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Can a Classe SSP replace a dedicated stereo pre?

Hi everyone! I appreciate the opinions and knowledge on this forum and I've been reading a while. 

I am looking to move laterally from a 2-channel setup to a basic 5.1 surround setup, as my listening does involve TV and movies. Most of my sources are digital.

My current setup involves a sabaj d5 DAC, a Modwright SWL 9.0se preamp, Odyssey Khartago extreme monoblocks, and some excellent DIY 3-way speakers.

I couldn't be happier with this for two channel listening. 

In my research for multichannel pres/avrs, I heard most people saying that the only ones that sound really good for stereo are ones made by Classe, Krell and Bryston within my budget. I'm really hoping to simplify my setup and not have to use ht bypass, switch between two preamps etc.

I've made an offer for a Classe SSP sigma. Do you think this could potentially replace my Modwright without losing much SQ?

Thank you!
akhil
akhil OP
7 posts
 
Thanks bwguy, I think I have the same plan and it's good to hear the Sigma is doing well for you.

ghdprentice, I live alone in a small 1 room house, and cannot justify keeping 2 separate systems :) Your theater setup looks great! I am trying to do exactly that, get the best sounding processor I can afford (Hence the Classe), that has analog passthrough.
bwguy's avatar
bwguy
216 posts
 
@jakesnap.   Actually the Classe uses a Wolfson 8741 chip.
dmcneilr's avatar
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dmcneilr
21 posts
 
I have a Classe Sigma SSP MKII as well. I had the same home theater + 2-ch hifi conundrum. I’m very satisfied with it. Is it my Aavik U-380 for 2-ch, no. It is however the best blend of both elements that I’ve found.  I would look for an SSP MKII or an earlier version that has been upgraded. I’ve had both and the MKII does home theater much more convincingly. Best of luck in your search…
vinylshadow
420 posts
 
YES.
I have a Classe SSP-800 and it is fantastic in 2 channel.
Read Robert Harley's 2008 review of the Classe SSP-800 and this review:hometheaterreview dot com/classe-ssp-800-av-preamp-reviewed/

However, my peripheral equipment is top of the charts so that is a contributing factor. But Classe makes fantastic processors.

I'd get an SSP-800 if you can. They are being sold for around $3000 or so on EBay. Best deal on the planet.
akhil OP
7 posts
 
Thank you dmcneilr and vinylshadow! Your inputs help a lot. 

I have purchased a Sigma mk1 for now, if Classe is still offering upgrades I can try to get that done myself. 

Super excited, I am moving to a new rental and will try both my existing preamp and the Classe there!  
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