SDS-250C Class D Audio Power Amplifier

Customer Reviews

A fine amp for audio recording! Review by Daniel

Recently I purchased a pair of second hand Merlin TSM MMi speakers. Like the PMC TB2’s I had 6 years ago these speakers are similar in that imaging, sound stage, and clarity are top notch for bookshelf speakers, but bass response can be somewhat limited depending on room size and bad recorded or compressed music…well can sound bright and bad. I guess matching an amp with speakers can be tricky but also fun sometimes.
For me I have tried a few amps (Yamaha, Onkyo, Brio, Cambridge, and Nad). Hands down the most accurate amp was the class D Audio SDS-250C. Tons of power, accurate sound stage, great imaging, warm, and good amount of air in the upper range. In terms of accuracy this amp is top notch, unfortunately in my set up the amp is tad bright (revealing would probably be a more accurate term). This amp paired with the Merlin speakers sounds fantastic for well recorded music, but for content that is MP3 or TV shows (a lot of times compressed), and electronic music (techno and ambient chill out) the amp reveals to many flaws. I guess that is not a bad thing. In terms of audio recording and studio monitoring I think this amp would be fantastic (especially with PMC or Dynaudio). Over the years I have learned that I actually enjoy a somewhat recessed midrange, with big sound stage, lots of bass (even at low listening volumes), and great imaging. The NAD while not as transparent as your amp actually better serves all of those qualities. The big issue with my listening environment and my Merlins is that I really do need a bass tone control and my girlfriend has to have a remote. I guess if I was still into audio recording this amp would be my choice. For my casual listening preferences this amp is bright for my preference, actually its probably neutral, but I do like my sound a little darker…maybe masked in way.
I highly recommend this amp if you are into audio recording and want to hear exactly how your music was recorded. If you have larger floor standing speakers that have alot of low end extension I also recommend this amp. PMC monitors use to use Bryston monoblocks amps, then switched to flying mole amps (digital), but flying mole went out of business. I think the Class D SDS 250C is a fine replacement.
(Posted on 8/30/12)