Amps.. Is Odyssey worth it?


Is the Khartargo or the Stratos worth it??

norge0517

To soix,

I have shared my negative experience with Odyssey products more than a few times when there have been forum topic questions about Odyssey. I did this because, again, my encounters and experiences are as valid as anyone else. When this has happened (just like in this thread) people who like Klaus and his products share a positive experience and many come to his defense as if he is getting attacked. This, in my opinion, has created more sales and interest for Odyssey Audio, not less. The fact is that I have not damaged his reputation, I have helped it. Something to think about…

For me, Klaus was easy to reach (so much so that I was initially confused!) He was very patient with me and all of my questions. He asked a lot of questions about my system, what I listen to, my room, etc. He actually recommended I buy something less expensive from him than I was originally thinking about! When I called a third time to explain with embarrassment that due to things in my personal life I would not be purchasing a pwr. amp, after all the time he had spent with me Klaus remained polite and even gave me a few tips before the call ended.

None of us is perfect; Klaus is a mensch (that’s Yiddish, and a very high compliment).     

Are they worth it - meaning - Are they a good buy, sound quality for the cost? 

Yes definitely.  In this relatively expensive high-end audio hobby there are very few sonic bargains aka fantastic performance/price.  Odyssey is one of them.  They're so good that Alon at Magico (one of the best speaker brand commonly matched with top electronics) occasionally uses them.

I have a Khartego with Kismet boards and upgraded caps, a Candela, and a Suspiro phono pre. When I got the Khartego, there was a problem. I sent it back and it was fixed and sent back in short order.

I am impressed by the quality of the products and the level of service.

I have been doing this for a long time and have both owned and listened to a lot of equipment. I think it you would be hard-pressed to find anything better for anywhere near the price! My Odyssey pieces aren't going anywhere, and I have absolutely no urge to upgrade.

As an added bonus, talking with Klaus is a hoot!

I've had the pleasure of doing business with Klaus at Odyssey and it's always been a pleasure.  When I was having trouble finding something that would drive some modded Magnepan speakers someone mentioned Klaus so I  called him.  Apparently others had already had the same issue and he gave me several options with various costs.  I chose some Kismet in Stratos cases for an absolute fantastic price and he guaranteed that they would have no problem driving the Maggie's.  When I heard of the parts he had planned to use being sourced from Symphonic Line, I couldn't refuse.  And I wasn't disappointed.  Everything I was missing from the system came to life after trying several amp and preamp combos.  Since the initial purchase I've had an issue that Klaus fixed with no problem and no cost to me.  I've also sent them in for some upgrades and was very happy when they were returned.  I truly believe some people may shy away from his products because of the low cost but his amps compete with equipment costing 2 and 3 times the price.  I have talked to Klaus recently and there are some new plans in the works for a design that sounds very interesting.  Many years I've known the man and never have I had nothing but pleasant and informative conversations.