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Class A

A type of amplifier design where the output device is always on for both parts of a complete sinusoidal cycle. Class A is the most inefficient of all power amplifier designs, averaging only around 20%. Because of this, class A amplifiers are large, heavy and run very hot, due to the amplifier constantly operating at full power.

Class A, Solid State, discrete...

I know the basic differences between different designs and what they do but I could use a quick technological explanation from someone with the cold facts. What makes a piece of gear Class A, what requirements does it have to live up to ? And Class AB ? Class B ? Is solid-state simply a design without tubes ? Discrete is point-to-point-wired with no IC's or?

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