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Graduating to separates need help

Graduating to separates need help
I currently have a Marantz SR 18 receiver  that was feeding and Adcom GFA 555 that has been modified. my SR 18 had a memory issue and the local shop messed up the micro processor and I can’t set my speakers to large now in the menu
I also have a Denon AVR 5600 receiver which I’m using now and there is no comparison in the sound the Marantz destroys the Denon

I don’t know enough about preamplifiers to buy a good used one I need something with good DAC  
the DAC chips in the Marantz sounded phenomenal. should I just buy another SR 18 and feed it to a better amplifier or should I jump to a parasound preamp P6 and buy a better amplifier I was looking at some Bryston amplifiers which I really like but my budget is not big I want to keep my budget around 2000.  I don’t mind used.  I just want better sound than the sr18 adcom setup.  Any suggestions 
rab0829
rab0829 OP
16 posts
 
Wattage a little low on the ayre
mrdecibel
3,175 posts
 
I have heard some excellent Adcom GFA555s with mods, and not sure what mods yours has, but if your amp has been overhauled, you can still use it and concentrate on a preamp and separate dac. Enjoy ! MrD.
mesch
3,530 posts
 
I believe at your price point, unless you require separates for system arrangement, you should consider an integrated amplifier. Many have onboard DACs. I would be more inclined to purchase a separate DAC.  What sources do you input to your DAC?
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 
Aric Audio Unlimited tube preamp plus a Schiit Modi Multibit, total cost ~$1200. Keep the Adcom. 
rab0829 OP
16 posts
 
I’m streaming. Or Cd.  
Anyone familiar with the Marantz Sr18

i need a dac/intg amp/intg preamp with better dac than marantz. 

It it seems silly but a used Denon AVR-5805 has crazy processing for usually $1000 and has gobs of power.  If I spend $1000 on a dac will it sound better?


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