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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
caphill
679 posts
 
@maguiar102 

Yes, the PS Audio DirectStream DAC is a way to go and will elevate the performance of your system to the next level. Your Arcam CD player is old and digital audio eg CD player, DAC DSP, etc, etc improves over time and have gone significant improvement since your Arcam CD player was first released in early 2000's. Even for back then your Arcam CD player was never considered a high end or excellent CD player it was fairly good even for back then. 

Or you should just sell your Arcam CD player and just use your Oppo 203 as a CD transport and connect your Oppo 203 using coax digital audio cable to the PS Audio DirectStream DAC for CD playbacks and connect the Oppo 203 using HDMI to your AV preamp processor or AVR for movies. Oppo is a good transport for the money.

That way you will have some more fund available to use by selling your Arcam CD player. I bet you probably wouldn't be able to tell the difference between using your Arcam and the Oppo 203 as CD transport only. Both are probably comparable when used as a CD transport. Make sure you make AB comparison between using your Oppo 203 as a CD transport vs using your Arcam as a CD transport into the PS Audio DirectStream DAC. If using the Arcam as a transport gives you better sonic result then keep the Arcam as CD transport only, and just use the Oppo 203 for movie playbacks via HDMI to your AVR or AV preamp processor.
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Caphill,

Thanks for the info., will do.....

Secondly, I would like your opinion on the Pass Labs INT 250 with the Verity Otello’s, since they are my first choice.


caphill
679 posts
 
@maguiar102

I’ve heard the Pass INT250 on different speakers, not on the Verity, so can’t comment. I’ve heard a different model Verity speakers a while back on different set of amps and electronics. Haven’t heard the Otello. The Pass INT250 was good when I heard it on different speakers.

All the integrated amps that you are considering above are very good : Accuphase, Pass, Luxman, T&A, Levinson. It all depends on the synergy with the associated gears such as the speakers, front end source component(s), cablings. Do not skimp on cablings, all kinds of cables including power cables and digital cables, not only speaker cables and analog interconnects (XLR or RCA).

maguiar102
83 posts
 
Caphill,

I have a couple of Transparent Audio Laboratory MusicWave, E124991, Type CL2, 10AWG and was wondering if you have any experience with them. I had them with the Sonus Faber Grand Piano Homes and the Krell, but I felt my system sounded a bit bright, not sure if it was the cables or the components.
Any suggestions on cables? I always like a few options.
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Caphill,

Also, was considering bringing the speakers home first and asking the dealer for an in home demo.
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