Giving in to my weaknesses


Hey guys,

First of all I am an audiophile from 40 years ago and always tried to obtain the best sound and musicality from my equipment. But now I'm older (63) and my ears are not as sharp or discerning as they were 40 years ago.

I have come to the conclusion that spending thousands of dollars on separate amps and Pre/pro with outstanding DACs and the "ultimate" in sound quality is just not that important. I've destroyed my eardrums listening to beautiful music and that has cost me in the long run

Now I still listen to LZ, Floyd, and many others but just don't need the equipment that offers the nuances in sound I will never appreciate.

Looking for a mid range amp/pre amp or multi-channel receiver that will get me a good vibe for music and have the balls for movies.

Marantz has always been a favorite especially for music. Open for discussion. 

Thanks

128x128dennis714

Frankly I spend 80% of my time in my “B” 2.1 system at $5000.

Absolutely this! 

Yeah my hearing F’d up as well. Gonna be 65 in a few months. I have 3 systems and may be downsizing to one small system sooner than later. But as jacked up as I am I can still discern my AV integrated pales in comparison to my dedicated A/B amp and tube pre on my main system.

I do remember how sweet the little Hegal Rost sounded when I demo’d that. Don’t know how Hegal units would sound for AV units.

OP, I recommend a Marantz AV60 or AV50 receiver. Start with a pair of speakers and a sub and add more channels if you like. I think a 5.1 setup is a minimum for enjoying movies. The marantz is great for music too.

I have a state of the art 9.2.8 system using a Marantz processor for movies and atmos music. I have a sony signature DAC that I use connected to the marantz for 2 channel. I have tried 3 separate dedicated two channel preamps in this system thinking it would be better than the marantz processor for stereo. Did not add anything, the Marantz is very, very good as a 2 channel preamp as well as multi-channel.

I currently use Rotel 985 preamp with a Rotel 5-channel amp driving B&W 602S2 speakers, a Paradigm center and surrounds with a SVS PSB-1000 sub.

The pre and amp are old without any current inputs or outputs. My budget is ~$5000 for new LCR speakers and avr. 

I've been using KEF Wireless II augmented by a pair of KEF KC62 subs with an Oppo 205 for discs.  It's a very satisfying setup that minimizes clutter.  Used prices seem within you budget.