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Classe SSP 800 vs. Krell S-1200

Desperately need opinions as to which of these two fine processors would be the most enjoyable to own from a multi channel audio standpoint as well as enhancing stereo cd's. The video aspect is not important to me at the moment. I want the best sounding unit. Any users out there? Also and this is very important to me; will both units decode sacd data derived from a universal transport such as the Oppo's without downconverting? Kr4 will know the answer.. Thanks.
4425
9 responses Add your response
4425 OP
861 posts
 
Decided on Classe. Can't find a negative word about Classe anywhere.
lrsky
1,118 posts
 
Classe's circuitry is almost always smoother sounding to me. Repeat, to me. I really can't explain why...and I know it seems that I give Krell a shot every time it comes up.
Classe is very smoothe and musical sounding in all areas of their product offerings.

Good listening,

Larry
sacman
125 posts
 
I went through a lot of processors (classe ssp20, theta casanova, cal ssp2500, krell hts7.1) over the last 15 years and I'm really impressed by the clarity, transparency and dac section of Krell. However, since the departure of Dan Agostino, Krell reliability has gone down big time. Having said that, if you dont own any Krell gears, go with Classe.
4425 OP
861 posts
 
The "preview" screen on the Classe puts it over the top for me. Won't need a TV to navigate software menus. My goal is for hi rez multi channel audio and enhanced stereo.
audiojan's avatar
audiojan
402 posts
 
The Krell is neutral and the Classe is well... neutral.

Seriously, both are excellent. Only you can make a determination which one sounds best to you with your surrounding equipment (sources, amps, speakers, cables, etc.)
4425 OP
861 posts
 
I was hopeful for some insights. Difficult to know which will ultimately be the most satisfying to a traditional two channel audiophiles.I was expecting to hear that the Krell is bright and the Classe dark etc.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,678 posts
 
You don't really expect a definitive answer to that question, do you?

Kal
4425 OP
861 posts
 
Come on guys. Which sounds better? Video secondary to me.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,678 posts
 
Depends on your question, of course, but I have no knowledge of the Krell. The current Classe and the Krell 707 will not downsample PCM, afaik, but they will not accept DSD. I do not know about the 1900.
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