Marine Electronics Q&A with BOE Marine - class D amplifiers, are they better or what?

I'm needing to replace the 4 Channel Clarion amp in my boat's audio system and have just begun research. Wondering if the digital (class D) amplifiers are really any better or not. Got any opinion, experience, or pros and cons you can share? I also have a Clarion Marine head unit, remote on the dash, and CD/DVD changer.
I got into this reseach mode when my current system started dropping out sound at volume over a certain level once the system is warmed up. Really frustrating not to be able to turn the music up when making a long offshore run. Thanks in advance. :tht_rulez:

When I was looking into an amp for my little skiff, I got one of Fusions Class D "zone" amps. Class D seems to have less heat, be more efficient and cost more. Watt per watt, they may be smaller.

I can say that mine puts out very little heat, but it is only like 40w x2.

Yes they are better. More modern, use less power, smaller, less heat etc. No reason not to get a Class D amp.

Jim, ok, good to know. Do you have any recommendations as to what brand/mfg has the best package or overall deal? I have six 6.5 in speakers to drive which are currently set up with two speakers in the cabin on the "front" segment of the fader and four speakers in the hardtop over the helm on the "rear" segment of the fader. I also have a single self amplified JBL subwoofer in the speaker setup.

Yes they are better. More modern, use less power, smaller, less heat etc. No reason not to get a Class D amp.

For an audiophile- id only recommend Ab class but for the general, D class topology would most certainly suffice. D class amps are way more efficient and thats the main point of D class. there is about a 20-30 % difference in current draw between simular rated amps (ab VS D)

make sure that which ever 4 channel amp you have will be able to 2 ohm load as some amps wont. They will run hotter and be less effiecient but make more power with more draw. Jl audio has some decent gear where 2 channels are rated higher than the other 2 and produces its power at 1.5-4ohms

Most class D amps means digital controlled. Majority of D class amps have efficient low frequency (bass) output and are designed to drive subwoofers which as you can imagine draw a lot of power. Unlike normal 2,3 or 4 way speakers subwoofers work very hard and cause more heat. Class D helps provide steady output at a desired wattage and run cooler.