What is a class c amplifier?

Answer 1

A class A amplifier is an amplifier where the bias current in all amplifier stages, including the power amplifier, always exceeds the maximum output current. This leads to a very high energy consumption (and cooling might become a problem), but eliminates crossover distortions. Typical commercial amplifiers are what is called class A/B amplifiers, meaning, they would use a pretty high bias current to eliminate crossover distortions, but the bias current would still be less than the maximum output current to reduce the energy waste and cooling problems associated with pure class A amplifiers.

Answer 2

Class c amplifiers have horrible distortion, but well efficiency, and primarily used for small applications that don't need quality playback sound, such as CB radios, walkie talkies, ect...

Class C amplifiers conduct less than 50% of the input signal, allowing it to reach 90% efficiency but resulting in high distortion at the output. Thus, in a Class C amp, the output current (or voltage) is zero for more than 50% of the input waveform cycle. Some applications, such as megaphones, can tolerate the high distortion of Class C amps. Class C amps can also be used in tuned RF applications, since the distortion can be significantly reduced by the tuned loads.