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Getting great stereo sound from multi channel sys.

Here's the background:

I'm thinking about getting the GoldenEar Technology TritonCinema Two Speaker System. I'm primarily interested in maximizing stereo performance (i.e. music) and multi-channel performance (i.e. movies) is a secondary concern.

So here's my question: What's the best amplifier, preamp, and/or A/V receiver configuration for my needs? Here are the alternatives I've thought of:

1. Get two stereo power amps, a stereo preamp with HT bypass, and a surround processor
2. Get an A/V receiver
3. Get a surround processor and a multi-channel power amp

What are the benefits/tradeoffs with each alternative? Are there any other options I haven't considered that might be better? Thanks for your help!
cdxskier

Showing 2 responses by akg_ca

akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,389 posts
 
ZD542 nailed it.... Option 1 is strongly preferred if possible. The others are compromises.

There isn't any multi-channel AVR ( or any receiver per se ....) out there that can match the 2 channel audio performance of hi-end quality build separates.
akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,389 posts
 
I bought the Audio Refinement Multi 3 three channel power amp and a matched Multi 2 two channel power amp (both used) to go with my Rega Osiris integrated amp (primary for 2 channel audio) . The Rega integrated has a full signal bypass for hookup as the LF and RF channels in a multichannel setup with the AV pre-proc below.

These Audio Refinement power amps are the YBA designed (France ) with the hi-end YBA parts but assembled as French designed units in China as YBA's Lower priced kit. I bought them used within the last year for about $450 each (each was pushing $3000 new).

For the AV preamp processor I went with the all digital NuForce AV18 preamplifier / processor) . Multichannel favours HDMI and this unit forgoes all the legacy inputs in favour of all digital. Google for reviews - highly recommended AV pre-pro separate.

With the subwoofer and 7 speakers, (mains were the LF and RF) I now had my discrete 2 channel primary audio 2channel rig integrated as part of the 7.1 multi channel system. For two channel serious audio enjoyment, it is only the standalone 2 channel system, but with a flick of the button it integrates into the Multi channel system when I need it.

I had the expensive top-end Cambridge AVR before. As good as it is, it does not compete with this and many other similar hi-end separate components systems.
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