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Can a Classe SSP replace a dedicated stereo pre?

Hi everyone! I appreciate the opinions and knowledge on this forum and I've been reading a while. 

I am looking to move laterally from a 2-channel setup to a basic 5.1 surround setup, as my listening does involve TV and movies. Most of my sources are digital.

My current setup involves a sabaj d5 DAC, a Modwright SWL 9.0se preamp, Odyssey Khartago extreme monoblocks, and some excellent DIY 3-way speakers.

I couldn't be happier with this for two channel listening. 

In my research for multichannel pres/avrs, I heard most people saying that the only ones that sound really good for stereo are ones made by Classe, Krell and Bryston within my budget. I'm really hoping to simplify my setup and not have to use ht bypass, switch between two preamps etc.

I've made an offer for a Classe SSP sigma. Do you think this could potentially replace my Modwright without losing much SQ?

Thank you!
akhil
jnovak's avatar
jnovak
413 posts
 
My only pause with Classe is their less than excellent service. They've transitioned ownership a couple of times recently. I had a CP700 pre that sounded fantastic. It needed warranty work. No power surge was noted. The unit needed a main circuit board and the touch screen replaced. I was the second owner. Classe demanded the original sales receipt before honoring the warranty. Through much pissing and moaning, I got Classe to honor the warranty. I wouldn't complain about this not being the original owner BUT, their are companies who will treat you like gold no matter what. Pass labs for one. They rebuilt an ageing X-1 preamp for me. I braced myself for the bill. $125.00!!! Pass's explanation; We don't believe in making money on repairs. We charge as little as possible to get the job done. I fully expected to shell out $1500.00 or so. (They replaced two boards and the display and fabricated a new box) I've said this here before. I need to say it again as such a company deserves to be heard time and again. Joe 
ronboco
797 posts
 
I’m running a Marantz 8805 with a Mc 8207 amp for music and movies. Music is quite good although I am curious if dedicated 2channel with a ht bypass would be a significant improvement. 

soix
9,314 posts
 
Can an AVP replace a Modwright SWL 9.0se?  No.  Just no.  
jumia
528 posts
 
What about an ab switch?

i have a nad17 processor and a lumin x1 and still a stereo pre is alot better. I am looking too.

maybe ab switch is better as switching between stereo and ht is easier. But ab switches dont get much attention? Why not?
soix
9,314 posts
 
maybe ab switch is better as switching between stereo and ht is easier. But ab switches dont get much attention? Why not?
Because most audiophiles are loathe to insert more — and especially cheaper/inferior — electronics in the signal path than necessary as they can degrade/change sound. 

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