Krell Evolution e User Manual

EVOLUTION

KRELL

THE LEADER IN AUDIO ENGINEERING

EVOLUTION e SERIES AMPLIFIERS

302e, 402e AND 2250e STEREO

403e AND 3250e THREE-CHANNEL

400e, 600e AND 900e MONAURAL

OWNER’S REFERENCE

Evolution 302e, 402e, 2250e, 403e, 3250e, 400e 600e and 900e Power Amplifiers
Owner’s Reference, V1.0

TELL 203-298-4000

Krell Industries, LLC
45 Connair Road
Orange, CT 06477-3650 USA

FAX [phone]
E-MAIL [e-mail]
WEBSITE http://www.krellonline.com

This product complies with the EMC directive (89/336/EEC) and the low-voltage directive
(73/23/EEC).
This CLASS 1 apparatus must be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective earthing
connection.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read Instructions.

2. Keep these Instructions.

3. Heed all Warnings.

4. Follow all Instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other

apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

8. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

9. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus

has been damaged in any way, such as a power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to
rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

10. An Evolution e Series amplifier must be placed on a firm, level surface where it is not exposed

to dripping or splashing.

11. The ventilation slots on the top of every Evolution e Series amplifier, the ventilation slots on the

back of the Evolution 302e and 400e amplifier, and the space underneath every Evolution e
Series amplifier must be unobstructed at all times during operation. Do not place flammable
material above or beneath an Evolution e Series amplifier

12. Before making connections to an Evolution e Series amplifier, ensure that the power is off and

other components are in mute or stand-by mode. Make sure all cable terminations are of the
highest quality, free from frayed ends, short circuits, or cold solder joints. Be especially careful
when connecting to terminals marked

which may have hazardous voltages on them during

operation.

13. THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE AN EVOLUTION AMPLIFIER.

Please contact Krell if you have questions not addressed in this guide.

.

This product is manufactured in the United States of
for use by Krell Industries, LLC, its subsidiaries, and authorized agents. CAST
trademarks of Krell Industries, LLC. All other trademarks are registered to their respective companies.

© 2010 by Krell Industries, LLC. All rights reserved

America. Krell

®

is a registered trademark of Krell Industries, LLC, and is restricted

™, Evolution CAST™, and Krell Current Mode™ are

Contents

List of Illustrations, page 4
A Letter from Krell, page 5
SECTION ONE: Evolution e Series Amplifier Features and Technology, page 6

Features, Revolutionary Krell CAST Technology,
Definition of Terms

SECTION

SECTION THREE: Anatomy of the Evolution e Series Amplifier, page 13

SECTION FOUR: Connecting an Evolution e Series Amplifier to Your System, page 21

SECTION FIVE: Evolution e Series Amplifier Operation, page 23

SECTION SIX: T

SECTION SEVEN: Questions and Answers, page 26
WARRANTY, page 27

RETURN AUTHORIZATION PROCEDURE, page 29

TWO: Unpacking and Placement, page 11

Opening the Evolution e Series Amplifier Shipping Carton

Front Panel Description, and Back Panel Description

CAST Connections, Balanced Connections, Single-ended Connections,
Evolution DC Protection Circuitry/Using Tube Preamplifiers, Connection Steps

On/Off and Stand-by Operation

roubleshooting System Noise, page 24

How to Evaluate e Series Amplifier Operation, Error Codes

SPECIFICA

TIONS, page 30

3

List of Illustrations

Figure 1, page 13

Evolution e Series Amplifier Front Panel

Figure 2, page 15

Evolution 302e Back Panel

Figure 3, page 16

Evolution 402e Back Panel

Figure 4, page 17

Evolution 403e Back Panel

Figure 5, page 18

Evolution e Series Monaural Amplifier Back Pane

Figure 6, page 20

Evolution 2250e Back Panel

FIgure 7, page 21

Evolution 3250e Back Panl

Figure 8, page 28

Connection Diagram

4

A Letter from Krell Industries

Dear Audio Enthusiast,
Thank you for your purchase of a Krell Evolution e Series amplifier. No component in an audio

system contributes more to the full range of musical expression than a power amplifier. The
seemingly impossible tasks of simultaneously conveying music's subtle emotional cues and intense
dynamic passages rest squarely on its shoulders. In our quest for amplifiers that deliver absolute
truth in music reproduction, we present the Evolution e Series. This next generation of Evolution
Amplifiers, “e”, short for enhanced, represent a defining moment in Krell design, joining awesome
current capability with a newly refined, ultra-linear circuit topology and environmentally friendly
operation.

Krell amplifiers are best known for their ability to drive any loudspeaker to sound its best, without
regard to impedance, efficiency, or driver style. It is linearity, an amplifier's ability to output an exact
duplicate of the input signal, which is the ultimate measure of that amplifier’s worth. Krell designs
toward the common goal of linearity, through the rigorous application of Krell design principles that
focus our efforts on four major performance factors: distortion, bandwidth, output impedance and
current capability. The Evolution e Series excels in each of these areas, delivering supreme accuracy
from whisper level to astounding, awe inspiring amounts of power with grace and elegance.

BETTER SOUND

Building on the unique Active Cascode Topology foundation of the Evolution Series, the e Series
amplifiers feature more precisely balanced current sharing among the seven sets of Active Cascode
Quartets that make up the output stage. This greater precision elevates an already impressive
performance envelope and provides greater amplifier reliability. Audible at all volume levels, this
improvement is independent of load current. Although negative feedback in the Evolution amplifiers
was already extremely low, a mere 14 dB several orders of magnitude lower than other
manufacturers' power amplifiers modifications to the feedback circuitry allow for more ideal
operation completely independent of the signal level. The results are greatly enhanced inner detail
and micro-dynamics with smoother high frequency response.

An intense upgrade to the power supply includes a number of improvements. There is now a
separate transformer for the digital power supplies. Not only does this facilitate greatly reduced
power consumption in standby, but it provides still better isolation between the digital and analog
power supplies. The high-current and high-voltage analog supplies have additional noise filtration
circuitry to reduce high-frequency switching noise from the rectifiers. The high-current power
supplies also have more reservoir capacitance than before (anywhere from 10-50% more,
depending upon the model). Finally, the power supply circuit board has been redesigned for better
isolation between the incoming AC power and the DC power supplies.

, LOWER ENERGY

LESS HEA

A new green standby mode reduces standby power draw dramatically. Standby power draw for all
Evolution e Series amplifiers has been reduced to 2W. As an example, the Evolution 402e power
draw drops to 2W from 260W as compared to the Evolution 402 - a reduction of 99% in energy
draw and a huge drop in heat output. The power indicator ring now glows green to indicate the new
energy efficient mode.

e hope that you enjoy your new Evolution e Series amplifier

W

T

CONSUMPTION

.

Sincerely,
Krell Industries, LLC

5

SECTION ONE

Evolution e Series Amplifier Features and Technology

This section describes the innovative features and technology of the Evolution e Series
amplifiers, and defines CAST and other key terms used in this reference. There are seven
amplifier models in the Evolution e Series: the 302e Stereo Power Amplifier, the 402e
Stereo Power Amplifier, the 2250e Stereo Power Amplifier, the 403e Three-channel Power
Amplifier, the 3250e Three-channel power Amplifier, the 400e Monaural Power Supply, the
600e Monaural Power Amplifier, and the 900e Monaural Power Amplifier.

Features

Evolution e Series 302e, 402e, 403e, 400e, 600e, and 900e amplifiers are designed with a
signal path that incorporates Krell Current Mode and CAST circuitry.

All amplifiers feature massive power supplies. The power supply makes use of extensive
electrical and magnetic shielding to keep radiated interference out of critical amplifier
circuits.

The Evolution 302e and Evolution 400e are equiped with a 3000 VApower supply. The
Evolution 2250e and Evolution 3250e are equipped with a 2500 VApower supply. The
Evolution 402e and Evolution 600e are equipped with a 4400 VA power supply, and the
Evolution 403e and Evolution 900e house 6000 VA power supplies.

Internal high-current line conditioning circuitry filters RF noise on the AC mains, as well as
compensating for asymmetrical power waveforms and DC on the mains.

Advanced microprocessor control monitors critical operational parameters. In the event of a
problem, the power staus indicator will flash, indicating a potential fault.

6

Revolutionary Krell CAST Technology

Current Audio Signal Transmission, termed CAST, is a revolutionary method of
connecting analog audio components for unparalleled sonic performance. Innovative
engineering combines the new Krell CAST circuitry with existing Krell Current Mode
technology to create entire CAST systems that reproduce music with incredible range,
tonality, and precision.

The Voltage Signal Transmission
and the Traditional Audio System

Traditionally, signal is transmitted in the voltage domain between two components. In an
audio system, each component is a discrete entity with unique characteristics that act
upon the musical signal independently. Each component is unaware of the other
components in the system. The cables that connect the components also have their
own electrical characteristics, which affect the sonic presentation of the entire system.
CAST transmission unifies individual components and interconnects into an electrically­linked whole. The original signal remains unaltered from source to speaker.

CAST Basics

Here is how a CAST audio system works. Internally, each CAST source transfers, or
amplifies, current using Krell Current Mode circuitry. This current signal is then output
using CAST circuitry. When the signal is received by a CAST input, Krell Current Mode
circuitry again takes over until the signal reaches the loudspeaker. By maintaining the
musical signal in the current domain from beginning to end, an entire CAST
behaves as if it is one component. With CAST, circuit board properties and signal
transmission aberrations between components are eliminated. Cable impedances and
their effects on the transmitted signal are non-existent.

system

How CAST and Krell Current Mode Interact

While CAST
its origin stems from Krell Current Mode, the technology developed to transfer the
musical signal within a component. CAST combined with Krell Current Mode circuitry
takes signal transmission to the next evolutionary level. In essence,

is a new method of transferring the musical signal between components,

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SECTION ONE: Evolution e Series Amplifier Features and Technology continued)

(

Krell Current Mode maintains the integrity of the signal within the component and CAST
preserves the transmitted signal between components. Together, CAST and Krell Current
Mode technologies unify separate Krell components into a
Current Mode technology enjoys bandwidth increases up to an order of magnitude greater
than their voltage based counterparts. This dramatic increase in circuit bandwidth delivers
near perfection in the audible band that typically suffers from phase distortions in voltage
circuits.

CAST Cable Construction

A CAST system uses cables manufactured by Krell and other manufacturers specially
licensed by Krell. Thin and flexible CAST cables are constructed with the same build quality
as other Krell components and are aesthetically matched to the components that Krell
manufactures. An all-metal body and locking connectors with gold contacts are part of the
standard no-compromise specification developed for every CAST cable made.

Evolution CAST

By employing revolutionary current mirror circuitry, the Evolution e Series amplifier
components raises CAST technology to another level. This advanced use of the
technology increases the linearity, transient speed, and bandwidth of the Evolution
components while reducing the distortion by an order of magnitude.

single global circuit.

Krell

The Best Musical Performance

When you operate a CAST
performance area: speed, precision, dynamic range, depth and width of the sound stage,
transient impact, tonal balance, harmonic distortion, and more. The goal for CAST is the
same company goal used for all Krell products. Krell strives for the delivery of the best
performance of a musical event for you, using the full expression of technology to date.

system, you will hear significant improvements in every

8

Definition of Terms

The following are definitions of key terms used in this owner’s reference:

Inputs and Outputs

Balanced

A symmetrical input or output circuit that has equal impedance from both input
terminals to a common ground reference point. The industry standard for professional and
sound recording installations, balanced connections have 6 dB more gain than single­ended connections and allow the use of long interconnect cables. Balanced connections
are completely immune to induced noise from the system or the environment.

CAST and Evolution CAST

Krell Current Audio Signal Transmission, or CAST, is a proprietary Krell circuit technology
for connecting analog components, transmitting the audio waveform between components
in the current domain rather than in the voltage domain. The speed and bandwidth provided
by Krell CAST and its circuitry update, Evolution CAST, yield accurate, realistic music
reproduction, enabling connected components to perform as if they are all part of a single
circuit. CAST and Evolution CAST are balanced connections, and reject induced noise.

Single-ended

A two-wire input or output circuit. Single-ended connections are not recommended for
connections requiring long cable runs. Use care when using single-ended connections,
because the ground connection is made last and broken first. Turn the system off/on prior
to making or breaking single-ended connections.

Operation

Off

When the power status indicator is not illuminated, the amplifier is off.

Stand-by

low-power-consumption status that keeps the audio and power supply circuits at idle.

A
power status indicator illuminates in green. Green is the default standby color and indicates
an ultra low power draw of 2 watts. An optional red standby mode is available which keeps
the input and driver stages continuously powered. Krell recommends leaving the amplifier in
stand-by mode when it is not playing music.

Operation

When the power button is pressed, and the power status indicator is illuminated in blue, the
amplifier is in operational mode and ready to play music.

9

The

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SECTION ONE: Definition of Terms continued)

(

Technology

Active Cascode Topology

A unique circuit technique that minimizes distortion by applying from 2 to 3 times more
active devices to each gain stage thereby reducing the load on individual devices and
improving circuit-wide linearity.

Krell Current Mode

A proprietary Krell circuit topology in which the audio gain stages of a component operate in
the current domain rather than the voltage domain. This unique technology provides the
component with exceptional speed, and a wide bandwidth.

10

SECTIONTWO

Unpacking and Placement

This section describes the procedures for safely unpacking and placing your Evolution e
Series amplifier. The amplifier and accessories are shipped in 1 carton. The dimensions of
the amplifier are shown in the specifications section starting on page 30.

Two people are needed to remove the Evolution e Series amplifier from its shipping box
safely and easily.

Opening the Evolution e Series Amplifier Shipping Carton

1.

Open the shipping carton and remove the top layer of foam. The carton contains
these items:

1 Evolution e Series amplifier chassis
1 20 amp AC power cord
1 12 VDC (12 V trigger) cable
1 Packet containing the Quick Setup Guide and the warranty registration card

2.

Orient the shipping box so that one person stands at the front of the amplifier and one
person stands at the back of the amplifier. Both people need to grab a pair of the
cardboard handle cutouts (one pair located at the front of the amplifier and one pair
located at the back of the amplifier) and simultaneously lift the amplifier straight up, out
of the carton. Bend and lift with your knees, not your back.

3.

Place the amplifier in a safe location, and remove the protective plastic wrapping.

Note

Save all packing materials. If you need to ship the Evolution e Series amplifier in future, repack
the unit in its original packaging to prevent shipping damage.

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SECTION TWO: Unpacking and Placement continued)

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Placement

Before you install an Evolution e Series amplifier into your system, please follow the
guidelines in this section to select a location for your component. This will facilitate a clean,
trouble-free installation.

Place the amplifier on a firm, level surface, away from excessive heat, humidity, or
moisture. The ventilation slots on the top of all Evolution e Series amplifiers and the
ventilation slots on the back of the Evolution 302e and 400e amplifiers must be
unobstructed at all time during operation. Do not place flammable material on top or
beneath the component.

If you place the amplifier in a closed cabinet, you may need to modify shelf spacing or use
small fans to increase ventilation. When the front and back of a cabinet are open, the air
space between the chassis and shelf must be unobstructed.

Place the amplifier(s) as close to the loudspeakers as possible. While Evolution CAST and
balanced technology permits long interconnect cable lengths, keep loudspeaker cable
lengths to a minimum.

AC Power Guidelines

The Evolution e Series amplifier requires a dedicated AC circuit rated at a minimum of 20
amps. Do not use extension cords, multiple AC adapters, or AC power strips.

Note

Do not operate the Evolution e Series amplifiers with any device designed to alter or condition
AC power.

12