What's good used 5.1pre/pro for $1500 or less

I like the encore...but if you could stretch for an Ovation.....it has better DACS. But the encore was a VERY solid performer.

Kennyt:

Agree that the PAV/PDSD was a great unit...but it is significantly dated at this point....but for $1500 would still be a great deal.

In terms of EAD...of course for $1500 he's not going to get the latest. But an Ovation8 or 8000 or 8000pro is a great unit and I didn't find it difficult to operate at all.

Bottom line: If one knows what they are doing these days they can set up an awesome theater with older equipment like Proceed or EAD.

Regards,
Harry

Because the EAD TM8800 pro was recently released...there are absolutely incredible deals right now in both the used market and also directly from EAD on used or refurbished TM8000 pro units. I am thinking about picking one up for my downstairs system. Sonically, these units are unparalleled (except for the 8800pro which is better). I also noticed that Frank Boelen of Boelen electronics is doing some cost effective mods to these units with BlackGates and high speed soft recovery diodes.

Disortion:

I believe the EAD Encore used the Crystal Semi CS4226 20-bid delta sigma. Hence, the sound was quite a bit different from the Burr Brown in the ovation.

Harry

The differences between the Ovation, Encore, Theatermaster, Theatermaster pro, and Signature series can be a touch complex...but important because they do have different sound and features. The website (www.eadusa.com) has a section on past products that outlines the features of each. My first unit was an Ovation-8 with upgraded Theatermaster 8000pro software. It was sonically outstanding, but not as good as the 8800pro. None of the older units have PLII which was introduced on the 8800pro.

If you post specific questions about the different models here, perhaps owners of those models can provide some input.

Harry