2. amps-preamps
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Move From AVR to Integrated?

I know this topic gets thrown around a lot, but I recently bought a pair of Ascend Acoustic Sierra 1s I love and a Hsu VTF2 MK5 subwoofer. Right now, I'm using a Denon AVR-X2600H to power them. 

I hear a lot of chatter that I'm not getting the most out of my speakers using the AVR. The drawback is my room is not treated, and I like having the bass management. 

It seems difficult to find an integrated with 100wpc+, ability to stream things like Tidal, that also has ability to at least EQ the low bass, and have the ability to connect to digital sources like a PS4/5. I do like the idea of a better built power source, and I will never go past 2.1 or 2.2. Most of what I do is music and TV. 

Any suggestions? Ideally I'd like to stay under 1200. 
coolhandduke
bkeske's avatar
bkeske
5,597 posts
 
Similar to what  I did. My TV/HT and 2 channel are in the same space, the living room. My AVR has pre outs, so first bought a separate amp for the mains thinking that would make an improvement, it did, but not good enough, so finally bought a separate 2 channel preamp with HT pass through, and now life is much better. All my 2 channel is separate from my HT setup, and I can change with a press of a couple buttons on my remote.

The music sounds great, better than ever, and the HT? Just fine and dandy for non critical music listening.

We all cannot have dedicated music rooms. Fine with me, my setup works.
erik_squires
16,011 posts
 
For whatever reason, perhaps XLR connectivity, Anthem AVR's are significantly cheaper than the processors.  Check you get an AVR with enough pre outputs though.  I think the 720 has 11.2 outs.
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@erik_squires I don’t plan on using more than 2.1. Which is why I wish there were more features in integrated amps. Just a bit of connectivity would be great.

I’ll probably upgrade to 3xxx Denon and then pre out to stereo 200wpc power amp or mono block. I can use the streaming, bass correction and video capabilities but leave the amplification to a dedicated A/B amp. May be the best trade off for me and could do for 2k or under.
erik_squires
16,011 posts
 
Ahhh, if you are oinly doing 2.1, get the Anthem integrated (not receiver). Built in room correction, sub output, upgradable, or the Anthem pre version of this:

https://www.anthemav.com/products/model=str-integrated-amplifier/page=overview
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@erik_squires Far out of my price range I think. Thank you though. Kind of affirms I can't get those things unless going to premium models. 
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