Krell just announced Connect, a high-resolution audio streaming device. From FLAC to WAV, MP3 and WMA, the Connect plays back up to 192kHz/24-bit audio plus Internet radio.
The Wi-Fi-equipped Connect is available in two forms: digital only, or with a built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) module. The DAC-equipped Connect has a 32-bit ESS Sabre chipset with discrete, direct-coupled analog circuitry outputting via RCA or balanced audio outputs. The digital-only version has both coax and Toslink optical outputs.
Extensive audio libraries are easy to navigate via the Connect's built-in 3.5-inch QVGA LCD screen. Alternately, full-featured iOS and Android apps offer full control from anywhere in the home.
In addition to playback of FLAC and WAV files up to 192kHz/24-bit, the Connect also streams Ogg, WMA, and MP3. Unlike some music streamers, gapless playback is possible, allowing for no breaks between album tracks. Live concert albums, for example, can be played as a seamless, uninterrupted experience.
Internet radio gets the same conversion as the high-resolution files (on DAC-equipped models), providing the best possible sound quality from online streaming content.
The Connect will be available at Krell authorized dealers in March 2013 for an MSRP of $2,500 (digital only), and $3,500 (w/ Internal DAC).
