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Best multi channel amp and processor good for 2 channel listening.

Hi All,

I am new to this forum and have a few questions in reference to HT processors.  I am starting from scratch and switching from a Krell S-1000 and S-1500.  I sold the processor a few months back and I going to list here the amp.

I am currently considering the new Bryston 9B3 and the SP4 and decision was based on upgrade ability and warranty. The speakers for HT will be Sonus Faber Grand Piano Home and for 2 channel Verity Otello’s.  My second choice was Classe but I was informed that they have all sales on hold, this is concerning.  I have not listened to either, my choice is based on reviews and the Bryston dealer.  My decision was also based they are both good for two channel, I am not set on this but it will help the budget and space.  I am looking for a warm and good over all sound; some might say 3 dimensional sound, clarity is also a factor.  Actually, all I’ve read in reference to Classe fits the bill.  I would like a couple of other choices to include in my short list and opinions are welcome. The budget for the processor and amp is approx. 22k.  

Thanks to all.....
maguiar
maguiar102
83 posts
 
@auxinput,

Thanks for your input..   Sorry if I sound naive, but what do you mean by liquidy?
 
My original intention when I started this thread was to intergrade HT with Music but I am not sure this is the best approach for reasons I mentioned. What I like in music I do not like for HT.

I did get to audition the Gryphon with the Verity’s and it was impressive to me.

Also, heard the Luxman 509x with Harbeth Super HL5 Plus and it had everything except the vocals were a bit off to me, sounded a bit grainy. Not sure what happened there.

Some also suggested the T+A PA 2500 R, which I will audition around the end of the month with the others.
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Eziggy,

As mentioned to auxinput just above is my concern with the vocals on the L509x.
I am wondering if the speakers played a role or the amp. I have such a keen ear that at times works against me..lol.... 

I am going to audition the Luxman, Gryphon, T+A, Hegel and Pass Labs with the Harbeth 40.2 by the end of the month hopefully. I am unable to audition the Mark Levinson at this time but planning to late June or July.

I will post my findings then...
eziggy
137 posts
 
Hmm, that’s probably the complete opposite of how I would describe the vocals.  They are smooth yet detailed.  If anything I think the amp is fairly true to source, in that the source and quality or recording makes a difference.  If the recording has a “digital” sounding recording, then that’s what you will hear with the amp.  Definitely good idea to demo it again with your own source music, if you didn’t get a chance to do it before.

That’s a great list of integrateds to demo!  If you are doing A/B testing are you bringing your source player, not just CDs?
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Eziggy,

It could be very well the recording, but I just did not get that grainy sound at home and I am using an old Yamaha receiver. I am not using my Krell, since I am selling it and I have it boxed ready to go.

maguiar102
83 posts
 
I did hear it thru a Luxman CD player at the show but at home I used my Arcam CD player. Maybe my Arcam colored the recording enough to sound better, don’t know.
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