IMO you should consider Krell S-300i instead of 400xi, esp with Thiels. S-300i has more resolution, more texture, and is significantly warmer sounding.
Should I trade-up from my Krell KAV 300?
My system is a Krell KAV 300, Meridian G08, and Thiel 2.3 speakers. My interconnects are Creative Cable (Music Direct used to sell them for $375). My speaker cables are Synergistic Research (about) $500. My room is small and I listen at relatively low levels, mostly classical piano, some symphonies.
Should I invest in a used Krell KAV 400 or instead invest in better interconnects or speaker cables?
Thanks for your help.
Should I invest in a used Krell KAV 400 or instead invest in better interconnects or speaker cables?
Thanks for your help.
Showing 4 responses by elberoth2
On paper, 400xi may look more attractive, I agree. But if you put them side by side - S-300i is much bigger, much heavier, the power transformer itself is bigger in size. I wouldn't be surprised if the S-300i turned out to be the one with greater current capabilities. Not to mention it is much more advanced in terms of features. |
Completely from memory, I believe the toroid in the 400xi is very slightly larger than the S300i (800va vs 750va or something like that.) I have double checked, and found out that transformer sizes/ratings are as follows: KAV-300i - 450VA/13cm Pic 1 KAV-300iL/400xi - 750VA/17cm Pic 2 S-300i - 750VA/18cm (for those not familiar with metric system, 2,5cm = 1 inch) The S-300i looks to be much bigger in size than the one used in 400xi 'cos it is potted. If we adjust the size for the extra size of the pot (1cm extra), the transformers may well be identical. |