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What to do?????

I've decided to change my HT processor and Amp (Sunfire TGP II and Cinema Grand). I'm buying used and would like to buy the same brand processor and amp unless there is a compelling reason to mix brands.

Speakers are Thiel 2.2 mains, NHT center (now looking for SCS3) and Thiel 1.2 for surrounds, Sunfire sub (looking to replace that as well). We do listen to 2 channel music as well as full 5 channel.

What brand(s) drive the Thiels well? Thanks, Jim
carjcapt
carjcapt OP
1 posts
 
Bob, Currently my Sunfire Amp has developed static out of the left rear channel and Sunfire wants up to $600 to fix it. It has worked well the last ten years and very well I might add. The processor also has developed static out of all channels when the bass is selected beyond 0db up or down especially when there is little bass signal.

I would keep the Amp however I'm considering changing the processor to get better technology. Such as HDMI in and out. I'm still going only to use 5.1 maybe 6.1 with two subs.

Post removed 
ckorody
643 posts
 
Car -

no comparison between old and new processors. First of course the endless proliferation of new formats. I decided this was a sweet time to get in because the key new standards have been set and stabilized. Since very little software is yet available with the new standards (due to foot dragging by the studios and a soft market) I think this will be stable for a few years. Think of the pre as disposable and the amp as a keeper.

HDMI is huge. Simplifies cabling while saving tons of money - think of one cable instead of 10 to do component and 7 channel audio - ridiculous.

Also sound from BluRays is nothing short of astounding when it comes off uncompressed. Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio (MA) and Linear PCM (Linear Pulse-Code Modulation). These formats will all convey eight discrete channels (7.1) of no-loss audio that exactly duplicate the original studio masters. WOW is all I can say - game changer

Be sure what ever you get is HDMI 1.3 compatible or better.

The new BluRay standard is 2.0 though 1.2 gets it done. (V2 adds internet access for some new interactivity that is again not widely supported yet) Oppo has a new player due this quarter which should be amazing and value priced like all their gear

This is a very interesting phenomenon. Used to be that sources were brutally expensive. You can get really SOTA great looking, great sounding HDMI sources for virtually nothing.

And of course the ultimate HDMI benefit is your HD TV... Unbelievable how straightforward and slick it all is together

BTW just so I don't get trashed - yes you can buy a Krell rig or a Pass rig - but I didn't think you would be posting if that was an option LOL
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