First pre/pro and hopefully last


I am about to get my first pre/pro and hopefully it will last a long time. It will also serve as a 2 channel preamp. Looking at:
1. CLASSE SSP75, but I think it has been discontinued. why?
2. INTEGRA RESEARCH RDC-7
3. ARCAM AV8
Any opinions on these or others? Speakers will be Heron i's, and amps are yet to be decided, see thread under amps for that question, Bel Canto vs. Classe. Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.
saint2
it's simple.

connect the line level outputs for L/R from the processor to one set of pre-amps inputs. connect all the two-channel sources to the pre-amp. connect the pre-amps L/R line level outputs to the two main amplifier channels. connect the processors other outputs (Center/RR/LR) directly to the surround amplifier channels.

then there isn't a compromise for 2 channel sources.
Duh, that makes sense! For some reason, I was trying to think about it the other way around. One concern that I would have with multi-channel audio, though, would be the L/R not matching up with the center (and to a lesser extent, the surrounds). I suppose if the 2-channel pre had a dedicated pass through that didn't add much, then it shouldn't be too noticeable, though.

Thanks, Tom.
Tom

I have read a lot about Krell and Theta on Audiogon about how well there 2 channel sounds. I don't think you can go wrong with either one. I will let you know what pre/pro I go with when it happens. I can look at more options now that I don't have to worry about 2 channel sonics. I think you hook up the DVD player into the prepro and the prepro into the preamp. CDP will go into the preamp, and the preamp goes to the amp or amps. I am not sure on the SACD player for multichannel. Would you hook the SACD player into the prepro and then use the 2 channel bypass in the preamp. Then you could control all 5 channels with the prepro. Am I right on that or not. The prepro is connected to one amp that controls the CC and surrouonds, and the preamp is connected to the amps that run the L/R. I will figure it out when it all gets here, LOL. :)

Regards Tim
Classe has an entire new line that is due out in the fall with the top of the line model not going to be ready until the first quarter of 2005,the SSP AV900, the SSP AV300 and 600 will be out in fall.
I've had Krell and Lexicon in my system......but if sonics is your primary concern....go with the EAD Theatermater 8800pro!!!!
Spectacular sound. I'm even considering using as my 2 channel preamp.