Best Pre/Pro for 2 channel

I picked up a Rotel RSP-1066 new for under $1,500, but I doubt that it, or any of the similarly priced products, will make you want to give up your Creek (although it certainly was better for 2-channel than I had expected). I have not heard that many high end pre/pros, but I can tell you that the 2-channel performance of Krells HTS 7.1 was more than enough to convince me that you do not need a dedicated 2-channel preamp. Next time I find myself with $8,000 to drop, I am going to pick up an HTS 7.1! ;^)

Tom.

I've found the difference in sound quality between mid and high cost pre-pro's to be very small to none as far as movies go. The extra cost of the high-end units does begin to show with music only use and most are very good. Just as you would with a dedicated two channel pre-amp, you need to find one that has the sonic signature that you would like in your system. This is not to say that a dedicated two channel pre will not sound better..but you will need a pretty darn good one to outplay some of these pre-pro's as they can do a fine job with music.

Dave

I used to own a Classe ssp25. They go used in your price range. It was great for music, and worked well for HT. I recently downsized to a NAD receiver, which is adequate for film, mediocre(relatively speaking) for 2 channel music.
If I didn't have a nicer separate 2 channel music system, I'd be missing the Classe very much. It sounds like just the type of piece you're looking for. Only 5.1, but to me that's okay. Most filmakers haven't figured out how to use those channels, let alone a couple more! Good luck.
Spencer

I agree with Sogood, as far as movies there isnt a lot of difference between the usual suspects. But two-channel is a different story. I auditioned a lot of Processors when I was upgrading. The Bryston SP-1.7 was my pick based on 2 channel needs.

Having said that, if I had to do it all over again. I may have gone with a very nice 2 channel preamp with a theatre pass instead. I say this based on a few obvious facts. Preamps can offer more performance for the dollar, and thus be less costly to upgrade in the furure. However the "one-box" solution is nice.

If you need/want a "one-box" processor I have a few suggestions. A used Bryston SP-1 may be within your budget, or a used Classe SSP-25/30, or a used Sunfire Theatregrand (only if you can use balanced output). I havent heard the older Krell HTS's, but if they perform like the newer ones then I would put it on my list as well.

What are some nice 2 channel preamps with the theater pass option?