2. amps-preamps
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Will these HT amp/pre/pro's give me 2 chnl bliss?

I continue in my search for the best combined HT and 2 channel set-up. In previous posts, in response to how best to maximize 2 channel sound (better 2-3 chnl amp or use parallel integrated) many of you thought I should go with a separate integrated amp side-by-side with my Pioneer 49tx rvcr and B&W N803's/HTM1/DS7 set-up . I almost did it. Then I started to think about the possible family confusion with multiple equipment. Here's my new question: if I up my budget to $5k used, can I get excellent 2 channel performance similar to a stand alone integrated in the same price range? My choices (at least what I think I can get used within my budget):

Amp: Bryston 9B, Parasound A51, McIntosh 7205 (possibly 205), Theta Dreadnaught, Simaudio Aurora, Bel Canto evo6

Preamp: Bryston SP2, Classe SSP300, Parasound C1/C2, Cary Cinema 11, Simaudio Stargate, McIntosh 132 (or a steal on a Lexicon or meridian).

Basically, will these combinations get close to where I will be with a standalone Plinius 9200, Bryston B100, Mac 6900, Simaudio Moon I7, etc, or at least a Krell 400xi or BelCanto s300i???

Eager to hear your opinions. Am I getting close to 2 channel bliss with these HT pieces, or am I still MUCH better off with an integrated?

Thanks much...Jeff
jeffkad
jeffkad OP
211 posts
 
Bob, thanks for reply. I've heard mixed things about Integra as respects analogue audio, although this seems to be somewhat overcome by room correction. Otherwise I hear it's a great piece and quite a bargain. I just don't think it's the right one for me.

Would love to hear more suggestions and especially more comments on my choices in my OP. thanks all...Jeff
maineiac
649 posts
 
I have an integrated and ht receiver in my system and it is not much of a challenge for family members because when I am not listening to music I flip the knob to home theater setting and that is all there is to it. Whoever wants to watch tv or a dvd, they just select the right input on the receiver and they are good to go.

I am a true believer in this type of set-up if you REALLY care about 2 channel music.
jeffkad OP
211 posts
 
Maineiac, I hear you. What I've decided is I want to give this single-source approach a chance first, if for nothing else than to improve multi-channel sound with the possibility of acheiving close to audiophile 2 chnl SQ. If it doesn't get me where I want to go, I can add the side-car integrated later.

I'd like to get responses from those who have gotten close with some of the equipment I've identified, and which might be the best choices.
maineiac
649 posts
 
Jeff, you have a good approach - you are taking a similar path to one I started a few years ago. I started out biased to HT and multi-channel music but kept getting drawn into the fun of good 2 channel music. I am sure that you will be able to acheive very nice results for both. Keep us posted and good hunting.
mds's avatar
mds
119 posts
 
Jeff,

I am using a Theta Dreadnaught combined with a Meridian 568.2. The combination sounds very good together. I have since added a Aesthetix Calypso preamp which makes the 2 channel music that much better.

The point is you can start out with a decent processor and multi channel amp and then add a quality preamp later on to make the two channel sound substantially better. The Calypso is left in home theater bypass for my family. When I listen to 2 channel I take it out of home theater. All they have to do is turn it on and off.

Good Luck

MDS
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