Recommendations for Stereo Receiver or Integrated Amp?

[Drifter]

I also forgot to mention that this amp or receiver, whichever I go with, will be involved in recording duties with my TASCAM CD recorder...in other words, I need the recorder to be able to record signals from the turntable and my Marantz CD changer, so would I need special RECORD outs on an amp or receiver to make this work?

My Marantz changer will be connected to the recorder via coax digital to record directly from the CDs in the changer to the recorder; but where would the turntable plug into in order to record the vinyl on this recorder -- directly to the recorder's analog ins or direct to the amp's PHONO input? If it goes into the recorder's analog in, I won't be able to hear the audio from the turntable, correct?

This Yamaha has recording inputs / outputs -- good to go!

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_5_3/yamahadspa1processor.html

http://www.hifi-museum.com/lib/yamaha/HT6-98.pdf
Home Theater Magazine Reviews Yamaha DSP A1

 

[PearlcorderS701]

All of the units have tape loops to deal with your recording needs. They all have phono sections except the NAD units. However NAD makes the PP-2 phono pre-amp for around 100. Which would bring the price to 500. Depending on where you go you might be able to get a package deal for less. The upside to going this route is you could pick any phono stage you wanted. Since you mentioned vinyl is important this may be the route to take. You could probably buy a used higher end phono stage off Audiogon for cheap as well.

Thanks, as always, 'Morphic...

Good to know that they all have tape loops -- so, how would the connection work? The turntable would go directly into the recorder's analog ins, and the tape loop of the amp/receiver would be connected to the recorder?

So there you have it. They all will do what you need. You just need to pull the trigger on one.

I'm gettin close, my friend...I really like that Onkyo A-9555, I have to tell ya...

 

[PearlcorderS701]

I hope ya let us know which way ya go and how you end up liking it.

A ways back my Pioneer SX939 Receiver died on me and I went looking for a replacement, ended up not finding anything I liked or wasn't more than what I wanted to spend.
So I had it repaired and still enjoy it now, but its life is just about over I think.
Time to start thinking of a replacement.

I have both a R2R and turntable hooked up to mine, along with 2 sets of speakers and find the 75wpc@8ohms more than enough to drive them.

Not so sure the statement all amps sound the same is correct, I'd buy the amps have less variances generally than speakers do though, imho

Good luck..

Al

Thanks Al.

 

[PearlcorderS701]

This Yamaha has recording inputs / outputs -- good to go!

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_5_3/yamahadspa1processor.html

http://www.hifi-museum.com/lib/yamaha/HT6-98.pdf
Home Theater Magazine Reviews Yamaha DSP A1

Drift,

I don't want a surround processor or receiver for this application; this will strictly be a two channel listening area, so a stereo receiver or integrated amp is what I need.

But your selections do bring up an interesting question...are there any surround integrated amps on the market that can be used instead of a surround receiver? I know there are multichannel amps and separate pre/pros that can be combined, but are there surround integrateds?

 

[PearlcorderS701]

Well Guys,

After much consideration and pondering, I think I really want the Onkyo A-9555, which is where my heart was pretty much from the beginning; I really like their home theater stuff, so I think I will be happy with this amp for the two channel room.

Can anyone give me any cons for buying this amp?

Please look over the specs and reviews and tell me what you think:

http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=A-9555&class=Amplifier&p=i

It looks like a real gorgeous piece.

Would anyone have any recommendations for where I can find the lowest price on this? I can't seem to find anything under 500 bucks or so; is that what this thing is going for everywhere?

Let me say thank you for all your suggestions and input in this thread; they were much appreciated. If I decide against the Onkyo, I'll be back!

 

[Drifter]

Drift,

I don't want a surround processor or receiver for this application; this will strictly be a two channel listening area, so a stereo receiver or integrated amp is what I need.

But your selections do bring up an interesting question...are there any surround integrated amps on the market that can be used instead of a surround receiver? I know there are multichannel amps and separate pre/pros that can be combined, but are there surround integrateds?

Well, I gues I was trying to save you some money while directing you to an outstanding amp that does it all. As I mentioned before, the DSP A1 offers direct "naked" 2 channel - and since the used market would require you to shell out only about $500-$600 bucks for what was originally $2,700.00, I think it's a no-brainer.

As for other current integrated Amps., I suppose there are some out there -- don't know the names. I've sort of gotten away from the receiver stuff - I went with Rotel separates a while back. But that remnds me, Rotel makes a fine 2 channel stereo integrated Amp. You might take a look at before making you purchase. You can't beat Rotel value!!!

http://www.rotel.com/NA/products/index.htm?cat=21


"Conclusion
The Rotel RA-1520 is a sonically dynamic integrated amplifier and the sound quality that this amplifier disperses speaks volumes about Rotel's dedication in designing high-quality audio components year after year. This amplifier breathes new life into audio formats that most critics have long ago left for dead, such as the audiocassette and the phonograph. With it's innate ability to process analog audio signals into something resembling the crisper quality of digital signatures, the RA-1520 should be looked at as the wave of the future when it comes to integrated amplifier design technology."

"At a price of $1,000, the average consumer would certainly balk at paying such a high price for most any audio component that does not come with speakers, a CD player, etc. But for the audiophile who is well aware of Rotel's prestigious reputation as one of the premiere audio manufacturers in the world today, the $1,000 price tag is completely justified." http://hometheaterreview.com/rotel-ra-1520-integrated-amplifier-reviewed/

 

[Josuah]

I know there are multichannel amps and separate pre/pros that can be combined, but are there surround integrateds?

I can't think of a single multichannel integrated amp. The problem is really that you need something to decode multichannel audio and so typically you buy the high quality sound in your processor or receiver.

The only multichannel preamp I can think of right now is the Parasound Halo P7. You have to use your source's analog outputs and pair it with a multichannel amp.

 

[PearlcorderS701]

Well, I gues I was trying to save you some money while directing you to an outstanding amp that does it all. As I mentioned before, the DSP A1 offers direct "naked" 2 channel - and since the used market would require you to shell out only about $500-$600 bucks for what was originally $2,700.00, I think it's a no-brainer.

Thank you; I appreciate that. I just want to narrow the selections down to genuine two-channel integrated stuff.

As for other current integrated Amps., I suppose there are some out there -- don't know the names. I've sort of gotten away from the receiver stuff - I went with Rotel separates a while back. But that remnds me, Rotel makes a fine 2 channel stereo integrated Amp. You might take a look at before making you purchase. You can't beat Rotel value!!!

http://www.rotel.com/NA/products/index.htm?cat=21

I looked at that amp in the link...very nice piece, and I know they have a great reputation...I will consider it a bit more...thanks for that!

Actually, I think that's a bit out of budget based on the price mentioned in the review roundups...

 

[PearlcorderS701]

I can't think of a single multichannel integrated amp. The problem is really that you need something to decode multichannel audio and so typically you buy the high quality sound in your processor or receiver.

The only multichannel preamp I can think of right now is the Parasound Halo P7. You have to use your source's analog outputs and pair it with a multichannel amp.

Josuah,

There are indeed plenty of multichannel preamps out there, not just the Parasound...I was speaking of a multichannel integrated amp...in other words, a receiver without the tuner, so to speak.

 

[Josuah]

Josuah,

There are indeed plenty of multichannel preamps out there, not just the Parasound...I was speaking of a multichannel integrated amp...in other words, a receiver without the tuner, so to speak.

Right. That's why I said I can't think of a multichannel integrated amp. I assume multichannel integrated amp also means no DACs in it and no need for a separate amplifier.

 

[Drifter]

Right. That's why I said I can't think of a multichannel integrated amp. I assume multichannel integrated amp also means no DACs in it and no need for a separate amplifier.

Thre are Amps. and there are integrated Amps. It is presumed that an integrated Amp. has the pre-pro 'integrated' within.

 

[Drifter]

Thank you; I appreciate that. I just want to narrow the selections down to genuine two-channel integrated stuff.



I looked at that amp in the link...very nice piece, and I know they have a great reputation...I will consider it a bit more...thanks for that!

Actually, I think that's a bit out of budget based on the price mentioned in the review roundups...

Maybe it's time to treat yourself to some high-end gear? Put half of it on your credit card. You're talking about a 15-20 year investment -- why not get yourself the 'Bee's Knees' and enjoy the experience. You deserve it!

 

[Drifter]

Well Guys,

After much consideration and pondering, I think I really want the Onkyo A-9555, which is where my heart was pretty much from the beginning; I really like their home theater stuff, so I think I will be happy with this amp for the two channel room.

Can anyone give me any cons for buying this amp?

Please look over the specs and reviews and tell me what you think:

http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=A-9555&class=Amplifier&p=i

It looks like a real gorgeous piece.

Would anyone have any recommendations for where I can find the lowest price on this? I can't seem to find anything under 500 bucks or so; is that what this thing is going for everywhere?

Let me say thank you for all your suggestions and input in this thread; they were much appreciated. If I decide against the Onkyo, I'll be back!

O.K., I just spoke with my Rotel dealer and they have a brand new RA-1520 in black that a good customer bought and then decided the very next day that he wanted a silver one. So, it's a new but open box scenario. They're asking $879.00 for it (I think you could probably whittle them down to $850.00.) I don't know where you're located, but the shop is in Sacramento, CA. If you're interested in puruing, PM me and I can possibly help you with shipping etc. (Stores are not allowed to ship Rotel gear.)

 

[anamorphic96]

Pearlcorder stick with your original plan of getting the Onkyo A-9555. Its a great amp that will do what you need really well.

While the Rotel is a nice piece and a great company. Their prices have become way overpriced in the past couple of years. That integrated amp used to retail for 599.00. But they made it look a little nicer and added a couple of not all that necessary features. But jacked up the price 400.00. That amp used to be called the RA-1062.

 

[PearlcorderS701]

Pearlcorder stick with your original plan of getting the Onkyo A-9555. Its a great amp that will do what you need really well.

While the Rotel is a nice piece and a great company. Their prices have become way overpriced in the past couple of years. That integrated amp used to retail for 599.00. But they made it look a little nicer and added a couple of not all that necessary features. But jacked up the price 400.00. That amp used to be called the RA-1062.

Thanks, Anamorphic...and let me say thank you very much to Drifter as well for offering that Rotel shipping plan.

Can I ask though, you state quite clearly that I should stick with my plan of getting the 9555 and that it's a great amp...have you actually heard these in action? Do you know a lot about them? I'm just asking as perhaps I can get this kind of inside information from someone with experience hearing the 9555.

 

[PearlcorderS701]

Thre are Amps. and there are integrated Amps. It is presumed that an integrated Amp. has the pre-pro 'integrated' within.

I think I confused him a bit; I was referring to his statement of "the only integrated preamps I know of" which referred to multichannel preamp/processors...there are quite a few on the market, not just the one he cited. That's all I was stating.

I was referring to an actual multichannel integrated amp -- like stereo integrated amps -- which would have onboard amplification and surround processing, but would leave off bells and whistles like a tuner.

I think we have come to the conclusion that perhaps there aren't any on the market, just preamp/amp combos and receivers...

 

[WmAx]

Well Guys,

After much consideration and pondering, I think I really want the Onkyo A-9555, which is where my heart was pretty much from the beginning; I really like their home theater stuff, so I think I will be happy with this amp for the two channel room.

Can anyone give me any cons for buying this amp?

Please look over the specs and reviews and tell me what you think:

http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=A-9555&class=Amplifier&p=i

It looks like a real gorgeous piece.


Would anyone have any recommendations for where I can find the lowest price on this? I can't seem to find anything under 500 bucks or so; is that what this thing is going for everywhere?

Let me say thank you for all your suggestions and input in this thread; they were much appreciated. If I decide against the Onkyo, I'll be back!

This and other such units are going to limit you in the future due to lack of important feature: internal pre-amp to amp bypass externally. This limits your choice of speakers and use of powerful external processors. It is by far best to go with a unit that has this feature, or to get separate amp/pre-amp. The amp I specified earlier in this thread is FAR superior to the one in the Onkyo. It produces FAR more power and can handle any load with ease. I specified a used high quality pre-amp to go along with it.

Add in a Behringer DCX2496 and you can get much better deal on speakers, as this will allow you to seamlessly integrate stereo subs to a pair of high grade 2 way speakers (much cheaper to get quality 2 ways than 3 ways). For example, you could get Ascend Acoustics Seierra 1 speakers and two SVS 12" subwoofers and use the DCX unit to combine them as in effect '3 way' speakers. The Ascends make a great speaker due to their low realitve resonance compared to most speakers, linear / flat response and high grade drivers. Cross at 90-100Hz to a pair of quality subs and you have a very dynamic/ relative low coloration set up that will compare with 3 ways costing many thousands of dollars.

Even if you get the PSB Sratus Gold speakers you are considering in the other thread, they need a much better amp than the Onkyo. Those speakers have very low efficiency (84db/1watt/1M) and a very reactive load presentation to the amplifier. I would recommend at least the Yamaha P2500S and maybe even the P3500S to drive those speakers to their full potential.

Or ignore my suggestions and end up with a much less capable system for the same money.

-Chris

 

[Josuah]

Thre are Amps. and there are integrated Amps. It is presumed that an integrated Amp. has the pre-pro 'integrated' within.

Hm. In my mind, integrated amp does not contain the pro(cessor), just the pre(amp). So it does volume control and amplification to drive speakers, but does not do decoding or apply any other DSP.

In my mind, an amp does not contain pro or pre, and only provides amplification.

I think I confused him a bit...there are quite a few on the market, not just the one he cited. That's all I was stating.

Oh, you did confuse me. Sorry!

 

[PearlcorderS701]

Thanks for all the replies and assistance in here, fellas.

I decided to probably go with the A-9555 with possibly a pair of Definitive Technologies that contain a built in sub and amp, to take care of the bass in this secondary system. I think the Onkyo and Def Techs will be fine for my needs; I really like the look of that A-9555!

 

[PearlcorderS701]

The 100 watt Onkyo TX-8555 is a tried and true design that they have been using for many years. It retails for less than 300.00 and will sound every bit as good as the higher priced NAD's and Marantz units.

Hey Anamorphic (and everyone else),

Just wanted to let you know that I indeed pulled the trigger on an Onkyo TX-8555 based on your recommendations; got this 100-watt-per-channel receiver for less than $250 on Amazon, and this was like 30 or so bucks more than what a local RC Willey outlet wanted for the STEP-DOWN model (the 8255 I think?). I also got free shipping from Amazon for it...seemed like too good a deal to pass up.

The "entry level" Onkyo stereo receiver, while probably fine in all fairness for my needs, just seemed really inferior in person; the 50 watts per channel didn't scare me off at all, but the 8555 has a sub pre-out and just a heftier look to it.

I really, really wanted that A-9555 integrated, but it was simply way too much money right now...I couldn't find it for much under 500 bucks and most places wanted well over $699 from what I recall. At least now we'll have a tuner built in as well, which I'll never use, but the wife probably will.

For the time being, we're going to be running my old Polk R20 bookshelves on Sanus stands for this 2-channel system, but I hate the idea of using bookshelves for a stereo setup, so I'll eventually get around to buying new towers for this room. So, that leaves the turntable choice for the setup, which I'm struggling with now. All fingers point to the Technics SL-1200MK2, but, again, this I don't think is going to be within budget.

The table isn't something that needs to be bought right now, though, as we're just going to get some kind of music going in this room -- the receiver or amp was more important in this regard, as we already have a CD changer and recorder in place.

Anamorphic, what do you think of the choice of the TX-8555, and the price of just under $250? Was it worth it?