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Comparisons of new generation PrePros

I have a Lexicon DC-1, with a 7.1 channel speaker set up, and am considering getting a new PrePro. I do all my listening/viewing in multi-channel, surroundsound independent of the source. What I'm seeking, in priority order, is: better audio quality (clarity, resolution, etc.); ability to handle multi-channel SACD/DVD-A; and ability to decode newer ss formats. One PrePro I will consider, if it ever comes out and if it's reasonably priced, is the baby MC-12 from Lexicon.

But there is a new generation of seemingly competitive PrePro's from Anthem, Aragon, Krell, etc. in the $4,000 price range that purport to support a 7.1 channel speaker system.

Has anyone listended to any of these, or other competitive units? If so can you comment on the sound (both audio quality and surroundsound performance)? I am particularly interested in opinions/experiences with the Aragon as it has the least amount of information available on message boards, magazine reviews, etc.

Does anyone know how the 7.1 channels of sound generated/synthesized by any of these types of processors compares to Lexicon's Logic 7?

Thanks in advance,
Bruce
bruceomega

Showing 2 responses by stehno

stehno
1,453 posts
 
I don't believe it handles 7.1. I have no idea how it performs in surround mode. But it's 2-channel is excellent for this price break.

-IMO
stehno
1,453 posts
 
I own a Primare P30 pre/pro and use it in my 2-channel only system. Far exceeds the sonics of some highly rated 2-channel preamps.

I've a/b compared the P30 to 3 different pre-amps in my home. The closest competitor was an Ayre k3-x. But when it came to dynamics, lack of coloration, detail, and transparency, the Ayre wasn't even in the same league as the P30.

And because of the looks of the Ayre and the attention paid to the design of the attenuation of the k3-x, I was prepared to buy it even before I listened to it.

I'm glad I didn't. The P30 retails for $3500 to $4000 depending on whom you ask.

-IMO
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