Best Pre-Pro for Proceed AMP5 / Klipsch RF-7's


I need your recommendations on a pre-pro match for audio. I send cinema video signals directly to a Sony display monitor via HDMI and component. Some folks have upgraded from similiar reciever pre-pro set-up's to a separate pre-pro with unfortunately, MIXED results.

I am using a Yamaha RX-V2400 with ARC as a music/HT sound processor, OPPO 981/Tandberg 3001A tuner/Squeezebox Duet. The Klipsch's are supported with a SVS ULTRA 13 and pair of HSU MBM-12's. The OPPO is connected to the Yammi via multi-channel, TosLink and analog L/R's. The RF-7's have crossover mods that corrected lower high frequency harshness.

I don't mind sending cinema video signals directly to the display, although I'm open to video switching. With all the video signal upgrading today, I'm far more interested in superb sound reproduction.

I am considering a Proceed AVP2 +6, Meridian G61R (leaves option for DSP speakers open later), Cary, McIntosh, Linn, and others. I can only read about these but don't have the opportunity to evaluate in person. The high end market in JAX FL is in a hurt locker.

The answer may be a high end two-channel preamp, hopefully with 2.1 to include the SVS and MBM's, and leave HT sound processing to my Yamaha.

I really want a "keeper". Can you provide me ideas about a true "keeper" preamp or pre-pro in my system? The possibility exists to later go with DSP speakers or Revel Ultra's.

Apologize for a long post - I wanted to provide enough info to produce your best recommendations. I listen to many music genres from classical to Zepplin. Many thanks for the guidance posted in your forums.
soundsbeyondspecs

Showing 2 responses by soundsbeyondspecs

I purchased a Proceed AVP2 +6 on Audiogon and am very pleased. Only audio is being processed by the AVP2. All cinema video signals from the source players are connected directly to a Sony display monitor. This includes HDMI, component, and the AVP2's main video out for on-screen programming adjustments.

As a option for cable TV, the Sony's audio pre-out is connected to the AVP2 for occassional audio reproduction of cable TV broadcasts. For Zone 2, a digital out from the Proceed is connected to the Yamaha's variable pre-outs and a multi-zone amp. I use the Yahmaha's ARC recommended settings to assist in setting-up the Proceed.

The SQ's improvements in balance, clarity and separation has become "convincingly real" compared to the Yamaha's procesor. I'm also auditioning a pair of cathedral monitors that are turning out surprising well for music and fabulous for HT. Extremely smooth, involving, and very enjoyable long-term listening.

Summary: For anyone considering upgrading from a good reciever to separate components, keeping it simple may help alot. Separating audio and video was the best choice. The Proceed AVP2 +6 and matching Proceed AMP5, to me, resulted in a huge step up to a truely wonderful audiophile system for both music and HT. By bipassing all the video switching away from the Proceed AVP2, I can anchor sound quality in the Proceed's and keep all video quality grounded directly between player sources and the Sony display monitor.

Thanks to all and happy to answer any questions.



Your Proceed PAV/PDSD is a great combination. All-in-one pre-pros, great audio componets, analog-through, current video switching and ARC are very expensive to produce, launch and support. Borrowing ARC to assist set-ups help keep audio investment dollars put into audio sound reproduction. Plus, wiring is cleaner with less connections and cables.

I spoke with several dealers and company reps during this decision. Surprisingly, with all their product offerings, their private comments to me were to steer away from processors with video switching and focus on quality analog audio sound reproduction.

That's when I decided to bipass the cost of newer processors with video switching (some are very good).

To me, a great system can be listened to for hours. I like using the AVP2 through the ST-1's, Ultra 13 and MBM-12's best for music. With plenty of audio headroom, HT audio can follow right in step. People feel differently about adding subs in .1, .2, .3 music systems. The SVS Ultra 13 is very musical and MBM's add a transparent, firmer punch in my 30 x 30 room.

Originally, the AVP2, RF-7's, SVS, and MBM-12's was my plan. A Proceed AVP2 +6 was on its' way from a A-GON member. The TX-1 Yamaha cathedral monitors were a lucky hit whilst perusing a local CraigList. Great fronts for music and HT. I love these speakers and they were never designed for home audio: 15 inch sealed bass drivers, 3 mids and 6 tweeters. 380 watt built-in amps, large staging, smooth and revealing. In 1983, a matching custom FX-1 organ went for 36K pounds and only one was made and shipped to the U.K. (according to an article).

So, this is a good example of how well made plans can change for the better. I'm also looking at a integrated tube amp and the RF-7's for music, too. Matching components appears to be the most important consideration for a system to synergize beautifully together. High prices also appear incidental.