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Pre/Pro for $2K

...new to the site, first time posting. I'm upgrading from a Yamaha pro logic receiver and am having trouble deciding among the B&K Ref 20, Acurus ACT-3, or the Marantz AV-9000. (I'm leaning toward the Acurus as I've heard they've corrected the "hum" problem). I'd like to keep it under $2K but could sacrifice and add a few hundred for great value. (B&K Ref 30?). I'm primarily a music (jazz, reggae, & R&B) listner, but enjoy high impact movies. My system consists of the Adcom GFA6000 5-channel amp, B&W DM604 3-way floor standing mains, Boston center channel and remotes, and a Paradigm PS-1200 sub. Any advice would be appreciated. Also, any suggestions on good but inexpensive ($50 - $60) interconnects would be a tremendous help. THANKS!!!
herbl4
p_mmk
70 posts
 
Here are some other options. For around $1,500-$2,000 used, you should look into the Classe SSP-25 or EAD TheaterMaster Encore. Both are realtively bare-bone units but have excellent reputation for 2 channel stereo. The TheaterMaster Encore is upgradable to their top of the line pre/pro the Signature which retails for $6,500 or so. Another option is the Aragon Soundstage (the higher-end line of the manufacturers of the Acurus.) One of the best things about the Soundstage is that it is as upgradeable as currently possible for both software and hardware. That's the main reason I purchased it. As far as two channel sound,it's very good. However, I prefer to connect my CD player directly into the amp. The Soundstage can be had for $2,500 used. These units do not show up for sale very often on Audiogon and when they do they seem to sell quickly. I think they are all two-channel wise a step above the pre/pro's you mentioned. Hope that helps.
jcbtubes
400 posts
 
I support Coltrane's suggestion about the B&K Ref units. For the money, they are quite good, even with audio only applications. Then if you have some money left over, you could consider upgrading the amplifier. Just my .02
jamie_newman
3 posts
 
I have a acurus act3. I have had a lexicon dc1, sony 9000, denon decoder and a couple others. The act 3 (without the hum) is by far the best the runner up was the lexicon. Class A outputs on the Act3 along with bass management brings this unit over the top. The D/A converter I prefer to even Krell.
sdcampbell
2,136 posts
 
I think you should also investigate Adcom's new GTP-760. Adcom has long since corrected the problems it had with the "740", and the "760" will accept 24-bit / 96Khz audio inputs. The GTP-760 can be acquired new for around $1300 - send me an E-mail if you are interested in more info. (SDCamp1113@cs.com)
lakerat2124
42 posts
 
Herb14, I run an B&K and it doesn't disappoint. It was a HUGE step over my Denon 3300. I use my system 50/50 music/movie and would buy B&K Pre/Pro again. Music sounds awesome. I have heard Krell, Lexicon, Proceed, Acurus, Meridian, Rotel and for the money I felt B&K was the pick. Would suggest Ref 30 for Video switching. Cables I use AudioTruth Opals which have been discontinued. They can be had for a fair price($70-90). AQ Quartz are cheaper and also a good value. Home Grown Audio cables have been talked about a bunch and seem to be a good value. Depending on what you are running, cable can make a big difference. I was using Monster. They are great business men apparently, but the AQ kills what I had. Hope this helps....Happy Listening.......LR
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