Is using a X.1 AV receiver just for stereo bad?

thanks

Thanks.

Any recommendations for a 60W + cheap integrated amp that has digital in (USB or optical)?

Just tried hi-end Rotel pre-amp (DSP) and amp.

The pre-amp is a DSP with no tuner. The amp is a 7x100W class-d implementation.

What works: high level SPL is not a problem. Sound is as good as sonic-impact 15 WPC, but honestly, not that much better. SI is a really good amp, and deserved the hype.

What does not work: Cannot get a direct pure signal to the speakers as if I use the Rotel DAC, it also goes through Rotel signal processing. I cannot use JUST the DAC.

If I send full range signal to the speakers, I cannot integrate a subwoofer (my subwoofer does not have jacks, just RCA inputs).

If I send a crossed over signal to the speakers, the lowest I can set it to is 40Hz. That's fine. I can send a full range signal to the subwoofer and use the crossover in the unit.

Sub is a decent B&W.

Configuring a surround system is a PITA! Better to just get stereo and run it as stereo. Incorporate dual subs by wiring them directly at the speaker posts (ie. in parallel). Everything gets full range signal.

Loomisjohnson: I am inclined to believe that integrated amps are likely to do better at each pricepoint than separates. If you can match pre-amp to amp, then there must be some sonic or $ improvements, if not both.

Still, if you take processing out of the picture, I have yet to encounter a class-d implementation that I am 100% confident I can differentiate between in a true blind AB.

I will see what B&K options I can rummage up. Thanks to the long term loan of the Rotel, I can put this off for another 6 months.

Loomisjohnson: Do you know what kind of amps B&K and Arcam use? I'm guessing SS A/B in the amp stage, and who knows what in the pre-amp stage.

Loomisjohnson: Thank you for your info. Based on my hearing comparison of a $50 class-d implementation (almost certainly made in China) with a $2000 class-d implementation (ICE) I see NO advantage to the more expensive one, except for W, which I do need. Whatever wonders you feel they are working in design and build quality, and I have no doubt there are many, do not seem to impact sound, at least to me. Class-d is class-d, and even more specifically, ICE is ICE. If someone has a blind ABX between ICE implementations I would be very curious.

I am interested in hearing what class A and AB can offer, as well as tubes of course, both in pre-amp and amp stage.

Again, thanks for your help!