2. home-theater
  3. 1352118050

Upgrade AVP or separate preamp/DAC for 2 channel?

My current set-up is:

AVP - Onkyo PR-SC5509
Amp - Moon MC-8 channel amp
Speakers - Focal Electra Be 5.1 speaker system (1028 fronts, 1008 surrounds, with matching centre and sub)

I'm considering replacing the AVP with a Denon AVP-A1HDCI (with XT32) OR adding a 2 channel preamp / DAC such as the new Audio Research DSPre (DAC and preamp combined).

I'd be interested in any thoughts on what (if any) improvements I might gain for HT and/or 2 channel by adding the Denon AVP or separate 2 channel preamp. Would the Denon AVP significantly improve the multichannel sound as well as the 2 channel sound (I'm assuming there would be at least some improvements on 2 channel over the Onkyo AVP)? Or would I be better off sticking with the Onkyo AVP for multichannel and adding a separate 2 channel preamp/DAC?

Many thanks in advance!
djruss27

Showing 2 responses by djruss27

djruss27 OP
3 posts
 
Very helpful replies. Thanks!

The separate 2 channel route is clearly favoured, but Mateored's point re room correction and sub integration is a very good one. The Denon AVP allows both sub control for 2 channel and XT32 processing for 2 channel.

So the comparison for 2 channel would seem to be: Devon AVP with XT32 processing and subwoofer vs separate 2 channel preamp without processing and subwoofer. Given I have the smaller 1028 Electras, I think the sub is quite important for 2 channel.

Soix, you mention that 2 channel preamp would be better than all but the best AVPs. Do you put the AVP into that category? if not, what AVPs are you thinking of?

This is a tough one!
djruss27 OP
3 posts
 
Thanks again for the replies. Extremely helpful!

Soix, in particular thank you for your detailed reply. I was considering the Bryston SP3 (and the Cary Cinema 12), but no room correction ruled it out. I understand that both sound superb on 2 channel though.

Airkitty, I haven't done the Pro calibration for XT32 but I will look into that for sure.

Based on the responses, I think sticking with the Onkyo AVP for multichannel and adding a decent 2 channel preamp and DAC is the way to go.

In terms of which preamp / DAC, I am partial to the ARC equipment, but any other recommendations would be gratefully received!
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