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Wells Audio Majestic (no HT Bypass) vs. Integrated w/ HT Bypass - Help!

I'm looking to add a 2 channel amp to my AVR setup. I have a Cambridge Audio 651r. It has pre out for the L and R, so I can connect an external amp. Here is my dilemma. I can get a Wells Audio Majestic for 1700, and all of the reviews say it would be an amazing amp for 2 channel stereo.  However, it doesn't have HT bypass.  Would I be better off buying an integrated amp with HT bypass for a similar price but maybe compromise a little on 2 channel stereo?  Would there be a huge difference in sound between an integrated with HT bypass at 1500 dollars vs. the Wells Majestic that retails for 3600 or is it diminishing returns? The reviews I've read say the Wells is amazing sounding. Thanks in advance. 
128x128boneius
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boneius OP
14 posts
 
@millercarbon I'm getting my content from an Apple TV, so there aren't RCAs to plug into the integrated amp.  Just HDMI to the AVR.
soix
9,456 posts
 
@boneius — I used the same hookup for a couple years before we moved and I was able to use the basement as a dedicated 2-channel listening room, but that hookup worked great and was like having the best of both worlds and super easy to operate. 

As for the integrated, Wells is highly regarded and rarely come up used, and I’d think you’d have a tough time bettering it performance wise for the price assuming it fits well with your tastes and system.  BTW, what speakers are you using?
boneius's avatar
boneius OP
14 posts
 
@soix I have a pair of Quad 23L floorstanders.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
I'm getting my content from an Apple TV, so there aren't RCAs to plug into the integrated amp. Just HDMI to the AVR

That's a shame. Oh well. Use the other option suggested above. It will suck. But it will work.

At some point you should find some way to get a clean signal direct into the Majestic, uncorrupted by AVR, just to hear and understand what HT is doing to the sound. Its just such a waste to pay for what seems to be a quite good integrated and then feed it through a AVR, easily the worst audio quality in all of audio.

AVRs in general, I mean. Not the one you have. You may have the best AVR on the market. Talking about all of them. Have a listen. You will see.
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