Krell Phantom Manual - Manual (Page 7)

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A complete Krell system (source, preamp, and amplifier) system, connected using
Krell MMF CAST interconnects reduces the number of voltage gain stages to the
minimum, one. The resulting noise floor approaches the theoretical limit of tech-
nology. Negative feedback is not used anywhere in the preamp, nor is it neces-
sary. 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 Suply 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 mim-
ics the design topology of Krell Evolution e Series amplifiers. The circuitry is com-
pletely 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 require-
ments when not in use. A new eco-friendly design reduces standby power draw to
2W. .
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 characteris-
tics 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 inter-
connects into an electrically-linked whole. The original signal remains unaltered
from source to speaker.
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