Is there an amp that does 2-channel and all this?


Hola,

I'm looking for an integrated amplifier/receiver/AVR that does 2-channel well. I don't need 5+ channels but I would not mind it. I have gotten the impression that 2-channel receivers are preferred over 5 channel for 2-channel music. However, if there is a 5 channel receiver with stellar sound quality, I'm all ears!

I'm looking for a piece that has the kitchen sink:

phono stage
tuner
dac (usb and spdif)
bass management / variable sub out crossover
remote
tone control
125w+ per channel
pre-out

IF available, I'd also like room correction

Budget is $4000

Thoughts?
128x128michaelkingdom

Showing 4 responses by mateored

I agree with the NAD and Anthem options. I'll also add the Arcam AVR600 into the mix. It retails for a bit more than your budget, but I just saw that there is a factory B stock on A-gon for exactly $4K. The internal amps are the best of any A/V receiver of which I am aware. I came really close to buying one of these, but ultimately decided to get an Anthem processor and outboard amps (at a much higher price).

I don't believe the Arcam's room correction is as sophisticated as the Anthem and NAD's, but I think the amp section is superior. Google the reviews on this piece - you'll be pretty amazed. I believe it has a phono section.
Don't fret about the remote. You can always get a nice Logitech/Harmony remote to control your whole system. I've written about them in other threads. I still vote for the Arcam 600 over all of the other options.
I agree with Marty. In my system, anyway, bass management and Anthem Room Correction trumped HT bypass. But it completely depends on your room, speakers, etc.
I can't speak to the Bryston, but I can assure you that the Arcam A38 most definitely will not blow the Arcam AVR 600 out of the water.