KAV-500 vs Bryston 9B-ST
The 9B-ST's power @ 8ω is 120W against the KAV-500's 100W, its signal-to-noise 110 dB against 121 dB, and its thd 0.010% against 0.030%. Both share power @ 4ω (200W).
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The Krell KAV-500 is a high-end, modular multi-channel power amplifier produced from 1995-1999, renowned for its robust build and accurate sound reproduction in home theater setups. It features a single massive power supply supporting all channels, with expandable configurations starting from 2 channels at $3,000 and adding $500 per additional channel up to 5 channels. Each channel provides 100W into 8 ohms (5-channel mode) or 120W into 8 ohms (stereo mode), doubling to 200W into 4 ohms, and supports bridging two adjacent channels for 400W mono. It includes balanced and single-ended inputs, gain switches, a 12V trigger, and a 1000VA transformer for reliable performance. Praised for detailed, dynamic sound but considered premium-priced, it powers demanding speakers effectively. No longer in production, used units sell for $1,200-$2,000.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The 9B-ST's power @ 8ω is 120W against the KAV-500's 100W, its signal-to-noise 110 dB against 121 dB, and its thd 0.010% against 0.030%. Both share power @ 4ω (200W).
The BasX A11's power @ 8ω is 105W against the KAV-500's 100W, its signal-to-noise 115 dB against 121 dB, its power @ 4ω 140W against 200W, and its thd 0.100% against 0.030%.
The HCA-1205A's power @ 8ω is 140W against the KAV-500's 100W and its signal-to-noise 117 dB against 121 dB. Both share power @ 4ω (200W) and thd (0.030%).
The M25's power @ 8ω is 160W against the KAV-500's 100W, its signal-to-noise 118 dB against 121 dB, and its power @ 4ω 160W against 200W. Both share thd (0.030%).
Myryad MXA-3150
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