2. amps-preamps
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pro logic unit instead of 2 channel preamp?

Hi Folks,

I'm shopping for a pre-owned pre-amp to match a rotel 980bx I recently bought. Logic says to go with a matching rotel preamp, but maybe there are other ways to go? I'd like to spend around $300 if possible.

I'll be using the system for 2 channel listening, but my tv etc will also be playing through it. Inputs will be: cd, dvd, wireless itunes, vcr output. Currently I use a pro logic Denon receiver and run video through it as well. I don't mind losing video and only running audio if the quality is much better.

I only listen to 2 channel, but might choose to add a sub one day. My main goal is the best music reproduction I can afford for my budget. My speakers will be DIY MTM configured bookshelf speakers that I'm building.

-- what do you think about the older Rotel Pro Logic Surround Units as a dedicated 2 channel preamp? Can they compete sonically with older 2 channel pre-amps? (say, something made in the last 10 years?)

Any other pro logic preamps you'd recommend? I ask because it seems that there is no demand for a non digital processor, but if it reproduces great 2 channel stereo, then I'd be very happy.

-- what do you think of the Chinese tube preamps on ebay? (Ming Da etc?)

-- any other pre-amp suggestions for the $300 range used?

thanks so much for any suggestions

Steve
stevecuss
bdgregory
1,580 posts
 
I find some of the old pre-pros can serve as excellent 2 channel preamps - and the prices normally are much lower than what you may have to spend - especially for a remote controllable linestage preamp. There are many available for <$300 - some I've used are below:

I had a Rotel RSP960ax which was very nice for the $100 or so you'll have to spend. I don't recall how many inputs it has but may not have enough for you.

I also like the old B&K pre-pros. I use a B&K AV3090 in a spare system I set up in my workshop. It has Dolby Digital and DTS which I don't use, since I'm using the Zone 2 sections which is pure analog and bypasses all of the digital circuitry. Plenty of inputs . . . I like the B&K better than the Rotel but they sell for more like $200.

Another one that I use in my livingroom system is the Sherwood AVP9080 - it has a built in tuner, phone stage (though a poor one), and digital bypass. They can be found for <$200. also plenty of inputs.

All of these will do 2 channel music nicely, but compared to many used $300 non-remote controllable linestage preamps probably won't stand up under critical listening. Of course you can use the $ savings for some music.

stevecuss OP
35 posts
 
Thanks for the suggestions - I'm not familiar with B&K, so this will give me a great jumping off point. The 2 zone idea is a great one too - I'd never considered the second zone being a purer 2 channel design.

It seems that ebay has a constant trickle of pro logic preamps, so I'll research B&K and snoop around some Rotels and Parasounds

best wishes

Steve
bmdduck
99 posts
 
One additional benefit of a pre/pro vs a 2 channel preamp is that the internal DAC would almost certainly improve the sound quality of your wireless music player. You mention wireless iTunes which leads me to believe that you are using an Airport Express or Apple TV. Both are great devices but their internal DACs aren't really great.
stevecuss OP
35 posts
 
Yes, I'm sending itunes music wirelessly to the airport express and its a fun way to listen to music, but I've often wondered if the sound quality suffers.

I also like the convenience of the video and future subwoofer abilities of a pro logic preamp. My only real concern is if the "multi function" design of it significantly reduces the sound quality.
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