The B&K uses the same preamp section on the 30 as their 307 receiver, so if it sounds no better then a receiver that is why, in that price range I would consider a classe ssp 30, the sunfire theater grande 2, personally I would go with the sunfire because imo their upgrade policy is the best around, if you can live without video switching the bryston sp1 is a good choice, good luck
B K Reference 30 Audio/Video Preamp
Okay, I just got this thing set up. Sounds awesome. But the little voice in the back of my head is telling me that I'm missing something. I've listened to the Bryston SP-1, Lexicon(take your pick which model), Parasound, Acurus, Aragon, California Audio Labs. What it comes down to is cost. The stuff that sounds better, like the Bryston, costs a lot more. Does anyone know of any other Pre-processor in the B&K price range that I should listen to before my return period runs out? Thanks all, for any suggestions.