Preout question, then advice needed on amp/EQ choice..

[Shell]

Sorry to be combining topics here but they are related somewhat.

Do preouts pass a signal that has been processed by the reciever but not amplified? As in, do your bass and treble settings affect the signal even if it is a line level output?
I suppose this could be a model specific issue, not an industry standard, if so then I'm referring to an Integra DTM 5.3 reciever.

The reason I ask is that I plan to use Zone 2's preouts to power a pair of ceiling mounted SpeakerCrafts. I'm willing to spend around $200 to power Zone 2, and I already have the VC.

The amps that I have seen in this range(Behringer A-500 & refurb AudioSource 100, One, and 300 models) have been described as "not adding much to the sound other than volume". The A-500 is usually described as a bit bright, and the Audiosource 100 has been mentioned as weak on bass. The general consensus on the reviews I've seem was that they are alot better implemented with some processing.

I can get my hands on a refurb Audiosource One, or possibly even a 300, and add one of the AudioSource EQ 100's or mebbe even an EQ 200, for just a bit more than my proposed budget.

If the preouts simply pass through, should I go for the combo of cheaper Audiosource stuff in order to get some processing involved?

Thanks again.

 

[bandphan]

the preouts pass the "processed signal" (unless you have a pass thru feature). If your looking to apply eq to that signal, id recommend the dcx2496. The unit is extremely powerful at a good price.

 

[Haoleb]

I think the best thing for you to do is hook up what you planned and forget about adding in an EQ for now. I dont know how you have your reciever setup, but unless you are running a 7.1 system, most of the time you can power the zone 2 speakers off of the built in amplifiers in the reciever that is made for zone 2 or surround back channels.

If you get a seperate amp, Whatever amp you do decide to buy is more than likely going to work just fine. Many times if there even are audible differences between things like amplifiers they are not going to shout at you, and would be more recognizable on better speakers.