Krell Duo 175xd


Just got the Krell amp about two weeks ago. I was debating between it and the Coda 8 (as well as some others).  A local dealer, in fact, was nice enough to lend me a new Macintosh amp for a few days.  I was unable to audition the Krell or Coda locally and relied on recommendations, in this case primarily from the “Audio Doctor” Dave Lalin. Dave has always given me good advice and has a very good ear, although he’s about 3000 miles away from me. He had great things to say about both amps. 
There have been many posts on this board from happy Coda customers but not much about the Krell.  Dave felt that the Krell would sound better in my system (Kef Reference 5 speakers, Innuous zenith 3, Audio Research LS22 preamp, PH 3 phono stage, Rega P6 with Dynavector cartridge), especially because I’m replacing an Audio Research VT130se amp. He thought the Krell was closer sound wise to the amp I’m used to. He also had the CEO of Krell call me to answer any questions, which was really  helpful. So far, the Krell is sounding very good. The best I can put in words is that it has more “slam” than other amps I’ve heard. Notes are more dynamic and sharply defined. The soundstage and imaging, which is what I like best about the KEF speakers, are very good.  It does cost more than the Coda but I see this as a very long term purchase.  I would love to compare the Krell with the Coda but I don’t see that happening. 
I know that Dave posts here frequently, which some like and some don’t. His advice to me has been very good (to the point where I bought the amp without an opportunity to see or hear it). He also recommended the Innuous Zenith 3, which I love for both the sound and the functionality. I also value the advice he provides here to others, which often helps me and is very thoughtful .  Not surprisingly, he often favors products which he sells but I’m fine with this as long as he is up front about it, which he is. Don’t want to open any controversies. Just my opinions. 
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Showing 2 responses by audiotroy

Steven it was a pleasure as always, we have compared the Krell to the Coda, one of our clients got the Coda .8 a few months back. 

These are two fantastic power amplifiers, the Krell is a bit more liquid and has a lot of the flow of a tube amp. The Coda is a bit more omph in the bass but does not have as rich of a presentation as the krell both amplifiers are super musical, the Coda is a bit more clean overall the Krell a bit lusher.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
Bingo, both are great and both represent tremendous performance and value. 

Oem your best bet would be to upgrade you Parasound preamp the JC 2 is good but there are a ton of superior preamps, 

Please call if you want to discuss a huge preamp upgrade.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ