2. amps-preamps
  3. 1131137130

Did I make a mistake buying Krell?

I was in search of a nice integrated amp that I could keep around for a long time. I got a good deal on a Krell KAV-300i, so I made a command decision to buy it.

I haven't hooked it up yet but I'm second guessing if it was the right decision. My equipment that will be used with the Krell: EAD-2000 cdp and Klipsch KLF-20 & Chorus II speakers (99db & 101db sensitivity respectively). The Klipsch speaker crossovers have upgraded resistors and caps and I can honestly say they don't sound bright and forward anymore. I would describe the sound right now as much warmer and alot less forward than before.

My question to you folks is:
1. Is Krell a good match for my existing set up?
2. What is the Krell sound?
3. If Krell isn't a good match, what would be better in the $1000-$1500 used range?

Thanks,
Mike
vman71
audioari1
128 posts
 
if you want the best integrated amp, then you should check out the DK Design Group vs-1 reference
krellm7
163 posts
 
Let the krell warm up for a few days, it may have been off for months. I am not trying to bash your Sunfire but I had A Cinema Grand amp & it was cold & bright sounding.
In no way did it sound better than the Krell.
But if you like it better than it is better(for you).
I have owned many klipsch in my time Heresy,KG3.5,KG5.5,Chorus,KLF 30's you will never hear them until you put a tube amp on them. That is what they are designed for, do your self a favor pick up a tube intergrated on the Gon you will never go back trust me.
phd
1,307 posts
 
It is my opinion when purchasing a pair of speakers you are laying the foundation to hopefully a very good system. Most of your dollars should go there and matching other components are critical. When reading other peoples reviews on amps the first thing I would look at is what type of speakers are being used in this review. Personal preferences will of course prevail as some audiophiles like a more extended (brighter), accurate sound, others prefer a warmer musical sound. A general opinion can be formed as to what amps sound good with a particular brand of speakers but regardless which sound is prefered in the end, it would have to have the refinements usually associated with quality gear in my opinion. Finally, transparency, a soundstage that is both large and deep are high on my list as well.
matrix
305 posts
 
I tried a sunfire as well, 2 channel something around 2300.00 price... I hated it, very cold sounding definatly, however carver and sunfire always makes pretty good preamps... With klipsch I heard the sunfire and it was the worst mix.
vman71 OP
218 posts
 
Okay, I'll spend a little more time with the Krell and let it settle in to it's new environment. I'm stuck with the Klipsch speakers, so I need to give the Krell a fair trail. If I don't like the Krell and sell it, I'll try a tube integrated.

I ended up buying an integrated because I knew that there was better out there. I'm keeping the Sunfire combo for HT and the integrated is for 2 channel only.

I will agree Krellm7, I'm hearing alot more accuracy with the Krell than I ever did with the Sunfire.
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