Krell in general is bright. Not shocked it is the amp. At 25 years old, all sorts of things could be deteriorating including the caps in the power supply. You could take the Krell in for a good refurbishing and that might solve your problem. Alternatively, a new amp will work.
Lots of choices. If the Marantz sounded good, Marantz has a series of very good integrated amps that are modestly priced that will likely deliver on what you want/need.
The new Marantz Model 30 is $2500. Alternatively, a used PM 14s1 would be wonderful. I would have to check if the Model 30 is made in China, the PM14s1 was made in Japan.
If the Marantz was better but you still wanted more in terms of brightness, I would look at Musical Fidelity if made in Taiwan (not part of China, sort of) is Okay. The M6si is a brilliant integrated amp.
For made in the USA, the PS Audio Stellar Strata would likely be a good option and PS Audio will take your Krell as is on trade vs. it.
I am sure there are others that will work wonderfully. Good luck
Lots of choices. If the Marantz sounded good, Marantz has a series of very good integrated amps that are modestly priced that will likely deliver on what you want/need.
The new Marantz Model 30 is $2500. Alternatively, a used PM 14s1 would be wonderful. I would have to check if the Model 30 is made in China, the PM14s1 was made in Japan.
If the Marantz was better but you still wanted more in terms of brightness, I would look at Musical Fidelity if made in Taiwan (not part of China, sort of) is Okay. The M6si is a brilliant integrated amp.
For made in the USA, the PS Audio Stellar Strata would likely be a good option and PS Audio will take your Krell as is on trade vs. it.
I am sure there are others that will work wonderfully. Good luck