Krell HTS 7.1 vs. Showcase

This is driving me nuts... The Showcase can be had for about 1/2 of that of the HTS7.1... I want really good sound (pri. 1 in stereo since I'm combining a good stereo with my HT). No way for me to audition both, so question is... is there really night and day differences between the HTS7.1 and Showcase? Money is a factor, but not completely deciding. I could eat noodles for a few months and spend the extra if really made that much of a difference... So... what do you say?

Audiojan: With all the other excellent equipment that you have put together, it would seem a shame not to get the HTS7.1. Eat noodles for awhile, you'll be glad you did. Food only lasts in your system for a day or so. The pre/pro is forever (at least a short term forever).

Had the showcase, recently upgraded to the s-1000. I would love to lie, but there is a significant difference. Whether it was worth more than double the price... not sure...

I listen mostly two-channel, the surround on the s-1000 is MUCH better.

I am in the same predicament Krell HTS 7.1 vs. Showcase. I just bought a theta dreadnaught 5 channel and will be driving 4 B&W cdm 7se's all round and don’t have a center yet. I just got back from a nearby dealer here in San Diego and had auditioned both an hts 2 and showcase. I also got to peek inside both. The HTS had a larger power supply and separate circuit board for the analog stage. Also, the store owner recommend to the HTS over the showcase to me if I am more concerned with using the unit as a 2 channel preamp. He also mentioned that the showcase had more surround processing modes and a parametric equalizer adjustment per speaker where the HTS2 did not. Listing, I noticed crisper detail out of the tweeters and wider soundstage. Remember I did cheat a little there and was listning on a pair of 802D's. I did not get to listen to either with more than 2 speakers. I will be returning with my power amp to audition the 2 together on Thursday. I will probably be picking the HTS they want $1600 for it.

If you have gained any more info since OCT please let me know.

Jess

Has anyone compared the Krell HTS 7.1 with EQ and 3.7 version software with the Lexicon MC 12 B with EQ and 5.0 version software? I am interested in your expert opinion on the difference between the two re. two channel analog perfomance/listening experience. Thank you all for your kind assistance.

Regards