Pre-Processor for about $500?

[johngalt47]

I currently have a Marantz 4002 with an Oppo BDP-83. I want to switch to a pre-processor because I want to test various amplifiers. I never do anything but switch between my Directv signal and the Oppo. I don't need any extravagant processing either but I would like two sub outputs.

I don't know what to even start looking for but I don't want to spend more than $500. Any suggestions?

 

[xego]

You can go to emotiva's website and watch a video of them messing around with theirs. It is more than $500 maybe $699.00 but not sure. One thing though I believe it is using Faroudja which I have read isn't quite up there with it's peers, but then again there are probably a bunch of versions. Keep in mind that I don't really know what I am talking about other than people say nice things about Emotiva in general.

 

[KEW]

Generally dedicated pre-processors fall into the category of very high end and have a price to match.
Your Marantz SR4002 has "pre-out" connections so you can use it as a dedicated pre-processor.

All modern amplifiers should sound the same.
The caveats for this statement are:
1) If you are pushing your current amp to it's limits such that you are running into headroom/clipping issues.
2) You are looking at tube amps which tend to have a different harmonic distortion profile as compared to solid state. Many find this difference a good thing, others don't. Much depends on the type of music you listen to.

In any case, IMHO, you should test the amps before you invest in a $500 pre-pro which may not be any better than your Marantz.

As for the dual sub output, a simple RCA Y-splitter will do the trick.

Good luck and enjoy your music!

 

[johngalt47]

These are amps I'm building from kits.

 

[KEW]

These are amps I'm building from kits.

Cool!
I take back everything I said about not realizing a difference. Anytime you make something with your own hands, it is always rewarding and will become far more than just another amp.

Who makes amp kits these days?

My dad used to make Heathkit Hi-Fi (mono) equipment, but they (and Dynaco) have gone the way of the dinosaur.

Nonetheless, if your Marantz meets your current needs, I would stick with it as a pre-pro to use with your DIY amps. Down the road, technology will press you to upgrade the pre-pro, and then will be the time to get a new pre-pro. The great thing about a good power amp is it never becomes obsolete.

 

[Seth=L]

In any case, IMHO, you should test the amps before you invest in a $500 pre-pro which may not be any better than your Marantz.

With this, I completely agree.

Marantz has uncommonly good value for the enthusiast looking for a good balance between features and performance. Of receivers with preouts I feel they are one of the best options out there for their quality, size, and fit/finish.

I'd just keep it, save yourself the $500 and direct that towards your amplifier kits.

Most of all, enjoy yourself.

BTW, you can get a y-adaptor to connect two subs.

 

[walter duque]

Seth=L and KEW are right on IMO, and for $500.oo I don't think you get much better than what you have. It just might look cooler.

 

[lsiberian]

Well the Yamaha RX-V2600 is supposed to be loaded. You might take a look and see. I'd trade for your receiver so it's not like you have a dud.

 

[Seth=L]

Well the Yamaha RX-V2600 is supposed to be loaded. You might take a look and see. I'd trade for your receiver so it's not like you have a dud.

The SR6004 seems to hit all the right points for a preamp. It's output voltage over the preouts is even higher than the RX-V2600. This may be overkill, but what's wrong with overkill? The SNR on both is outstanding, the Marantz did extremely well on the bench. According to Chris (WmAx) the Yamaha RX-V2600 was meant to be a show piece, to demonstrate Yamaha's prowess in design and execution. Marantz seems to have done this with their entire line, so you practically can't miss.

 

[johngalt47]

Well, I belong to diyaudio.com and several people design amplifiers and other audio equipment. Sometimes a member will design the pcb and/or kit and others will organize a group buy so that we can all build and test different devices for a lot less than you can buy them for.

 

[usp1]

Who makes amp kits these days?

Check out ClassDaudio.com. There seems to be a lot interest in these amps over at AudioCircle.