Krell – Theater 7 XD – 100W Seven Channel Class A Amplifier W/ IBias

Krell – Theater 7 XD – 100W Seven Channel Class A Amplifier w/ iBias

The Theater 7 XD amplifier design uses Krell Current Mode technology—fully differential and discrete in the critical gain stages. This results in a highly linear and extended frequency response, well beyond the range of hearing, for smooth effortless highs and tight high-impact bass.

The power supply consists of two 787VA toroidal transformers and 160,000uF of capacitance. This is shared among all the channels so all of that power is available to the channels with the most demand.

In real-world conditions the left, right, and center channels require the lion’s share of the power, thus giving the Theater 7 a more effective power supply than other amplifiers that have smaller dedicated power supplies for each channel.

Krell’s New XD™ Tech

Krell’s XD (Xtended Dynamics, Dimensionality & Detail) upgrade for the iBias amplifiers takes an already great sounding amplifier and raises its performance to the next level. XD is a classic example of Krell’s continuous R&D efforts reaping benefits across multiple product lines. During the development of the K-300i Integrated Amplifier we discovered substantial sonic improvements by lowering the output impedance below traditional norms. When applying this technique to our existing line of amplifiers, the improvement was so substantial, it deserved its own, unique designation—XD.

It was no simple matter of merely lowering the output impedance. This affects the amplifier’s stability and transient response, so each stage prior to the output stage had to be re-tuned to work optimally with the lower output impedance. This lower output impedance exerts more control over the speaker drivers, and damps out unwanted vibrational modes—allowing a more accurate reproduction of the original signal.

Krell Class A iBias™ Technology

Krell’s history is rich with breakthrough Class A amplifiers that have helped build the Krell legacy of offering the best sounding amplifiers available. Our revolutionary, patent pending circuit delivers true Class A operation without the excessive heat and wasted energy of conventional designs.

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“… pure Class A power up to unbelievable levels… purity of tone you have to hear to believe.”

~ Home Theater Review

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Power Supply Highlights

Power supply technology has always been an important contributor to the Krell sound. The power supplies of our Krell iBias Class A amplifiers have been optimized for use with the iBias circuit. Depending on the model, up to four toroidal transformers feed amplifier modules that include the audio circuitry, rectifier, and power supply filtering mounted to an individual heat sink. This design shortens the electrical path from the power supply to the output transistors, reducing the overall impedance and allowing the circuit to respond faster and control the speakers even better and more accurately.

Unlike traditional Class A amplifiers, iBias Class A amps have a compact design that allows rack-mounting, making them ideal for custom installation as well as traditional audiophile systems. This convenient form factor is made possible through thermostatically controlled ventilation fans. The fans used are specifically chosen for quiet operation, and operate at the speed required to maintain the ideal internal temperature. They run only during periods of peak energy demand – when the music is at its loudest – so they are inaudible in normal use.

Network Connectivity

The new amplifiers include RJ 45 Ethernet connectivity and an internal web page that is accessible from any smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Network connectivity brings convenience, monitoring, and reporting to end users. Amplifier configuration options include display brightness and timeout. For energy conservation, the amplifiers can be programmed to power off at a preset time of inactivity. Individual channels can be muted and firmware updates can be initiated from the web server.

Circuitry Highlights

The new iBias circuitry is built on a foundation of core Krell circuit technologies. All signal gain is realized in the current domain using proprietary multiple-output current mirrors with extraordinary open loop linearity. Each amplifier channel uses all discrete components. There are no generic integrated circuits or op amps used anywhere.