2. home-theater
  3. 1130417285

Separates for 2-channel & HT, or.....?

I posted this in the amp/preamp forum too - no responses as yet so I will try again here. I hope double posts are not frowned upon.

I am coming from the simple world of SS receiver and separate SS power amp - Rotel gear, as you can see from my Virtual System. I am trying to find a more musical system, but I still need to have a system that can be used for HT. Optimized 2-channel is more important to me, but I can't make two separate systems - no room. :-(

I am changing out my speakers to Cain & Cain Abbys - single drive (Fostex 166E) high efficiency speakers (95dB.) My Teres turntable is also a keeper, as is my phono stage. These are about the only decisions I have been able to firm up! So, I am building my system around these components.

I need either an integrated amp or separates - pre amp/power amp. I thought tubes would be best for the Abbys, but then again, maybe the pre should be solid state with a tube amp - or is the other way around better? You see how unknowing I am! An integrated amp might be a bit of a compromise, but might also fit my budget better. :-~

This is what I need the system to do: I need to be able to run my CD drive, a DVD drive, my phono stage and a subwoofer, as well as, of course, front speakers. If I end up getting rid of my receiver, an option for rear and center speakers would be a plus, though I may forgo surround sound (5.1) with my new system.

My budget is around $10,000 which is both limiting, I realize, and more than I wanted to spend. :rolleyes: I would like this budget to include a new CD-player - I am considering the Musical Fidelity A5 - so I guess my actual amp/preamp budget is around $8000.

So, should I keep the receiver - or get a better one - and get an integrated amp with an HT pass through, or go with separates, or????
oakiris

Showing 8 responses by oakiris

oakiris OP
206 posts
 
You know, tonight I tried just using my front speakers for HT (O.K., it was just for watching/listening to the Tv) and I didn't really like it. I changed back to 5.1 and it sounded "right." 2-channel, on the other hand, sounded great for CD play back. I so wanted to like 2-channel for everything - mind you, this is with my current Rotel/B&W system. Perhaps tube amps and the Abbys will make all the difference in the world.

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
Programmergeek - I have a local dealer that carries the Audio Research line so I may actually be able to take a listen.

This same dealer suggests pairing the Audio research preamp with the Anthem D1 processor/receiver. Any thoughts about this combo and the Abbys?

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
Horseface - You do indeed have a lot invested in your set up! I am not quite able to invest that much, but also want the sound of tubes for my 2-channel. I was considering the Mod-Wright 9.0 SE for my system; I would be interested in your impressions.

I would also like impressions of the Anthem D1 receiver & Audio Research tube pre-amp, if anyone has heard this combination.

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
I know - a lot of people seem to think that only their hobby is worth the money! Most people think I'm nuts (and maybe I am!) for not making do with a $500 HT set up from Circuit City and a boom box, and wonder why I have at least 6 pairs of relatively high-end headphones, when the earbuds that come with the Sony Walkman would surely do!

Have fun with the Mod-Wright, and definitely let us know what you think of it.

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
Very helpful, Flrnlamb....You buy all the Bose stuff you want! :-)

Chadnliz - If I happen to get a tube pre with a phono stage superior to my stand alone Holfi, I will indeed remove the Hofi. What I would really like to do is get a stand alone tube phone stage at some point, but right now I am concentrating on just getting a better front end for all of my 2 channel and HT needs. What tube pre did you end up buying?

I am hoping to spend quite a bit less than $10K on my front end; I'll put the rest in savings for my next bout of upgraditis! I may actually try some new power cords,too, just to see what all the fuss is about (all my power cords are stock at this point.)

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
Decisions, decisions, decisions. I guess I can't make any until I have a chance to actually audition some of the components recommended here.

Fplanner - you appear to have a really nice system, though too rich for my blood! I was considering the Simaudio Stargate receiver/processor. Is this comparable to the Sunfire? The difference for me being that there is a local Sunfire dealer, but no Simaudio dealer in the state, so I could actually hear and see the Sunfire components. I thought I could pair the processor with some sort of tube pre-amp and end up with very nice 2-channel system and decent HT in addition.

Time to make a list of places to visit for auditions!

Thank you again to everyone for your responses and recommendations.

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
More ideas to pursue! This weekend I am indeed going to make a list of all the recommended components - unless I am too busy listening to my new speakers! - and try to narrow it down to a reasonable number. Then next weekend I am going to start audtioning everything on my list that is locally available. :-D

Holly
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
I brought my Abbys home this weekend - along with a Sophia Electric El34 tube amp. They sound wonderful together and will only get better with burn in. So much for the list I was going to make. :-~

I guess my path now is to find a better receiver/processor for my HT. Wish there were tube processors!!

Thank you all for your suggestions and enthusiasm. My system will continue to evolve and get better, thanks to all of the fine folks here and on Audio Asylum.

Holly
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