2. amps-preamps
  3. 1260961002

HELP : Best pre and power amps for B&W804 and HTM2

To All Audio Experts,

CURRENT SPECS: I own B&W 804 front speakers and a HTM2 center speaker. I had them powered by Denon AVC-A11SR which is now completely broken beyond repair. I was not all too satisfied with the power provided by the integrated amp to my 804 speakers. I also have a run-of-the-mill progressive DVD player which also doubled for a CD player.

CURRENT USE: I mostly use my system for movies/music in the following allocation: 50%/50%.

NEED: I have between US$5,000 to US$7500 to spend on either (i) an integrated amp that is powerful enough to truly enjoy my 804 speakers or (ii) pre/power amp combination. The total cost should also take into consideration of the relevant cables needed (I think I should upgrade the cables as well).

I might spend another US$1000 on a very good DVD/CD combo player to upgrade such component from the existing equipment.

What is the best match for my current speakers (I want to be able to continue to use my HTM2 speakers in a 3 channel format)?

I don't think I will likely upgrade my speakers in the future (unless they break) nor will I spend more money to upgrade the amplifier once they are purchased (unless again they break).

Although, down the road in a few years, I may consider purchasing rear speakers/sub woofer but am not firm on this.

Lastly, I was recommended to go with Rotel RSP 1570 and RMB 1575 for pre/power amp combo but I understand this is a class D amp (which may be inferior, etc).

QUESTION: What is the best route to complement my current speakers under the proposed budget? I am NOT an audiophile but I also want to have the best components that I can be proud of and enjoy for many years to come without ever considering an upgrade.

THANK YOU MUCH IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR THOUGHTFUL/INSIGHTFUL COMMENTS.
slim1

Showing 4 responses by slim1

slim1 OP
6 posts
 
Dear Zephyr,

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my thread and I apologize to you and others about the confusion (since I didn't know better).

Yes I would like to purchase a system that can utilize all three of my speakers (804 and HTM2 with no rear speakers).

In terms of a multi-channel surround pre-processor, does McIntosh MX-134 qualify (I saw a couple of them on Ebay and Audiogon for a very good price). If so, then would you recommend it given it doesn't have HDMI for HD video?

Thank you.
slim1 OP
6 posts
 
If the surround pre-processor doesn't support such formats, then does it mean that the sounds don't come out at all (or does it mean that it will come out in the next best format such as Dolby, etc)?

Also, if the processor doesn't have HDMI, then does it mean that the pictures don't come out when playing HDMI format?

Should I go with one of the Denon surround pre-processor and McIntosh MC 205? Looks like Denon packs a whole lot into their processors and I can pick-up one up along with MC205 (used) to get a good combo. I will definitely have a listen to Classe as suggested. Thank you.
slim1 OP
6 posts
 
Thank you all.

I am seriously considering McIntosh MX-134 and MC205 given I can pick them up used on Audigon for a deep discount to their original retail price. The concern I have is if I purchase a HDTV that has HDMI connection but since MX-134 doesn't have a HDMI input, then should I assume that I cannot enjoy HDTV in HD?

I can live without THX Ultra, etc but would prefer to watch movies, etc in HD format on my HDTV.

How important is HDMI audio?

Lastly, I live in Asia and the voltage/hertz are different from the U.S. How easy is it to convert the voltage/hertz to 230w/60hertz (and what is the cost and where do I take the equipment to make such conversion)?

Thank you again.
slim1 OP
6 posts
 
Than you.

What is the recommended surround processor in $2K to $2.5K range (used)?
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