I too have the Resolution Audio Opus 21. I run it directly to the amp. I sold my Krell KRC3 preamp because it was not helping the sound compared to the direct-to-amp approach. Perhaps a world-class preamp would add something sonically, but I can't afford a world class preamp. Anyway, I would keep your Rotel processor for any home theater needs you may have and use its digital output and run into the digital input of whatever CD player you choose (Those you listed all have a digital input I believe). This gives you great two channel sound while letting you enjoy your home theater set up for movies when needed.
CD/preamp or CD and stand alone preamp
I've had a short foray into HT and now plan to move back toward 2 channel. I have a Rotel processor, Rotel 1095 amp, and Dynaudio Contour 1.3 SE speakers...
I'm considering two possibilities, one, to replace the processor with a Levinson 390S or Wadia 860 CD player (with digital inputs) and plug my DVR and DVD into the player and the player stright into the amp or, two, replace the processor with a Wadia 301 (or alternative?) and either a Levinson 380S preamp or a Musical Fidelity A308cr preamp.
Any comments on merits or limitations of these scenerios, or alternate recommendations would be greatly appreciated. My goal is to improve my 2 channel experience and leave open room for step-wise upgrading. Thanks
I'm considering two possibilities, one, to replace the processor with a Levinson 390S or Wadia 860 CD player (with digital inputs) and plug my DVR and DVD into the player and the player stright into the amp or, two, replace the processor with a Wadia 301 (or alternative?) and either a Levinson 380S preamp or a Musical Fidelity A308cr preamp.
Any comments on merits or limitations of these scenerios, or alternate recommendations would be greatly appreciated. My goal is to improve my 2 channel experience and leave open room for step-wise upgrading. Thanks