Best Pre-Amp w/Throughput for HT ?


Looking for the best Pre-Amp w/balanced input/outputs so I can have the best of both worlds. Currently own Plinius SA-100 2-Channel Amp, B&W N803's w/HTM-1 Center, Cinepro 3k6II 6-Channel Amp, Lexicon MC-1 HT Processor, Sony DVPS-7700 DVD Player, Wadia 860x CD Player and Speakercraft AIM 3 Acoustical Cieling Speakers for the rear & Side Channels. What I want is the best 2-Channel for music listening and the best HT System with what I currently have. Any suggestions would be welcome and appreciated.
jeraza

Showing 1 response by tap3sap

If you want the best preamp for 2-channel music listening, then buy the 2-channel pre that sounds the best to YOU in YOUR system. I personally recommend Conrad Johnson Premier 14 or CAT.

Whatever pre you decide on does not need a pass through to work for HT. Just connect the left and right front outputs from your MC-1 to any input on the new preamp, calibrate the system for HT use with the preamp set at a repeatable volume setting (a numerical display makes this easier). When you watch a movie set the volume on the preamp to the setting used during calibration, and use the MC-1 to control the system volume. When doing the 2-channel thing the new preamp controls the system

This is how I configure my system (for HT the CJ is set at 72, which happens to be its “unity gain settiing), and it works great. I can see how a pass thru would be slightly more convenient for HT use. But for you, and me this will limit your choices with regard to preamp. If the pre you like BEST happens to have a pass through then you get the convenience; if not then make your choice for the best 2-channel sound.