2. amps-preamps
  3. 158045-89071

Parasound vs. Krell for 2 channel

Hey there - primarily a HT guy here. lately I have been listening to much more music though. I got JTR speakers but I love their sound/fullness for music. I have been running a Krell Chorus 5200 for 3 years. Love it, but recently added side surrounds. Grabbed a stereo D-Sonic to cover me...and tried it for my LR. I personally thought it felt a little thin/weaker, so I decided to switch back to the Krell for LR. So, I'm wondering if I should just keep it as is, or try to improve my 2 channel a bit. Would a Parasound A21+ sound "better" than the Krell? I have heard the Parasound has great control of bass response in mains, and that many people love their sound. I heard one once w/ Martin Logans and loved it. I also wonder if having 5 channels in the same box isn't as effective. I thought about going Jc1 mono blocks, but I don't have the space. Sorry this was so Long winded, LOL. But to all you out there smarter than me - should I check out a Parasound or just stick w/ Krell? thanks!
128x128ethos4lyfe
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
The Parasound is going to be significantly different in sonic signature.  You will definitely notice this on movies.  The Parasound is a very slightly warm and dry sound.  The Krell Chorus 5200 is a sweeter smoothed over sound.  The "clinical" description that oldhvemec stated is really on the older Evolution series amps.
rsf507
2,312 posts
 
Always loved Krell amps especially the older units. Parasound just too dry sounding and uninvolved sound especially for HT IMHO.
ethos4lyfe's avatar
ethos4lyfe OP
74 posts
 
Thanks for all the replies - I really didn't think the difference for HT would be noticeable, so I was considering that part a wash. The D-Sonic actually sounded similar enough for HT, it was the 2 channel that I felt was lacking. Maybe I'll try and hear one in person again - or see if anybody local has one I can listen to. I just don't love the idea of having the class D amp, but I guess if I use it solely for sides its okay :) 
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
A note on Class D amps with switching power supplies.  Even though the amp will produce more watts per channel, the switching power supply can limit the strength of the bass.  This can be why the D-Sonic sounded thin/weak in comparison to the sliding-bias Class A Krell amp with a linear power supply.

This is likely way over your budget, but there's a Krell Duo 300 amp in audiogon for $4900 or best offer.
audiosaurusrex's avatar
audiosaurusrex
320 posts
 
I had both Parasound and the Krell Digital Vanguard. The Parasound always seemed lackluster to me. I found the Krell superior and very resolving. Krell is close to me in CT and has top notch customer service!
More to discover