Best older Krell integrated amp that sounds good?


I have looked at several "USED" integrated amps, and found the Krell KAV 400Xi gets high marks from reviewers. However this unit was first marketed in 2006-2007, which raises the issue with why bother with an older design, that was replaced 3 years later. KAV-400Xi packs a wallop of power at 200RMS. My concern is: will it be equal to or exceed the performance my Red Dragon M-500 digital mono blocks. I am getting tired of all the separate boxes, and want to make the system simple. I have seen a few KAV 400Xi on AG, but the sellers were asking for too much money. Maybe, I am wrong but the "blue book" price on this amp( VG used) is about $1200.

Of course, my other option is to look at some of the newer integrateds on the markets at or under 1500. But i am looking for quality sound without reaching for A PASS, ARC, Rowlands integrated. My system is not in that league.
sunnyjim

Showing 2 responses by rrog

"Best older Krell integrated amp that sounds good."

Jim, This is an oxymoron. If you want a good sounding Krell amplifier you will have to buy the type of amplifier they earned their reputation with and it was not an audio/video integrated.

If you buy a Pass, ARC or Rowland you system WILL be in that league.
Have you considered a vintage integrated? There are some really nice sounding amps out there designed by people like Nelson Pass and the same people that designed Accuphase. They sell for a very reasonable price.