2. amps-preamps
  3. 1137435858

Which is more important? Amp or Preamp?

Would upgrading the amplifier or preamp make the biggest sonic difference? Here's my scenario. I currently own a HT setup. Previously, I had what I considered to be a decent 2 channel system (Classe amp and preamp) but wanted to move into HT. After having gone on a recent tweak-fest with cables, power conditioners, power cords, and isolation devices, I only realize now how good two channel sound can be. So what would my next logical upgrade be? I'm considering two options: First, purchase a considerably better 2 channel amplifier for my front speakers for two channel listening (and using the current multichannel amp for surround sound) or option 2...look for a better pre-processor which excels at two channel reproduction. In the end, two channel is more important to me than HT, but I do want the convenience of having HT without having two systems. Here's the list of my current equipment:
Rotel 1098 preprocessor
Rotel 1075 multi channel amp
Arcam cd92 and dv27 cd and dvd players, respectively
PS Audio PS300 power regenerator
PMC OB1 front speakers (along with various B&W surround speakers)

I'm looking on spending around $2500 for my upgrade in the USED audiogon market. I'm leaning towards the 2 channel amp upgrade (YBA, Ayre, Bryston, etc), thinking it would make the biggest difference, but I'm not sure. Any suggestions or recommendations for amplifier or pre-pro upgrades would be appreciated!

Thank you!
calgarian5355
maich
37 posts
 
Pre vs. amp depends, but some amps sound pretty similar. I've heard large differences in preamps (and amps too), but mid-fi amps can sound somewhat alike.
Why not invest in a Meridian 565 DD 5.1 processor unit? Many will swear that the sound in 2 channel is on a par with a very good pre and they can be obtained fairly cheaply, plus they do DD as well.
I have a 568 and use it for two channel -- it sounds considerably better than many processors I've been exposed to.
avguygeorge
2,300 posts
 
I certainlly agree with Maich with re. to the 565. The plain 565 does not do DTS;that requred the z3 upgrade. The sound quality on this piece is only limited by what amps and speakers you pair with it.--(Yup,had one.)
david99
1,467 posts
 
Tubes! Butler audio makes 2,3 and 5 ch. tube amps.
I'd go with a 3ch.to use with your center speaker also.
henryhk
648 posts
 
I think the key is to figure out what your budget delivers incrementally as the price pts and performance gaps of pre-pros vs amps (whether it be chging to another multi channel or adding a two channel amp for the mains only) are likely to be quite different. My guess is go for the pre-pro upgrade. Especially given...when in doubt start closer to the source. Your DVD players are really good so...One thing u may want to consider is look at both pre-pros and amps by Arcam....
woodburger's avatar
woodburger
143 posts
 
Since your amp makes the sound of your preamp much louder, I'd suggest that's more important. But crap is crap, no matter which box it comes from.

Also, you can't retrieve what isn't there - so if the pre doesn't pass good things, the amp can't make them appear.

Bob Wood
http://www.GreatHomeTheater.com/stereo.html
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