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Conrad Johnson, Krell, Creek integrated amp??

I have eliminated my integrated search down to approx 3 units: Conrad Johnson CA-200; the Krell S-300i; Creek Destiny 2. The Creek and Krell are in $2500 price range. The CJ retails for about $6600. However, I am aiming or hoping to buy used. I have the Creek SE5350 Classic which is very good, but I want to make a major improvement in sound quality. Unfortunately, there are no CJ dealers in my state to audition the CA-200 I heard the Krell briefly but with no solid impression. I have read a few comments about it having some electronic problems. The Creek Destiny 2 is a strong choice, but I have not heard it and only read reviews on the original Destiny........ All advice welcomed. Thank you, Jim
sunnyjim

Showing 2 responses by elberoth2

elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
I have S300i in my second system. No problems at all. A great integrated.
elberoth2's avatar
elberoth2
1,223 posts
 
But I still feel the S300i falls short of the old 400i, which is better in my opinion all the way around. It (400i) will be a bit smoother, better soundstanging and in my experience a bit more pleasant overall.

I stronly disagree. Before I got my S300i, I had a 400xi. In fact, for a period of time, I had BOTH amps at the same time.

From my experience with both, S300i is noticably smoother, more liquid sounding, has much better resolution and low level details and soundstage is much deeper.

In direct comparision 400xi sounds almost forced, but also, at the same time, hits harder and seems to have a better control over the speaker.

Both amps sound their best after beeing powered on for at least 24h.
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