I auditioned quite a few processors. It came down to 2 processors the Proceed AVP and the EAD Ovation. There are a few things to note about the EAD. The video switching is not broadcast quality (I don't use it at all) and there is no component video switching. Volume control is strictly in the digital domain and there is no bi-pass--so I run this into a pre-amp with a bi-pass for HT use. On the plus--it is upgradeable--in fact they are now offering 8.1 channel upgrades for my unit (I'm going to wait and see if there's going to be software available to make it worth while--and it sounds like that's not where you are going anyway--so a used one could be a good option). Sound quality is excellent. I found it to be smoother, better developed (in terms of enveloping the listener) and much better low level (micro) dynamics, than the AVP. The AVP was more dynamic on loud passages, but I could always pick out the speakers on the AVP. However, in your case I would give my vote to the AVP--because it has an analog bi-pass mode and the volume is all analog. If you are going to listen to stereo (particularly vinyl)--this will sound much better than the EAD.
best used 5.1 dd/dts pre/pro?
I'm in the process of going from a receiver to separates, and I will be moving into a new house that won't allow for 6.1 surround (the room will only allow for two surrounds).
Therefore, I thought I might be better off buying a higher quality used 5.1 pre/pro instead of spending the same to get a new, lower quality 6.1 pre/pro that I won't be able to fully utilize.
Any suggestions? I have a separate, stereo preamp for 2-channel (which I listen to 65% of the time), so the 2-channel capabilities are not of the upmost importance. But, it would be convenient to have something that sounded pretty good on stereo stuff in case I was feeling lazy. Thanks!
Therefore, I thought I might be better off buying a higher quality used 5.1 pre/pro instead of spending the same to get a new, lower quality 6.1 pre/pro that I won't be able to fully utilize.
Any suggestions? I have a separate, stereo preamp for 2-channel (which I listen to 65% of the time), so the 2-channel capabilities are not of the upmost importance. But, it would be convenient to have something that sounded pretty good on stereo stuff in case I was feeling lazy. Thanks!