So what's the concensus here? , older krell sound vs the newest krell sound?
Is there Really a difference between a Krell 400xi intergrated amp and the newer Vandgard?
I currently own a Krell 400xi intergrated amp. It has 200 watts a 750k toroidal, balanced inputs, etc. Its very similar to the current vanguard intergrated amp in terms of similar spec's. I would like to know if anyone upgraded and if it was worth it? Is the sound different does it go lower, deeper, more of an open sound stage or should I just consider another route to improve what I already have.
thanks,
thanks,
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First of all, the Vanguard and all their current line is made in the USA! The older s-550 and s-300 and matching CD player were made in China. As for the musicality, the sound is actually improved. I've owned just about everything since the original FPB SERIES came out. I call it exquisite neutrality with world class tonal reproduction. Clarity and resolution is superb and personally, the bass surpasses the quality of the older design in every meaningful way. As for the 400xi for example, it sounds broken compared to the Vanguard. Not sure what you guys are smoking but it must be special. It goes without saying that a great power cables are required, as well as great speakers and source. Many mismatched variables can misdirect your assessment. The Vanguard takes forever to break in and is meant for the 2 channel crowd like me. I use a Krell Cipher and Krell Resolution 2 speakers. Cabling and PC's are MIT ORACLE! Also, the Vanguard is an updated design from the 400xi with a new preamplification stage and more storage capacitance, not a sea change. |
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TAS Krell Vanguard Review TAS Krell Vanguard Review Above are links to Ken Kessler review on Krell Vanguard. In the 1st paragraph, "Made in the ..." So what's the concensus here? , older krell sound vs the newest krell sound?My preference is newest SS. NO CONTEST!!!!! This is golden age of audio where digital = analog and SS = tube to MY ear. |
The Vanguard is made Connecticut, not China. There is nothing wrong with the "voicing" of the Vanguard. It's the best sounding integrated Krell has ever made. While it doesn't have the massive build of the FBI, I'm sorry, it does sound better in EVERY way. It's far more detailed, has a larger soundstage, is much faster, less smear, way less blare and harshness. I repeat, the Vanguard is the best sounding Krell integrated. Some people like to get caught up in specs...but listen to it with open ears. As an aside, I compared my EV900e monos to the new Solo 575 monos. On paper it's no contest, but when you actually listen, the Solo 575 are far more listenable, have even more control in the bass, much more open and effortless. I even have a recording of EVO vs. Solo, no one has not heard the improvement. I assumed the 50k 900e would be hugely better, but if you listen, and put the specs aside for a minute, Krell has moved forward here. Both the Vanguard and the iBias line of amps are their best sounding gear. I'm a dealer, but I'm also a critical, daily listener and user. |
Audiolabyrinth, spoke to Patrick and as I suspected he verified that all product is made in USA now. On the point of expansion to a new facility, that has not taken place yet. Finally, as to the sound....I have owned a vast cross section of Krell gear dating back to the mid 90's and I know that to my ears the new Krell voicing is more musical. Krell has also managed to deliver a clearer, more dynamic and expressive presentation. As for those that will complain about feature set's on an integrated that competes with separates costing many times it's MSRP? Well, I appreciate the exhalted level of sound available from a one box unit that delivers superior performance to just about anything available below $10K. |
jafant - located in ABQ, NM. Operation called Herndon Audio. dave_b - couldn't have said it better, been a Krell dealer since 1994, while each Krell gets better and better, each is state of the art for it's time. That said, the new iBias amps and the new Vanguard integrated are their best yet. They are less smeared, more transparent, have even more control everywhere, more focused and percussive, most musical, and the largest soundstage ever! Krell rules! :-) |