2. amps-preamps
  3. 1433942579

Better 2-channel music

My system consists of the Marantz SR7007, a pair of Emotiva XPA-1 mono blocks, Emotiva XPA-3 for center and surround, Rythmik 15HP sub, Oppo 103, Focal 1000 Be II series front and center, Infinity IL10 surround and back. I listen music from CD and different digital sources and movies from bluray DVD and Netflix, Amazon... My complaint is the Marantz doesn't deliver the quality of 2-channel audio as I expected. My plan is to upgrade either to Emotiva XMC-1 or Marantz AV8802. All suggestions and advices will be greatly appreciated.
128x128philkoan
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
The Cambridge 851C doesn't have balanced or unbalanced inputs to accept 2 front channels from the Marantz Av8802. We can't do HT bypass.
runnin
397 posts
 
On the 851C the review above says it is not laid back like the 840. Only you can decide if that will work well with your forward sounding speakers and amps. A 60 day trial is the best way.
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
I've just realized that besides a good CD player and a good DAC, a very good 2 channel preamp is the key and the heart of the system.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"06-24-15: Philkoan
I've just realized that besides a good CD player and a good DAC, a very good 2 channel preamp is the key and the heart of the system."

Well its about time. lol. I knew we'd make an audiophile out of you.
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
Zd542, Regardless what surround processor I'll upgrade in the future, is the Emotiva XSP-1 worth to try as a 2 channel preamp? I have til 7/15 to get the last chance of 20% off, or $800.
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