Best multi-channel pre-amp for music under $1000?


Well, I don't listen to a ton of multichannel music, but I do want a one box solution for music and movies, 2-Channel classical music as the priority. A seperate stereo pre-amp, even with ht bypass, would be too much trouble for my girlfriend who watches most of the movies.
I do not need on-board processing, more than 6 channels, amplification or video switching. I think my ideal match is the McCormack MAP-1 (too expensive), or the sony TA-P9000es, (but I can't bear to pay higher than msrp for a used unit, unless of course you guys think its worth it). I'm wondering if there is anything under $1000 new or used that might do the job, even if its less sexy? My source is a Philips dvd963sa.
boldstrummer

Showing 1 response by dewmonster

I use the Sony ta-e9000es. It is excellent. I brought home the conrad johnson pre-amp pvl-14 (I believe), with the home theater pass through, thinking I was going to improve on my 2 channel experience and it was almost identical in sound quality to the sony processor.
There is one used on audiogon @ the lin below. I don't know this person so don't hold me responsible for any part of the transaction....however the processor is excellent and that would be I think a pretty decent price within $100.00 or so.

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?homeproc&1086794939