Dev,
My system is for CD playback only. I use a Marantz SA-11S2 player. Although the Kraft has a balanced input it is just connected single-ended inside. Hope that makes sense? So, when using the ARC Ref 3, you don't get the benefit of the 12 db of gain in balanced mode. Instead, you get 6db of gain, along with an output impedance that is too high to drive the Kraft amp.
The net of this is the sound lacks weight and hiss was intrusive at low level listening. At least that was my experience.
The ARC Ref 3 is a phenomenal product, but was not a optimal match with the Kraft amp for my ears. I reluctantly sold it.
I have no experience with Karan and cannot comment.
Good luck,
Jay
My system is for CD playback only. I use a Marantz SA-11S2 player. Although the Kraft has a balanced input it is just connected single-ended inside. Hope that makes sense? So, when using the ARC Ref 3, you don't get the benefit of the 12 db of gain in balanced mode. Instead, you get 6db of gain, along with an output impedance that is too high to drive the Kraft amp.
The net of this is the sound lacks weight and hiss was intrusive at low level listening. At least that was my experience.
The ARC Ref 3 is a phenomenal product, but was not a optimal match with the Kraft amp for my ears. I reluctantly sold it.
I have no experience with Karan and cannot comment.
Good luck,
Jay