"Krell" is a buzzword

Trelja...really what is the point in threads like this? You have clearly stated that you have moved on in other directions and even state that you don't even think about Krell anymore. This thread seems a bit of a contradiction as you obviously do. If you've found what you like, and it's not Krell, why would you care what others think. Even if you did own and love Krell would it make you feel insecure or uncertain in your choice if others were bashing it? Trelja, I see your name so much on Audiogon threads voicing opinions (or seeking them) that I honestly wonder when you find the time to listen!

got to say..... the amps do have balls.....i have owned quite a # of others...but none of the others will do...>>>BUT, may the good lord help you if they ever break down.the turn around time is 6 weeks....????hmmm...but when they work they do so with power and authority no other.......well for those that want amps that keep on kicking...and never break down>>>>>>try bryston

Gentlemen, as a user of Krell equipment with great success for almost ten years I can attest that Krell equipment is ruthless at revealing any weakness in your chain of equipment. It ALL starts with a good front end, whether digital or analog. If your front end isn't in the same caliber as a Krell, the Krell will reveal it's shortcomings either in brightness, tonal imbalance, etc... next is your cabling. I am always amazed at those who say there is no difference between cable. That statement may be true if you have a mediocre CD player and a Kenwood amp or even an Adcom amp for that matter. When you move up the chain of quality, you will notice difference between cabling and equipment. After the front end and cabling, the preamp is the next most important component, maybe even more than the amp, then the amp. A superb front end, cables, preamp and amp can make average speakers shine, but rarely will great speakers make average electronics shine. So here's the bottom line! Don't even think of a Krell or any other top notch amp until you have the rest of the chain close in quality. You will only be disappointed. And for those of you who think Krell is bright, my neighbor reviews for Absolute Sound and I brought my Krell FPB-600C to his dedicated listening room with tube traps, dedicated 20amp lines, perfect dimensions, etc... and we compare my amp to his Manley mono tube amps connected to his Thiel 7.2's driven by the Wadia 860 digital front end and quite frankly the Krell was equally as delicate and musical as the tubes, but with superior low end control and detail. Even my neighbor and his four friends admitted they could live with the Krell amp. By the way, if you're keeping notes, all the cabling was Transparent Reference. I recently upgraded to the Krell 650mc's and they blow away the 600.

Hi Tswhitsel; Other than to complain about a well respected Audiogon member, what is the point of YOUR post? IMO, Trelja is one of the most knowledgeable and respected regular posters on Audiogon. I especially value his opinions and advice on tubes and tube equipment. He has established an excellent reputation for civil, intelligent posts, and if he posts often, the rest of us are better off for it; not to mention that it's his business. I don't see your name or opinions much (at all?) and so have no basis for judging your credibility. Because I post fairly often too, I suppose you've judged(?) me-- and maybe some others, as you have Trelja. Well IMO, If I'm placed in a class with Trelja, I'll be in good company. Cheers. Craig

This thread may be like feeding sharks, but Trelja is right. What other brand name invokes this kind of spirited debate? (well, except Bose). And why? What's unique about Krell? It seems to me that's worth talking about. No? Why doesn't ARC, Classe', Levinson, SF, CJ, Jadis, Bryston etc. etc. etc. draw this kind of fire? Craig