2. amps-preamps
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Wells Audio Majestic (no HT Bypass) vs. Integrated w/ HT Bypass - Help!

I'm looking to add a 2 channel amp to my AVR setup. I have a Cambridge Audio 651r. It has pre out for the L and R, so I can connect an external amp. Here is my dilemma. I can get a Wells Audio Majestic for 1700, and all of the reviews say it would be an amazing amp for 2 channel stereo.  However, it doesn't have HT bypass.  Would I be better off buying an integrated amp with HT bypass for a similar price but maybe compromise a little on 2 channel stereo?  Would there be a huge difference in sound between an integrated with HT bypass at 1500 dollars vs. the Wells Majestic that retails for 3600 or is it diminishing returns? The reviews I've read say the Wells is amazing sounding. Thanks in advance. 
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Showing 4 responses by boneius

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boneius OP
14 posts
 
@millercarbon I'm getting my content from an Apple TV, so there aren't RCAs to plug into the integrated amp.  Just HDMI to the AVR.
boneius's avatar
boneius OP
14 posts
 
Thanks for all of your feedback. @soix , I'm thinking about doing what you are suggesting because the Majestic doesn't have HT bypass. @millercarbon , I'm confused about what you are suggesting.  If I'm playing a movie through my AVR, won't the AVR need to be connected to the integrated so that the movie's audio makes it the L/R speakers? According to the manual for the AVR, I can turn off the L/R and send the signal untouched to the integrated.  Does anyone have any thoughts on the level of quality between a 1500 integrated and the Majestic.  It isn't just a matter of being twice as expensive. I know that doesn't always indicate quality. Does anyone have any experience with the Wells Audio amps?
boneius's avatar
boneius OP
14 posts
 
@soix I have a pair of Quad 23L floorstanders.
boneius's avatar
boneius OP
14 posts
 
@millercarbon , if I buy the Majestic, I'll be playing my vinyl through it directly, which is what I use my listening room for 80 percent of the time, no AVR, . This compromised AVR sound will only be used a fraction of the time when I watch a movie or TV.  I think I'll be pleased overall if I buy the Wells, which is to incorporate better 2-channel sound into my system. Thanks for your help.
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