2. amps-preamps
  3. 1311817172

Extremely High-End "Pre-Pro" Surround Pre-Amp

By all standards, I have excellent amplification (VAC Renaissance Mk II Preamplifier & 300.1 Stereo Power Amp.)

I am in the process of integrating a 5-channel surround system, which uses my 2-channel rig for the main/front L & R, via the preamp's "theatre bypass."

Though I am adding a surround system, I estimate that 85% of my system's use will still be for 2-channel music listening.

My initial plan was to buy a modestly priced surrround processor, such as the Marantz AV-7005 and run the 2 main channels to the VAC pre.

From the music side, I've even considered upgarding my VAC pre to one of the newer models that came out within the past year.

However, before I go down this path, are there any truely "high-end" surround processor/pre-amps that I should consider, and consolidate into one (surround/pre) unit?

By this, I mean are there any that would handle the duties of surround processing AND perform as well or better than my current pre-amp for 2-channel music playback?

It would be nice to have one piece of gear that could work dual-purpose, and avoid essentially having 2 pre's, but I will NOT go this route if there is any compromise to the musical pleasure that I am acustommed to.

So, is there a truely high-end, MUSICAL surround processor out there?

As you probably figured out, I'm a fan of tubes. What are the chances of a tube unit that fits this bill?

Thanks gang.
barrelchief
kennyt
1,226 posts
 
Kal,

You are right, the Evo 707 is HUGE! My rack still has a place for it, and I was able to put the Meridian 861v6, HD621 Switcher AND my G98DH into that same spot!!!!!

Agreed on the Sim, I can't blame you for being silent on that one!
4425
861 posts
 
Well I just bought a Classe SSP800 and would have to say that I am not disappointed with it's resolution on two channel sources and some multi channel software has been spectacular. I have always had high end gear and feel that Classe fits in the top tier of solid state gear. It almost seems reasonably priced when compared to many other high end companies.
cajunpepe
255 posts
 
Kal...no problem.

BTW...my grandmother used to say..." if you don't have anything nice to say about someone/ something....come sit by me"!!!
barrelchief OP
294 posts
 
Thanks for everyone's input. I will be sticking with my original plan of maintaining my 2-channel rig for music listening, and taking advantage of the theatre bypass for use with the cinema set-up.
mribob
229 posts
 
I am using the Marantz 7005 in conjunction with a VAC phi beta pre; and am very pleased with the sonic qualities of both my two channel;and home theater. The Marantz is well priced for its features; I use an Oppo 95 and Directv for video sources. Not sure how much more improvement in quality and features you will gain by spending more. The Cinema bypass on the VAC works well; and I'm able to utilize the room eq features thru the processor.
Good luck; let us know which processor you choose.
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