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At US$1,300, this Krell KAV-280p preamp is a fair-to-slight-bargain deal compared to the typical used market, which recently sits around US$1,150–US$1,200 for units without remotes. Since the listing price is only slightly above that low-end benchmark and well below the original US$3,500 retail, it’s not a bargain but represents solid value for a well-regarded linestage known for its musical transparency and robust build.
The KAV-280p earns its reputation for delivering Krell’s signature power and control without the weight of later models, making it a favorite for those seeking pure analog finesse. With no mentioned condition issues or missing critical accessories beyond the noted lack of a remote in similar listings, this is a worthwhile buy for enthusiasts chasing classic Krell performance at a mature price point.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Krell Industries, founded in 1980 in the United States by Dan D'Agostino and his wife Rondi, emerged from a passion for pushing audio engineering boundaries. Based initially in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and later settling in nearby Orange, the brand drew its name from the advanced alien race in the 1956 film Forbidden Planet, symbolizing limitless technological power. The company's debut at the 1981 Consumer Electronics Show with the KSA-100, a high-power Class A amplifier, sparked immediate demand and established Krell as a force in American hi-fi innovation.
Krell specializes in high-end amplification, with its power amplifiers—epitomized by flagships like the Master Reference Amplifier—earning legendary status for their raw dynamics and precision. The lineup extends to preamplifiers, surround sound processors, digital-to-analog converters, CD and Super Audio CD players, loudspeakers, and subwoofers, all engineered for uncompromised performance in music and home theater systems.
Positioned firmly at the pinnacle of the high-end audio market, Krell commands respect among discerning audiophiles for its cutting-edge circuitry, massive power supplies, and relentless pursuit of sonic excellence. A top-tier brand alongside legends like Levinson and Threshold, it appeals to buyers seeking reference-level gear that defines the genre, even amid recent ownership transitions following Rondi's passing in 2024.
See all Krell listings on RADAR.
