The Krell KAV-150a is another product from Krell’s more affordable KAV line, from the mid-’90s. Whilst certainly more affordable, this gear is most definitely not cheaply built, sharing the same stunning machined aluminium casework and stainless steel fasteners as other Krell gear.
The KAV-150a could be partnered with the KAV-300i, like this KAV-300i I restored recently, or a dedicated Krell or other preamp. It has plenty of power too, pumping out 150 watts per channel, continuously into 8 ohms, more into lower impedances.
If you’d like a slightly different look at this job, check out the KAV-150a restoration video over on my YouTube channel.
Power output: 150 watts per channel into 8Ω, 600W into 8Ω (mono) Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz Total harmonic distortion: 0.25% Input sensitivity: 1.8V Signal-to-noise ratio: 112dB Speaker load impedance: 4Ω (minimum) Dimensions: 475 x 92.5 x 387.5mm Weight: 11.4kg Year: 1998
Problems
This unit, like the KAV-300i I worked on earlier, didn’t appear to have been overhauled or even serviced. It was apparently suffering from bass distortion and I certainly found some major issues with leaking capacitors and the resultant corrosion this caused to nearby components.
Repair & Restoration
Like most repairs and restorations, I begin with disassembly and cleaning. That involves cleaning boards, chassis connectors etc. Then I refurbish the boards that need work and repair any damage. Finally, I reassemble everything and test the unit. Let’s work through each stage.
Disassembly & Cleaning
Board Refurbishment
Now I can see what I’m dealing with, faulty or damaged components make way for new parts.
Reassembly, Testing & Adjustment
All the remains now is to put everything back together and do the final testing and adjustment.
The Restored Amplifier
Overall, I am very happy with this job. The amplifier is running very nicely now, very stable and she sounds great. The images below show the KAV-150a after final testing, adjustment and cleaning.
If you would like me to take a look at your Krell amplifier, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Hi Geert, thanks and I’m glad you enjoyed the article. I use a regimen I’ve developed that varies depending on the nature of the dirt, the equipment, and so on, but that generally gives really nice results as you see here. I don’t always apply it of course, but with these bigger jobs, it’s often my starting point.
Thanks for visiting, feel free to comment, like, share, subscribe. This is not a public forum, advertising, misinformation and bad manners are not tolerated. Our advisory service is available via the contact page.Cancel reply
Discover more from LiQUiD AUDiO
Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.
Thanks.
No problem!
great Mike..this is a great and fine review restoring a Krell Amp. Question: what cleaning regimen do you ure. Is it self made?
Hi Geert, thanks and I’m glad you enjoyed the article. I use a regimen I’ve developed that varies depending on the nature of the dirt, the equipment, and so on, but that generally gives really nice results as you see here. I don’t always apply it of course, but with these bigger jobs, it’s often my starting point.