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
gregm
3,415 posts
 
Dale: r you sure the Krell is the culprit (if culprit there is)? Can you try another pre -- just for the experience (just a suggestion, pls don't go into sudden pre upgrade mode...:-)

I personally like the Pass X better than the Krell KAVs -- but so what? I listen to classical, blues & jazz and have not heard your amp-speaker combo, to boot! Also, I'm sure the NAD's a great machine, but how's the chemistry w/ your Krell?

What's your source, BTW?
mg123
192 posts
 
I agree with Gregm: the Pass is probably the better sounding amp, and IMO, if its available to you for the ease of a swap, I'd do it. However, I'd guess you'll notice a bigger difference by upgrading your preamp. NAD is ok but not in the same league with Pass/Krell and Dynaudio.
mcne OP
113 posts
 
Yes, that is the pendulum Gregm. I do not know yet. But the general consensus is that the Krell may be a bit sterile or have a sound. I am just looking for my next upgrade path if I need one. I have tried a number of preamps, tubes and SS, and I have landed with the NAD Silverline but I also restrict my self to a budget. So I am looking for people who might say, Yea, I know quite a few people who have had that problem or this with that and they changed to ?
My sources are the Silverline S-500 CD and a Project Perspective with a Blue Point Special. Dale
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