2. home-theater
  3. 1408508271

Processor/AVR help and suggestions

Hey everyone, I was hoping to start a discussion and gets some thoughts on a new processor or AVR. I just sold off my Meridian G68 and HD621 and have about $4500 to spend. In terms of the use, I would say the most important to me is 2 channel sound quality, then surround sound. We spend about 70% of our surround sound time on DirecTV, 20% on Netflix streaming, and about 10% on watching blu-ray movies. I will pop in a concert blu-ray from time to time. I have a 5.1 set up at the moment, but will move to a 7.1 when we get into a new house next year.

The two options I was thinking of is either getting a mid-level processor that will decode the latest codecs via HDMI, and getting a really nice 2 channel preamp and using the pass through for music sessions and the processor for TV and movies. The other option would be getting a kick ass processor to do both. What are the forums thoughts on this? I would love recommendations for the mid level processor that has the pass through option. Balanced inputs are a must for my fronts.

In terms of the one box option, I am looking at the McIntosh MX121, Anthem D2V 3D, Krell Foundation, and the Marantz 8801. Thoughts on the 2 ch quality of those?

My current equipment:
B&W N802's, HTM1, and SCMS
2x McIntosh MC352's
McIntosh MC7205
Oppo 103D
ever43

Showing 1 response by effischer

effischer
552 posts
 
I auditioned the MX120 a couple of years ago when I was setting up my rig, and I found it weak in 2 channel mode. Not entirely sure if that was also an artifact of the source, but it definitely didn't work for me. I'm a vinyl head, and the lack of integrated MC step-up input also was a nonstarter.

Because HT was very much a secondary consideration for my application, I ultimately went with a C50 for stereo and a MAC 3 pre/pro for 5.1. I was and remain very satisfied after 2 years of living with it and saved a bundle of money over the McIntosh one box solutions (currently MX121 and MX151).

So, I'd agree with most of the other respondents that separate stereo and HT preamps is the way to go. Personally, I'm a Mc fan, but Cary and Classe also auditioned well. I did not care for the Krell rigs, but that was just me. Auditioning what you can could make a big difference for you - it sure did for me.

Good luck & happy listening!
More to discover