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Electrocompaniet vs Krell vs Musical Fidelity

Dearest audiogoners,

It's time for me to choose a digital source for my system. I'm picking between Electrocompaniet, Krell, and Musical Fidelity. Those brands sound nothing alike, that much I know. I'm interested in the EC because I'm using the ECI-3 integrated amp, and I think the synergy would be great. I'm interested in the Krell KAV-280cd because like the EC gear, it's balanced, and it might make for a good spark in my otherwise very romantic but not-so-detailed system. I'm looking at the Musical Fidelity A308cd and A3.2cd because it's the only brand that I can really audition where I live. Not much else is available that I'm interested in. Any thoughts?

Thanks!
128x128lousyreeds1
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
IMO, the ECD-1 sounds better than the EMC-1UP. Both have a reverberant, warm quality that results from insufficient power delivery, really strange digital circuit design and S/PDIF not matched to 75 ohms. For a stock component, the ECD-1 is one of the best. These things as well as the lack of detail can be remedied with mods.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Manufacturer
theodor648f
1 posts
 
I'm norwegian my self, and all my friends have Electrocompaniet products. I think they kick ass! =)
I've heard Thule, mcintosh and some other amps before.
But EC are by far the best amps when it comes to clearity and "sound picture". It might not have the "punch" as other amps.. but I like it that way.

Check out SEAS Thor speakers. They sound great with ECI5 or AW220. :)
teajay
1,697 posts
 
My girlfriend's system is composed of the ECI-3 and a EMC-1UP driving a pair of MG1.6s and its sounds terrific.She tried other CDP but loved the sound of the two EC pieces together. I cannot and will not argue with Steve over "circuit design" but no way the ECI-1 sounds better over the EMC-1UP.The EMC-1UP is still one of the best sounding players around for under 10000.00.I often refer to the Electrocompaniet stuff as solidstate for tube lovers.Both my girlfriend and I found the Musical Fidelity pieces not a good match in her system.Hope this helps. Good luck in your audtions.
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