Krell KRC-3 Owners manual

KRC-3

REMOTE CONTROL LINE-LEVEL

PREAMPLIFIER

OWNER’S REFERENCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2

INTRODUCTION

3

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

3

BASIC INSTALLATION

4

INPUT/OUTPUT CONNECTIONS

5

BASIC PREAMPLIFIER OPERATION

6

OPTIONAL CONFIGURATIONS

8

REMOTE CONTROL

11

12

10

13

REAR PANEL DESCRIPTION

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

SPECIFICATIONS

WARRANTY AND SERVICE

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for your purchase of the KRELL KRC-3 remote control
preamplifier. KRELL has built a reputation for blazing the evolutionary path in
audio technology. Our new KRC-3 continues this tradition by mating the
essential KRELL technologies of Class A operation and discrete circuitry with
current mode amplification and our High Resolution volume control.

First developed for our Reference 64 D/A processor, current mode amplification
utilizes gain stages that operate exclusively in the current domain. This
inherently linear and ultra-fast circuit topology effortlessly captures the most
extreme transients while preserving all the nuances and subtleties of the
musical performance.

The KRC-3 uses our new High Resolution sixteen bit system to resolve line level

attenuation. This control selects from over 300 discrete resistor network
combinations to provide a perfectly proportioned and highly precise attenuation
curve. This system allows for a fine vernier of adjustment and the creation of a
custom logarithmic level taper perfectly suited for audio. KRELL-written
control software inserts only the appropriate individual resistor values into the
signal path rather than subjecting the musical signal to the sonic degradations
inherent in a conventional resistive potentiometer. This translates into
resolving power that delivers an even quieter, or "blacker", background to all
forms of music, allowing more of the natural textures of the music to be
brought forth.

To obtain the best performance from your KRC-3, careful attention should be

paid to its placement, installation, and operation. A thorough understanding of
these details will help insure satisfactory operation and a long life for the
KRC-3 and related system components.

This Owner’s Reference is divided into several sections, each designed to

perform a different function. As you read through the Owner’s Reference you

will become better acquainted with the features and functions that make the

KRC-3 an outstanding performer and a superb value. A Question and Answer
section is included where answers to common questions are provided. Should

you have any questions or suggestions please feel free to contact your

authorized dealer or the KRELL staff for assistance.
In the unlikely event that your KRC-3 should require service, you will be

pleased to know that it is backed by a comprehensive Customer Satisfaction
policy and one of the most advanced service facilities in the industry. For
detailed information on the terms and conditions of service, please consult your
warranty registration card, your KRELL Dealer or Distributor.

2

UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

1. After opening the box and removing the top layer of foam, the KRC-3 and the
following items will now be visible:

1 KRC-3 remote control
1 T- 10 Torx wrench
1 AC power cord
1 Owner’s Reference
1 Warranty card

NOTE: If any of these items are not included please contact your authorized
dealer immediately for assistance.

NOTE: Save all packing materials. If you must ship your KRC-3 in the future,
repack the unit in its original packing to prevent damage in transit.

BASIC INSTALLATION

\

1. Place the unit on a firm level surface free from excessive dirt or moisture.

The KRC-3 is not particularly hum sensitive, therefore other components can
be placed on or around the KRC-3.

NOTE: While the KRC-3 has a superb power supply and does not require a
dedicated circuit, we strongly advise against any connections through extension

cords or multiple AC adapters. High quality 15 amp line conditioners or

grounded AC strips are acceptable.

3

INPUT AND OUTPUT CONNECTIONS

CAUTIONS: When making connections to this or any other component, make sure

all components are OFF. Make sure all cable terminations are of the highest

quality, free from frayed ends, shorts, or cold solder joints.

1. Connect the left and right outputs of your source components to the input
on the KRC-3.

The KRC-3 is equipped with four single-ended inputs (S1, $2, S3/proc, and

S4/tape) and one balanced input (B1). The S1 and $2 inputs are standard
single-ended inputs while S3/proc and S4/tape have user-configurable
options. The S3/proc and S4/tape are set as standard inputs from the
factory. The S3/proc input can be set for use as a surround processor
throughput and the S4/tape can be set as a tape monitor input. Both
options will be discussed on page 6 in Optional Configurations.

2. Connect the output of the KRC-3 to the input of your power amplifier.
The KRC-3 has balanced outputs via XLR type connectors and single-ended

outputs via RCA type connectors. Both outputs are active at all times,
allowing simultaneous connection to separate amplifiers. Only one of these
outputs should be connected to a single stereo amplifier.

NOTE: When connecting inputs or outputs to the KRC-3, remember that the

balanced connections will have 6dB more gain than the single-ended
connections. When level matching is critical in your installation, keep this
specification in mind.

3. Plug the AC cord into the receptacle on the back of the KRC-3. Plug the
remaining end into the AC wall receptacle. The blue pilot LED will

illuminate, and the KRC-3 will be ready for operation.

4