2. amps-preamps
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Add an Amp or Integrated to AVR?

I recently went through my third set of HT separates and decided to quit chasing the one-thing-does-everything-great setup and simplify by getting a Denon 3806 AVR. I've had Sherbourn, Aragon, Gemstone, Proceed, etc amps and Parasound Halo, Outlaw pre/pros. I have ACI Jaguar/LFM main speakers and want to use the Denon for HT and then improve on my 2-channel sound. I'm not too concerned about driving the the other channels with the Denon....except maybe the center, but that is a lower priority.

What will deliver a bigger improvement in my sound: an integrated amp like a Mac 6500, Krell 400xi, etc. or a 2-channel amp added to the AVR, something like a Parasound A21, Bryston 4b-ST, etc. ?? Obviously with an integrated, the source would run direct to that whereas an amp with the Denon would use the Denon as the pre-amp.

I'd like to keep the cost to $1500, but would be willing to splurge up to $2500 if necessary.

An important point is that the speakers only see a signal from 100Hz and above because the internal crossover sends info below that to the self-powered LFMs. Therefore, deep bass control is less important than good mid-range and high-range performance. The Jags probably lean a bit toward the warm side of neutral...but not by much.

Any help or insight would really be appreciated.
jkscherk

Showing 3 responses by jkscherk

jkscherk OP
43 posts
 
You both seem to confirm some comments I've gotten before. Adding the integrated will yield the greatest 2-channel sonic benefit. I'll probably go that route when I see the right unit come available. I've think I narrowed it to the Mac 6500, Krell 400xi and the PS Audio GCC-250. They're all different so I'll probably stick with the one that fits best with my speakers.

I don't want to invest any more in a better AVR because the technology in them is changing so fast that in 6 months you end up with something that has depreciated so much you lose a major portion of your investment. I also think you aren't going to gain that much better sound. An amp or integrated gets you more performance, for less money and holds its value better.

Now I just have to wait for the right integrated to come up. I might just buy a Bryston 3B-ST for the interim, while looking for the right integrated.
jkscherk OP
43 posts
 
In case anyone is interested, I decided to add a Bryston 3-channel 5B-ST to the Denon 3806. I figured this is a safe move for now as they hold their value well and will allow me to try the amp only route rather than springing for a integrated that I'd be happy with.
jkscherk OP
43 posts
 
I'm back at it trying to improve my 2-channel sound. Thinking about adding a pre with a HT bypass in combination with the 5B-ST. That way my front 3 will still be voiced the same, but still get me out of the 3806 as a preamp. Crazy????
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