Is there an amp that does 2-channel and all this?


Hola,

I'm looking for an integrated amplifier/receiver/AVR that does 2-channel well. I don't need 5+ channels but I would not mind it. I have gotten the impression that 2-channel receivers are preferred over 5 channel for 2-channel music. However, if there is a 5 channel receiver with stellar sound quality, I'm all ears!

I'm looking for a piece that has the kitchen sink:

phono stage
tuner
dac (usb and spdif)
bass management / variable sub out crossover
remote
tone control
125w+ per channel
pre-out

IF available, I'd also like room correction

Budget is $4000

Thoughts?
128x128michaelkingdom
I absolutely love the HK990! I originally bought a Marantz PM-11S3 to use in this system, but it sits unopened. I am that satisfied with the sound from this amplifier. Highly recommended!

Mot
I have the Harmon Kardon AVR 7200.

Harmon Kardon has a great sound, but I hear the Arcam AVR600 is FAR AND AWAY better in ANY configuration.

Anybody know? The reviews are off the charts! Only problem seemed to be the early units were not quality checked.

Worth a discussion.
Yes, from this thread, I began to investigate the AVR600. It does look to be an good unit for music. While there have been many complaints about pops and clicks regarding the video section, there are a lot of good reviews about the musical ability of the amplifier. That being said, I have also come across sellers that are selling them to move up higher in two channel. This is something that makes me worry because I don't know if the alcolades heaped upon the Arcam are just hype or if the people that are upgrading are truly dissatisfied with the sound. I really like the all in one solution.

I'd also really like to hear from HK990 owners on how they like the sound. Is it a little rolled off at the top / grainy / warm? That has been my (positive) impression of HK.
The early Arcam 600's had some glitches. I had one, but never had an issue. Still, I know they were there. The problems were addressed with firmware updates, and they seem to be excellent now. I have not had any issues with any I have sold. To answer the OP's comment about better 2 channel, certainly there is. For the person that wants everything in one package, it's awesome. If you are on a quest for the "holy grail" of 2 channel, and have the funds, I would look elsewhere. As far as AVR's go, it's darn hard to beat. I won't say one doesn't exist, but I have not used, or heard one myself.

***dealer disclaimer***
What draws me towards a simple solution is that I have limited space. I have found myself in the past with up to four amps, five sets of speakers and all the other components that are "integrated" into a one box receiver. If I end up getting an Arcam, hopefully it will be all I need.