The reviews in "The Perfect Sound" (TPS) and other similar A/V mags usually include the Parasound 2500 among the group of "best" pre/pro's. The 2500's price is close to the SP-1, but it is sometimes available used here on A-gon at a fairly good discount. If you can find a used SP-1 for around $2500-2800, it's a great unit that has a fully discrete analog circuit plus excellent digital surround processing. The SP-1 is modular, and Bryston will offer upgrades as the home theater and digital recording standards change.
The other pre/pros that I am familiar with for less money, such as the Adcom GTP-760, are a notch below the B&K 30 in audio quality, so you may not be satisfied. I am quite familiar with the Adcom 760, and think it offers very good performance for the money -- and the recent issue of TPS agrees.
The other pre/pros that I am familiar with for less money, such as the Adcom GTP-760, are a notch below the B&K 30 in audio quality, so you may not be satisfied. I am quite familiar with the Adcom 760, and think it offers very good performance for the money -- and the recent issue of TPS agrees.