2. amps-preamps
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Krell Digital Vanguard or Parasound Halo integrated?

Looking for actual owner/user opinions on either of this pair of integrated amps.

There maybe other contenders but this is where I am down too right now.

Needs..
Xlr, rca analog inputs
Digital spdif, toslink, usb inputs.
Headphone amp if possible.( not a major).
Fairly compact, modern, reliable., great factory USA based support.

Will be going into my second home in North Carolina. Sources will be a music server of some description and a tt.
Speakers to be determined but likely small form factor floorstanders or decent stand mounts.

Thank you.
uberwaltz
audiothesis
168 posts
 
Parasound as a company is first rate.  When I showed at RMAF last year Phil made it a point to come see me and introduce himself, which I found very humble.  They've always been supportive and want anyone involved with their products to get nothing but the best they can offer.
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,294 posts
 
uberwaltz
there are a few of the guy here that own Krell Vanguard. Hopefully, they will see this post and reply accordingly.  From the reading and reviews, the Krell, is very powerful.  Keep us posted.
Happy Listening!
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,294 posts
 
2nd note;
 dave_b   -has had his Krell for quite awhile now. I also believe that he is into music server/streaming device(s) as well.  Hope this helps you.
Happy Listening!
robelvick's avatar
robelvick
619 posts
 
Uber,

Guess what? I just bought used Halo Integrated (my 2nd one, ha) two weeks ago. Very powerful, dead quiet, and slightly on the warm side, associated equipment dependant of course.

I don’t use the phono stage, it’s mediocre at best w/ very little adjustability. The built-in DAC is surprisingly great. It’s an older ESS 9018 chip, but it’s implemented very well, or at least I would guess from the SQ IMHO.

I went back to using a subwoofer, so the built in high/low pass filter and crossover work very well. Bass management was a huge plus and deciding factor for me. Nice to have that option when needed.

Never heard KRELL, but reviews are outstanding most of the time.

I give two thumbs up for Parasound.  And, if you care about such things, Stereophile Class A recommended.
unsound
7,344 posts
 
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