New Pre/Pro for 2 ch guy? (+How easy to set up RC in top units like Lyngdorf, etc)?

It’s going to be really hard to beat the Krell S1200 because nobody uses discrete analog stages in processors anymore. Everything is op amp based (which can be good, but just doesn’t compare with the discrete Class A analog stages in the Krell). Also, the Krell has a very powerful high resolution sound.

You can go sideways and look for a Bryston SP3. It uses Class A discrete audio circuits both on the analog outputs as well as the fully balanced analog inputs with a "PURE PASS-THROUGH" mode where it does not convert analog to digital. Everything is converted to single-ended internally for volume control. It has probably the strongest bass I have heard out of a processor, but the rest of the sound is not as impactful as the Krell. Probably your best bet for a 2-channel solution. There is no EQ or room correction on this unit.

On everything else, I would look at units that have good linear power supplies. If you really want a Lyngdorf feature set, then look at a McIntosh MX-160/170/180. Those have the Lyngdorf digital/DSP section, but use all McIntosh power supplies and analog stages. Like others have said, if you want room correction, the processor is going to convert all analog input to digital for room correction DSP processing.

Just got bad news from Krell.  Processor is not repairable.  Needs new boards that are no longer in stock.  Ugh.

(soix, why the snooty response to the consideration of a Mc preamp? You were very nice in your original response.  I realize Mcintosh is a polarizing name, but I like what I've heard from them in past, and my mc452 amp is outstanding.  If you like other preamps more, please suggest some as I appreciate all opinions, even if I may not agree :)

auxinput, thanks for the input, which actually depresses me more lol.  Unfortunately the MX 180 is just way too much money, even used.  I'd like to keep it all under $10k (and closer to 6-7k if possible).  Will need to consider used or combination new/used.

soix, why the snooty response to the consideration of a Mc preamp? You were very nice in your original response.

My apologies. Admittedly I’m not a McIntosh fan. I worked for Magnolia for a bit and when they had the KEF Blades hooked up to Macs they sounded mushy, compromised, and not performing at the level they were capable of. But, if you like the sound and it works in your system by all means go for it, but the Lyngdorf processing is pretty darn special. If you want more Mac flavor in your system that’s probably your boy, but if you think you could use a little more upper mid and treble detail and air I’d go with the Lyngdorf. Again, best of luck in whatever you end up choosing.

I worked for Magnolia for a bit and when they had the KEF Blades hooked up to Macs they sounded mushy, compromised, and not performing at the level they were capable of.

Are you speaking about McIntosh amps?  If so, then I do agree that McIntosh amplifiers are too laid back and soft in the mids/highs. 

However, from what I understand, the McIntosh processors do not have this laid back / mushy sound.  Can you confirm this?

I'm basing this off another comparison.  I had a friend bring a Marantz AV8805 directly to my house for testing.  I was impressed with the fullness and power of the sound from Marantz, but when I hooked my S1200 back up, it was apparent that the Marantz had rolled off softened high frequencies.  From what my friend was saying, the McIntosh processors did not have this effect.