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Hi guys. I am looking for a HT processor for under $1,000. I want it to do the usual Pro Logic and AC3 functions. What are a few of the real bang for the buck processors out there? Thanks for your help!!Jim
Does anyone know of a processor in this price range that has both rca and balanced outputs? Reason being that I am considering a Coda 11.5 amp which has switchable rca and balanced outputs which would allow me to have the best of both worlds - HT and an ideal signal path for listening. That would allow me to switch between the processor (HT) and my regular tube preamp (listening) all the while using the same amplifier for both. I suspect that balanced outputs may up the price range a bit.Thanks for the replies,
Jim
I'd seriously consider a good used pre-pro. I saw a Nak CA-1 listed for around $900 not too long ago at audiogon. These are about $2400 retail new. Very good DPL and DD5.1 processing plus a DTS option (can be added later, also), no extraneous cheesy DSP modes, very good analog pass through volume control without unnecessary ADC and DAC steps.
I don't know if you like sony, but i got the strde-935 for $699 plus tax cnddolby digital, dts decoding, lcd remote, 29 dsp's, full adjustments for center, surround, sub, front, 2 sub out, coaxal ins, optical ins and out, s-video, tons of rca ins and outs not bad for the price
If you want somthing more professional your might want to consider spending more than a grand for the sony i have had it 6 months no problems excellent ht experience
you could also check out the ES line up but again there are only a few under or little over your price range
hope this helps!!!
Joel
If you don't need dts, there is a closeout at Audio Advisor (I believe it is them) on the Kenwood Stage3 unit. I bought this several years ago and still use it in my family room. It has a built-in demodulator and a rather nifty RF remote touch panel (just be careful, it breaks EASILY and costs a lot to repair). It is an old unit, but you don't have to worry about servicing because it is Kenwood. There was a very strong review of it when it first came out and it really is value for money. I don't recall the exact price, but it is around 1200 I believe. Worth a look.
nt
You can dump on the Stage 3 all you want but do you really think that there is going to be much of a musical difference in various units for under a grand? If you have some more money to spend then fine you can get more refined. However, the Sony, Rotel, etc. are just not all that different from one another and you shouldn't expect them to be for that price point. I may prefer my Corolla over a Geo Metro or Dodge Neon, but they are all basic transportation and they're not BMW's.If you are serious about trying to get something of better quality, then follow one posters advice and look for a used unit on Audiogon, web, shopper, etc. or your local hifi store. You can often pick up a very nice unit for the price range you are suggesting. But to expect something new with truly balanced outputs (not just having the hook ups but running the actual signal paths) and everything else is just a bit unrealistic.
There are very few possibilites below $1K for a preamp/processor.I know of none that list for under $1K.
The Sherwood-Newcastle lists for US$1200, but I have heard of
people picking this piece up for under $1K.The entry level Parasound AVC-1800 lists for $1195, you can
probably get it for right at your price point.I think the Rotel RTC-965 lists for (I think) $1095, and you
could almost certainly pick it up for less than $1K.Those are the options I'm aware of.
Another consideration would be a receiver with preamp outputs.
Hope this helps.
I agree the Sherwood is a great bargain and I could not find anything that was its equal when I was looking. Its DSP modes suck but who listens to them anyway. All in all a great sounding,with all the bells (almost) and wistles for well under a grand.
. . . though it's sound is excellent, it is a little crude in some regards. For example, when you turn the volume nob you hear clicks as the volume increases or decreases (not with the remote though). Also, you have to set the right decoding manually (DPL, AC3 or DTS). Mine has a problem with the phonostage, so back it goes for a repair (but that will be covered by warranty and I'll get a loaner from the dealer). Also, the gun metal look is sort of retro and cool, but sticks out from most black components.The good news is you can get it for about $1,000 from a good reliable brick and mortar dealer and it sounds absolutely excellent. In my mind it beats the pants off the similarly priced Rotel (and I like Rotel -- I have the 985 mkII power amp hooked up to the Sherwood Newcastle).
Just some thoughts.
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