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
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.
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
Zd542, my friend suggested Wyred 4 Sound DAC-2 for digital music sources. Your advice?
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
Emotiva Stealth DC-1 is the solution. I connect

Oppo 103 -------> Emo XPA1--> Focal 1038Be
Marantz SR7007 --> Emo DC-1 -->
Computer -------> Emo XPA1--> 1038Be

The sound is clean and detail.
Next step is to replace the SR7007 by the AV8802A and add 4 ceiling speakers.
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