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Best multi channel amp and processor good for 2 channel listening.

Hi All,

I am new to this forum and have a few questions in reference to HT processors.  I am starting from scratch and switching from a Krell S-1000 and S-1500.  I sold the processor a few months back and I going to list here the amp.

I am currently considering the new Bryston 9B3 and the SP4 and decision was based on upgrade ability and warranty. The speakers for HT will be Sonus Faber Grand Piano Home and for 2 channel Verity Otello’s.  My second choice was Classe but I was informed that they have all sales on hold, this is concerning.  I have not listened to either, my choice is based on reviews and the Bryston dealer.  My decision was also based they are both good for two channel, I am not set on this but it will help the budget and space.  I am looking for a warm and good over all sound; some might say 3 dimensional sound, clarity is also a factor.  Actually, all I’ve read in reference to Classe fits the bill.  I would like a couple of other choices to include in my short list and opinions are welcome. The budget for the processor and amp is approx. 22k.  

Thanks to all.....
maguiar
maguiar OP
39 posts
 
Hi Delancey,

Thanks for your response...  Your explanation makes total sense even not being a technical person like myself. I am still torn on the hook setup that audiotroy mentioned on 02/15/19 and you pr input will be greatly appreciated. 

I have actually pushed the purchase date to June/July, so I have plenty of time to continue my research. What do you think about Vinnie Rossi, Audionet and Aavik?
eziggy
137 posts
 
My recommendation is spend on getting a good 2ch integrated, then get a decent a/v pre/pro and a decent multichannel amp.

Reasoning is for movies you don’t need the level of quality as 2ch music.  I have been trying to figure out an integrated 2ch / multichannel setup and have finally landed on a Luxman 509X + Marantz 8805 + McIntosh 7106 multichannel amp (had this one already and do not have that many speakers).  Just ordered the Luxman after demoing a bunch of different amps.  

The Luxman has a “separates” toggle which separates the amp from the preamp, so when watching movies you can switch it to amp mode and it is driven by the Marantz or other pre/pro  When listening to 2ch you you can switch to integrated mode.
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Hi Eziggy,

Thanks for your response..  Actually my number one contender to far is the Luxman 509x. I am also looking into the Pass Labs Int250, Mark Levinson 585,
Gryphon Diablo and Hegel H590. Although, I think the Hegel is overpriced I would comsider it if I get a good deal.    

How do you like the Marantz compared to all others? I am considering the Nad, Arcam or Audio Control Maestro 9 (If I can get a good deal on it).
Post removed 
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Audiotroy,

Sorry not interested in Krell or Anthem products and don’t plan to stream, I enjoy my cd’s. I currently own an 11 year old Arcam for cd’s which I have no complaints about but I may consider an upgrade, still looking into that. My priority is selecting a good amp for my music. If i can find a multi channel pre/pro and amp that can do the job for both to my liking, it will be a plus, no argument there.

Reference speakers, I have the Sonus Faber’s for HT but still undecided between the Verity Otello’s and Harbeth 40.2 for music. I am leaning a bit more to the Verity’s at this time but will be auditioning the Harbeth this coming Saturday with the above mentioned amps.

I am not arguing the Audio Control Maestro and the Plinius Odeon maybe a good match for both but I will not commit to anything I can’t audition. I am still working on options.

Thanks for your input and always open for suggestions.

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