Is it worth repairing my Krell KSA-250, etc?

Yes, and you can substitute any high-end amplifier model into this question.

This FAQ came from a gentleman in the USA with a broken Krell KSA-250, who asked the question with the rider that he thought: “Shipping would be more than the amp”. The enquirer decided instead to try to repair this amplifier himself, a very bad idea. Here is my response:

Hi ***

Given that a replacement for this amp would be tens of thousands of dollars and good working examples still sell for many thousands of dollars, which is well below their actual worth, shipping to a well-regarded repairer should be considered an essential part of the repair and a no-brainer. 

This one must be saved. Best of luck with it!

Liquid Mike

I strongly encouraged *** to ship the amplifier to a local specialist familiar with these complex beasts, the same advice I give such enquirers. This advice is simply meant to help owners achieve the best results and is based on a wealth of technical experience repairing many complex amplifiers like the KSA-250 and even more complex test and measurement equipment.

A similar example: Should you replace the spark plugs and filters in your car? Yes, if you have good tools and know how to do the work. Should you attempt to rebuild the entire engine when it fails, though? In 99.9% of cases, absolutely not.

Expensive overhaul and repair work are part of the high-end amplifier ownership experience. This must be understood and factored into any purchasing decision, just like owning a rare and collectible car or motorcycle.