Processor as a DAC for music?

It works with a good HT preamp but you may get marginally better performance out of a good DAC feeding analog to the HT processor instead of digital. It all depends on the level of interface jitter you happen to be getting and how the HT processor deals with it - something that I think is very hard to predict and may be individual setup specific (do you have a power conditioner or what else is plugged in to the same sockets for example). My recommendation would be to get an HT processor with all the functions and flexibility you need to enjoy movies but with a high quality "analog direct" option and then A/B compare the HT DAC against a standalone DAC feeding the HT analog (and return the DAC if there is no benefit). This is simple to do if you are able to find an HT preamp/processor that has a remote and will allow you to level match SPL's precisely - just flick back and forth from the listening position.

I'm using the Onkyo equivalent of the Integra 9.8 - What makes it really useful for me is that you can use the Audissy room correction which has a bigger impact on my system than anything else I've run across.

You can then, still add an outboard DAC (through coax or optical) and still use the room correction, so that's an upgrade path.

The Angstrom 200 is a great dac/pre-amp as well a pre-pro. You can find them on Agon and e-bay for under $500. Get the dts updated one (and an add-on 205 for DD)and you've got exceptional HT surround as well.

I appreciate the feedback however I was looking at it from the standpoint that many of the more expensive HT pre/pro had better two channel preamps in the $500-1000 used range than the same price point in something that was 2 channel only. Plus you get the dac that can be used for your cds or music server. I use a HT receiver for video.

IMHO the Theta Digital gear is hard to beat for performance or price considering what they sell for on Audiogon. I owned the Theta Casanova which ran my 5.1 surround sound system for DVD’s, and L/R Stereo for CD’s. I now have a Theta Casablanca II equipped with an Extreme DAC for the L/R Front for Stereo, as well as the Center and Sub Channel. I run the L/R Rear Channels on the Superior DAC.

Both the Casanova and Casablanca have high quality Analog inputs and outputs that are amazing. The Extreme DAC is like a dream come true. A lot of people frown on Pre-Pro’s for two channel stereo but I’m really happy with mine. My amp is the Theta Intrepid that is the five channel 100 watt per channel amp that’s also a bargain when you consider what they sell for on Audiogon.

I appreciate the feedback however I was looking at it from the standpoint that many of the more expensive HT pre/pro had better two channel preamps in the $500-1000 used range than the same price point in something that was 2 channel only.

Good thinking. The obsolescence of the multiple standards for HT mean you can find bargains - high quality amps with great components (Crystal volume contro, Burr Browns, a decent 24/196 DAC etc.) all for a very good price. The only draw back of a multi-channel amp is that you generally get lower channel separation specs but don't let this worry you - it is no biggie IMHO.

I've been very happy with the Proceed PAV/PDSD pre/pro for this application. I understand that the single chassis AVP-2 is as good, and perhaps better with newer DACs, but the AVP is not.

db

I second the theta casa nova as it is a excellant performer; the bass management and crossover selections are the best I have ever used;if you can find one with the circle surround option you can't go wrong.

Thanks all for the feedback

Exactly the direction I am considering. It appears one can get a high quality pre with a modern DAC at a discounted price due to the rapidly changing HT market.

PAV/PDSD is better than AVP and better bang for the buck vs AVP2