Theta Dreadnaught vs. Earthquake Cinenova?


I am getting ready to purpose a new amp to be used strictly in my HT set, no music. I want one which will give me enough current and wattage to get every bit of sound from the movie on every channel without having to blow the roof off with volume. If anyone knows, is the Dreadnaught really worth 2 to 2 1/2 times the money of the Cinenova for HT purposes only (Used 4500 vs. 2000). Will I be able to hear every sound that I am suppose to with the Cinenova as I am sure I will with the Dreadnaught. Also if you have any other recommendations other than Sim Titan which may be less expensive and do the same thing I am looking for please list them. Thank you very much for your input. My system components listed below.

All Vandy Speakers
HT Pro 9+ Cable
Stealth CWS Interconnects
Lex. DC 1 Pre/pro
golfnut

Showing 1 response by mjaudio

I have to admit that I love the Dreadnaught!

If your total budget is $4,500 though I think you would be best served to get the Earthquake or any other quality amp in the $2,000 to $3,000 range (Parasound, Bryston, EAD etc..) and spend the rest on a new surround processor. The DC-1 as stated above would be the week link with a Dreadnaught. If you can afford to get the Dreadnaught and a new surround processor then you would be set for a long time.

The DC-1 is great for just movies but IMHO adding the Dreadnaught to it is OVERKILL. The surround processors from Meridian and Proceed are much smoother sounding then the Lexicon and I feel the Meridian does a better job on movies too.

I agree with Brainwater and my experience with changing out my MC-1 to a Proceed then Meridian was the best move I ever made for HT and music improved dramatically as well.

The amp is very important but don't forget the pre-amp.

Good luck