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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 1 response by nrchy

nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,124 posts
 
I have never owned a Pass Labs amp, but I am a big fan of their amps. Nelson Pass has come up with a great SS design in the new X-series, and they look better than the old ones FWIW.

I own the Krell FPB 700cx and am just amazed by the power, which I expected, and by the midrange/treble, which I did not expect. Their reputation is for solid, strong bass, but the midrange is smooth and clear, treble is extended, and anything but shrill. I am very happy with it. I have never owned the monoblocks, but it would be easy to imagine that seperate cabinets, and greater isolation could only help. I can't imagine how much better it could sound than my 700 though. As I'm sure you know Krell does not have a transferable warranty.

You don't need monoblocks for good sound, but monoblocks would certainly have greater potential.
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