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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
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
Op the Audio Control is one fantastic processor, it is built for sound quality and uses all  independent burr brown dac’s per channel, vs most of the world's processors which use a single dac chip for all channels, the processor uses a massive power supply it weighs 40 lbs most processor barely weigh 15 lbs, and the Maestro uses Dirac which along with Anthem and Trinov are the best room correction software.

The Mastro is very very good souding for music and theater, perfect it isn’t but for its price point of $8,900.00 it is fantastic.

As per the Odeon it is one of the best sounding multi channel amplifiers ever made, if the price seems a bit high make an counteroffer.

Other than the Thetas Cassablancas which are very expensive and not sure of the room correction, the Maestro series from Audio Control has been getting rave reviews for years based on their musicality, superb service made in America, and reliablity and excellent service.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
maguiar OP
31 posts
 
Hi Audiotroy,

Thanks for the info., I will dig I little more on the maestro.  I have done so much reading that it’s overwhelming.  I really would like something that is also good for 2 channel listening, otherwise I would have to get a separate intergrated amp.  If I have to go this route I would have to go with something more economical for HT.
audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
The maestro is deslgned for sound quality for music and theater and is not built like a traditional processor
maguiar OP
31 posts
 
It is something I would need to hear before buying.  Also, will need to know if this is something I can pair with the Verity Otello number one and Sonus Faber Grand Piano Home’s in case I decide to keep the SF without problems.  I will check if I can audition these in my area..

Thanks again


audiotroy's avatar
audiotroy
1,621 posts
 
Maguiar, if sound quality for surround sound and music is your passion and you are concerend with the sound quality of the processor preamp then here is how to get around that one

1: Purchase a good 2 channel preamplifier with a hone theather bypass function, you can then route your high end 2 channel sources through the 2 channel preamp and then to your high end multi channel amplfier. 

This way you have a separate 2 channel music pathway that is intergrated with your surround sound gear, and you get the best of both worlds.

We are using our Maestro with $14k Kef Ref 3, a Lumin  music streamer and the sound for music even through the Maestro is is really something. 

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ
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