2. amps-preamps
  3. 1311817172

Extremely High-End "Pre-Pro" Surround Pre-Amp

By all standards, I have excellent amplification (VAC Renaissance Mk II Preamplifier & 300.1 Stereo Power Amp.)

I am in the process of integrating a 5-channel surround system, which uses my 2-channel rig for the main/front L & R, via the preamp's "theatre bypass."

Though I am adding a surround system, I estimate that 85% of my system's use will still be for 2-channel music listening.

My initial plan was to buy a modestly priced surrround processor, such as the Marantz AV-7005 and run the 2 main channels to the VAC pre.

From the music side, I've even considered upgarding my VAC pre to one of the newer models that came out within the past year.

However, before I go down this path, are there any truely "high-end" surround processor/pre-amps that I should consider, and consolidate into one (surround/pre) unit?

By this, I mean are there any that would handle the duties of surround processing AND perform as well or better than my current pre-amp for 2-channel music playback?

It would be nice to have one piece of gear that could work dual-purpose, and avoid essentially having 2 pre's, but I will NOT go this route if there is any compromise to the musical pleasure that I am acustommed to.

So, is there a truely high-end, MUSICAL surround processor out there?

As you probably figured out, I'm a fan of tubes. What are the chances of a tube unit that fits this bill?

Thanks gang.
barrelchief
edorr
714 posts
 
According to its owners, the Krell 707 is only SSP with a 2 channel analog pre section that can compete with reference dedicated 2 channel pre's. However, it is crazy expensive and you are much better off keeping the VAC and buying one of very respectable SSPs for a third of the price of Krell that have been mentioned.

I am very happy with my Modwright 36.5 LS/PS, used with Theta in bypass mode. Additional benefit is it is a true bypass that works when switched off. Most tubes with bypass have unity gain and need to be turned on burning tubes and heating up the room while you watch a movie or TV.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,688 posts
 
"According to its owners, the Krell 707 is only SSP with a 2 channel analog pre section that can compete with reference dedicated 2 channel pre's. However, it is crazy expensive.........." and huge!

Kal
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
FWIW, after listening to 3 or 4 v. high end pre-amps, you can get different than the VAC Ren pre, but not much better. I agree, stick w the VAC for 2 ch and go bypass for HT. IMO, if you are using a SSP/HTR for movies alone, you do not need to go very high end. As recommended above, a good NAD or Arcam would be more than adequate, IMO. The sound adds to the experience but the visuals ARE the experience. Put your $ into the display and video source. YMMV.
unsound
7,329 posts
 
This one is the most interesting to me:

http://www.tactlab.com/Products/TCSmkIII/index.html
edorr
714 posts
 
The Tact is no doubt a very competent digital processor, as are a host of others mentioned (and not mentioned) on this forum.

However, for the "occasional multi channel" listener seeking to maintain reference 2 channel performance using analog sources, this box is not a good alternative to a 2 channel preamp with HT bypass and a reasonably priced "good enough" SSP.

In fact, the Tact probably digitizes its two channel sources, which is anathema to most two channel afficionados.
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