quiet hiss in backround?

it does bother me. i would describe it as a hiss, not a hum so by your post it is a gain issue? i don't see how i could adjust gain on this amplifier...

No I can't say it's a gain issue definitively but it might be. Gain may be adjustable internally which is the case with mine. Call Krell and ask them if they have any insight and if the gain is adjustable and try it.

I would be asking myself a few additional questions: Has it always done this? Did my old equipment hiss? When did I first notice it? Did anything change that might have caused it? Is it definitely the amp (i.e. turn everything else off, try different cables, single ended, balanced, speakers, etc.- borrow them from a store or a friend)? If it is definitely the amp and it's not affected by cables or speakers then I'd be talking to Krell.

thanks mike. it has always done this and i remember a few years ago i discussed it with some guys who are much more knowledgeable than i (they worked in a high end shop here) they said it was normal. i sort of let it go but as i started thinking about it again, i figured this would be a good topic. almost certain it is the amp as i have had different cables on both and it has always been there. i do think it is worth an email to krell.

If that is the case another amp may be in the cards for you.

not on my current budget! the flip side mike, my stuff really sounds outstanding. it really troubles me that i often want better because it truly is amazing what my setup will do. i recently dove into sacd and it showed me once more how it will perform if fed properly. just special and gives me much gratitude...

thanks again for jumping in my thread and helping out.