2. amps-preamps
  3. 1215704712

pro logic unit instead of 2 channel preamp?

Hi Folks,

I'm shopping for a pre-owned pre-amp to match a rotel 980bx I recently bought. Logic says to go with a matching rotel preamp, but maybe there are other ways to go? I'd like to spend around $300 if possible.

I'll be using the system for 2 channel listening, but my tv etc will also be playing through it. Inputs will be: cd, dvd, wireless itunes, vcr output. Currently I use a pro logic Denon receiver and run video through it as well. I don't mind losing video and only running audio if the quality is much better.

I only listen to 2 channel, but might choose to add a sub one day. My main goal is the best music reproduction I can afford for my budget. My speakers will be DIY MTM configured bookshelf speakers that I'm building.

-- what do you think about the older Rotel Pro Logic Surround Units as a dedicated 2 channel preamp? Can they compete sonically with older 2 channel pre-amps? (say, something made in the last 10 years?)

Any other pro logic preamps you'd recommend? I ask because it seems that there is no demand for a non digital processor, but if it reproduces great 2 channel stereo, then I'd be very happy.

-- what do you think of the Chinese tube preamps on ebay? (Ming Da etc?)

-- any other pre-amp suggestions for the $300 range used?

thanks so much for any suggestions

Steve
stevecuss

Showing 1 response by johnnyb53

johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
Although you have resolved your problem, I'll have to add that in my 2-channel mostly LP-based living room system, I'm using a previously sidelined Outlaw Audio 950 7.1 ch. pre/pro because of the 4 preamps I have available, the Outlaw in 2-channel all-analog bypass mode is the most transparent and fastest, brings out the best in the dynamics of the phono preamp feeding it, but never turns harsh or edgy. It's an awful lot of box and wasted circuitry to get a good 2-channel analog section, but it works really well, and of course it has remote which has spoiled me.

The others? Amber Model 17, Parasound ZPre (version 1), VSP Labs Straightwire II, and Hafler Series 915 Class A J-FET line stage (the preamp to match their later TransNova series amps). Only the Straightwire II equaled the Outlaw, but lost out because at 20 years it's getting a bit dodgy, occasionally dropping a channel when switching. And no remote.
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