2. home-theater
  3. 1061224073

EAD TheatreMaster 8000/8800 ?

I recently took my mothballed TAG McLaren Audio AV-32R out for a dedicated AV set up. Was contemplating a 5.1 bypass surgery and upgrade to the twin SHRAC processor spec. I guess we'll never find out how good it will sound now given TAG's "business review".

I need a new processsor for an AV biased set up in a small room. Already have a decent 2 channel system. Having said that, I am looking for refinement not commonly found in processors (not that the TAG is great, it was a sensible option 3 years ago). Have heard the Theta and Krell - very good but not really my musical cup of tea. Also, hear the older EAD Ovation and Signature in the past. Pretty impressed with the stereo sound quality. Rather wallet friendly as well. Would the TM8000/8800 be a step in the right direction ? What other processor should I look at ?

BTW, I use a Chord Electronics(small UK concern)5 channel power amp - 130W monoblocing front left and right, 160W mono into centre. Rear surround driven by less critical TAG power amp.

Thanks,

Tom
gilas
hbrandt's avatar
hbrandt
272 posts
 
I was a hard core 2 channel listener with decent gear (Wadia Transport, TacT 2.0S, dCS Purcell/Delius, Placette Active Dual Mono preamp, CLSIIz's with Vandy Subs). When I decided to integrate this 2 channel system into a home theater setup I preserved the 2 channel path....but added a Theatermaster pro 8000.

Wow!!! I couldn't say enough good about EAD. Take a look inside and you will see a work of art. The analog volume control in the EAD rivals placette (but not quite!). I've been VERY happy with the tonal quality, flexibility, analog pass through etc of the EAD and can HIGHLY recommend it.
jjtoma
12 posts
 
So everyone happy with the multi-channel bypass,
Looking for a AV pre-amp for use with a Denon/Underwood 5900 DVD player .Something that is not bright, easy to listen to with less than great material.
hbrandt's avatar
hbrandt
272 posts
 
Jjtoma: The multi-channel bypass is excellent in the Theatermaster.
jtee
13 posts
 
I agree. Analog bypass is fantastic with EAD. I use 6 of the channels for SACD and plan to use the other 2 for something like Vinyl.
kgveteran
377 posts
 
I currently own an EAD ovation-8.Exept for some bass management issues the unit will stay in my system for years to come.I have yet to use the analog pass through but with prices dropping I'll get a new player with DVD-A and SACD.I worked in sales for a couple of years partime and was always glad to sit down and watch a movie through the EAD.Smooth.crystal clear,great bass,I can't say enough.I bough this unit as an encore,then upgraded to ovation and then again to the 8 model.Go for it.2000.00 used, a steal.
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