Originally Posted by
cynan
I've heard (and believe) that the ClassD amp kits are pretty great for the money. But (and this is a big BUT) as you point out, they are DIY. In addition to the kits, you would probably need to spend a couple hundred $ on an enclosure and parts (binding posts, balanced or unbalanced inputs, wiring, IEC power cable and outlet, etc). And you need to have the time and interest (and tools) it takes to assemble it.
With a product like the Virtue ICE amp, you are paying quite a bit extra, but you are paying for engineering that went in to how to optimally assemble said pieces together into a tried and tested product with loads of nice fit and finish, comprehensive warranty, etc.
So, even if the sound quality and performance at the end of the day rivals products such as the Virtue ICE amps, these are products aimed at a very different market: It would almost be like comparing Ascend Acoustics to Madisound or even Parts Express.