Harman/Kardon HK 675 Amplifier
So, why is Harman/Kardon remarkable? First of all, the amplifier weights a lot for its price category. Secondly, the control system is very convenient. Although the faceplate has no display, the names of all inputs are highlightened in blue as the volume control handle. It is quite clearly. From the back there are qualitative terminals for connection of acoustic cables, full set of inputs including "Phono" and also the input for digital signal. At first I thought that the device is equipped by built-it DAC but, looking closer, I understood that we are talking about a loop, intended for commutating of digital signal sources. A solid power transformer, being located in the center of the body, made contribution to a big weight of the device. The construction of the amplifier is almost dual mono, each channel has own supply unit, putting current from a separate winding of the transformer. The boards are placed completely symmetrically and heat-eliminating radiators divide the body into three equal parts: in the middle - transformer, to the right and left - power amplifier's boards of two channels. Each of these channels has three transistors. I must say that Harmon/Kardon looks exclusively for its price category. We only need to check how it sounds.
Started with the listening of Whitesnake I note filled, bass (too bass) sound character of acoustic guitar. The voice of Coverdale sheds warmth and emotions, although it is slightly boomy. It seems that the amplifier a bit emphasizes LF. However the record atmosphere was given brilliantly, all quiet sounds were audible - replicas in the hall, beating of the rhythm with foot.
Violin Mozart's works sounded equally sweeping and bass. Here there was an excessive emphasis on LF - violins don't have such basses. The timbre of strings in the performance of Harmon/Kardon is soft and unobtrusive although a bit simplified. There is little volume in the sounding of individual instruments and separation is a little worse than you expected. However, despite of bass over-the-topness in some degree there is no any buzz.
Tremblingly I put Metallica anticipating an extraordinary performance. Premonition hasn't deceived me - it's something indescribable! Paired with sensitive acoustics the amplifier could create a full illusion of presence at the concert. Bass was overwhelming to your bones. At the same time the amplifier didn't allow any mess, each instrument sounded clearly and plainly. This is rock with a capital letter - Harmon/Kardon HK 675 turned out to be in its element. Without a doubt, it showed the best test playing of "Whiskey In The Jar".
The amplifier receives the highest score for playing bass - it is our unconditional recommendation to fans of this genre. Connect a sensitive acoustics with big woofers to Harman/Kardon HK 675 and the system will take you directly to the concert hall, where your idols are. The device copes with classics not so brilliantly but also quite good.
