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Ideal Preamp/Processor for 2-Channel & Phono Stage

My speakers (Zu Definition Pro) require bi-amplification becuase the front speakers are not wired to the rear speakers. Please don't focus on this, or the merits of Zu speakers, or room treatments. I'm looking for advice on a Pre/Pro to use in a 2-channel set up. No video necessary.

I need to equalize my room/system, so I am going to use a pre/pro. This is the only viable solution I'm considering because of the separate signals going to the front and rear speaker arrays.

Right now I'm using a Rane PEQ 55 for the rear array, but having the Rane in the signal path to my rear speakers can't cover the full tonal spectrum because it is only in the path to the rear speakers.

So, why am I only considering a "high-end" Pre/Pro in a 2-channel set up?
Inherint in the models I'm considering is the ability to equalize the front speaker array separately from the rear speaker array. How? By using the "front" speaker outputs for the front array and the subwoofer outputs for the rear array.

The Pre/Pro filters the low-frequency signal for subwoofers, so I would use that signal for the woofer array on my speakers. The front speakers output could be filtered for the front array. Then I can use the controls/software in the Pre/Pro to properly equalize my system/room.

The Integra DHC 80.1 has two mono subwoofer outputs, and the Classe SSP-800 has two stereo subwoofer outputs. Mono bass below 80Hz is not a problem since we cannot localize bass at that frequency or less.

My goal for this post is to get feedback from people who have listened to some of the high-end Pre/Pro equipment for a 2-channel system. Meridian is really nice, but outside my price range and I'm pretty confused with all the cards and versions. Other manufacturers would be greatly appreciated. If you're selling something, please contact me using my email address.

My turntable set up is really important to me and I don't want to sacrifice any (or at least as little as possible) of the benefits from it, so I'm looking for a Pre/Pro that also has an awesome phono stage.

I'm trying to stay away from using the word "best" because "best" is subjective and means different things to different people and threads with "best" spin out of control with questions like what are you trying to do, what do you want out of your system, etc... All helpful questions, but not the goal of this thread.

The only practical solution I'm willing to explore right now is to find a Pre/Pro that will allow me to equalize my room/system (using a mic would be ideal), has two subwoofer outputs (can be two mono or stereo outputs) with a great phono stage so I don't lose the benefit of my analog rig. Pretty straightforward.

My system:
Yamamoto A-08S driving the front speaker array
Berhinger EP2500 driving the rear woofer array
Canary CA-903 Line Stage
Canary CA-400 Phono Stage
Ayre CX-5e CDP
Avid Diva 2 TT
Zu Definition Pro speakers (MTM front 20kHz-50Hz, & 4-10" woofers rear 1kHz-15Hz)

Regards,
Mark
aceboympk

Showing 1 response by martykl

martykl
3,578 posts
 
If you add a line level x-over (I use the NHT x-2) and take the sub out signal from there into a "bass only" DRC unit (I use a Velodyne SMS-1, but the SVS/Audyssey unit will work, too) and then on into your bass array, you'll get where you want to go. The x-2 is benign (to my ears) and the A/D - D/A conversion in the DRC system only hits the signal to the subs, where it's less troublesome (again IMHO).

The combined cost of the NHT ($300) and Velo ($450) leaves some room for a phono stage of your choosing. If you want the SVS/Audyssey DRC unit instead of the Velo, you should add another app $400. All sold direct w/money back trial period.

BTW, technically you don't need the x-2 with the Velo, but I found it's high pass filter function for the main speakers both inflexible (fixed at 80hz-6db/octave) and a bit sonically intrusive. The SVS unit requires a x-over ahead of it.

Marty
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