2. amps-preamps
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Help getting back to enjoying music and movies in one system

Hello, I have been off audio discussion forums for years but I'm in need of your help. 

Here is my very modest system that I've been enjoying but I'm ready to make some improvements.

I'd love more resolution when listening to music and especially better dialogue clarity in movies.

Kef LS50 Meta speakers

Pair of REL B3 powered subs

Yamaha RX-A3070 9.2 CH x 150 Watts A/V Receiver

I plan to keep the Kef LS50 Meta speakers and REL B3 subs for now. I'm considering swapping the LS50 Meta speakers for a pair of Harbeth P3ESR, C7ES3, or M30.2 in the future.

I use my system for two channel audio with subs for music and to watch movies and shows.

I use Tidal streaming for two channel music (Spotify sometimes). I have a vinyl and cd collection even though I haven't been enjoying them in several years.

I'm wondering if an integrated amplifier with home theater bypass is my next purchase.

I've also been reading a lot about the latest Denon HT receivers that many rave about online. 

I've had some very nice gear in the past so I have a taste for the finer things.

Right now I've got champagne tastes but I don't have the budget to go with it. Lolz.

I'm open minded regarding my options including non-traditional solutions.

What equipment do you think is a lot of fun to listen to and a great value?

I'm fine with used and older high quality gear. Also interested in Topping, Buckeye, Orchard Audio, etc.

I appreciate your help getting back into the hobby!

 

nicksgem10s

Showing 1 response by carlsbad2

carlsbad2's avatar
carlsbad2
2,023 posts
 

Here is what I do and I strongly recommend the same. it requires NO compromise for 2 channel sound and fully supports your HT.

1. Design and build your 2 channel system. the only thing you need to make sure you have is a second analog input. This input will be used for HT. I have an amp with 2 inputs.

2. Design and build your HT system.  Make it 7.1 or 7.2.  at least 5.1.  you must have a center speaker.   Make sure your system has a preamp level output for your front speakers. Run pre-out from your HT preamp or HT receiver to your 2 channel amp/preamp/DAC (my DAC has an Analog in to make it more flexible) and attach to your second set of inputs.

now when you’re ready to listen to HT you just switch your amp (or your preamp if that is how you do it) to the input that your HT is set on.

You will have to adjust your sound levels if you use a preamp. I don’t recommend turning it all the way up since you will eventually forget to turn it back down. I suggest turning it to an arbitrary but very loud setting such as 1200 or 300--some setting that if you forget to turn it back won’t blow a tweeter. Then go through your HT set up program and let it set the level for the front speakers.

Jerry

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