2. home-theater
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2.2 Channel System Processor Suggestions

Currently setting up a 2.2 channel system that I will be using for my home theater (have no plans of adding more speakers). I have a pair of ML ESL9's, a NAD m22 power amp as well as two ML 1100X subs and want to use balance connects for all equipment. 
My question is, do I need to buy a Pre/Pro, like the NAD m17 or Anthem AVM60, or is there a scaled down piece of equipment that would work just as well? Most Pre/Pro's have 11 or 13 channels, which is obviously overkill, but I still need something that can support 4k HDMI, has balanced outputs, and would prefer a good room correction software, like Dirac or ARC.
jimmy225

Showing 3 responses by auxinput

auxinput
2,921 posts
 
Like everyone else said, a 2-channel preamp will usually have the better sound.  If you wanted a HT pre/pro, two items come to mind:

Bryston SP3 - no room correction or EQ however

Krell Foundation
auxinput
2,921 posts
 
jimmy225 is most likely asking because, like many other TV consumers, he is using a smart TV with Netflix/Spotify apps built in.  Like big_greg stated, this is never the best way to stream audio to an HT processor or preamp.  Much better to investigate streaming media players, such as Roku, AppleTV, Amazon Fire.  Or move up to higher end streamers such as Zappiti, Zidoo, Dune.
auxinput
2,921 posts
 
The Classe Sigma 2200i is a integrated amp with HDMI inputs and a subwoofer crossover.  It has one subwoofer output, so you'd have to use a Y-splitter cable.

Otherwise, you're looking at a full HT pre/pro.  The Bryston SP3 and Krell Foundation are only 7.1 processors (they don't have 13-15 channels).  The Bryston has fully discrete Class A analog output stages, so it's much like a high end preamp.
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