2. home-theater
  3. 1020285239

Name this Preamp

I'm needing some help in narrowing down a quality pre-amp that will be used 70% for music and 30% for home theater. The pre/processor must have an analog bypass with superior clarity for music - I don't want the stereo signal converted to digital via A/D-D/A. The pre/proc must decode DD, DTS and pro-logic (EX capabilities a bonus)It must also have a 5.1 (or 7.1) pre-in/out to accomodate SACD, DVD-A or both. Since CD processing will be done with an external DAC, I don't need the best DAC for the front channels but must be of high quality for all channels. The pre/proc must also have good bass management capabilities. The budget for this is around $1000 and used equipment is fine. What out there fits these requirements???
treyhoss

Showing 1 response by larryb

larryb
101 posts
 
I have the Outlaw 950 and the hiss isn't an issue for me. I have to be within inches of the tweater to hear it. For the price it's hard to go wrong, though since you're into music I can't really recommend its 2 channel performance. I find it a bit harsh and a bit shrill in 2 channel and not terribly musical.

My solution will be to get a used 2 channel pre with HT bypass. Though I've heard better for movies, the sound is pretty darned good at the price. And getting a processor that does both movies and music well gets very expensive.
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