A 7.1-channel processor/preamp with state-of-the art digital processing and features, the Krell Foundation is aimed at home theatre enthusiasts for whom only the very best will suffice. A total of 10 HDMI inputs and two outputs provide setup flexibility, including instantaneous source switching, while the brand’s proprietary ARES room EQ system tailors sound performance to the listening environment. Owners of compatible amplifiers can make use of its balanced outputs. As expected from a high-end product, design and build quality is faultless, and the slim form factor means it can be accommodated easily. In action the Foundation delivers multichannel audio with amazing clarity and precision and passes video signals with unerring accuracy.http://www.krellonline.com/foundation.html Foundation, is the latest in a long line of state-of-the-art A/V processors from Krell. Featuring the latest digital connectivity, the Foundation also maintains Krell's exacting standards for analog audio reproduction. From decoding the latest lossless audio formats, extensive digital switching, 3DTV pass-through, and more, the Foundation is fully compliant with the digital age. Yet the 7.1-channel processor also features balanced audio outputs, automatic setup and room EQ, and Krell's legendary robust hardware. A slim new form factor exudes the Krell aesthetic, while allowing placement in smaller equipment racks. In addition to 10 HDMI 1.4a inputs, the Foundation has 2 HDMI outputs, both of which feature Audio Return Channel. With ARC, a display device is able to send audio back down the HDMI cable to the processor. This is beneficial for those with televisions with built-in web streaming capability like Netflix or Pandora, so the streaming audio can use the full home theater system instead of just the TV's speakers. The Foundation passes video signals directly without any video processing, ensuring bit-for-bit accuracy of the signal, up to 1080p/60. However, to simplify cabling, setup, and use, there is full transcoding of the 2 composite and 3 component analog video inputs to the HDMI outputs. The Foundation includes a new Krell development - Intelligent HDMI switching. Intelligent HDMI switching is a combination of circuitry and innovative software that optimizes HDMI operation. Various parameters including the monitor's electronic ID and source video resolution are stored in non-volatile memory. All 10 source inputs are always active so source, channel, video resolution, and audio format changes are instantaneous. The Intelligent HDMI design provides the fastest signal recognition possible. Krell designed the Foundation with flexibility and ease-of-use in mind, with extensive routing capability of the audio inputs to the various outputs. During setup, the specific paths will be chosen based on how the user intends to use each source, displays, and audio output channels. The Foundation will allow owners to take full advantage of the best audio soundtracks available, with decoding of Dolby Digital, Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-ES Discrete, Matrix, and DTS-HD Master Audio. In addition, a full suite of post-processing modes are included, including Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS Neo 6. Krell's proprietary surround modes, Party, General Admission, Front Row, and On Stage, offer a different way to listen to favorite tracks. The Foundation also features Krell's Automatic Room Equalization System (ARES), to ensure the best possible performance from every theater. ARES analyzes all the speakers in the system, their location, phase, and distance from each other, to determine the best crossover frequency, delay, and more. In addition, ARES incorporates the acoustics of the room to determine unique EQ curves for each of the 7.1 output channels. Unlike other room EQs, ARES can be programmed to only adjust the troublesome low frequencies, leaving high frequencies unaltered. To allow full integration into a home automation system, the Foundation has Ethernet control, RS-232, 4 12v triggers (2@0.5A and 2@60mA), and RC-5. The Foundation will be available at Krell authorized dealers in February 2013.
U'll need large speakers n krell muscle amps to bring the best out of it. I dun think 11 speakers are quite practical for this case. They were prob thinking no one is going to hang 2 speaker tat weighs60 70kg on the ceiling. Use a small speaker for height. Prob its gona get drown out by l r c
Here in lies why I am amused that ths processor got the award...Are there no other procesors better than this?
IMHO, best processors out there now (30k and below) is the Datasat RS20i and Theta Casablanca 3HD.There is another one 50k wan....too rich for my blood.I had wondered why these processors are so expensive...until I had one in my house for demo and AB against my Onkyo PR-SC5509.I have one Theta Casablanca 3HD on order but waiting on their overhaul design model with massive processing power and DIRAC correction. Had also shelved the modded Oppo 105 for the Theta Compli Blu 3D.
The story goes like this: The day I collected my modded Oppo105. Did an AB side by side, decided to go immediately for the upgrade....difference is too massive...too much to bear.
Which modified Oppo?Compared to Theta Blu 3D?
Modded the Oppo 105, but cannot hold a candle...I think this player is demo in Mod DAC too...
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Topic: Best HT amp / Processor available now (Read 35880 times)