Krell KAV-250a/3 or KAV-500?

Are the three channels for the front 3 speakers (L-R-C) or for the Center and surrounds/rears? If you are looking for a 3-channel amp for the LCR speakers I would recommend the 250. If you are looking for an amp for the center and surrounds then I would throw in the 500. But this partially depends on what amp you are driving the front LR speakers. With 2 of the channels bridged to one on the 500, it is supposedly rated at 400 watts per channel. In my opinion, others may certainly differ, if you are running 3 channels for the front 3 speakers having similar power to each in this case is probably a better move (ie. the 250). Of course the 500 gives you great flexibility running all 5 channels (vs. bridging) and allows for you to use 2 of these channels for a second zone as well (assuming you only need three for the main zone).

I had a Kav-500 3-channel driving my center and rears for a couple of years...a nice little amp. I would guess that the two amps have the same sonic signature...the Kav-250 would have a good deal more, "power to spare"....you may want to consider this factor in?

The 3-channel Kav-500 has a 1 kva transformer, and is rated as 120 watts at 8 ohms load....240 watts at 4 ohm load. It's sound is highly detailed, but not, "over the top" bright (still, maybe not a good match with some tweeters)...pretty good bass too, for only a baby Krell.

Dave

This will be for the fronts and center.