Vandersteen 5?

Ljs_fin, as far as Krell and the reviews are concerned, a review is worth something only till you have not auditioned an equipment. Once you have had extensively listened to an equipment, no reviews hold nothing.

I have heard the 400xi in at least 5 different setups extensively and thats how I am able to say something about them. BTW, none of those 5 setups have the 400xi today.

Pani, I agree with you regarding the reviews but cited them because they raised no obvious defects. Regarding the audition in 5 different setups, I don't challenge what you heard for yourself but it is no useful information for anyone else because there are too many variables -- room, speaker, front-end etc. I am simply suggesting that the OP try his Krell before committing resources to another amp over something more important such setting up the room properly.

Stringreen, as always, YMMV. Actually, I'd met him twice before that episode for a Vandersteen audio event at a local retailer and actually found him to be brusque then as well. Interestingly, before he arrived the first time I asked some of the Vandy-veteran folks what he was like and, to paraphrase, the opinions I got were basically that he was an genius, but a real ass. So far, both meetings and every phone call has borne that out. However, as you noted, the dude may just not like me.

Still, I'd argue that ANY customer calling for service should never be verbally attacked. He did this to me multiple times (I wrote about it here recently with somewhat greater detail HERE ). Apparently having burned out a tweeter on one of his precious model 3's was enough to earn this sort of ire.

As I've said, wonderful product, lousy human being; but I'm glad that your experiences are better than mine. And the 5's are wonderful speakers.

I don't think people change even though it's been 7 years, so I will add my 2 cents worth- I love his designs but Mr. Vandersteen is a total prick. The man has absolutely no people skills (at least on the phone; I have never met him in person). I've talked to him at least 3 or 4 times over the years, didn't ask for him but for some reason he picked up every time. Next time if he picks up again I am going to ask to speak to one of his techs instead. 

My experiences are vastly different.
Initially Dutch brusque and moments later friendly but direct.
When we owned 3a Sig and were going to be driving near Hanford on a trip my wife called factory and requested a tour.
In his Richard way he said we dont do tours. Not a lot of frosting.
( there is an excellent reason for this )
But he invited us over to his house to listen to 7's..for something like 3 hours..... Like a kid in a candy store....spinning music we both love
He recommended a dealer (Optimal) and I bought the owners pair of 5A in Rosewood. Eventually he visited our house ( to check my setup skills ha!!!)
We now own a pair of 7 mk2 and will get the amps also.
He reaches out to me every month to talk shop, make sure I am happy and to talk about advanced manufacturing and airplanes.