Receiver vs. processer?


I have a dedicated 2-channel system right now, but I am adding theater. Just bought a blu-ray and a plasma. Movies will be the main use, but I still have 2000 LP's and SACD's to listen to on occasion. My question is do I ditch the pre-amp (Classe) and power amp (Bel Canto Evo) for an A/V receiver or simply add a processor? Analog is an issue and I don't want to compromise my phono input too much. Are there any powered 5 channel processors out there, or am I looking at a power amp/processor combo? Any direction is greatly appreciated. Oh, and I'm not made of money, so Krell or similar high end brands are out. Thanks!
mranalog

Showing 1 response by macdadtexas

You know what I have done, and been very happy with, is integrated my 2 channel (Cary SLP98p F-1, Bel Canto Ref 1000, Maggie 3.6Rs, etc) into my 5.1 channel movie rig using a reciever (Denon 3808ci) to process, switch video, and power the rears and center channel (also power and distribute to a second zone). It's worked great. The Cary passes through HT and I feel like a have the best of all worlds.

So I say, keep your system as is, and add a nice reciever. If your Classe doesn't pass through home theater, call them and they can probably change that for you, or you can get one of the mod-shops to do it. Or if that doesn't work, trade/sell your very nice preamp for another one that does pass through HT.

Good luck.