2. amps-preamps
  3. 1004257269

Exchange Krell KAV-250a for a Pass Labs X-350?

Would I gain anything by exchanging my Krell KAV-250a for a Pass Labs X350? I am not dissatisfied with the Krell. It seems to be a pretty good match for my Dynaudio 1.3 Se�s. But yet I do not know what something else would sound like. I do know that these speakers like a chunck of power and they tend to be easy to get good sound out of. If the Pass amps will not be a vast improvement, what would be a good choice? I generally listen to jazz and a bit of rock and classical so my demands are not huge. I am using a NAD Silverline S-100 preamp and I have a Velodyne HGS-15 sub for when I want to rock but for the lighter jazz and classical it is not necessary. The only other upgrade that I am considering is moving to the Harmonic Technology Magic interconnect and speaker cables. I would appreciate some education on what would be the best amp for this set up. Dale
mcne
mg123
192 posts
 
Dale,

Ok, you got me there.... I didn't realize the Silverline was a different product line. I've owned other NAD products in the past (cd player, amp, receiver) and found them to be good values, but not "high-end". now I know something new.
mcne OP
113 posts
 
Thanks Sqjudge, I am getting some great lessons in balanced circuitry. I just knew how good this preamp was at sonic reproduction so I had to inquire. I did not understand the explanation Of Danelk141 so I had to start investigating. You hit it right on the head of the information that I was reading. The deal of adding four more gangs to the volume control was the reason that NAD stated for not adding balanced inputs to this preamp. Only outputs. Still, I guess that specs don't mean anything unless you can interpret them and understand their value. This thread has been very educational for me. But I am afraid that I have asked an impossible question that can only be answered by experience in listening with the desired upgrade in my own set up. Dale
sqjudge
96 posts
 
It is indead a tough question ....

I have heard several pieces of krell gear and it is always very good, but one of the most musical adutions I have ever had was thru a Pass pre and an X350. It was truly magical. Remember that this was my experience and your mileage may vary. Chris
davewavaolcom
193 posts
 
I have listed to both x-350's and Krell's. I bought an x-150 and an pass labs x-1 pre-amp. I like the match between the x-1 and x150 the best. The preamp makes a larger difference than an amp. I also own Harm Tech cables. Try the Pro Silway II's and 9's before the magic. I could not tell them apart.
mcne OP
113 posts
 
I already own the Pro Silways ( balanced from pre to amp and single-ended from CD to pre ) and the Pro-11 and I am very happy with them. But if there is more to be had by a simple cable change then I am willing. I am surprised that you didn't find any increase in detail and delicacy with the Magic. The system that I listened to at a local audio hut displayed a significant difference in the two cables. But I guess that just goes to prove that it is all about synergy. Dale
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