2. amps-preamps
  3. 1409955127

Getting great stereo sound from multi channel sys.

Here's the background:

I'm thinking about getting the GoldenEar Technology TritonCinema Two Speaker System. I'm primarily interested in maximizing stereo performance (i.e. music) and multi-channel performance (i.e. movies) is a secondary concern.

So here's my question: What's the best amplifier, preamp, and/or A/V receiver configuration for my needs? Here are the alternatives I've thought of:

1. Get two stereo power amps, a stereo preamp with HT bypass, and a surround processor
2. Get an A/V receiver
3. Get a surround processor and a multi-channel power amp

What are the benefits/tradeoffs with each alternative? Are there any other options I haven't considered that might be better? Thanks for your help!
cdxskier
zd542
5,339 posts
 
"If you do plan to use them, Option 1 may not be your best choice. IME, AVRs and Pre-Pros will likely get you substantially better subwoofer integration than you'll achieve with a traditional stereo preamp. "Likely" is the key word there, as absolutes are risky, but the bass management systems in pre-pros and AVRs really do this job well."

The OP's preference is pretty strong for 2 channel. Going with theater gear just to integrate a sub probably wouldn't be worth it for the hit you will most certainly take in overall SQ. It may be a little more work, but you can get a sub working well without all the processing. For a system like this, a sub made for music would probably be a better choice. Or maybe just use the sub for theater only.
cdxskier OP
1 posts
 
Thanks for all of your help! Any model recommendations for integrateds or preamps with HT bypasses?
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
There are integrateds with HT bypass available from many manufacturers - Marantz, Musical Fidelity, Creek, Arcam, Krell, are a few that come to mind. There are 2 channel preamps from Musical Fidelity, Parasound, and even Rogue if you want to consider tube gear.

Any specific model recommendations would be based on your budget and the power demands of your L/R main speakers. Since you mention that your thinking about the Triton Twos, these are fairly efficient at 8 Ohms and 91 Dbw. That would further widen the range of models that you can consider.
pgawan2b
122 posts
 
I find it a bit curious that those endorsing option 1 are not also commenting on the op's choice of speakers. The GoldenEars seem to me to be an odd choice for someone who wants to maximize 2 channel stereo performance.
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
I find it a bit curious that those endorsing option 1 are not also commenting on the op's choice of speakers. The GoldenEars seem to me to be an odd choice for someone who wants to maximize 2 channel stereo performance.

As one who strongly endorses option 1, I will not comment on the OPs' choice of speakers. As we all know, speakers are highly subjective and since I never heard a pair, they might sound great for music.

I have heard flagship AVR's and pre/pros though, and these IMO do not sound great with music.
More to discover