Krell KRC 2 – High End Stereo Equipment We Buy

Krell is one of the most dependable brand names when it comes to high-end audio systems. For years the brand has been recognized by audiophiles throughout the world as equipment that delivers clear and consistent quality in music.

What are the specs for the Krell KRC 2?

Frequency response:
0.2Hz–400kHz +0, –—dB
Distortion:
lower than 0.002%, –94dB, 20Hz–20kHz
S/N ratio:
95dB
Dimensions:
19" W by 2.5" H by 14.5" D

What else to know about the Krell KRC 2?

"Considered as a complete moving-coil–equipped preamplifier, the KRC-2/KPE combination is quite expensive at $4595. At this price, high standards are expected; by and large, the KRC-2 meets them, even closely approaching the performance of its bigger brother, the KRC. I liked the convenience of remote-control operation; after initial misgivings, I found the volume control's action and range to be effective. I also liked the remote polarity-invert switch, and found myself using it more often than expected. I also liked the KRC-2 for its ability to handle signal sources and amplifier loads in balanced or unbalanced formats—this greatly aided the review comparisons. Given that the KRC-2 is fully balanced internally, it was nice to hear that it gave a very similar performance in either mode. (I feel strongly that if balanced design is promoted as a virtue, then the relevant equipment should still be fully effective in an unbalanced environment, if so required.) Where the KRC-2 falls down—but oh, so gently—is in the matter of its line-input overload margin. At a nominal CD-player output level of 2V, the KRC-2 reaches a threshold, with increased limiting and low harmonic-order distortion becoming apparent above this level. To get the very best from a KRC-2, therefore, do not go above a 5V input signal level (±5V balanced). A simple line attenuator can be used for sources offering higher maximum signal levels (footnote 4). This caution aside, I found the KRC-2 to be a well-balanced performer: neutral, reliable, satisfying, and capable of inspiring confidence. Musically, it approaches the Class A performance of the KRC; it can therefore be included in that handful of state-of-the-art preamplifiers costing between $5000 and $10,000. And, as one of the least expensive designs in this group, it is an easy recommendation. Don't expect the KRC-2 to grab you by the throat; rather, settle back and let its soundly balanced performance convince you that sonic fireworks are unnecessary for long-term owner satisfaction." - Stereophile

Brief History of McIntosh

Long mapped-to Binghamton New York – the current headquarters and manufacturing center for Krell Labs – not many people know the brand was originally launched outside of the Nation’s Capital in Silver Spring Maryland, in 1949. In 1956, the brand built their original facility in New York, according to the official brand website.

StereoBuyers has purchased tens of thousands worth Krell brand equipment since 2014, with individual buys ranging from $100 to well over $50,000. If you are moving, ready to upgrade, or have Krell equipment you do not or will not be using, why not contact us today to find out if it is worth good money?

If you are interested in selling your used Krell equipment to us in the greater NYC area or Colorado, please click here to fill out a Free Quote Form and we will get back to you. If we agree on terms, we come to meet you where you want, and pay cash.

The following images show actual Krell equipment purchased by StereoBuyers.