Note that in Leo Ayzenshtat's designs, the pulse-depth modulation (PDM) is performed completely in the analog domain before being amplified by the GaN power stages. All Starkrimson amplifiers use Orchard Audio's proprietary DC-coupled, fully balanced dual feedback modulator, which allows the amplifier to be completely balanced from input to output, through the use of bridged GaN power stages. In this cased, with an output power of 150W RMS (300W peak) at 4Ω (instead of the 500W available in the Starkrimson Ultra models).
Starkrimson products incorporate devices made by GaN Systems, which Orchard has implemented in a very unique topology, prioritizing hi-fidelity. "This chipmaker produces very fast, true enhancement-mode (E-mode) GaN devices with a simple unipolar gate drive, a feature that makes them close to ideal for audio applications. In comparison, devices made by many other GaN manufacturers require a more complex or slower gate drive, or are cascode, which makes it much more difficult to control the timing of the switching. Further strengths of the products by GaN Systems are a low on-resistance, and a form of packaging that makes it easy to incorporate these devices in circuit boards for audio amplifiers," Leo Ayzenshtat explains.
GaN technology enables Starkrimson to switch at ~800kHz which is 2-3 times faster than traditional Class-D amplifiers using silicon transistors. This very fast switching allows for the use of a simple LC (inductor and capacitor) filter, which allows the amplifier to have practically no phase shift from DC (0Hz) to 30kHz.
"The filter is a very important part of a Class-D amplifier," Ayzenshtat adds. "Starkrimson uses oversized very high-quality, oxygen-free copper (OFC) inductors and a very high-grade film capacitor. But having high-quality components will only get you so far; Starkrimson’s 4-layer PCB is state-of-the-art, using a custom stack-up with high-end dielectric (insulating) material and ENIG (gold) finish."
The new triple (or dual) mono design - fully balanced from input to output - is packaged in an aluminum and steel chassis with high-end gold-plated binding posts and connectors. Specifications detail 121dB SND (A-weighted, 22kHz BW) and 16.8dB or 21.5dB gain on the (balanced) input. Additional specifications and test results are available on Orchard Audio’s website.
Orchard Audio is offering preorder prices (starting at $1,399.95 for Duo and $2,249.95 for Trio) on its website until the end of July 2023. Starkrimson Duo/Trio amplifiers will start shipping in August/September 2023.
Based out of Succasunna, New Jersey, Orchard Audio is a boutique audio company that offers a variety of top-quality DACs, streamers, and amplifiers. All its products are meticulously handcrafted in the United States, considering the needs of music enthusiasts who prioritize high-quality sound in their home theaters, listening rooms, or recording studios.
www.orchardaudio.com
