Will these HT amp/pre/pro's give me 2 chnl bliss?


I continue in my search for the best combined HT and 2 channel set-up. In previous posts, in response to how best to maximize 2 channel sound (better 2-3 chnl amp or use parallel integrated) many of you thought I should go with a separate integrated amp side-by-side with my Pioneer 49tx rvcr and B&W N803's/HTM1/DS7 set-up . I almost did it. Then I started to think about the possible family confusion with multiple equipment. Here's my new question: if I up my budget to $5k used, can I get excellent 2 channel performance similar to a stand alone integrated in the same price range? My choices (at least what I think I can get used within my budget):

Amp: Bryston 9B, Parasound A51, McIntosh 7205 (possibly 205), Theta Dreadnaught, Simaudio Aurora, Bel Canto evo6

Preamp: Bryston SP2, Classe SSP300, Parasound C1/C2, Cary Cinema 11, Simaudio Stargate, McIntosh 132 (or a steal on a Lexicon or meridian).

Basically, will these combinations get close to where I will be with a standalone Plinius 9200, Bryston B100, Mac 6900, Simaudio Moon I7, etc, or at least a Krell 400xi or BelCanto s300i???

Eager to hear your opinions. Am I getting close to 2 channel bliss with these HT pieces, or am I still MUCH better off with an integrated?

Thanks much...Jeff
jeffkad

Showing 2 responses by maineiac

I have an integrated and ht receiver in my system and it is not much of a challenge for family members because when I am not listening to music I flip the knob to home theater setting and that is all there is to it. Whoever wants to watch tv or a dvd, they just select the right input on the receiver and they are good to go.

I am a true believer in this type of set-up if you REALLY care about 2 channel music.
Jeff, you have a good approach - you are taking a similar path to one I started a few years ago. I started out biased to HT and multi-channel music but kept getting drawn into the fun of good 2 channel music. I am sure that you will be able to acheive very nice results for both. Keep us posted and good hunting.