Inputs: 2 pr. CAST via 4-pin bayonet connectors, 2 pr. balanced via XLR connectors, 3 pr. single-ended via RCA connectors Tape input, 1 pr. single-ended via RCA connector
Main outputs: 2 pr. CAST via 4-pin bayonet connectors1 pr. balanced via XLR connector1 pr. single-ended via RCA connector Tape outputs1 pr. single-ended via RCA connector, buffered
Control inputs:1 RS-232 input via a 9-pin D-subminiature connector, 1 remote IR detector input via a 3-conductor 3.5 mm connector, 1 12 VDC trigger input via 3.5 mm connector
Input impedance:CAST: 25 Ohms, Balanced: 40 k Ohms, Single-ended: 20 k Ohms
Output impedance: CAST: >1 M Ohms Balanced: 250 Ohms Single-ended: 125 Ohms Gain 12 dB (CAST or balanced output) 6 dB (single-ended output) Volume control Balanced, current-mode, 16-bit, discrete R-2R ladder
With the Phantom Preamplifier, musicians appear silhouetted by the air about them, filling the room with a mesmerizing depiction of the recording. Music emanates from an expanse that outlines the recording venue, transporting you to the moment of creation. Coupling advanced technologies and inspired design, the Phantom preamplifier elevates preamplifier performance to an art form. The Phantom preamplifier is the first Krell preamplifier to include an optional crossover.
The crossover functionality offers the ability to use a subwoofer/satellite speaker arrangement and still maintain the highest quality sonic performance. Previous to the Phantom preamplifier, this system configuration would require signals to pass through a subwoofer's lower quality crossover circuitry. The Phantom preamplifier is the centerpiece of a world class audio system where space is at a premium. Crossover Highlights Owing to Krell's work in the Modulari Duo Reference loudspeaker, the unique crossover feature is a highly sophisticated option. When the optional board is present, additional crossover menu items become available. Definable parameters include independently assignable crossover frequencies and filter types for the high and low pass sections.
Choices include 40Hz, 55Hz, 75Hz, and 100Hz crossover points with 12dB, 24dB, and 48dB Butterworth or 24dB Linkwitz-Riley style filters. The high pass section of the crossover uses the full Phantom preamplifier circuitry for its output stage. Circuitry Highlights The Phantom preamplifier is a dual monaural circuit design with the left and right channels afforded their own power supply regulation and individual full chassis sized boards. All signal gain is realized in surface mount topology using proprietary multiple-output current mirrors with nearly 500 times the open loop linearity of other designs 1.5 MHz open loop bandwidth in a zero feedback, balanced, Krell Current Mode design terminating in Krell CAST.
A complete Krell system (source, preamp, and amplifier) system, connected using CAST interconnects reduces the number of voltage gain stages to the minimum, one. The resulting noise floor approaches the theoretical limit of technology. Negative feedback is not used anywhere in the preamp, nor is it necessary. Open-loop distortion is typically less than 0.003%. The volume control is realized with a balanced resistor ladder - bandwidth and transient response of the preamp circuitry are virtually unaffected by the volume setting. Power Supply Highlights The Phantom audio circuits receive power from a Krell Current Mode analog power supply housed in its own dedicated chassis. The power supply avoids the common integrated circuit topology used in many preamplifiers and instead mimics the design topology of Krell Evolution e Series amplifiers.
The circuitry is completely discrete giving it the ability to respond quickly to current demands and also be unaffected by all but the most severe AC voltage power fluctuations. Oversized for a preamplifier, the power supply features a 290 VA transformer and 41,600µF of capacitance. Locating the power supply in its own chassis presents the ideal configuration for isolating stray electrical and magnetic interference from the critical preamplifier signal path. Capable of delivering current and voltage swing for any musical event, the Phantom power supply is gentle on AC requirements when not in use. A new eco-friendly design reduces standby power draw to 2W. The Phantom preamplifier is offered in diamond-cut silver or a luxurious black finish.
