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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
eziggy
137 posts
 
@Maguair, what are you looking for in terms of sound signature for your 2ch?

I just got the Luxman 509X, so not broken in, but initial thoughts are that it is more on the neutral side, not that warm.  It sounds fantastic, crisp yet sweet highs, mids are full, and tight bass.  With my MLs it is fairly transparent, so source is really important.  I am looking forward to seeing what happens when it settles a bit more.  It only has a few hours on it now.

I have heard the Diablo 300 and it is a great integrated and it slightly more on the warmer side.  Though for the price you are getting close to some great separates.  You could get the Luxman m900u + preamp for close to Diablo 300's price.  The m900u is the closest I have heard to combine the lushness of tube + power of ss.  This is with the usual caveat that it's a personal preference and it's all about synergy with speakers.
maguiar102
83 posts
 
@auxinput,

Thanks for your input..   Sorry if I sound naive, but what do you mean by liquidy?
 
My original intention when I started this thread was to intergrade HT with Music but I am not sure this is the best approach for reasons I mentioned. What I like in music I do not like for HT.

I did get to audition the Gryphon with the Verity’s and it was impressive to me.

Also, heard the Luxman 509x with Harbeth Super HL5 Plus and it had everything except the vocals were a bit off to me, sounded a bit grainy. Not sure what happened there.

Some also suggested the T+A PA 2500 R, which I will audition around the end of the month with the others.
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Eziggy,

As mentioned to auxinput just above is my concern with the vocals on the L509x.
I am wondering if the speakers played a role or the amp. I have such a keen ear that at times works against me..lol.... 

I am going to audition the Luxman, Gryphon, T+A, Hegel and Pass Labs with the Harbeth 40.2 by the end of the month hopefully. I am unable to audition the Mark Levinson at this time but planning to late June or July.

I will post my findings then...
eziggy
137 posts
 
Hmm, that’s probably the complete opposite of how I would describe the vocals.  They are smooth yet detailed.  If anything I think the amp is fairly true to source, in that the source and quality or recording makes a difference.  If the recording has a “digital” sounding recording, then that’s what you will hear with the amp.  Definitely good idea to demo it again with your own source music, if you didn’t get a chance to do it before.

That’s a great list of integrateds to demo!  If you are doing A/B testing are you bringing your source player, not just CDs?
maguiar102
83 posts
 
Eziggy,

It could be very well the recording, but I just did not get that grainy sound at home and I am using an old Yamaha receiver. I am not using my Krell, since I am selling it and I have it boxed ready to go.

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