2. amps-preamps
  3. 1176664008

Any 5.1 processor with integrated 3 ch amp

I want to add 5.1 home theater capacity to my existing stereo system (Anthem Pre 2L, Odyssey Stratos, Vandersteen 2CE) but I have limited space in my rack.

So I'm looking for a surround sound decoder (AC3 and maybe DTS) with an integrated 3 channel amp. Since my preamp have a bypass mode (direct line to Amp), I want the decoder to manage the all 6 channels volume with a remote.

Does any one know any 5.1 processor which such capacity?
wfbal

Showing 2 responses by bdgregory

bdgregory
1,708 posts
 
I know of only 1 such pre-pro, made by AMC and it's a very basic unit with Pro-Logic only. I think your best option would be a HT Receiver as Reubent suggested. However, low-end receivers are very marginal (been there, done that) performers. Depending on budget, you may be happier looking for a used pre/pro and 3 channel amp (somehow making room for the extra amp), or find a used higher end receiver such as a B&K AVR202.
bdgregory
1,708 posts
 
The B&K is a good performer all around, but I did not like the ergonomics.
I confess I have never owned the AVR202 - and I meant to indicate this in my previous post. I have however owned a great deal of other B&K gear, and based my suggestion on the B&K Amps and Pre/Pro's I've owned (AVP3090, and Ref 30).

Reubent - your comment about ergonomics is significant - one of my gripes about much of the AV equipment I've owned. My experience with AV Receivers is limited to lower end units from Yamaha and Denon, and a mid-tier unit from Sony (DAS555ES). After experimenting with the low end receivers I decided I needed to go with a pre-pro and separate amp. As you say though - it comes down to how full the buyer's wallet. I'll defer to you on the other low-end receiver sound quality, since my sampling hardly covers the waterfront.
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