Krell 400xi ? Arcam FMJ 32? Musical Fidelity A5?

I have not heard the Arcam, but I have compared the Krell with the A5, using B&W 805s speakers, Musical Fidelity A5 CD player and Nordost Red Dawn cables.

That setup might not be very fair on the Krell because the A5 is paired with its sister-model CD player while the Krell is auditioned with a different manufacturer's source. And the cables, while being a great match with the warmer-sounding Musical Fidelity equipment, are perhaps a little too lean for the Krell's starker textures.

But even with those excuses made for the Krell, I was surprised that the A5 won the day so easily. For this listener, it was a no-contest. Whether listening to classical or rock, single instruments or bands, acoustic or electronic, the setup using the A5 amp always sounded the more refined, musical and enjoyable. With the Krell in place (and despite the presence of tubes in the CD source), the sound could be relatively brittle, especially with female vocals.

Obviously, my vote went to the A5.

I just went through the get a new amp adventure.
Ended up with a Blue Circle NSCS integrated.
I could not be happier.

I too looked at the Krell and Arcam along with a Mac 6500 and Marantz Reference Series, both much more expensive. I bought the Arcam and really enjoy it. I'm driving NHT 2.9s which are pretty power hungry but the Arcam could care less. Sound is alive, tuneful, dynamic and authoritative.

One great alternative, for the price if you can get one used is the Chord 2600. A fantasic integrated amp.

I have the MF A5 paired with the MF A5 cd player with a pair of the Krell Resolution 3 speakers. It's in a spare room and doesn't see much action. If you decide on the Musical Fidelity and you're interested in purchasing a used one, shoot me an email. I purchased them earlier this year and they have seen very little use. David