The
Krell name has always been synonymous with glorious overdesign, and its new Evolution 707 preamp/processor won't spoil that rep. Inputs (including four HDMI 1.3) are routed through to 12 outputs, each with single-ended and balanced taps. Sounds like a lot, but once you factor in the two center channel and four subwoofer outputs, it somehow doesn't sound as extreme as 8.4-channels might otherwise. Naturally, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA are supported, and there's a processing bypass mode for those who want to do the "straight wire with gain" thing. Video specs aren't skimpy, either -- a maximum color depth of 48 bits, 340 MHz bandwidth, and upconverting to 1080p are all onboard. The linked post indicates the unit is nearly 10-feet tall. Sounds like a typo to us, but this is Krell we're dealing with! Tipping the scales at 50-pounds, you'll pay $600 per pound to take this beast home.
posted Jun 13th 2008 11:59AM
10 FEET???
Reminds me of the Spinal Tap "Stonehenge" scene.
My receiver, a Sony STR-DA5300ES, has 6 HDMI 1.3 inputs. All of which are used. Plugged into them (presently) are a satellite receiver, an XBox360, a PS3, a Mac (as media librarian), a unscaling DVD player, and an Accurian HDTV Receiver. HDMI output goes to a DLP projector. In addition, the Sony has lots of component, SVHS and composite inputs, not to mention optical and coaxial audio and a special input for iPods. And a separate PIP input. All this for about $1500.
Looks to me like Krell isn't putting effort into the right part of the design. I mean, really, if they want to tempt me, they're going to have to at least outdo the mundane consumer rigs in input flexibility. Four inputs just doesn't cut it. Offer nine, or even twelve (and dual or triple independent HDMI outputs), and they'd have my attention -- and my money.
How long before something comes out that makes me want more inputs than six? A hi-def security DVR, or an HDMI radio or other audio source, or a handheld camera that just begs for a handy, front panel HDMI input?
For those of you who have struggled with switchers, you know that a well integrated input that your remote understands and gives direct random access to is far preferable to an array of outboard multiplex hardware.
Seriously... manufacturers, hi-end doesn't just mean more channels. Enable me. Add features and flexibility. Maybe even add some front panel controls so I don't spend my entire life wading around in menu hell. C'mon. I DARE you.
@Ben
The number of inputs and channels aren't really their selling points. Companies like Krell focus on best signal to noise ratios, lowest distortion, and more and more power. Extra inputs and channels are the sizzle, while a cleaner signal path and more power are the steak. There really isn't much of a market for more than 4 HDMI inputs in the high end. High end installations either run direct feeds, use a switcher, or more popularly bypass using HDMI all together.
Hey guys here the pdf of krell 707 btw is not 10ft tall. krellhttp://www.krellonline.com/new_pdfs/EVO_707/0190_025_BRO.pdf
I don't want a receiver the size of a car. I want a subwoofer the size of a car. now.
This is preposterous, at 30 thousand dollars it is 30 times the cost of other brands that offer nearly the exact same feature set. I'm all for top quality audio and video but it can be done cheaper and better. Period.
Makes me wonder this, not to be holier than thou about stuff.. and i'm a staunch capitalist.. however... there are so many much more important things and people that need financial support. You can't take it with you.
I rob myself of innocence
With the poison of indifference
I buy my stuff at any cost
A couple of click and I pay the price
'cause what I gain is someone else's loss
The Processing chips are very cheap, but they are limited by analog output stage. So in that vane, audio grade output transistors aren't cheap. Large Toriodial transformers aren't cheap. Solid aluminum chassis for heat transfer aren't cheap. How about durable RCA connectors or building a full dual differential design? I'm not arguing that its a bargin, but virtually all Dolby TruHD, DTS-MA receivers don't sound as good as Krell's Dolby Digital 5.1 rigs.
Power trumps processing everyday of the week.