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Using Oppo 205 instead of per amp processor

Anyone using their Oppo 205 as a pre amp processor? if so, what are the pros and cons? I am looking into replacing my NAD 758 receiver with separates for my HT and secondary system. I'm thinking i can save myself some money by purchasing the Oppo instead of a pre amp processor but, not sure if the Oppo was designed to be used like that without issue. I know the Oppo doesn't have room correction and was told by magnolia, the volume control is fixed only no variable? Unfortunately, no dealers in my area have one on display to audition. Any feed back is much appreciated. My current set up: Primaluna HP integrated, Sony HAP1ZES, Cambridge BD 752 player, Klispch Heresy 111 70th anniversary edition speakers, cables Tellurium Q ultra black SC and jumpers, FMS microwave IC's, and a Wadi 171i transport that i use with my iphone/ipad.

Thanks
Brian
brian27b

Showing 2 responses by mattmiller

mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,515 posts
 
Look I love the OPPO 105/205 just as much as most, but now saying that its a awesome pre-amp is stepping a little beyond its true capabilities. The variable volume is for driving a pair of headphones you plug into the 1/4 inch jack. Thats why Oppo put it there, period. This is a source component and If you want to use it direct to amp you can.....is that making the most of your system? I say "not even close". A proper pre amp and analog volume control will really "bring the system home", not to mention inputs you need for other equipment.

Even if I had a pair of self powered KEF LS50's I would connect the Oppo fixed and use the KEF's volume control!

Matt M
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,515 posts
 
TIM, Thank you for the kind words about my system and the video my daughter made, she used a HQ external digital audio recorder with fixed stereo mics (no wonder..right). I have a few different systems in my family, and one of them is a Aurender XL100 (6tb) music server connected via USB 2.0 to a OPPO BDP105 through a complete McIntosh stereo system. So, yes I do love analogue, but I know great digital as well. I used a Mac CD player (these were made to drive amps directly)  direct via XLR’s to drive my amp for a number of years before I switched back to vinyl. One thing I will say is that I know what sounds great and what dosent and I was just trying to point out how much a proper pre amp will effect the sound of the system and in many cases can inject a real beauty and warmth that many of these digital systems need.

Matt M                            
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