Is there Really a difference between a Krell 400xi intergrated amp and the newer Vandgard?

Does the vanguard have cast connections? 

I'm considering getting a vanguard to build a second system around,  does the vanguard come with tape loop like the kav 300 I?

Does the digital module model have cast connections? , or maybe I can get my friends at krell to make a cast model for me. 

Really! , there is no tape loop or any thing like a tape loop on the vanguard when all past krell integrated's  had one,  I'm a huge krell fan, I  own krell now,  if the vanguard doesn't  have what's mentioned here,  than I may not be willing to use a vanguard,  to bad! 

I  believe I  will call my personal friend Patrick Bresnahan's personal cell phone and talk with him about this vanguard,  and see what modds are possible that can be done with the vanguard.

I finally talked to Patrick Bresnahan at krell,  he said the departed x president bill Mckeagan is what happened to the vanguard,  no pre-amp out,  no tape loop,  and ahh, the terrible voicing! , Bill did all this to attempt to save money and bill had the vanguard made in China! , my opinion,  what a way to shoot your self in the foot,  didn't save money,  promoted a lack of sales, and more than any thing,  no long term ownership! , have all of you seen the vanguard on the used market? , LOL!, there is no modification available! 

So what's the concensus here? , older krell sound vs the newest krell sound? 

Research was thoroughly done! 

Hi knghifi,  I have no idea why Patrick Bresnahan told me that the vanguard is made in China, unless likely it is! , I am assuming that krell could have made a few units in USA,  then moved some production to China,  all I know is Patrick told me very clearly on the phone where it is made now. 

Dave b,  the new facility at krell never materialized! , go ahead, call Patrick,  he will tell you the same,  all of it!