K Series Features Tour

Class D

K Series features a state of the art, QSC-designed Class-D amplifier module. The benefits of Class D technology in a powered loudspeaker are many. First, because the power supply is much smaller than other amplifier designs, there is a significant weight savings (The K Series module weighs a mere 6 pounds). Also, because Class D amplifiers generate far less heat, they don't need bulky heatsinks, further reducing the amp's weight.

And while amplifier performance in typical designs relies greatly on access to a sturdy, steady AC power source, Class D amplifiers operate with far greater efficiency, drawing less current from the power source.

Basic linear amplifiers see significant power losses due to heat generated as they cycle between the positive and negative voltage rails. But an ideal semi conductor wants to be either "fully on" or "fully off" in order to maximize efficiency and minimize loss due to heat.

The basic principle of Class D is to utilize fully-on and fully-off "switches" that operate at a frequency much higher than the audio range so the resulting pulses can be filtered and smoothed out, leaving only the desired audio signal. The result is nearly loss-free operation and far less heat build up when the amplifier is driven continuously at high operating levels.