2. amps-preamps
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2 Channel pre-amp...where to start...

I have a dedicated HT/2 channel listening room. I know, it's not the best of both worlds but the room was designed for this purpose with complete acoustical wall and ceiling treatment (Owens Corning).

As I selected equipment, whenever a trade-off was involved I favored 2-ch stereo. That's how I ended up with 2 Aloia pwr amps vertically bi-amp (quite nice). The front end for the past couple of years is a Theta Casanova. HT is great and the audio is pretty good as well.

Now thinking of adding a 2 channel pre amp but because of the configuration I need one with a unity gain input (HT pass through) and remote control. The ones I know of are C-J and McCormack. I'm sure there are others. Aloia pre-amp doesn't have the pass through or would probably be an obvious choice. Since I will be looking in the pre-owned market I will have to read reviews, get some input and take a chance without auditioning. I don't like using (abusing) the local dealers and then purchasing elsewhere.

What other options to consider? Where to start? Thanks.

Speakers: Dunlavy Cantata
Source: Audio Aero Capitole
rap
rrsclyde
84 posts
 
I'm in the same situation; other preamps with HT pass thru and remote include BAT VK-30, Sonic Frontiers and Audio Research. I also want my preamp to have a 12v trigger to pwr up my amp--the newer Audio Research pre's have this (BAT and Sonic Frontiers do not).

John, does the Classe CP-60 have a 12v trigger output?

Thanks
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Rrsclyde, No, I don't believe so.

John
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
It is a shame that you need a preamp for HT pass through, because the Capitole sounds best run directly into amps.
soix
9,456 posts
 
In addition to those mentioned above, Adcom(GFP-750), Rogue, and VAC also offer stereo preamps with HT pass throughs. Of course any stereo preamp will work if you have a line level input open, you'll just have to set a reference volume level on the stereo preamp when doing HT--this obviously opens up many more choices for a stereo preamp, but is a little less convenient. Best of luck.

Tim
bwyoung
143 posts
 
My Krell KRC-3 has HT throughput. I love it.
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