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H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance?

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AbeCollins

(A)

I have my H.T. integrated with my main audio system and it's working great for both H.T. and the audio performance is also very good for playing my CDs... but the room is getting a little cluttered with gear.
If I were to "simplify" my H.T. setup, I would want a processor that can double as a good 2-ch preamp and be on par with some of the best 2-ch only preamps available. Does such a thing exist? Which processors have the best 2-ch performance for plain ole stereo CD listening? Thanks!

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Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - Rick 20:32:57 04/13/03 (0)
The Aragon Soundstage (about 1400 used) has the exact circuitry of Aragon's top of the line Aurum preamp (retail ~ 1800 in 1990 dollars). So for 2 channel listening with the Soundstage, you *are* listening to the Aurum. Digital section can be upgraded to full 7.1 for $800 (see Klipsch.com).....but you won't need this for a 5.1 system IMO.
http://www.universityaudio.com/aragon.htm
Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - Grid-leak 00:45:39 04/13/03 (1)
I suggest you try the Bryston SP-1.7. It's relatively expensive but it has pure analogue pass-through with an ANALOGUE volume control, and no video processing in the box to contaminate the audio signals. I eliminated TAG, Meridian, Arcam, Primare in my search as they all either digitise the analog inputs, or employ digital volume controls in their circuits. My dealer, who sells both Bryston and Lexicon, informs me that the majority of his customers prefer the Bryston, even when price is no object. I am well satisfied with my choice.
If you need video processing/switching a matching add-on box is now available - see Bryston's web site for details of both items.
- TAG also has analog bypass for 5 channels... - Lowrider 05:53:54 04/14/03 (0)
  Not that I would use it, bass management is a key feature for me, as well as DPLII, not to mention the new TMREQ, digital parametric equalization...
  Antonio Melo Ribeiro
Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - Jerohm 16:15:33 04/11/03 (4)
read this!
- http://europe.rotel.com/reviews/pdfs/hometheater/RSP1066-RMB1075 Supertest.pdf
- Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - AbeCollins 09:36:39 04/12/03 (3)
  Great review! I downloaded the PDF file for future reference. Thanks for the tip!
  - Be careful with the 1066 - bstan 19:02:20 04/15/03 (2)
    Rotel's 1066 has bass management problems with it's 5.1 analog inputs for SACD and DVD-A if they are important to you.
    It performs an automatic low-pass bass re-direct to the sub that cannot be turned off, even when the main speakers are set to Large. This gives you a "double bass" defect that Rotel has not corrected in the current design.
    - Re: 1066, Rotel has not corrected - Misinformed - Jerohm 03:27:00 04/16/03 (1)
      Read this.
      Fix
      - NOT misinformed, this is a crutch FIX - bstan 11:45:24 04/16/03 (0)
        
        In Reply to: Re: 1066, Rotel has not corrected - Misinformed posted by Jerohm on April 16, 2003 at 03:27:00:
        
        Rotel will take your unit (you pay half shipping) and actually cut out (remove) a couple of resistors in the current production unit.
        Rotel still has not corrected the original design flaw in any of the currently manufactured processors a full year after it was discovered.
Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - Lowrider 04:03:28 04/10/03 (0)
I have the TAG AV32R, very good in 2ch, very good DACs and bass management too, particularly with the new dual processor update...
Antonio Melo Ribeiro
Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - Mr. Gridlock 08:47:19 04/09/03 (2)
I have the Anthem AVM20 and I think it's amazing. I've compared it to the B&K Ref 50, the Sunfire Theatre Grand III, the Classe and the Proceed (both which were out of my price range).
I listen in direct analog mode, which turns just about everything off for a very clean sound. The DACs in the Anthem are very good, as well. You could just use a good DVD player for your transport and eliminate another piece of gear from the stack.
The Anthem has won many Best Of Year awards. Soundstage has a good review.
- Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - AbeCollins 22:14:49 04/09/03 (1)
  Mr.Gridlock, in "direct analog mode" are you essentially using the Anthem as a two channel analog preamp? And I assume that the DAC's are out of the picture in this mode? If I recall, doesn't the Anthem LIST for about $3500? Thanks!
  - Re: H.T. processor w/ best 2-ch audio performance? - Mr. Gridlock 12:16:29 04/10/03 (0)
    You can turn off the video for any input (for CD, it's off by default). Any input can be run Direct, which turns off everything (including the DSPs), so yes, it's a 2-channel active preamp.
    The Anthem is a little pricey, but it's about as much as the Sunfire, and far better. It's not as much as Proceed/Krell/Classe and it does everything right. Well worth it, if you wnt awesomr HT -and- great 2-channel. I got mine for under $3k from my dealer.

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