Unique Constant-Transconductance Topology Offers Benefits Beyond Class A

April 2, 2019, Valencia, CA. Schiit Audio announced the immediate availability of Aegir, a compact, Class-A-like stereo or mono speaker amplifier with a unique constant-transconductance topology (Continuity™) that extends the benefits of Class A operation outside of Class A. Aegir is rated at 20W RMS x 2 into 8 ohms, 40W RMS x 2 into 4 ohms, and 80W into 8 ohms as a monoblock. Aegir employs no-compromise design—100% discrete, fully complementary, current-feedback, linear power supply, intelligent microprocessor management—with an affordable price of $799.

"Our first Continuity™ speaker amplifier extends the benefits of linear transconductance beyond Class A, resulting in a cooler-running, more affordable amplifier," said Jason Stoddard, Schiit Audio's co-founder. "Both Bob Cordell and John Broskie have long discussed the problem of transconductance droop in Class AB amplifiers. Our unique Continuity technology, introduced with the Lyr 3 headphone amplifier last year, addresses both transconductance droop and mismatch between NPN and PNP output devices."

Aegir is the first speaker amplifier with a constant transconductance output stage that is designed to operate outside of the Class A region. Unlike Class A designs, Schiit's Continuity output stage enables Class-A-like performance beyond Class A operation.

"This doesn't meant that it's a cool-running amplifier," said Stoddard. "It does run about 10 watts of Class A bias. The difference is that Aegir can deliver over 100 watts into a 4 ohm speaker when run as a monoblock, without the transconductance droop of a Class AB amplifier."

This additional efficiency allows Schiit to produce a more compact and affordable amplifier than traditional Class A designs. Aegir sells for much less than a typical Class A amplifier, has a smaller footprint, and runs cooler.

Aegir joins Vidar in Schiit's line of affordable speaker amplifiers. Like Vidar, it's a natural complement to Schiit's preamps and DACs, allowing customers to create complete electronic systems for not much more than $1000.

Aegir is available for sale immediately at schiit.com at $799.