2. amps-preamps
  3. 1215704712

pro logic unit instead of 2 channel preamp?

Hi Folks,

I'm shopping for a pre-owned pre-amp to match a rotel 980bx I recently bought. Logic says to go with a matching rotel preamp, but maybe there are other ways to go? I'd like to spend around $300 if possible.

I'll be using the system for 2 channel listening, but my tv etc will also be playing through it. Inputs will be: cd, dvd, wireless itunes, vcr output. Currently I use a pro logic Denon receiver and run video through it as well. I don't mind losing video and only running audio if the quality is much better.

I only listen to 2 channel, but might choose to add a sub one day. My main goal is the best music reproduction I can afford for my budget. My speakers will be DIY MTM configured bookshelf speakers that I'm building.

-- what do you think about the older Rotel Pro Logic Surround Units as a dedicated 2 channel preamp? Can they compete sonically with older 2 channel pre-amps? (say, something made in the last 10 years?)

Any other pro logic preamps you'd recommend? I ask because it seems that there is no demand for a non digital processor, but if it reproduces great 2 channel stereo, then I'd be very happy.

-- what do you think of the Chinese tube preamps on ebay? (Ming Da etc?)

-- any other pre-amp suggestions for the $300 range used?

thanks so much for any suggestions

Steve
stevecuss

Showing 1 response by bdgregory

bdgregory
1,708 posts
 
I find some of the old pre-pros can serve as excellent 2 channel preamps - and the prices normally are much lower than what you may have to spend - especially for a remote controllable linestage preamp. There are many available for <$300 - some I've used are below:

I had a Rotel RSP960ax which was very nice for the $100 or so you'll have to spend. I don't recall how many inputs it has but may not have enough for you.

I also like the old B&K pre-pros. I use a B&K AV3090 in a spare system I set up in my workshop. It has Dolby Digital and DTS which I don't use, since I'm using the Zone 2 sections which is pure analog and bypasses all of the digital circuitry. Plenty of inputs . . . I like the B&K better than the Rotel but they sell for more like $200.

Another one that I use in my livingroom system is the Sherwood AVP9080 - it has a built in tuner, phone stage (though a poor one), and digital bypass. They can be found for <$200. also plenty of inputs.

All of these will do 2 channel music nicely, but compared to many used $300 non-remote controllable linestage preamps probably won't stand up under critical listening. Of course you can use the $ savings for some music.

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