Krell Industries just announced that worldwide shipment of S-550i Integrated Amplifiers will begin this week. Building on the success of the S-300i integrated amplifier, the S-550i Integrated Amplifier claims the sound quality and power output capable of driving any loudspeaker.
Delivering 275 watts of output, the S-550i Integrated Amplifier is a robust power source for any speaker and only occupies a fraction of the space typically required for a system delivering this performance. The S-550i Integrated Amplifier is outfitted with balanced and single-ended inputs, iPod dock, and Theater Throughput mode. Developed by Krell, Theater Throughput simplifies integration into home theater systems. For custom integration applications, 12 Volt triggers, RS-232 connectivity and rack mount ears are included. Operational parameters can be customized via the menu system that is accessible from the front panel or the included brushed Aluminum remote control.
The preamplifier section features circuit concepts from Krell's flagship Phantom preamp. Direct coupled circuitry reportedly eliminates impact-robbing capacitors from the signal path. Discrete circuitry, in a balanced topology, is afforded its own power supply regulation. All signal gain is realized using surface mount technology featuring proprietary current mirrors with allegedly 500 times the open loop linearity of other designs. Negative feedback is not used anywhere in the preamplifier. Open-loop distortion is typically less than 0.003%.
The S-550i packs a 1,750 watt transformer and 68,000?F of capacitance into a 5" high chassis. This power supply feeds classic Krell circuitry throughout the topology using only discrete circuitry. The S-550i doubles its power output when a speaker's impedance is halved. The results are 275 watts into 8 Ohms and 550 watts into 4 ohms both channels driven.
The S-550i Integrated Amplifier retails for $5,000 and is available now in silver and black finishes.
