Suggestions for a simple Preamp with XLR Outputs?

[ErinH]

I have an Oppo BDP-103 and am looking for a pre-amp with XLR outputs that I can then pass on to my DSPs. I don't need any auto-EQ or anything of the sort. What I do need is something I can run my Oppo/ATV to via HDMI and then let the pre-amp spit that out via XLR. Budget wise, I don't have a lot of money to spend... let's say $700 max. I'm perfectly happy to buy used. From what I'm seeing, there just aren't many options with XLR. If I go with a pre/pro without XLR, the Emo UMC-200 seems to be the best bang for buck option available. But, I much prefer to have XLR throughout the chain. I'm not really 'up' on the various brands/models so I'm searching audiogon/ebay/classifieds sort of blind. If you guys have any specific suggestions for models then I'm all ears. (sorry for the lack of paragraphs... for some reason my browser doesn't like this site)

 

[ImcLoud]

IS this for per amp {2ch stereo} or pre/pro Home theater?
Marantz AV7005 Networking AV Preamp/Processor | Accessories4less

 

[ErinH]

IS this for per amp {2ch stereo} or pre/pro Home theater?

Sorry, I should have clarified. Home Theater surround. I'm considering going to 2-channel in the future but I'm leaving that out of the equation for the time being.

 

[Steve81]

I'm not as well versed in the pre/pro market as some, but this jumps to mind:
MARANTZ AV7701 7.2 4K & 3D AV Preamp/Processor Networking | Accessories4less

Obviously over your $700 max, but I have my doubts that you can find something with XLR outputs for substantially less new / refurbed.

 

[j_garcia]

Darien has a 7005 for sale in the classifieds as well, but also slightly above your $700.

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/classifieds-sell-your-gear/91550-marantz-av7005-processor.html

Unless you have really long runs, I don't see XLR as a massive benefit just to feed your amp a foot away. Just sayin...

 

[MidnightSensi2]

First, I know your pain. lol. Finding a good balanced pre-amp without a bunch of bullshit on it or it being extremely expensive is hard.

What about a used Onkyo Pro like I have? I paid 1,300 new... you might be able to get one for 700 used. It also has rack ears, which is nice.

Search:
onkyo professional pr-sc886
and
onkyo professional pr-sc885

See if either of those are available in budget..

Unless you have really long runs, I don't see XLR as a massive benefit just to feed your amp a foot away. Just sayin...

Eh, but then you have unbalanced into balanced.. and even if you use a converter box it still is mickey mouse.

 

[ErinH]

Thanks for the suggestion. It looks like a good option for sure. It's dated (2008-2011 it appears), but the Onkyo options seem to still have the basics I'm looking for.

 

[MidnightSensi2]

Thanks for the suggestion. It looks like a good option for sure. It's dated (2008-2011 it appears), but the Onkyo options seem to still have the basics I'm looking for.

No problem. It's a great unit. I do exactly what you describe, all my DSP is handled externally.

I haven't found a worthwhile upgrade yet (at least not until I go 4k with the projector, but that's not in budget yet).

 

[j_garcia]

Yeah, I see he wants the whole chain XLR, which is different than just feeding the amp.

 

[ErinH]

What about a used Onkyo Pro like I have? I paid 1,300 new... you might be able to get one for 700 used. It also has rack ears, which is nice.

Search:
onkyo professional pr-sc886
and
onkyo professional pr-sc885

See if either of those are available in budget..

After you posted this the other day, I found an 885 on eBay and put it on my watch list. Wound up getting it a couple minutes ago for about $490 shipped. I figure at that price, it's worth a shot. Now, I have to build some XLR cables since the Rane has euroblock connectors. Aaaaaaaawesome.... (sarcasm intended).