Pre/Pro help???

[jayswizz]

Hello all,
I am in need of some guidance. I have just recently upgraded my main speakers in a 5.1 set-up from Paradigm Monitor 7s to Studio 60s. I also upgraded my CC from Paradigm CC-370 to a CC-470. I currently use a Yamaha RX-V2500 as a preamp. I want to now upgrade to a seperate pre/pro but I do not know that the money I can spend will be worth it. My budget is around $800. I am looking at used models figuring I can get a better unit for less money. 1. Outlaw 950(ballpark $450) 2. Anthem AVM2($8-900) 3. Rotel RSP-1066($800). I have only been involved in the HT world for about 6 months now and would really appreciate other suggestions. I have also read alot about older Lexicons that go for about $800. I do not know if the amount of money I can spend will make a difference over the Yamaha. Again, any input on this would be greatly appreciated.

 

[jcPanny]

Upgradable amp

Wow, nice speakers. Based on the equipment you have assembled, you are either not a newbe or got some good advice from the dealer.

That yamaha should work great as a pre-pro.
How many channels of amplification do you want? For your high end system, you will probably eventually want outboard amps for all channels but definately need 2 channels right now for the mains.

The Emotiva Big Dog amp might be a good solution. It has been tested and recommended by Audioholics for use with your receiver. You can buy it in the 2 channel configuration for $1300 new and add aditional amp channels down the road for a total of 7 channels.
http://www.av123.com/products_product.php?section=processors&product=18.1

P.S. Can I have those junky old monitor 7's that your are getting rid of?

 

[jayswizz]

Hello and thank you jcPanny, I believe we have spoken before. I really have only been involved in this HT addiction for about six months. All my knowledge so far comes from people on this site such as yourself. I upgraded my mains because I listen to alot of music through in 2 channel and was told by everyone that the studio 60s would give me much better sound all around. I wanted the 100s but money is always an issue. I will eventually have a 5.1 set-up. I do not have my sides yet but I will get the Paradigm dipoles when I can afford them. I currently have a B&K Reference 7250(5x200) which I purchased used on Audiogon. I bought this amp figuring this would be all I need but of course now I want more power for my music listening. I am thinking about looking into a 2 channel amp for my mains and have the B&K run my center and sides. Another option I was pondering was buying an Earthquake Cinenova 5(300x5) and getting rid of the B&K. The B&K does sound great but I thought having 2 big amps would just take up alot off space. And lastly, I want to upgrade to a seperate pre/pro. So many decisions to make it drives me crazy(addiction). Should I go for the convienence of 1 Earthquake amp or should I use 3 channels on the B&K and a 2 channel amp for my mains? ANYONE? Thanks co-addicts

 

[jaxvon]

Before you go on an amp buying craze, what made you decide that you want/need more power?

 

[jayswizz]

Hello jaxvon,
I figured that after the speaker upgrade more power would really make them sing. I think it sound great but it seems never to be good enough. This is why I call it more of an addiction than a hobby. I probably should just run everything off of the B&K, eventually upgrade the processor and call it a day! HT sounds terrific but I am always looking for more when listening to music. Any suggestions???

 

[Nick250]

Hello jaxvon,
I figured that after the speaker upgrade more power would really make them sing. I think it sound great but it seems never to be good enough. This is why I call it more of an addiction than a hobby. I probably should just run everything off of the B&K, eventually upgrade the processor and call it a day! HT sounds terrific but I am always looking for more when listening to music. Any suggestions???

Yes I do. Do nothing with your electronics. You have a wonderfull system all ready. To improve sound experiment with speaker position and room treatments. Otherwise leave things as they are.

There actually is another course and that is to spend ever incresing amounts of money to find that elusive "ideal" sound which does not exist.

 

[jayswizz]

Thanks Nick, I think I am going to take your advice. I think I may have all the power I need being that my HT room is about 12x18. Maybe down the line I will move to a seperate pre/pro although the Yammi reciever does a pretty nice job. Thanks everyone, I am sure I will be back soon with another question.