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Have ~12K to spend on a new setup. Help!

I need some help. I have never thought to spend more than a few thousand on my entire home theater. However, the wife has told me to go crazy and order what I want (within reason <$12K).

A little about my needs, HT 80% of the time and Music 20%. I have small kids so in reality it will be pokemon and shaun the sheep 90% of the time :P

Processors:
I have owned Emotiva Products in the past: Umc200 and XMC-1 processors

I currently own a Marantz sr5015.

Amps:

I have owned an Emotiva XPA-5 amp. I currently still do.

Speakers:

I was in love with the sound of my Paradigm Studio 100's, I sold them and have not been able to find them again. 

I currently own a set of Swan Diva 6.2f LR, and a Paradigm CC490 center. I currently only have 3 speakers (LRC). Do not  have room for a sub at the moment.

 

What I am looking for:

I have always wanted a McIntosh setup. I have found literally 0 reviews of any of their processors. 
Here is what I need from a processor: 4k support, don't need 120hz, I do not need any analog inputs as all my devices in my HT are digital (nintendo switch, nvidia shield).

I really like the McIntosh Mc205 or 207 (I really want the iconic blue meters)

For processors I can't afford something like the Mx123, but can fit a Mx122 or Mx100 into my budget. I can't find any Mx100s for sale but have found a few Mx122.

The amp will be visible in my room (which I want), but the receiver will not be so it does not HAVE to be a mcIntosh. I want a receiver that will support 4k/hdcp2.2 and will perform well audio wise....

On the edge of my thoughts are some better speakers along with all this. 

I would appreciate any ideas on how to spread the money out and any experience with amps and processors. 

Thank you. 

128x128chris_lansman

Showing 1 response by carlsbad

carlsbad's avatar
carlsbad
1,551 posts
 

12K for a multichannel HT setup won't go far....

What I did that I am very happy with (full disclosure, I'm 90% music and 10% TV/movies):

My 2 channel HIFi system stands alone.  I have over $12K invested just in my DAC but you can do well for much less but if you truly want a good 2 channel system, you can upgrade a little at a time in the future.

My 2 channel system has a second input into the amp.  I run the preamp signals from my HT system to the second input and switch my 2 channel system to that input when I'm watching a movie.

I also would put 80% of my speaker money if not more into the 2 front speakers.

You may want to just buy a 7 channel syste and use the reciever for music.  This is quite a 2 channel compromise but it may work for you.

Jerry

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