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Move From AVR to Integrated?

I know this topic gets thrown around a lot, but I recently bought a pair of Ascend Acoustic Sierra 1s I love and a Hsu VTF2 MK5 subwoofer. Right now, I'm using a Denon AVR-X2600H to power them. 

I hear a lot of chatter that I'm not getting the most out of my speakers using the AVR. The drawback is my room is not treated, and I like having the bass management. 

It seems difficult to find an integrated with 100wpc+, ability to stream things like Tidal, that also has ability to at least EQ the low bass, and have the ability to connect to digital sources like a PS4/5. I do like the idea of a better built power source, and I will never go past 2.1 or 2.2. Most of what I do is music and TV. 

Any suggestions? Ideally I'd like to stay under 1200. 
coolhandduke
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
I think I’ve decided on budgeting a few more bucks and going this route:

  1. miniDSP SHD - DAC, Dirac Live processor for well reviewed sub integration, crossovers, parametric EQ, streamer, balanced and RCA inputs and outputs. Promising high signal to noise measurements.
  2. Monoprice Monolith 2x200 AB amp. - made by ATI with really solid measurements that should be a piece to last years and power anything I need.
Comes to about 2200. This is more than the 1500 budget, but it’s what I’m shooting for.
perkadin's avatar
perkadin
286 posts
 
The best solution for you would be to add a 2ch amp and use your receiver as the preamp.  I just did this with my Yamaha RX-A1000. Fortunately your Denon has HDMI ARC, a 12v trigger, and pre-outs for the mains which is all you need.  I really wanted to keep a single remote and have everything turn on and off with a single button which is where ARC and the 12v trigger come in handy. There are hundreds of 2ch amps you can find in your price range.  It won’t be hard to significantly improve upon the amp section of your Denon. 
I was limited on space so I went with a Linn AV5105, which is an incredible used bargain in the 400-500 dollar range. They were originally around $1800-1900 new.  
coolhandduke OP
46 posts
 
@perkadin My Denon does not have pre outs, unfortunately. Only the 3xxx series and up does. The cost of buying a new AVR and an amp would be just as much as something more dedicated like the SHD which has better DAC, better room correction, high signal to noise, etc.. 
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