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I need a phono preamp and I'm leaning toward Krell

I recently sold a Krell KSP-7b with an inboard phono stage. I replaced it with a Krell KRC 2 which doesn't have any phono stage. I have listened to the KPA but I've been told the KPE is better and KPE reference is better still. I cannot audition any of these where I live so your experience would be helpful.
My system currently consists of a Sota Star turntable with a Rega RB 900 arm and a Benz Glider MO cartridge. I'm running the KRC 2 into an Aragon 8008st amp. My speakers are Sony SS M7A. I use mostly Cardas Golden Section interconnect with a pair of Purist Collosus and my speaker cable is Monster M2.4. This is probably more info than you need or want but I'd appreciate any input about the Krell phono sections or others with which you've had good experiences.
128x128nrchy
sayas
193 posts
 
have kpe ref will travel... bought one recently and the music has never been better.

dynamics are as good as i have had in my system

dead quiet

fully adjustable for mid to low output cartridges

better sounding than the aleph ono, in my opinion

good luck in finding your new phono section

p.s. i know someone with a fully balances four piece krell, front panel load and gain adjustable phono section and they claim this piece is superior to the kpe ref. i have heard it and it sounded fine.
nrchy's avatar
nrchy OP
2,124 posts
 
famaraca
I liked the phono section inthe KSP-7b but every aspect of the sound was better with the KRC 2. I was not unhappy with the KSP I just thought the new one was better other than the obvious problem of the phono stage.
Sayas
I borrowed a KPA from my brother-in-law which soundds like what you are describing although I don't know if it's balanced. Does anyone know if the KPE reference can be run balanced???
ljgj
955 posts
 
The Plinius M14 - I own one and it would be hard to beat - my second system has an Electrocompaniet ECP which is very good for 1/4 the cost of the Plinius.
extremephono
123 posts
 
Owned the KPA 4 pcs. The sound stage is one of the widest and deepest. My only complaint is it sounds like Krell, while the alternatives imposed lesser of their character into the music.

But nothing comes close to KPA's dynamics and ultra wide/deep presentation. It seems to have a way to 'squeeze' out the last ounce of juice of the music.

Compared to the later phono stage, such as Tom Evans and Linn Linto, the Krell is a bit on the slow side, but still very fast relative to ARC PH3 (btw, I would take KPA over PH3 anyday). But, KPA and Krell linestage (such as KBL, KRC) would be a perfect match, because the Krell linestage is on the fast side, so they probably compliment each other.
rwwear
2,871 posts
 
The KPE Ref is not balanced.
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