2. amps-preamps
  3. 1137435858

Which is more important? Amp or Preamp?

Would upgrading the amplifier or preamp make the biggest sonic difference? Here's my scenario. I currently own a HT setup. Previously, I had what I considered to be a decent 2 channel system (Classe amp and preamp) but wanted to move into HT. After having gone on a recent tweak-fest with cables, power conditioners, power cords, and isolation devices, I only realize now how good two channel sound can be. So what would my next logical upgrade be? I'm considering two options: First, purchase a considerably better 2 channel amplifier for my front speakers for two channel listening (and using the current multichannel amp for surround sound) or option 2...look for a better pre-processor which excels at two channel reproduction. In the end, two channel is more important to me than HT, but I do want the convenience of having HT without having two systems. Here's the list of my current equipment:
Rotel 1098 preprocessor
Rotel 1075 multi channel amp
Arcam cd92 and dv27 cd and dvd players, respectively
PS Audio PS300 power regenerator
PMC OB1 front speakers (along with various B&W surround speakers)

I'm looking on spending around $2500 for my upgrade in the USED audiogon market. I'm leaning towards the 2 channel amp upgrade (YBA, Ayre, Bryston, etc), thinking it would make the biggest difference, but I'm not sure. Any suggestions or recommendations for amplifier or pre-pro upgrades would be appreciated!

Thank you!
calgarian5355
calgarian5355 OP
145 posts
 
Thanks to everyone who replied. Based on what I've been reading, it appears that more people would find the preamp to make a larger sonic difference. I've been tossing the idea of moving toward a tube preamp (or possibly a multichannel tube or solid state preamp such as the Copland 306 or the McCormack MAP). If I were to go this route, I would have to change my DVD player to a unit that has 5 analogue outs for HT. I have absolutely NO experience with tube products and would like to pick your brains: First...is it safe to leave a tube preamp on for extended periods of time? How often do you need to change tubes (how long to tubes last)? How long does it take tubes to warm up?
I've done a preliminary search on this site with no luch. Any info would be helpful!
Thanks again!
aball
2,016 posts
 
IME, the preamp makes a bigger difference. It is much more complex circuit-wise than an amp and the signal levels are lower so it makes perfect sense.
gobblyguk
2 posts
 
Hi Calgarian

For your info ...I recently upgraded from a Rotel 1066 to an Audio Refinement Pre2 DSP(has analogue bypass function)in an attempt to improve 2 channel listening. I knew the Rotel wasn't great for 2 channel and found the Pre2 DSP much better as I had read it would be. I then purchased a used Proceed 'PRE' which has HT pass thru and found the sound difference for 2 channel to be much, much better again, exceeding all my expectations. I also have the Rotel 1075 and 1070 amps and I can tell you the 1070 is a much better amp for 2 channel listening, larger and better defined soundstage especially.

I've searched here for great pre/pro's that also do great 2 channel and the names I've found (all used) are:

Lexicon MC-1
Anthem AVM-2,20,30
Meridian 561
Proceed AVP

These are older pre/pros which don't have component video switching (save the Anthems)and probably have just basic DD and DTS processing, you'll have to check to be sure. I am extremely pleased with my Pre2DSP and Proceed 'PRE' combo, I purchased both pieces used for $1200 Canadian total! The Pre 2 DSP is much more detailed than my Rotel for DD and DTS, but lacks good bass management, though this unit is upgradeable.

Hope this has been of some help. Good luck in your search.
benie
147 posts
 
I had a Rotel 1066 pro + the 1075 amp and sold them to get funds for better 2 ch. but it did a nice job on the muti ch. With your budget you can maybe pickup a McCormack DNA 1 amp with upgrades or a Threshold amp and a nice tube preamp and by your user name I take it your in Calgary and a Canadian Co. called Space Tech. Labs out of Vancouver has some very nice Preamps which are handmade and can be tailored to your system and upgraded later if need be. so you can get both as Space techs Preamps are the biggest bang for the buck. http://space-tech-lab.com
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