| Krell Introduces Evolution Series of High-End Components |
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| Monday, 24 January 2005 | |
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Krell
has introduced the Evolution Series of high-end stereo components,
which culminates more than two decades of audio design. According to
Krell, the result is a synthesis of beauty, grace, and the power
synonymous with the Krell name.
The Evolution One is a Class A, 450-watt monaural amplifier that
utilizes proprietary current gain topologies from input to output
allowing the audio signal to remain in the current domain throughout
the entire amplifier thereby avoiding unnecessary current to voltage
conversions that add distortion, require feedback and limit bandwidth.
The Evolution One circuitry is devoid of feedback and sports a
bandwidth greater than conventional design according to Krell. Coupled
to this circuitry is a power section that can drive almost any speaker
to its full potential. With this power on tap, the Evolution One
employs advanced microprocessors that constantly monitor operating
conditions and can automatically adjust the operating parameters or
shut the amplifier down to prevent damage to the input stages or
loudspeakers. The Evolution Two monaural preamplifier is also a Class A design. The audio signal path operates in full balanced mode from input to output and the proprietary Krell CAST inputs further ensure integrity of the audio signal. Small touches are highlighted in the Evolution Two; for example the volume control features a 16-bit balanced resistor ladder that uses low-resistance, high-linearity solid-state switches and discrete precision resistors for the purest line stage possible. Although the Evolution Two embraces the simplistic pleasures of a high-end two channel preamp, it also features sophisticated RS-232, IR and 12-volt controls for better integration into a state-of-the-art home environment. Both the Evolution One and Evolution Two utilize power supplies that are housed in separate chassis that makes use of electrical and magnetic shielding to keep radiated magnetic interference out of the circuits that are critical to music reproduction. Krell engineered their own power supply featuring a dedicated 165 VA Torodial transformer on the Evolution Two and two large 2100 VA Torodial transformers for the Evolution One. Each power supply also features internal, high-current line conditioning circuitry that filters RF noise and compensates for asymmetric power waveforms that could possibly affect the amplifier’s performance. The Evolution series aesthetic takes Krell’s industrial design to a new level. The machined custom aluminum chassis features a 1.5-inch faceplate that fronts the resonance free environment that houses the sensitive electronics contained within. While the Evolution Two strives for minimalist beauty the Evolution One flaunts its power with a custom fabricated polycarbonate analog power meter that is backlit by the blue lights Krell is known for. MSRP of the Evolution One and Evolution Two are $45,000/pr and $35,000/pr respectively and are expected to ship in March 2005. Like this article? Bookmark and share with any of the sites below.        |
