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Separates for 2-channel & HT, or.....?

I posted this in the amp/preamp forum too - no responses as yet so I will try again here. I hope double posts are not frowned upon.

I am coming from the simple world of SS receiver and separate SS power amp - Rotel gear, as you can see from my Virtual System. I am trying to find a more musical system, but I still need to have a system that can be used for HT. Optimized 2-channel is more important to me, but I can't make two separate systems - no room. :-(

I am changing out my speakers to Cain & Cain Abbys - single drive (Fostex 166E) high efficiency speakers (95dB.) My Teres turntable is also a keeper, as is my phono stage. These are about the only decisions I have been able to firm up! So, I am building my system around these components.

I need either an integrated amp or separates - pre amp/power amp. I thought tubes would be best for the Abbys, but then again, maybe the pre should be solid state with a tube amp - or is the other way around better? You see how unknowing I am! An integrated amp might be a bit of a compromise, but might also fit my budget better. :-~

This is what I need the system to do: I need to be able to run my CD drive, a DVD drive, my phono stage and a subwoofer, as well as, of course, front speakers. If I end up getting rid of my receiver, an option for rear and center speakers would be a plus, though I may forgo surround sound (5.1) with my new system.

My budget is around $10,000 which is both limiting, I realize, and more than I wanted to spend. :rolleyes: I would like this budget to include a new CD-player - I am considering the Musical Fidelity A5 - so I guess my actual amp/preamp budget is around $8000.

So, should I keep the receiver - or get a better one - and get an integrated amp with an HT pass through, or go with separates, or????
oakiris

Showing 4 responses by fplanner2000

fplanner2000
616 posts
 
I'm using a McCormack DNA-500 for 2 channel. You might find 1 used for $4-5K and the sound is quite unbelievable. There are many glowing reviews out there on this piece, which made me very leery at first. After having this in my system for about 6 months, I have to concur with the reviews - may never be replaced! Thought I'd get this in since you're making a list.
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
My system is designed around 2-channel first, then HT, altho it started the other way around. Tube pre and SS amp is definitely the way to go, IMO. Also, contrary to some of the posts above, a HT bypass isn't necessary on the pre, especially if you have a good pre and want to hear its contribution to movies.

I have a Sunfire TG4 which now is my HT processor, driving a Sunfire amp which feeds center and rear channels. Front end is an APL modded Denon 3910 into a VAC pre driven by a McCormack DNA-500 amp. I have great 2 channel as well as great HT. Yes, it cost lots more than $10K, but the point is, it can just as easily be done with more modest components.

And yes, power cords DO make a difference - the more revealing your system, the greater the difference, IMO.
Hope this helps.
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
IF you were talking to me, that NOT how I do it. The Denon 2 front channels feed the preamp; the remaining 4 channels feed the processor (2 rears, center and sub). For movies, just adjust the volume controls on the pre and processor so they match, and you're done. That way the pre still controls the left and right speakers, which was my goal (big price and quality difference between my Preamp and the movie Processor).

Hope that helps - there are obviously several ways to achieve multichannel from a 2 channel system.
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
Sounds like you have the right idea. I would recommend a VAC Standard LE preamp(about $2K- used w/o a phono stage) if you decide to get a separate tube preamp. I had one and got hooked on the VAC sound, plus the build quality and support (Kevin Hayes) are unbeatable. 90% of the time when you call VAC, Kevin will answer the phone and try to help if he can, with no pressure at all. Truly a class act. If you ask, he will also try to help you locate what you're seeking from one of his dealers, sometimes on a demo basis (what he did with me)

I would also listen to the Sunfire products and see what you think. While there, try the Sunfire Cinema Grand amp if you get the chance - it has both current and voltage outputs for the front channels, which lend an almost tube-like character to the sound in a bi-wire situation. Apparently not many people know about this feature.

If you aren't satisfied with the Sunfire, at that point I would pursue Simaudio, etc. In my opinion, most Sunfire products offer excellent value for the money, and I still have 2, in limited roles, in my system.

Good Luck!
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