Krell KAV-250P - Price negotiable
US made, High-end quality Pre-Amplifier by Krell
Quiet and transparent, with plenty punch. excellent build quality. Works perfectly,
240V model
Specifications:
Frequency response: 5Hz-132KHz+ 0, -3dB
Signal to noise ratio: -105dB
Distortion: < 0.007%THD 20Hz-20KHz
Gain: 12dB (balanced)
Input impedance: 160K ohms
Output impedance: 15 ohms
Current consumption: 35 Watts
Inputs:
1 x balanced XLR connectors 3 x single-ended RCA connectors
1 x tape input RCA
outputs:
1 x balanced XLR - Pre out
1 x single-ended via RCA connectors - Pre out
1 x single-ended tape output via RCA
Dimensions: 48.3 x 8.9 x 39.4 cm
Weight: 5.9 kg
The item being advertised is sold "as is", and no warranty should be assumed unless otherwise indicated and agreed between the Buyer and the Seller. Photos representing the item being advertised form part of the description unless otherwise specified.
### Sound Quality
- Strengths: Exceptionally low noise floor for clear vocals and instruments; fast transient attack; wide soundstage; vivid, articulate presentation; lively and punchy with balanced connections; good mid and low-frequency grip and control.
- Weaknesses: Slightly forward and less euphonic than tube preamps (lacks bloom); acceptable but not precise imaging, especially on dense material; shallower soundstage depth; potential top-end sibilance or harshness at high volumes (often attributed to paired amps like KAV-150a rather than the preamp itself).
### Build Quality
Adequate but not exceptional for the price point; compact design with push-button controls (no rotary volume knob, uses up/down buttons and remote); includes balanced/single-ended inputs/outputs, tape loop, and remote compatibility.
### Reliability
Faultless long-term performance reported, with one user noting five years of flawless operation; described as stable, bomb-proof, and very quiet even in used condition.
### Volume Control
Frequent complaint: Abrupt roll-off at lower volume levels, lacking fine graduation.
### Overall Reputation
Viewed as a solid mid-level preamp that interferes minimally with the signal, ideal for revealing system potential when paired well (e.g., better than KAV-300i pre section); commanding and coherent but less refined than pricier KRC-3; remains desirable used (e.g., $600 offers discussed as worthwhile); positive legacy from 1997 reviews, with recent forums noting it pairs effectively with amps like KSA-200s. No major reliability issues or widespread criticisms in discussions.
This estimate reflects current Australian classifieds on StereoNET, where multiple "excellent condition" units from the same seller in NSW are listed at AUD $1,500 (one reposted recently, another cross-referenced in related ads). International used listings on HiFiShark convert to roughly this range (e.g., €1,590 ≈ AUD $2,700 but SEK 6,000 ≈ AUD $1,050; AUD equivalents cluster lower after shipping/condition adjustments).
Prices vary significantly by condition: excellent/near-mint units hold at AUD $1,500, while lesser condition might drop to AUD $1,200 or below; no new units appear in recent data, as this discontinued model (circa early 2000s) trades only used.
Key factors affecting value:
- Condition and originality: Excellent cosmetic/functional state with original remote and no mods commands premium; lack of receipt noted in listings.
- Location and logistics: Australian sellers (e.g., NSW) offer audition/pickup/shipping, reducing buyer risk vs. imports.
- Market demand: Steady hi-fi classified activity but low volume; Krell brand prestige supports value, though age (robust aluminum build, low distortion specs) tempers it.
- Comparables: Similar vintage Krell amps list AUD $5,000+, but preamps like this are niche/lower-powered.
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