2. amps-preamps
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Krell Stereo vs Mono

Hey there. I am looking for opinions on the following. I am seriously considering Krell for my front two channel amplification. I currently run Dynaudio Confidence 2s, with a planned upgrade to the Evidence Temptations sometime either later this year, or next year.

My budget will allow the following -- either a FPB700CX, or FPB-350mcx. Which would be the preference? I am buying new, but my dealer only has the big stereo and the big monos on display. I *might* be able to stretch into the FPB-450mcx (assuming there is a nice discount involved), would that make a difference in your recommendation?

Current equipment is as follows:
Lexicon MC-12B
ATI 3007
Denon 5900

Room is 12 x 14 x 10, with some basic treatments. I am probably 80% home theater, but have started listening to more music since my gear got better. I listen to every type of music, but my favorite genre is probably rock -- everything from pop rock to alternative to hard.

I am generally happy with the way that the ATI sounds, although when listening to two-channel direct, it sounds strained at high volume. And this is not going to get any better when I change to Ev Temps, which are harder to drive still.

I am considering other amps, but I have heard the Dyn/Krell combo a lot, and am very happy with the way that it sounds. I would consider used, but warranty is very important to me, so that limits me to what, Bryston and Pass Labs that still have transferrable warranties?

Thanks for your input --

Blake
ablakeg

Showing 2 responses by drrdiamond

drrdiamond
671 posts
 
If possible, I would really try to go to the 450cx.

1. It and the 700cx have the newest Krell technology

2. With the size of your room, you will never really need that much power and the sonic advantage of monoblocks will be more prevalent.

3. Moving around the 700 is MUCH more difficult that the monoblocks. And should you ever have to ship them back to Krell, it will be easier.

Richard
drrdiamond
671 posts
 
The reason that I didn't mention the 350x's, is that they are based on the old 250 amps, which were not in the same league as the old 350 and 650.

That said, I heard Dan D'Agostino demonstrate his new speaker line using the FPB350mcx's. The sound was fabulous. (...especially on the small and the big ones. I was disappointed in the middle one.)

I don't know if that helps.

Richard
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