Krell has announced the addition of the Evolution 400e mono power amplifier to the Evolution e Series of amplifiers. Extending series of amplifiers, the Evolution 400e is for systems requiring substantial power and where space is at a premium.

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Based on the original Evolution series, the Evolution 400e includes a number of refinements to the original platform. A 4,000 VA transformer is still the backbone of the Evolution 400e power supply. An additional 44,800 microfarads of capacitance has been added, a total of 150,400 microfarads, making the Evolution 400e more dynamic than its predecessor. An additional transformer for the control and protection circuitry also provides power for a new energy efficient standby mode. Similar to turning off a 150W light that is always on in your house; standby power draw has been cut from 150W to 2W. This 99% reduction in electrical usage also substantially reduces heat output. The high-current and high-voltage analog supplies have additional noise filtration circuitry to reduce high-frequency switching noise. For better isolation between the incoming AC power and the DC power supplies, the power supply circuitry has also been redesigned and upgraded. The amplifier accommodates different impedances delivering 400 watts into 8 Ohms, 800 watts into 4 Ohms, and 1,600 watts into 2 Ohms.

Building on the unique Active Cascode Topology foundation of the Evolution Series, the Evolution 400e amplifier features new driver and output stage designs. Current sharing among the seven sets of Active Cascode Quartets in the output stage provides reportedly greater amplifier reliability. An upgraded negative feedback circuit, still at 14dB, delivers smoother high frequency response and greater spatial presence throughout the soundstage, according to Krell.

Current Evolution 400 amplifiers are upgradeable to the Evolution 400e performance at the Krell facility. The retail price for the upgrade is US $5,000 per unit plus shipping.

The Evolution 400e mono amplifiers carry a retail price of $24,000 per pair.