2. amps-preamps
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Refurbish vs New Amplifier?

I have been enjoying a Krell KST-100 for many years. I am contemplating having it
refurbished at the factory (vs a local independent tech).
also under consideration --buying a new amp replacement. (Audio Alchemy? or similar priced amp
--perhaps even a used).
Wondering what a factory refurbishment would run me (rough idea) and if anyone knows a reliable tech
in NY-NJ-CT area. I actually live fairly close to Krell and could drop the amp off!
Also
Not having been in the market for a while--I wonder if at the $2K to $3k range a new amp would surpass the performance of the older Krell?
Finally--the reviews of the Audio Alchemy Amp (I have their DDP-! phono stage and power supply already and find them quite good) are pretty good. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
128x128johnlnyc
gs5556
1,235 posts
 
cleeds:

AR refused to service my 100.2 last year because they didn't have all the parts for the amplifier. All I wanted were the caps replaced, which are stocked by Mouser and Digikey.  All they could say is they agreed that bulging caps could leak on the pcb and cause damage and should be replaced -- and wished me luck. Had to do it myself.  
Ag insider logo xs@2x
cleeds
5,962 posts
 
AR refused to service my 100.2 last year because they didn't have all the parts for the amplifier.
Sorry, but I find this very, very difficult to believe.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Its time to move on and upgrade unless this amp is so good there is nothing better out there which i doubt.
gdnrbob
4,450 posts
 
To answer one of your questions:
I wonder if at the $2K to $3k range a new amp would surpass the performance of the older Krell?
Yes, in my opinion, especially so if you are buying used. Not knowing what you are using for speakers and pre and source, it would be hard to give recommendations. That is, if you want any.
Bob


digepix's avatar
digepix
121 posts
 
I have a KST 100 and it still puts a smile on my face. I know there are better amps but I like to buy and forget about it. I've replaced the caps, set the bias every 10 years or so. Unless you feel your missing something or the quality has slipped you should be set.
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