Tripath Question

[serengetiplains]

Does anyone know if the outputs of Tripath chips like that used in the Charlize (TA2020) can be run in parallel (ie, to a single driver)?

TIA

 

[kristleifur]

I'm unsure of the terminology, but I believe that what you're asking about is also called "bridging" the amp. If that is indeed what you're asking about, it is not possible. Search for "bridging tripath" or something like that for more info. AFAIK, you could even bork the amp if you try.

For more oomphage, you'll have to get an amp based on a beefier Tripath chip. The <100W amps, 60W really, are considered nice, judging from what I've read.

 

[serengetiplains]

Thanks, Kristle. I'm actually wanting a mono Tripath amp. My two-way speakers have wildly different driver efficiencies (100dB and 85dB). I could use the 100W Tripath stereo amp and bi-amp, but I'd rather use 4 mono amps if I can get away with it.

 

[SpittinLLama]

ALthough not the best, you should be able to run in parallel post filter. I am not sure of their modulation technique so stright parallel before the filter is not a good choice.

-SL

 

[BWRX]

Thanks, Kristle. I'm actually wanting a mono Tripath amp. My two-way speakers have wildly different driver efficiencies (100dB and 85dB). I could use the 100W Tripath stereo amp and bi-amp, but I'd rather use 4 mono amps if I can get away with it.

Wait a few weeks until I get my next set of D10.1 boards in and you can buy a couple kits 🙂

I'm being serious by the way.

If you haven't seen the thread about them click here.

 

[Pano]

Someone tested the parallel idea last year and said it sounded awful.
You should be able to dig up the thread.

 

[SpittinLLama]

Oh I didn't say it would sound good or bad, just that it should work without a fire 😉

-SL

 

[ravon]

Some of the Tripath chips (e.g. TK2050) can be used in parallel configuration. Don't ask me about the sound (I only know the TA2020), the specifications of the TK2050 in parallel operation seem allright, though.
You may want to check the Tripath website for TK2050 evaluation boards in stereo and mono configuration (those revision documents contain some very useful information!): http://www.tripath.com/TK2050_design_tools.htm
BTW, the Tripath TDA1400 is a single channel chip.