Krell KAV-250a: good? vs. Bryston 4B ST at price?


How is the Krell KAV-250a? In terms of weight, size, and price it seems like "Krell Lite". How would you compare it to the other Krel amps? How is it at it's price point? Recently discontinued, they can be had new for about $2000. Is it worth it? Or for around the same money are you better off with a Bryston 4B ST (which has similar power ratings)? What else around that price and comparable output levels would be better? These would drive a pair of Mirage M-3si speakers, and be feed by a Sonic Frontiers preamp.
papertiger
There always seems to be a lot of "Krell bashers" out there...I just bought a KAV 250a that sounds great with
my BAT pre-amp and really brings out the best in my Hales,
which seem to really like all the power. Great bass and
doesn't sound harsh. I listen to a lot of different
music, but so far, I'm happy with the Krell. I'll now 'fess
up and say that I do have my Krell listed for sale, but only
because I've listed about everything I own at one time or
another! If your speakers like power, the Krell might be
the ticket. I've always wanted to try a BAT amp, but can't
bring myself to pay the going rate for a nice used one!
At what the used 250a's are selling for, they're a bargain
for 250 watts of Krell power!
Check the warranty on the Krell KAV. I've seen Krell dealers state in their recent KAV ads that the "5 year transferrable Krell KAV Series Warranty" was eliminated in January of 2001, unless you buy from an authorized dealer. The rumor here in Phoenix is this happened because of so many internet sales..
The Bryston has a 20 year warranty, and they sell based on their reputation, I'd go with the 4BST.
I've heard the KAV 250a, it sounds good too, but the warranty question is very important to me, 20 years makes the Bryston much easier to sell, now & later.

Daniel
Both feedbacks from Kthomas are deadon. I have a 250A powering a pair of Martin Logan Quest Zs which are a difficult load to say the least & the Krell has no problem with them.My preamp is a Sonic Frontiers Line 3. This combination gives me deep tight bass,a wonderful midrange with natural sounding highs. The soundstage has breadth & depth. At 2k the Krell is a bargain.If you do purchase one plan on relacing the power cord. The P.S. Lab cable brings out the best in this amp. Have a happy New Year. Larry W
I've dealt with all these pieces for years. Off the bat, I'd say for sure the Krell for those Mirages! The Mirages are a bit warm sounding, and the krell matches better. The Bryston is in the similar league, but wawmer, more body, and slightly more rubust base line. I think you'll get more sparkle on top with the Krell, and the Mirages need all the help in the detail department they can get!!...and the krell get's the edge here. Good luck