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I have decided that my next upgrade that will add the most benefit to my system is a new pre-amp/processor. I am going to pair this with my Carver integrated for now. The Carver has a 5 main-ins and is a 5 channel amp. My budget is $1500. I may allow myself to go slightly over if there is a noticable sound improvement. My system used for about 90% music 10% HT. I have seem to be having trouble finding something in this price range. Everything that I have found is either around 1K or it jumps up to 2K. Does anybody have some recommendations on where to start. If anyone is interest I do have my system posted in the system section.Thanks for the help.
I would suspect that if you were persistent you could find one of the $2k units for something closer to your budget...i.e., don't pay list. e.g., if B&K comes out w/ an upgraded Ref. 10 or 20, maybe existing units will get discounted, etc. However, remember that these Dolby Digital A/V pre/pros are relatively complicated, typically first generation from the mfgs. that are selling them, and sometimes you won't discover a 'bug' or other flaw until well after you've purchased and installed it, which to me encourages you to stay w/ a dealer you can go back to if needed for repairs/upgrades (thus the Catch-22, you usually have to pay closer to MSRP from a dealer). Thus, I would stay away from mail order shops that require returns w/in a short time-frame (like OneCall), unless you're confident that the unit has a good track record (no bugs); and I would avoid 'B' stock for a piece as complex as a DD pre/pro, unless you're buying locally from a dealer you can return it to if there's a problem 6 months after you buy it. I've heard positive things about the Sherwood 9080, and almost bought one (I, like you, had a budget far less than the $2k point). I ended up finding a new AMC DD processor at a great price from an individual; so far the audio side of things is more than I could possibly ask for (I will need to get a separate tuner at some point; I already purchased a separate phono stage that, well, brought my outlay back up close the the original MSRP of the unit). Actually, I'm pretty thrilled at the performance and functionality of the AMC product, given my own system's needs, etc. Good luck!
Get a second hand or demo Lexicon DC-1. This is your best choice.
Mike
Check with onecall and see what they are letting the Acurus Act-III go for now. They are pulling the Acurus and Aragon line and the prices are starting to come down. Last price they gave me on an Act-III was $1500.00 for new and they do have some 'B' stock units for less. Read the reviews on it over at AudioReview.com. I have looked around and kicked alot of tire's in this price range and for what you get it's had to beat. It's soft/hard ware can be upgraded so your not stuck with last years whiz bang do it all pre/pro when a new format comes out. It has good feature but it's not loaded....My next choice would be to step up to the Theta CasaNova or wait for the new Aragon SoundStage that should be out soon, it lookes to be a souped up Act-III price range around 3k. The EAD gets good reviews but I have no experience with it.....Hope this helps.
Kelly
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