Krell KSA-200 Should I Or Shouldn’t I?


I have just seen a 220V Krell KSA-200 in great shape and for a good price. I Have always wanted to own a Krell power amp. However, I am concerned this is a +10 year old amplifier that, by definition, has been running very hot (class A operation). My question is; if I buy a +10 year old KSA-200 what problems should I expect? How reliable has your KSA-200 been over the years?

Regards,

Marcus
mgattmch
Yo Marcus,
Not unless you are planning to have it changed over to 120 volt operation at the factory and the price is good enough that you can afford to add that cost and still be well under the going price. I don't recommend trying to run it on USA 240 volts because it won't work.
A friend of mine has a KSA-200S and I've listened to it for many hours. It has an nice wide and deep soundstage with great dynamics and bass. To my ear, it sounds a bit fatiguing in the mids and on top.
Reliability is not a problem. They don't break.
I like the newest generation Krells (FPB-XXX-CX's) alot better.
I owned a KSA-200 in the early 90's. It was without a doubt one of the best amps I have ever owned. The sound with my meticulously positioned pair of Apogee Duettas made grown men cry. My amp began to trip shut and I called Krell for repairs. They knew immediately what the problem was (some sort of faulty switch I believe). Not only did they fix it but also paid for the air freight (quite expensive for this behemoth) and returned it to me within one week. I was, and remain, in awe of what I consider the last of the great Krells. If that kind of service still holds true than you have a winner. The KMA series was a mono version of the KSA. You simply purchased another KSA and the factory would modify the two for mono (free of charge of course). The biggest problem you will encounter is lugging the beast around. Remember, the Krell is pure class A and drinks electricity like anything. It sounds best if it is left on for at least 24 hours so you should plan on having your electric bill go up. No matter what the reviewers say, frankly I am not impressed with the newer Krells - but the old KSA Aaaah now there was a power amp !!!!
Until recently I owned a Krell 200S. I absolutely loved it. I am now upgrading to FPB 600c. I was so emotionally attached to it that I had a hard time parting with it. Everything on it was great Bass, Mids, Trebles, soundstage etc.. I don't have the 600c yet so I can't compare. The only thing I can tell you is that I read that Nelson Pass suggested that caps are only good for 10 years after that their sound is somewhat compromised. To keep the best sound replace the caps every 10 years. If this unit hasn't been serviced it may be wise to get that done before you recieve the unit by Krell service dept., which incidently is getting harder to get in touch with.