Krell Industries K-300i Quick start guide

K-300i Integrated Amplifier
Owner’s Reference

K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 2 of 18
Table of Contents
Getting Started _____________________________________________________________________________ (3)
Unpacking / Placement / AC Power Guidelines ____________________________________________ (4)
Front Panel _________________________________________________________________________________ (5)
Rear Panel _________________________________________________________________________________ (5)
Remote Control ____________________________________________________________________________ (8)
Operation ___________________________________________________________________________________ (9)
Front Panel Menu __________________________________________________________________________ (9)
Control Options ___________________________________________________________________________ (12)
K-300i with Digital Module ________________________________________________________________ (13)
Specifications _____________________________________________________________________________ (15)
Warranty __________________________________________________________________________________ (17)
Service ____________________________________________________________________________________ (18)
Krell Contact Information _________________________________________________________________ (18)

K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 3 of 18
Getting Started
Thank you for your purchase of a Krell K-300i
component.
The K-300i Integrated Amplifier can be equipped
with or without the Optional Digital Module that is
used in the K-300i Integrated Amplifier w/Digital
model. This manual covers both K-300i models
and notes differences where appropriate.
Both K-300i models feature discrete signal paths
from input to output and employ a wide bandwidth
design with low negative feedback for sonic
accuracy throughout the frequency spectrum. All
circuits up to the driver stage operate in pure
Class A.
Krell’s surface mount technology (SMT) means that K-300i components employ the most
sophisticated circuit designs possible without requiring the typical space. SMT allows individual
circuit elements to be placed very close together. This shortens signal paths and allows circuit
elements to operate at the same temperature, resulting in more accurate signal transfer and
enhanced reliability. This combination of sophisticated circuitry and small space makes it possible to
design and manufacture a very high powered 150W per channel amplifier in a small enclosure. The
K-300i is easy to operate and integrate into your system. The remote control accesses all functions,
and remote control connection options allow the K-300i to be easily connected with other
components.
The Theater Throughput feature provides easy integration of these
models into a home theater
system.
The optional digital module for the K-300i Integrated
Amplifier adds a full range of digital technologies
and connections that are already included in the
K-300i Integrated Amplifier w/Digital model.
WARNING: Do not place the component where it
could be exposed to dirt or excessive moisture. The
ventilation grids on the top and bottom of the K-300i must be unobstructed at all times. Do not
place flammable material on top of or beneath the unit. When making connections to this or any
other model, make sure all components are off. Turn off all system power before connecting the K-
300i to any other component. Make sure all cable and speaker wire terminations are of the highest
quality, free from frayed ends, short circuits or cold solder joints.
This product complies with the EMC
directive (89/336/EEC) and the low-
voltage directive (73/23/EEC). This
CLASS 1 apparatus must be
connected to an AC MAIN socket
outlet with a protective earthen
connection.
WARNINGS

K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 4 of 18
Unpacking / Placement / AC Power Guidelines
Open the shipping box and remove the top layer of foam. You will see these items:
K-300i unit and Accessories - Included
1 - AC power cord
1 - Handheld remote control
2 - AAA batteries
1 - Owner’s reference
1 - Warranty Registration card
1 - Trigger cable
1 - T-10 Torx Screwdriver
Place the K-300i on a firm, level surface, away from excessive heat, humidity, or moisture. The K-
300i is a precision instrument and should be
handled with the utmost care. Make sure the
installation location is dry and level, and able to provide adequate ventilation. The K-300i runs warm
to the touch and requires the bottom and top of the unit be free from obstruction with good
circulation of air.The bottom of the K-300i must be unobstructed to the height of the feet to ensure
proper ventilation. Do not place the K-300i on a carpeted floor. Allow a minimum of 2 inches (5cm)
above the unit for proper
ventilation, and at least one inch (2.54 cm) on each side. Additional
ventilation may be required when the unit occupies the same space with other electronics that
generate heat, like power amplifiers. Please consult an authorized KRELL dealer or KRELL
Industries to ensure proper installation.
The K-300i is designed to work all over the world. The operating voltage is determined at the factory
and
is specifically set to operate in the country of final destination. The K-300i requires good clean
power and doesn’t require additional filtration. A 15 amp circuit is recommended for the K-300i.
Note:
The K-300i may not operate correctly when AC regeneration or voltage conversion devices are
utilized. If you choose to use such a device, at a minimum they must be rated for the maximum
power consumption of the K-300i(900 Watts).
Note:
Save all packing materials; if you need to ship the K-300i in the future, repack the unit in its
original packaging to prevent shipping damage.
Recommended Cleaning Instructions for Krell Products
Clean your Krell product gently, using a high quality lint-free cloth that has not been treated with
chemicals
of any kind. Please note the following: Do not use cleaning agents of any kind, such as
alcohol, Windex, or other common cleaning products. Water may be used but do not spray directly
onto the unit, instead a small amount may be used on a lint-free cloth to lightly rub the exterior of the
unit.
Thank you.

K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 5 of 18
Front Panel Features
1) Power Button
2) Source Select Button
3) Navigation Buttons
4) Menu Button
5) Front Panel Display
6) IR Window
7) Volume Control Buttons
8) USB-A Connector
Rear Panel Features
Note: features 9 – 13 are only available when the digital option is installed in the unit.
9) USB-B Connector
10) Bluetooth Receiver Cover
11) HDMI Connections
12) Toslink Optical Digital Audio Input
13) S/PDIF Digital Audio Input
14) RJ45 Ethernet Connection
15) AC Mains Input and Power Switch
16) Loudspeaker Outputs
17) Preamp Output
18) Balanced Analog Audio Inputs
19) Single-Ended Analog Audio Inputs
20) RS232 Control
21) Baseband RC5 Input
22) 12VDC Trigger Input
23) 12VDC Trigger Output
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K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 6 of 18
Front Panel Features Description
1) Power Button
For selecting operate or stand-by mode.
2) Source Select Button
For entering or exiting the source select mode.
3) Navigation Buttons
For making source selection or navigating the menu.
4) Menu Button
For entering or exiting the menu.
5) Front Panel Display
Displays status information in normal mode, available sources in source select mode, or
configuration information in menu mode.
6) IR Window
IR commands from the hand-held remote control are received through this window. There must
be clear line of sight from the remote control to the window for proper operation.
7) Volume Control Buttons
For controlling the speaker output level.
8) USB-A Connector
For connecting a USB flash memory stick containing digital music files. The USB stick may be
formatted as FAT or NTFS. Music playback from a USB stick is supported with the mconnect
Control app for your tablet or smart phone and is only available when the digital option is
installed in the unit.
Rear Panel Features Description
9) USB-B Connector
For connection to a computer for streaming digital audio. This will support PCM audio
data up to 192kHz/24-bits or DSD128 audio data.
10) Bluetooth Receiver Cover
The Bluetooth receiver is behind this cover. The Bluetooth range is approximately 30 feet (10
meters). This range may be reduced if the unit is placed in a metal rack which would have a
tendency to block the Bluetooth RF signal. Other RF sources operating in the 2.4GHz frequency
range may interfere with Bluetooth operation.
11) HDMI Connections
For connection of up to two HDMI source devices and one HDMI display device. The HDMI
connections support video resolutions up to 4K 50/60Hz with HDR. The HDMI inputs support 2-
channel PCM audio up to 192kHz/24-bits or 2-channel DSD128 audio. The HDMI output supports
ARC (audio return channel) and is accessed by selecting the “TV” source from the remote or front
panel. For ARC to work, the HDMI output must be connected to the ARC capable HDMI input on
the display.
12) Toslink Optical Digital Audio Input
For connection to the optical digital output of a source device. This connection carries PCM audio
data up to 96kHz/24-bits.
13) S/PDIF Digital Audio Input
For connection to the digital audio output of a source device. This connection carries PCM audio
data up to 192kHz/24-bits.

K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 7 of 18
14) RJ45 Ethernet Connection
For connection to a LAN (local area network) at speeds of 10/100 Mbps. This must be connected
to the LAN router in order to access the embedded web page or to make use of the streaming
audio features provided by the mconnect Control app (only applicable to units with the digital
option installed). The router must have access to the Internet in order to get software updates or
certain streaming services.
15) AC Mains Input and Power Switch
IEC 320 inlet for connection to an AC mains outlet. See the serial number label on the rear panel
of the unit for the specific voltage and frequency requirements.
16) Loudspeaker Outputs
The binding posts accept 5/16” (8.0mm) spade connectors, bare wire, or banana plugs.
17) Preamp Output
RCA jacks for connection to an external amplifier or powered subwoofer.
18) Balanced Analog Audio Inputs
XLR jacks for connection to balanced analog audio sources (8Vrms maximum input voltage). Pin
1 is ground, pin 2 is non-inverting (+), and pin 3 is inverting (-).
19) Single-Ended Analog Audio Inputs
RCA jacks for connection to single-ended analog audio sources (4Vrms maximum input voltage).
20) RS-232 Control Port
For connection to a home control system.
21) Baseband RC5 Input
For connection to a home control system or an IR extender. This input accepts a baseband RC5
remote control signal (3.3V LVCMOS levels, 5V tolerant) and can provide DC power (5VDC,
30ma) for an IR extender. The pinout of the 3.5mm plug is shown below. When the plug is
connected the front panel IR receiver is disabled.
22) 12VDC Trigger Input
For connection to a home control system or other component with a 12VDC trigger output to
switch the K-300i on (+12V) or off (0V). This input accepts a 3.5mm mono plug where the tip is
hot and the sleeve is ground.
23) 12VDC Trigger Output
For connection to another component with a 12VDC trigger input to turn it on (+12V) or off (0V).
This output accepts a 3.5mm mono plug where the tip is hot and the sleeve is ground. The
maximum output current is 60ma. The output will be high whenever the K-300i is on and low
when it is off.
Ground
+5VDC
Signal

K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 8 of 18
Remote Control
Remote Control Buttons have the same
function as the front panel controls, when
applicable.
1)
Power
Use this button to switch the K-300i between
stand-by and operational modes.
2)
Mute Button
Use this to mute the output. To un-mute,
press the mute button again.
3) Analog Input Buttons
Use these buttons to select analog inputs.
4) Digital Input Buttons
Use these buttons to select digital inputs.
Note: These buttons are only active when the
optional digital module is installed.
5) BAL (Balance) Buttons
Use these buttons to shift the balance to the
left or the right channel.
6)
INFO Button
Pressing this button displays the IP address,
software version, temperature, and serial
number on the front panel display.
7)
Volume Up/Down Buttons
Adjusts volume up and down with a range of
0-100.
8)
DISP (Display) Button
Use this button to toggle the front panel
display off or on.
9) Playback Controls
Use these buttons to control the playback of
certain streaming sources. The search
buttons are currently inoperative.
10) Informational Buttons
Use these buttons to display the
corresponding information on the front
panel display (only if the source contains
the appropriate meta-data).
11) Menu and Navigation Buttons
Use these buttons to access and navigate
the front panel menu features.
Note:The remote comes with two AAA batteries
that have to be installed. Use the supplied Torx
screwdriver to remove the 4 Torx screws (T10)
securing the rear cover then install the batteries.
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K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 9 of 18
Operating the K-300i
1. When the K-300i is in stand-by mode (“---“, on the display) - turn it on by pressing the Power
button on the front panel or the power key on the remote control. There are audible clicks and
“Initializing” will appear on the display. Once the display shows the source and audio format the K-300i is
ready to operate.
2. Check the volume level before playing the source since it will remain at the level it was last set at
when the unit was put in stand-by. The source will also retain its last selection. To select a new source
press one of the source keys on the remote control or press the Source button on the front panel to
enter the source selection menu.
Once in the source selection menu use the up or down arrow buttons to scroll to the desired
source. Press the Enter button to confirm the new source selection and exit the source selection
menu.
3. Start playing the source and adjust the volume level as desired, using the Volume buttons on
the front panel or the Volume keys on the remote.
4. To turn off the K-300i press the Power button on the front panel or the power key on the remote.
The unit will go into stand-by and, “---“, will appear on the display.
Front Panel Menu
The front panel menu contains setup and operational features to enhance the K-300i’s integration
into the audio system. It also has informational displays.
Menu Operation
Note: all menu functions can be accessed from the front panel buttons or the remote control keys.
Press the Menu button to access the front panel menu. Press the Menu button again to exit the
front panel menu. While in the menu use the Up or Down arrow buttons to scroll through the menu
items or selection choices. If nothing happens when pressing the Up or Down buttons, this means
that there are either no additional menu items available (as with some of the informational displays)
or you need to press the Enter button first in order to activate the selection choices.
In the case of a menu item that has selection choices (such as Theater Mode in the Source Setup
menu), press the Enter button to activate the selection mode (this will highlight the selection
choice). Use the Up or Down arrow buttons to change the selection choice then press the Enter
button to confirm the new selection (the highlight will disappear). You can now exit the menu by
pressing the Menu button or continue using the menu. If you press the Menu button to exit the
menu while the selection choice is still highlighted it will not take effect. This can be used to
disregard a menu choice made in error.
Pressing the Left arrow button will go back up to the previous level in the menu structure when
there is no selection choice or the selection choice is not highlighted.
The Right arrow button is used to move to the next character in a string of characters when editing a
multi-character entry (such as naming a source in the Assign Names sub-menu of the Source Setup
menu). When editing such a string the Left arrow button will move back to the previous
character.

K-300i Owner’s Reference
© 2018 by Krell Industries LLC. All rights reserved. Page 10 of 18
Menu Items
•Source Setup
oAssign Names
oLevel Trim
oTheater Mode
•Preamp Output
oLevel Trim
oOutput Mode
•Digital Filter
oFast Roll-Off Min Phase
oFast Roll-Off Lin Phase
•Network Setup
oIP Address
oSubnet Mask
oDefault Gateway
oMAC Address
oDNS Server
•Diagnostic Mode
•Software Version
•Software Update
•Display Brightness
•CEC Operation
•Serial Number
Source Setup
Assign Names – In this sub menu you can change the name of the source to better indicate the
actual device. Scroll to the source you want to change and press the Enter button, the first character
of the source name will be highlighted. Use the Up or Down arrow buttons to change the character.
Use the Right arrow button to advance to the next character and change it the same way. When
finished, press the Enter button to confirm the change.
Level Trim – In this sub menu you can add a volume offset to each source to compensate for
differences in their output levels. The adjustment range is +/- 10dB.
Theater Mode – When enabled for a particular source, theater mode fixes the volume at a level
equivalent to a standalone power amplifier. This allows the home theater surround sound processor
to control the volume of the left and right front speakers along with all of the other home theater
speakers.
Warning! - The Theater Mode should only be enabled for a source that has a volume
control. If it is enabled for a source with only a fixed line level output, very high volumes
may appear on the speaker outputs which could damage the speakers.
Preamp Output
Level Trim – In this menu you can add a volume offset to the preamp output to compensate for
gain differences between an external amplifier or subwoofer and the internal amplifier of the K-300i.
The adjustment range is +/- 10dB.
Output Mode – The two choices are Variable or Fixed. In Variable mode the output level varies
with the main volume control. In Fixed mode the output level is fixed to a standard line level output
for driving devices with their own volume control.