2. amps-preamps
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Amp/Preamps vs. High end AV Receivers

Hi,
I am sure this topic had been discussed exhaustively. I am new to this arena looking for some help to upgrade my Onkyo AV Receiver (135 w/channel). I am debating whether to the AV route or the AMP/Preamp combo. Naturally, I understand that I get what I pay for.

Would appreciate some inputs and suggestions regarding:
1. AMP/PREAMP combo route - 
2. AV route

I am not looking at a huge budget but a decent one. 

Thanks in advance
128x128terrancej
geek101
284 posts
 
@jdub071 What speakers do you have? Your experience depends on the speakers. The op here has speakers that are quite a value for money and need good amount power to get them singing.

These days one can get excellent 2 or 3 channel amp with great measurements, one must consider their speaker before getting an amp however.
jdub071
71 posts
 
I have B&W 600 S3, 602 S2, 605 S2 and LCR6 S2's that I bought new about 17 years ago. These I run in my bedroom with a Denon AVR-X2400H receiver w/55 inch 4K Samsung TV. For my audio I have emotiva Bas-x 150 amp w/pt-100 preamp with either ELAC B6's or B&W 685 S2's w/polk 10 inch subwoofer. Terrencej said he was not looking at a huge budget so I guess all that is in the eye of the beholder or rather ears.
geek101
284 posts
 
@jdub071 Denon AVR-X2400H is not even rated for 4 Ohm. As long as it works for you that is good. What levels do you listen to normally?.
amg56's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
amg56
887 posts
 

@terrancej I had an Onkyo TX-NR906 which I used for AV and 2-way. I "upgraded" to a Yamaha 3030 and was very happy with it and "upgraded again. I was talked out of the Yamaha C5000/M5000 pairing to an Anthem AV60+525+325+325 to achieve 11.2.4 atmos.

What a waste. I didn't need the extra equipment and cost. the new Yamaha 3080 and 3090 are out and while I have other favourites, the new Yamahas are the real deal. AV + 2-way and a new room AI.

If I had my time again I would go to a 3080 or the new C5200/M5200.

jdub071
71 posts
 
to geek101I listen at moderate levels because of neighbors and the room is about 12 by 13 ft so I don't require a lot of power but the B&W's are pretty efficient around 90 dbs. and the Denon does have a four ohm rating but the B&W's are 8 ohm speakers anyway.
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