Deciding between Beta22 and 24, differences?

The two amplifiers have very similar topologies. The main differences are that the B24 is fully differential, the B24 uses a different package for its output transistors with better thermal characteristics to allow higher current while maintaining reasonable temperatures, and the B24 was designed to use an unregulated power supply for the output stage and regulated power for the input and VA stages. The B24 is also designed to run class AB while the B22 is class A. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the B22 is significantly easier to build, although I wouldn't really say it is easy. (Disclaimer: I have not built the B24 yet, but it looks more challenging to build)

Hopefully I got all that correct. I think the B22 is pretty clearly the better choice if it is going to be used exclusively for headphones and very efficient speakers. If you want to also drive big inefficient speakers the B24 might be a better choice.

The beta24 isn't strictly an AB amp.

With a few component changes if can be set for class A operation... you'll need bigger sinks thought (think Pass F#).

Yes the beta24 build is more involved.

I'd say if you can build a b22 or one of KG's hadron colliders successfully then a b24 shouldn't be a problem.

It is definitly more expensive.

Yea, I remember seeing AMB's post about the class A B24. I imagine yours is class AB since you used the 'stock' hifi2000 case? Do you know of anyone who built the class A version?

I gather the collision is between your wallet and the ground....

Quote:

Originally Posted by bcg27 
Do you know of anyone who built the class A version?

I'm not aware of anyone as of yet but Ti would know.

You could ask him over at the AMB forums.

I could change mine to pure class A operation by switching out a couple of components but as you point out, I may have to start blowing on my heat-sinks profusely heh.