MOON I-5 versus KRELL KAV 400XI

You may want to also have a look at the new Moon i5.3, which is considered as the replacement of the i-5. It has better bass, more dynamics, incredible layering and 3-dimensionality. Although I agree the new Krell 400 integrated is not cold, it is IMO nonetheless analytical and lacking in musicality compared to the i5.3. Perhaps this also explains why the Krell, although almost three times as powerful, is less expensive than the Moon. A look inside each machine shows the Moon has having more circuitry and a larger power supply, despite its lower power rating. However, in terms of power output on paper, the Krell wins, but you could barely tell that unless your speakers are very power hungry. I recommend you listen to the i5.3 before you make your final decision, but all these integrateds are good choices anyways.

Dspraglow ... just a small correction. I'm not saying that I agree or disagree with your assessment of the Moon i5.3 vs Krell KAV-400xi, but it is not true that the i5.3 has a larger tranformer than the Krell. The Moon i5.3 has a 500VA transformer whereas the Krell KAV-400xi has a 800VA transformer. In relation to their output power the Moon's transformer would be bigger, but your statement says that the Moon's transformer is larger "...despite its lower power rating". This is not incorrect, so I just thought that people should know the actual sizes if this in any way influences their possible purchase decision.

I agree that they both would be good pieces. It quite often comes down to purely personal preference and $$$.

If it was me, I'd definitely consider the Bel Canto S300i or S300iu (if you want the USB DAC option). But, of course, I'm biased being a Bel Canto dealer, so you can take that with a grain of salt. As another disclosure, I used to be a Krell dealer and am very familiar with the 400xi.