I've have a Lexicon MC-1 in my downstairs system and a EAD TM-8800 in my upstairs system. Not really fair to compare the two...because the MC-1 is an old product...and the TM8800pro is brand new with the latest dacs etc. The sonics of the EAD products, in my view, are hard to beat. Workmanship is amazing.
Best All time 5.1 Pre/Pro
I’m working on upgrading my Linn AV5103 Pre/Pro, and am considering several units available. First, let me say I don’t need HDTV Switching, that is already taken care of. Second, I only want 5.1 surround, no need for more advanced formats other than DTS. The speakers/amps are all Linn, 7xAV5105’s, all active to 4xAV5140’s and one AV5120 as a center channel, AV5150 sub. I love the amp/speakers, but would like to change out the pre/pro, for several reasons, the second delay locking on to digital signals is annoying. Love the sound, but it has no multichannel inputs.
I’ve got several units I’m considering, and would love more input as to recommended units…
Several things I’ve considered are;
1) Cal Audio SSP 2500
2) Theta Casablanca I/II with superior DAC’s
3) Meridian 8 series…though probably out of my price point..
4) Proceed PAV/PDSD…still love the classics..
5) EAD theater Master 8000
6) Chiro 800/5.1
7) Classe SSP-75
I don’t particularly like Lexicon…to digital for me, and don’t like the harshness of Bryston/ B&K (probably annoyed several folks putting these two together but…)
I’m curious what else you all would recommend…….5.1 channel inputs are a big plus….though this system is mostly used for HT.
Ken
I’ve got several units I’m considering, and would love more input as to recommended units…
Several things I’ve considered are;
1) Cal Audio SSP 2500
2) Theta Casablanca I/II with superior DAC’s
3) Meridian 8 series…though probably out of my price point..
4) Proceed PAV/PDSD…still love the classics..
5) EAD theater Master 8000
6) Chiro 800/5.1
7) Classe SSP-75
I don’t particularly like Lexicon…to digital for me, and don’t like the harshness of Bryston/ B&K (probably annoyed several folks putting these two together but…)
I’m curious what else you all would recommend…….5.1 channel inputs are a big plus….though this system is mostly used for HT.
Ken
Showing 5 responses by hbrandt
Henryhk: Specifically, which models did you compare? The reason I ask is that there has been tangible evolution in the sound of the Thetas and the EADs. For example, the EAD Theatermaster 8800pro sounds SIGNIFICANTLY better than the 8000pro. Similarly, while I haven't heard it yet....i would wager that the Casablanca III sounds much better than the Casablanca II. So it is very hard to compare processors at this level unless you are comparing apples to apples. I would LOVE to see a review of the 8800pro to the Casablanca III. Of course, there price points are different too. Harry |
I've had a chance now to put the TM8800pro through some paces...and now that EAD has worked out some of the expectable initial "bugs"....I can tell you that this piece is simply amazing in terms of sonics. For the first time ever...i'm considering breaking down my preserved 2 channel path (Wadia 270se modified by Great Northern Sound -> Genesis Digital Lens -> Apogee Big Ben -> TacT RCS 2.0s -> Apogee Big Ben -> dCS Purcell -> dCS Delius -> Placette dual mono preamp -> Innersound 800W monoblocks). The TM8800pro sounds great. |
Henryhk: Thanks for clarifying that it was the 8000pro and not the 8800pro. I recently upgraded from the 8000pro to the 8800pro and found that the new dacs and circuit architecture of the 8800pro are far superior. Tombowlus: I was deciding between the Theta, Krell, Bryston, and EAD. These are all quite excellent, but I decided on the EAD and am glad I did. I, too, would love to audition each of these in my current system for a direct a/b/c comparison. Maybe we can get Krell and Theta to send me reviewer samples of their processors for a blind shootout!!!!! :-) Harry |
Kenny: Great choice...you'll love it. If I can help with setup or questions do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected]. Regards, Harry |