Arcam AV8, Krell Showcase or Aragon Stage One

I would take the Krell over any that you mentioned even the Lexicon.. Sounds better..On the suface it is not as flexible..It is though and most people do not need 90 dsp modes 4 would be enough..With a URC 800 Remote the Krell works flawlessly and intergrates seamlessly..Tom

I concur w/ Theaudiotweak. For A/V, Krell still rules.
Tim

I would rate them basically the same way you have them written. Arcam first, Krell a very close second, and the Aragon 10th or 11th (i.e., not anywhere close to being in the same league as the other two). The Arcam and Krell both provide excellent Home Theater playback in Dolby Digital (might give a slight edge to the Krell). For music, the Arcam is a little more clean sounding while the Krell has a more "tubey" sound to it. The Krell sounds very similar to a Conrad Johnson pre-amp to me.

I have personally owned the Aragon and would not recommend it. Dolby Digital is nowhere near as clear as the other two and 2 channel/multi-channel analog passthrough is cloudy with a slight bass emphasis.

Hope that helps.

Julian

Julian, very helpful response, I appreciate it! I went ahead and bought the Arcam AV8. Do you have any thoughts about a good multi-channel amp to pair with it? I was looking at ATI amps, and it seems like the price/performance ratio is quite high. Your suggestions would be welcome.

I have to disagree with Sedona_sky_sound. I have owned ARCAM NAD ROTEL ANTHEM and ARAGON processors. In terms of sound quality there is not doubt in my mind that the Aragon stage one is superior to most of the competition especially for two channel playback. Its definitely a reference component in every way and after spending months with seven processors I have come to the conclusion that the stage one given the heavily discounted prices is the way to go.