HT Processor Failing, any ideas on Multi Channel P

It all depends on what caliber DAC your universal player has. You are essentially listening to the DACs and the analog output stage. If you already own a universal player with high grade analog outs, get an analog MCH preamp. I used a McCormack MAP1 in my secondary system and it is a pretty nice amp. If you don't have a good analog MCH player yet, getting a good SSP and using your player as an HDMI transports is more flexible and cost effective.

I am not clear from your post. Are you listening in a multichannel setup, or two channel only?

The McCormack is ideal for that as is the Sony TA-P9000ES. I'd rather use HDMI anyway.

Kal

Multi channel and two channel - a mixed system-

Right now I am using a Pioneer elite Blu ray for HT and running a mac mini with optical out into the SSP. I am using the SSP in analog pass thru mode for the Blu Ray... I think I could improve things if I went with an external Dac for the mini

Thoughts?

My system is

Myryad MDP 500 SSP
Pioneer Elite Blu ray
Myryad 3 channel amp for Center and Rear Surrounds
Mac Mini for Music ( all Digital)
Mesa Boogie Baron for Two Channel and Front Speakers
Von Schweikert VR4 jrs...

Vongwinner, if you Pioneer Elite is the BDP-09 this is a no brainer - go the analog MCH preamp route. I had one of those myself, and it is a very good analog player. In my estimation to get the same SQ from a SSP over HDMI, you have to spend a few grand.

You can also make huge improvements on your 2 channel path. There are two ways to do this. You could get a good USB dac (like Ayre) and run it two channel into the MCH analog preamp (McCormack or equivalent).

An even more promissing route is to get a USB DAC with volume control and HT bypass. You would run MCH mains through the bypass and control 2 channel volume with the DAC. If the DAC has no bypass but an analog input, just find unity gain level and use it in bypass mode. I believe the wyred4sound and Bel Canto foots the bill.

If you indicate you are interested I may list my McCormack for sale. It is currently doing Barbie Movies in the upstrairs system and I can easily do the same with a cheaper alternative. Not sure yet if I want to sell it, because I like to keep a backup if my listening room MCH premap fails, but let me know - I would consider it.

Hello and thanks,

Just as I thought. Yes I have the BDP-09 and the analog is great. I am thinking that if I go the MCH preamp route I will be safe from future upgrades-something I got tired of with all the possessors I have bought.

I agree and am headed in the route you suggest with the usb Dac. I was really impressed with the wyred4sound dac!

I am interested in your McCormack if you let me know what you want and could send some pictures that would be great!

Email is gwinner@me.com

Thanks!