Krell’s high-end Connect streamer is now shipping with the optional onboard DAC module. The DAC uses the flagship 32-bit ESS Sabre chipset hooked to Krell’s current mode, all-discrete, direct-coupled analogue circuitry.
The Internet Radio UPnP/DLNA-compliant Connect also employs Krell’s custom jitter-buster module seen in the Cipher SACD/CD player to ensure high resolution playback of network-based audio content.
Both balanced and single-ended outputs are provided, along with digital (coaxial and optical) ones (not available on the digital-only option released in March). Of course, Wi-Fi and USB are a given.
The Krell Connect is compatible with FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, MP-4a, MP3 and WMA formats and goes up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution. A 3.5-inch QVGA LCD display allows easy navigation of its menus; iOS and Android apps are also available for increased convenience.