Beginner audiophile pre-amp/receiver recommendations


Hello all trying to piece together a system that will cover dedicated listening as well as a 2nd zone for in ceiling during parties. 

I'm looking for something to replace my AV receiver with a stereo receiver that will do the following, I'd like to keep things in as few components as possible to not upset the W.A.F..
2 Zone output (xlr)
Phono stage
DAC (for an eventual Bluesound node to replace the chromecast)
FM tuner

Would like to be under 1500.  I'm not opposed to a pre-owned unit. can be an integrated as long as I can also drive the external amp w/XLR:

Currently have:
Krell KAV 2500 power amp
Anthem AVM 20
Chromecast HIFI
Thorens TD120
Hales Concept 2 loudspeakers
Inceliing speakers (4)
escoffee

Showing 2 responses by sbayne

Have to disagree on using a receiver. There is really no difference from an integrated amp as compared to a stereo receiver. The Yamaha R-N803 receiver has excellent sound quality, built-in streamer (Tidal, Pandora, etc), phono input, second room capability, IPad controllable. Sells for about $800. Gotten good reviews.






Most tuners are digital now-a-days. I’d be more concerned with an A/V receiver when they skimp on the power supply in-order to achieve the beloved 5.1 or 7.1 movie surround sound. The Yamaha I'm referring to is a dedicated stereo receiver and it meets all his requirements that he is looking for.