There are many preamps on the market, both vintage and new that will be superior sonically to even the best receivers out there. Inevitably, when you combine functions in one box, there will to be some compromises.
I own three preamps; Audio Research SP4, Audio Research SP6E (Tube), and Carver C-4000t. I also own the Yamaha RX-Z9, which is at the forefront of Receiver technology.
I love my new Yamaha, and its features are truly astounding. For home theatre requirements, my preamps just don't have the versatility, and are hopelessly outclassed in terms of features and effects. My Yamaha performs admirably for audio, and was my ultimate choice From three formidable contenders that I carefully auditioned.
That said, when it comes to pure 2-channel audio, all three of my preamps are better, with the Audio Research SP6E being in a totally different league altogether.
From my point-of-view the preamp is the component that can really make a very significant difference when it comes to taking a step up to a new level in sonic performance. Of course quality of speakers, power, source are all critical too.
With respect to 2 channel audio, the characteristics that make my preamps sonically superior for 2 channel audio to my beautiful Yamaha are:
- Beautiful deep / wide Soundstage & outstanding Imaging
- Warmth and fullness in the bass, more Detail & Clarity in instruments
and voices. Strings on a different level.
- Body and power to the music - with the SP6E enough to give you goose
bumps with a really well recorded piece of music!
Best,
O'Shag