Better 2-channel music

If I replace my current Marantz SR7007 by the AV8801, will the AV8801 deliver quality stereo? Should I put a DAC such as the Oppo HA-1 between the AV8801 and a pair Emotiva XPA-1s?

"06-15-15: Philkoan
If I replace my current Marantz SR7007 by the AV8801, will the AV8801 deliver quality stereo? Should I put a DAC such as the Oppo HA-1 between the AV8801 and a pair Emotiva XPA-1s?"

There's too many variables in the equation to give an accurate answer. If I had to guess, I would say it will probably sound the same, or better by a small amount. My position is that if you want good 2 channel, then buy 2 channel equipment. If you read through our posts again, you'll see that we all offer similar advice. (Except for Bob Reynolds. He's a very nice guy that means well, but he just doesn't have the experience to make a recommendation like this.). Also, if you get another receiver, you really need to consider the money you're throwing away. A huge portion of a HT receivers cost goes to multichannel features. If you don't need them, why buy them?

I assume you live in the US. If so, why not give The Cable Company a call. They specialize in lending out high end audio components and accessories. Ask them to send you a couple of 2 channel preamps. The best way to judge any component is to try it your own system.

If I connect Oppo 103D --> Oppo HA-1 --> 2-channel power amp --> front speakers, would the Oppo HA-1 considered as a good 2 channel preamp? I can then bypass the stereo signal from the Marantz AV8801 through the Oppo HA-1 so it doesn't affect the performance of the 2 channel music when the Marantz is off.

As Loomisjohnson said, just use the Oppo 103 direct into the power amps/s, it has all the outputs you need and use it's own volume control.
Forget about buying another preamp just waisting money, the best preamp is no preamp, and you can do it with what you have.

Cheers George

I don't have a chance to try some quality preamps, but I think direct connection from the Oppo 103D to a pair of Emotiva XPA-1 gives the purest sound I have ever heard. Thank you George and Loomisjohnson.