2. home-theater
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Separates for 2-channel & HT, or.....?

I posted this in the amp/preamp forum too - no responses as yet so I will try again here. I hope double posts are not frowned upon.

I am coming from the simple world of SS receiver and separate SS power amp - Rotel gear, as you can see from my Virtual System. I am trying to find a more musical system, but I still need to have a system that can be used for HT. Optimized 2-channel is more important to me, but I can't make two separate systems - no room. :-(

I am changing out my speakers to Cain & Cain Abbys - single drive (Fostex 166E) high efficiency speakers (95dB.) My Teres turntable is also a keeper, as is my phono stage. These are about the only decisions I have been able to firm up! So, I am building my system around these components.

I need either an integrated amp or separates - pre amp/power amp. I thought tubes would be best for the Abbys, but then again, maybe the pre should be solid state with a tube amp - or is the other way around better? You see how unknowing I am! An integrated amp might be a bit of a compromise, but might also fit my budget better. :-~

This is what I need the system to do: I need to be able to run my CD drive, a DVD drive, my phono stage and a subwoofer, as well as, of course, front speakers. If I end up getting rid of my receiver, an option for rear and center speakers would be a plus, though I may forgo surround sound (5.1) with my new system.

My budget is around $10,000 which is both limiting, I realize, and more than I wanted to spend. :rolleyes: I would like this budget to include a new CD-player - I am considering the Musical Fidelity A5 - so I guess my actual amp/preamp budget is around $8000.

So, should I keep the receiver - or get a better one - and get an integrated amp with an HT pass through, or go with separates, or????
oakiris
horseface's avatar
horseface
222 posts
 
That’s the exact pre I am taking home tonight to try out - I will keep you posted (no pun intended) ... Much of that 20G was speakers - I'm not sure I needed to match ALL 6 pieces but what the hell ... I did and I probably happiest with that purchase. I'm a computer technician so I have invested quite a bit getting the home network tied into the HT system and setting up an extensive music library. It seems like a lot ... but it sure adds up fast. Then again ... some might have that much invested in a single component.

My friends at work think I'm crazy but I have to point out the 4 quads one of them has parked in front of his house along with the trailer and accessories or the hotrod the other one is building ... 20 grand over the course of 10 years to keep me out of trouble is probably a pretty sound investment. I sure enjoy it! If someone offered me 30 grand to take it away - and get out of this hobby for good I'd tell them to forget it!

Lets face it ... I'm hooked
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
I know - a lot of people seem to think that only their hobby is worth the money! Most people think I'm nuts (and maybe I am!) for not making do with a $500 HT set up from Circuit City and a boom box, and wonder why I have at least 6 pairs of relatively high-end headphones, when the earbuds that come with the Sony Walkman would surely do!

Have fun with the Mod-Wright, and definitely let us know what you think of it.

Holly
zoomin
5 posts
 
A preamp with bypass is your best bet. I am doing the same with a Rotel 1055 for HT and a Stello Dac/pre with active main speakers. I get the best of both worlds as far as I'm concerned.
oakiris OP
206 posts
 
You know, tonight I tried just using my front speakers for HT (O.K., it was just for watching/listening to the Tv) and I didn't really like it. I changed back to 5.1 and it sounded "right." 2-channel, on the other hand, sounded great for CD play back. I so wanted to like 2-channel for everything - mind you, this is with my current Rotel/B&W system. Perhaps tube amps and the Abbys will make all the difference in the world.

Holly
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
Why not scrap your phono in favor of a tube pre with phono built in? No wires or power supply to deal with is a big bonus, and you have alot of money to spend, I think if you spend wisely you wont need near your budget and will be able to get alot of music or movies....good luck!
PS I added a tube pre to my Rotel Pro (I run it thru the multi channel bypass) I use it for 2 channel only and although there is always better I am really happy with what I have, it really sounds alot better than the Rotel did on its own....and the Rotel trounced my Onkyo reciever.
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