplifier

 

[monsterthompson]

Since there's no real advantage to offering such an amp in a conventional format (head or rackmount), the only way it makes sense to spend any R&D money on a power-only amp is with a pedal format. And then add more features.

I think a few amp companies have tried the alternative route of adding the power amp to the speaker to create a powered PA style offering. GK and Barefaced are the two I can immediately think of. Of course you're then up against issues and restrictions related to an integrated amp+cab. I like the idea of having a cab and a pedal board. I think adding a few pounds to a cab isn't necessarily a deal breaker if it's in a strategic location that doesn't make the cab awkward to move. However, it takes away the modular benefits of having separates.

 

[Slaymus]

Closest I found was the Acoustic Image Clarus SL, 500W, Lightweight (2lbs 10oz), small (2.1x7.2x7.4 inches),
the effect loop return bypass the preamp for direct access to the power amp. The preamp is very clean sounding, so no big difference with the effect return. Love this amp with external preamp !

 

[Iristone]

Of course, but they've already been offered by pro audio and DIY hi-fi companies. Just check if it's full range or subs only

 

[MVE]

There are already several on the market for years…

Demeter - Mini 800D
Jule - Simone
GSS - Baby Sumo

 

[Luther]

+1 for the Ganz Straight Ahead power amp (300/500w). I also utilize a Genz Benz Shuttle 3.0 (175/300W) thru the effects return.