2. amps-preamps
  3. 1208817422

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 1 response by mds

mds's avatar
mds
119 posts
 
Jeff,

I am using a Theta Dreadnaught combined with a Meridian 568.2. The combination sounds very good together. I have since added a Aesthetix Calypso preamp which makes the 2 channel music that much better.

The point is you can start out with a decent processor and multi channel amp and then add a quality preamp later on to make the two channel sound substantially better. The Calypso is left in home theater bypass for my family. When I listen to 2 channel I take it out of home theater. All they have to do is turn it on and off.

Good Luck

MDS
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