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Best multi channel amp and processor good for 2 channel listening.

Hi All,

I am new to this forum and have a few questions in reference to HT processors.  I am starting from scratch and switching from a Krell S-1000 and S-1500.  I sold the processor a few months back and I going to list here the amp.

I am currently considering the new Bryston 9B3 and the SP4 and decision was based on upgrade ability and warranty. The speakers for HT will be Sonus Faber Grand Piano Home and for 2 channel Verity Otello’s.  My second choice was Classe but I was informed that they have all sales on hold, this is concerning.  I have not listened to either, my choice is based on reviews and the Bryston dealer.  My decision was also based they are both good for two channel, I am not set on this but it will help the budget and space.  I am looking for a warm and good over all sound; some might say 3 dimensional sound, clarity is also a factor.  Actually, all I’ve read in reference to Classe fits the bill.  I would like a couple of other choices to include in my short list and opinions are welcome. The budget for the processor and amp is approx. 22k.  

Thanks to all.....
maguiar

Showing 2 responses by soix

soix
2,133 posts
 
I'm confused.  How can you use two sets of speakers (SF GPs and Otellos) in the same system?  Are you physically going to swap them them out for HT and 2-channel listening?
soix
2,133 posts
 
I'm going to be blunt here.  I wouldn't even consider driving the $19k Otellos with two channels of a seven channel amp or a prepro in the name of saving space, or anything else for that matter.  To me, speakers of that caliber deserve their own good stereo amp and preamp (or at least a very good integrated).  Buy a decent 3-channel amp and prepro to drive the HT, but I'd put as much as possible of the electronics budget toward the stereo components that get the most out of the Otellos.  You can easily integrate the HT and stereo electronics into one seamless system, so operationally this setup works well and also allows you to spend more of your budget on the more critical stereo components. 

Also, I'm still not clear.  Are you considering having both the Otellos and Grand Pianos set up side by side at the same time?  If so, that's an imaging nightmare and a big no no in my book.  Personally I'd sell the Grand Pianos and just use the Otellos as front L/R speakers for both stereo and HT, or sell your rear speakers and put the GPs back there.  Having heard both the Grand Pianos and various Verity models (awesome speakers BTW), my take is they're voiced similarly so this might work out well.  Just my $0.02 FWIW, and best of luck in whatever you decide. 
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