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Suggestions for new AV Pre-Pro

I'm interested in purchasing a new AV pre-pro to replace my aging Outlaw 990. My speakers consist of the Focal 1027be, 1007be and cc1000be. My Simaudio I-7 is used for both 2 channel and also drives the front channels in 5.1. I have an Outlaw 7500 driving the center channel and rear speakers. I plan to use 5.1 analog outputs from the Oppo 95 into the processor and the hdmi directly into the tv so I'm not concerned about video processing. I also have the SB Touch with the W4S Dac 1 for 2 channel into the Sim, but I would also like to run a digital cable from the Touch into the AV processor for 5.1 sound. The processor should be comparable with the rest of the system.
128x128ronrags

Showing 6 responses by kr4

kr4's avatar
kr4
3,649 posts
 
Any of the standard recommendations will fit your needs:
Integra 80.2
Onkyo 5508
Marantz 7005
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,649 posts
 
For 2-channel music, I would give the edge to Marantz.

Kal
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,649 posts
 
The Cary 11a is a great sounding prepro (I have not heard the 12) but both are not as capable for HT, particularly with regard to roomEQ. I would sooner suggest the Marantz matched with a decent analog preamp that has an HD passthrough, like the Parasound P7. That's the (near) best of both worlds.

Kal
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,649 posts
 
It ain't just roomEQ but other features such as bass management that are, well, quirky. Since you are using the Simaudio for 2 channel and mch L/R, I would go with the Marantz, even for sound quality with digital sources.

Kal
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,649 posts
 
With the virtual disappearance of brick-and-mortar stores, it has become impossible (it used to be only difficult) for a prospective purchaser to compare products side-by-side. The remaining stores carry fewer lines, too.

So, the prospective purchaser relies on the comments of others, most of whom have also been denied the opportunity of a fair side-by-side comparison (and that includes the dealers).

Sad.
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,649 posts
 
"The best advise is usually from forums like this."

Perhaps but how can one distinguish it from the rest?

Kal
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