surround processor?


Where to go? Older Lyngdorf MP50, JBL SDP-55,Arcam AV40.Lexicon MC ( the cheapest)? Love to watch the movies but also listened to 2 channel stereo. Are there a big sound difference in those? Just the general advice please. Will probably look into second hand.
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A good option would be to get a used Classe Sigma SSP MKii (if you can find one as they are out of production). The 2 channel function is based on the highly rated Classe CP 800 preamp. There are probably better options if your focus is 7.1, but it performs well enough and the 2 channel is very good through the USB input or analog XLR. I use a Lumin streamer and connect it via analog XLR with the Sigma in bypass mode.
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No question separate systems are the best. Basically you have to buy two separate systems and integrate them in the same location, which forces physical space trade offs. If at all possible do two separate systems in separate locations.
If you can find one, the Angstrom 200 Surround Sound Processor / DAC / Pre-Amp, designed and built by Mike Moffat of Theta and Schitt Audio.
Although my setup is all balanced Ayre 5 series with a Bryston SP3 used only for surround, I suspect the SP3 itself would make a fine preamp/processor.

I see no need for separate locations. The Ayre preamp and amp drive a pair of KEF Reference 1s and a pair of Velodyne HGS-15s with an SMS-1 bass manager. The SP3 and amps drive a KEF Reference 204/2C center speaker and four KEF LS50 surrounds. All in one location. I have a third HGS-15 that I plan to hook up to the SP3 for LFE.